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Google schedules Android Show ahead of I/O 2026, Android 17 and AI upgrades expected

5 May 2026 at 22:35

Google has now officially confirmed that the “Android Show: I/O Edition” will stream on May 12, days before I/O 2026 officially kicks off.

Not many details are available, but the messaging is clear. Google is calling 2026 one of the most important years in Android’s history, which points directly to Android 17.

Expect a tighter focus on usability rather than headline-grabbing redesigns. Early reports suggest features like controller remapping and improved multitasking through floating app bubbles.

Google’s Gemini push is evolving into what it calls “agentic AI.” The Android Show will likely preview how deeply Gemini integrates at the OS level.

The Mountain View giant has promised smarter assistants for years, but consistency across devices remains a weak spot. If Android 17 is serious about AI, it needs tighter control over how these features behave across different OEM skins.

Hardware could also make an appearance: Google’s Android XR initiative, introduced last year, is still in its early phase, with smart glasses being the more interesting angle.

The Android Show is not just another livestream. It is a signal of where Google wants Android to go in 2026. For Samsung fans, it’s as crucial as Pixel fans as the upcoming One UI 9 will be based on the Android 17 operating system.

The post Google schedules Android Show ahead of I/O 2026, Android 17 and AI upgrades expected appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 8.5 progress hits final stage, but one UI glitch remains

5 May 2026 at 18:02

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update is close to perfection, but one UI glitch is still unresolved. We discovered the same problem in the Beta 6 around two months back, and the same repeated in the Beta 10 as well.

The Notification panel brings a button entitled Notification settings. This functional button lets Galaxy users access the settings page. That specific component has a bug, which Samsung hasn’t yet addressed.

The bug doesn’t permanently stay here, and we were not able to reproduce it either. It occurs suddenly while using the phone, hinting that the final build hasn’t even patched the glitch.

The Notification settings button turns smaller and takes a wrong positioning. The small button slides toward the right side, which isn’t the center either. Swiping the notification panel brings the key back to its optimal state.

It’s said that Samsung is holding off the Stable update’s rollout due to major bugs. If this UI glitch falls under that category, it should be addressed in the official build. If not, Samsung engineers aren’t paying attention to the issues.

Samsung One UI 8.5 Notification Panel Resolution Bug

Image – Notification panel in One UI 8.5

Notification panel is one of the most heavily used aspects of the mobile user interface. The scaling bug isn’t a deal breaker at all, but it ruins the perfection. We’ve submitted the bug report as well, yet Beta 10 has the same problem.

Hopefully, Samsung would finally bring improvement to the user interface scaling. The Stable update should be almost perfect as the company has already tested the software in the Open Beta Program for five months.

The post One UI 8.5 progress hits final stage, but one UI glitch remains appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Bose Lifestyle Collection launches May 15: Ultra Speaker, Soundbar, Sub

Bose will launch its new Lifestyle Collection on May 15, headlined by the $299 Lifestyle Ultra Speaker (or $399 limited Driftwood Sand edition), the $1,099 Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar, and the $899 Lifestyle Ultra Subwoofer, with preorders open now and shipping beginning at launch.

Nvidia downplays hacking group ShinyHunters claims of GeForce Now's “full database leak"

ShinyHunters claimed it had accessed Nvidia’s GeForce Now systems and obtained a “full database leak” containing user account and personal information. NVIDIA says its investigation found no impact on NVIDIA-operated services, stating the incident is confined to databases run by its Armenia-based third-party partner GFN.am, which has begun notifying affected users, and reports indicate passwords were not leaked.

Dell releases new 13-inch lightweight laptop with 64 GB RAM and Intel Panther Lake

Dell is now selling a new 13-inch laptop globally. The thinnest Dell Pro laptop ever released, the Pro 7 Series 13 (P713260) combines up to 64 GB of LPDDR5X-8533 RAM with Intel Panther Lake processors and a 55.8 Wh battery. Dell is only offering 60 Hz IPS panels for its new 13-inch laptop, though.

Acer Aspire 14 AI trounces MacBook Neo value with 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, and capable CPU for under $550

Deal | The Acer Aspire 14 AI Windows laptop is now on sale on eBay for less than $550. The laptop packs an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V CPU, 16 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage, and a touch-sensitive display. Overall, It can be argued that the Acer Aspire 14 AI offers better value than the MacBook Neo at a lower price.

The iPhone 17 was the best-selling smartphone globally in Q1 this year

5 May 2026 at 23:02

The Apple iPhone 17 was the best-selling smartphone globally in Q1 this year, according to data from Counterpoint. It represented an impressive 6% of all smartphones sold during the quarter. Just like in Q1 2025, its pricier siblings round out the Top 3 – the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone 17 Pro. This year, the vanilla iPhone has a bigger lead over its Pro siblings. And the old iPhone 16 is still on the chart – it holds the #6 spot. The best-selling smartphones of Q1 2026 Meanwhile, the best-selling Android phone of the first three months of 2026 is the Samsung Galaxy A07 4G –...

Vodafone now fully owns the UK's VodafoneThree

5 May 2026 at 21:41

Vodafone and Three announced plans to merge in the UK back in 2023, and the consolidation was eventually given the go-ahead by regulators in December 2024. The merged entity, VodafoneThree, officially began operations on May 31, 2025, with Vodafone holding 51% of the shares and CK Hutchison (Three's owner) holding 49%. Now, almost exactly one year later, Vodafone is buying out CK Hutchison's stake, and thus will take full ownership of VodafoneThree. This will cost Vodafone £4.3 billion. The deal will of course need to be cleared by regulators, and that's expected to happen at some point...

Meta hit with new copyright lawsuit over alleged use of pirated books to train Llama AI

5 May 2026 at 20:44

A fresh legal fight is brewing over how AI models are built, and this time it puts Meta back in the spotlight. A group of major publishers, including Elsevier, Cengage, Hachette, Macmillan, and McGraw-Hill, has sued Meta Platforms in Manhattan […]

The post Meta hit with new copyright lawsuit over alleged use of pirated books to train Llama AI first appeared on Tech Startups.

Crypto exchange Bullish to acquire Equiniti in $4.2B deal to bridge crypto and traditional markets

5 May 2026 at 19:03

Crypto is trying to break into Wall Street. This time, it’s coming with paperwork. Bullish said Tuesday it will acquire Equiniti in a $4.2 billion deal, giving the exchange something the industry has long lacked: a regulated transfer agent that already […]

The post Crypto exchange Bullish to acquire Equiniti in $4.2B deal to bridge crypto and traditional markets first appeared on Tech Startups.

Top Tech News Today, May 5, 2026

5 May 2026 at 16:39

It’s Tuesday, May 5, 2026, and AI’s hunger for power, chips, and secure supply chains is forcing governments, hyperscalers, and startups into high-stakes moves that will shape the next decade of tech. Here are the top global stories making waves […]

The post Top Tech News Today, May 5, 2026 first appeared on Tech Startups.

Top Startup and Tech Funding News – May 4, 2025

5 May 2026 at 01:30

It’s Monday, May 4, 2026, and we’re back with today’s top startup and tech funding news. Today’s rounds reflect a clear shift toward infrastructure that powers AI, defense, and real-world systems. From enterprise AI agents and customer data platforms to […]

The post Top Startup and Tech Funding News – May 4, 2025 first appeared on Tech Startups.

Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius: Real Madrid’s reported untouchable core amid managerial change

5 May 2026 at 23:29
After a disappointing season, the real impact of Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior is being questioned. However, Real Madrid reportedly still consider them undisputed starters and have made them a key condition in selecting the next head coach.

Real Madrid are heading toward two consecutive trophyless seasons, raising serious doubts on their roster. Following this, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa is expected to be either dismissed or reassigned at the end of the season, with the club targeting a candidate with extensive experience. However, Los Blancos have reportedly set a clear condition for the next appointment: Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior are untouchable.

According to José Félix Díaz via Diario AS, Los Blancos maintain full confidence in Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior, seeing them as key figures for the next season. With this in mind, they rule out the departure of any of the three stars. In fact, Real Madrid aim for the next head coach to be capable of extracting the best version of all three within the same lineup, making this a central factor in defining the appointment.

Although Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior being world-class players, they have not managed to shine simultaneously at Real Madrid. While the Englishman and the Brazilian stood out under Carlo Ancelotti, the Frenchman’s arrival changed everything, as his presence directly overlaps with the areas where his teammates shined. Therefore, the next head coach may be forced to adjust the roles of the three, aiming to fit them into the same lineup.

Far from being a simple task, Ancelotti, Xabi, and Arbeloa have all struggled to make them fit together, as Mbappé’s total freedom of movement prevents Jude and Vinícius from fully occupying their natural roles. Because of this, the Frenchman may need to adapt into a centre-forward role in the style of Cristiano Ronaldo, freeing up space for his teammates and could even enhance his own scoring output.

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates a goal  with Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid celebrates a goal with Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid defense issue could unlock Mbappé, Bellingham and Vinícius

Throughout the 2025–26 season, Real Madrid have struggled with consistency defensively, suffering multiple injuries and costly defeats. As a result, the efforts of Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior are often overshadowed, as they concede many goals and are forced to contribute to defensive pressing. Because of this, Los Blancos could strengthen their defensive structure to better maximize their three stars.

Without having to make excessive defensive efforts, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior could focus entirely on the attacking phase, improving their counterattacks and avoiding unnecessary physical fatigue. In addition, their offensive impact could become more evident without constant defensive issues. For this reason, Los Blancos could prioritize strengthening their defense and appointing a world-class coach.

Real Madrid stars Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham.

Christian Pulisic left on edge: Luka Modric targets Milan comeback before 2026 World Cup as possible injury return date emerges

5 May 2026 at 23:24
There are moments in a season when everything seems to hinge on one absence, and this is where both Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric find themselves as Milan navigates a tense run-in. The Italian club is chasing stability, yet uncertainty surrounds one of its most influential figures, with developments behind the scenes hinting at a potential late twist before this summer’s 2026 World Cup.

There are moments in a season when everything seems to hinge on one absence, and this is where both Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric find themselves as Milan navigates a tense run-in. The Italian club is chasing stability, yet uncertainty surrounds one of its most influential figures, with developments behind the scenes hinting at a potential late twist before this summer’s World Cup.

Milan’s recent stumble against Sassuolo exposed just how important Modric has become to the system. The 2-0 defeat not only dented its UEFA Champions League hopes but also highlighted a lack of control in midfield, an area usually dictated by the Croatian’s composure and intelligence.

Without him, the Rossoneri struggled to impose themselves, conceding early and losing further ground after a red card disrupted their rhythm. The absence of their experienced playmaker left the side looking disconnected, with few answers to Sassuolo’s tempo and movement.

That defeat has tightened the race for a top-four finish, with rivals circling and pressure building ahead of the final stretch. For a team that once looked comfortable, the margin for error has suddenly disappeared.

The injury that changed the picture

Modric’s setback came at the worst possible time, following a facial injury that required surgery after an aerial collision. Initially, the expectation was clear: his season with Milan was over, allowing him to focus entirely on recovery ahead of international duty.

However, the situation has evolved in recent days, with fresh reports suggesting that the story may not be finished just yet. As confirmed by Antonio Vitiello of MilanNews.it, the midfielder has already returned to the training environment, signaling a determination to remain involved during a decisive period.

Infortunio Modrić da 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙤𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙤 🤕🚑
Saelemaekers chiede il 𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙤 per Locatelli 🟥
Poi le scintille che non t'aspetti: Kalulu-Tomori 😳

🎤 @davidebernardi6
BordoCam #MilanJuve è disponibile ora su #DAZN! 📲@pokerstarsnews #Modric pic.twitter.com/Yt0RtZZqny

— DAZN Italia (@DAZN_IT) April 28, 2026

His presence at the training ground has lifted spirits, even if only symbolically for now. Milan’s staff are carefully monitoring his progress, aware that any decision carries both short-term and long-term implications.

Surprise twist as Modric’s possible comeback window revealed

The narrative takes a dramatic turn in the middle of this story, as reports from Italy point to a potential comeback that few expected. According to multiple outlets, including Sky Italia, La Gazzetta dello Sport, and MilanNews.it, Modric is now targeting a return for the final league match against Cagliari on May 24, possibly wearing a protective mask to manage the injury.

Stamattina alle 10.00 #Modric si è presentato a #Milanello per la prima volta dopo l'operazione.

Nonostante il brutto infortunio allo zigomo proverà a rientrare per l'ultima partita di campionato.

La squadra si allena nel pomeriggio

— Antonio Vitiello (@AntoVitiello) May 5, 2026

This development changes the entire outlook for the Rossoneri’s closing fixtures. What once seemed like a campaign without their midfield leader could now include one last appearance, offering both tactical value and emotional lift.

There is still caution surrounding the idea, as medical clearance and the player’s own confidence will ultimately decide the outcome. Yet the mere possibility has already shifted the mood within the club.

What it means for Pulisic and Milan

For Pulisic, the situation carries added significance as he has struggled to fit into Milan’s attacking structure ever since the start of 2026. In the first part of the season, American was one of the team’s key performers, and the potential return of Modric could restore balance behind him, easing creative pressure.

AC Milan stars Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric
Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates the victory after during the Serie A match.

At the same time, Milan’s broader ambitions are tied to this delicate moment. Champions League qualification remains essential, not only for prestige but also for influencing Modric’s future at the club, with contract discussions still unresolved.

The Croatian, now approaching the twilight of his career, is weighing his next step carefully. A return before the season ends would send a strong message about his fitness and intent ahead of what is expected to be his final World Cup.

Christian Pulisic (left) and Luka Modric (right)

Lionel Messi earns MLS honor despite Inter Miami’s heavy loss to Orlando City

Major League Soccer recognized Lionel Messi for his performance against Orlando City, despite Inter Miami’s defeat.

Last Saturday, Inter Miami suffered a tough 4-3 loss to Orlando City after starting the match in dominant fashion and building a three-goal lead. Despite the setback, Major League Soccer honored Lionel Messi’s performance.

“Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi has been named to the Major League Soccer Team of the Matchday,” the club announced in a statement published on its official website. “The Argentine earns his fifth Team of the Matchday selection of the campaign after a standout performance in which he contributed to all three Inter Miami goals, recording one goal and two assists.”

The Herons’ first-half advantage was largely driven by the Argentine forward’s performance. On Ian Fray’s opening goal, Messi played the pass to Telasco Segovia, who then delivered the cross. He later assisted the Venezuelan midfielder for the second goal, and in the 33rd minute, he scored the third with a precise finish.

However, Messi’s performance was overshadowed in the second half by another Argentine. Martin Ojeda led Orlando City’s comeback with a hat trick to level the score and then assisted Tyrese Spicer for the game-winning goal in stoppage time.

Matchday 11's best XI. 😮‍💨

Team of the Matchday pres. by Audi: https://t.co/hzNJh99dHI pic.twitter.com/oIPV0HmD2S

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 4, 2026

Messi keeps piling up accolades

The honor awarded by MLS to Lionel Messi as part of the Team of the Matchday for Week 11 adds to a growing list of similar recognitions the Argentine forward has earned for his performances with Inter Miami.

In fact, during the 2026 season, Messi has been named to the Team of the Matchday in five of the first eleven weeks. His previous selections came in Matchday 2 (alongside Javier Mascherano, Telasco Segovia, and Mateo Silvetti), Matchday 5 (alongside Gonzalo Lujan), Matchday 6, and Matchday 8.

These honors reflect the Argentine star’s production so far this season. Messi has played in 10 of Inter Miami’s 11 MLS matches in 2026—resting only for the March matchup against Charlotte FC—and has recorded eight goals and one assist.

Inter Miami’s upcoming challenges

Following the tough loss to Orlando City, Inter Miami now have a week to recover both mentally and physically. On Saturday, they will travel to Canada to face Toronto FC in the first of three matches in a one-week span. They will then visit FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, May 13, before returning home the following Sunday to host Portland Timbers.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF.

Why isn’t Martin Odegaard playing from the start for Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semifinal second leg?

5 May 2026 at 22:16
Despite being named in the matchday squad, Martin Odegaard is not in Arsenal’s starting lineup against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Martin Odegaard is not in Arsenal’s starting lineup against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg at the Emirates Stadium, a decision that has raised eyebrows given the magnitude of the occasion. The tie remains finely poised after a 1-1 draw in Spain last week, with both clubs chasing a place in the final.

The Gunners come into the night knowing that only a win will guarantee progression after a tense first leg filled with controversy and penalties. Atletico Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, arrives with the belief it can upset the hosts and reach its first Champions League final in the last 10 years.

The opening match in Madrid ended 1-1, with both sides scoring from the penalty spot in a game defined by fine margins. Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the lead, while Julian Alvarez equalised for Atletico after a VAR-reviewed handball incident involving Ben White.

Arsenal also had a second penalty decision overturned, leaving Mikel Arteta visibly frustrated. The Gunners now return to London unbeaten in the competition this season, but Simeone’s side remain dangerous in knockout action, particularly when games are tight and physical.

Why Martin Odegaard is not starting

Despite being named in the matchday squad, Martin Odegaard is not fit enough to start after recent injury concerns. The Arsenal captain had been dealing with knee discomfort, which also caused him to miss the weekend’s 3-0 win over Fulham.

While he returned to training and made himself available, the decision was made to start him on the bench rather than risk aggravating the issue. Kai Havertz is in a similar situation after a muscle knock, though both players are available for selection if needed during the match.

Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard of Arsenal

Arsenal stick with winning momentum as stakes higher than ever

Arteta has opted to keep faith with the same starting XI that impressed against Fulham, prioritizing rhythm and chemistry. Bukayo Saka, who was rested at half-time in that match, retains his place, while Viktor Gyokeres continues up front after scoring twice at the weekend. Myles Lewis-Skelly remains in midfield after an impressive showing, while Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White also keep their places in defence.

The lineup reflects a preference for stability in a match where structure and control could be decisive. With no away goals rule in effect, the winner at the Emirates Stadium will advance directly to the final if the match is decided in normal or extra time, or via penalties if required.

Martin Ødegaard of Arsenal

How to watch Sporting Cristal vs Palmeiras in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2026 Copa Libertadores

5 May 2026 at 22:00
Sporting Cristal play against Palmeiras on Matchday 4 of the 2026 Copa Libertadores group stage. Viewers across the USA can follow the match live, with full details available here, with kickoff times and broadcast or streaming options.
Here are all of the details of where you can watch Sporting Cristal vs Palmeiras on US television and via legal streaming:
WHO Sporting Cristal vs Palmeiras
WHAT Copa Libertadores
WHEN 6:00pm ET / 3:00pm PT • Tuesday, May 5, 2026
WHERE Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS CONNECT
FREE TRIAL WATCH NOW

Match Overview

Group leadership is on the line as Palmeiras and Sporting Cristal collide in a high-stakes Matchday 4 showdown in the Copa Libertadores group stage, with the Brazilian powerhouse entering just one point off the top and a victory potentially flipping the standings.

Sporting Cristal, currently sitting first with six points from three matches, now faces its biggest test yet against a title favorite widely expected to contend deep into the tournament, setting the stage for a pivotal clash that could reshape the group—don’t miss a minute of this must-see battle.

More details on how to watch

With Fubo, you can watch Sporting Cristal vs Palmeiras and tons more games. With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your computer, smartphone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV or hook it up to your TV with Google Chromecast.
Now with Fubo, you can stream USA Network, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS, CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, beIN SPORTS, beIN SPORTS en Español, beIN SPORTS Connect, beIN SPORTS XTRA, NBC, CNBC, USA, FOX, FOX Soccer Plus, FOX Deportes, Universo, Telemundo and Galavision.
Plus Fubo, the legal streaming service, also streams Liga MX, World Cup, Women’s World Cup, MLS, UEFA Champions League (in Spanish), Europa League (in Spanish), Primeira Liga, Ligue Un, World Cup qualifiers, NWSL, select USMNT games, select USWNT games, select Mexico games, select England games and more.
The Fubo app is available for Windows PC, Mac, Apple iPhones, Android phones, Amazon Fire TV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Hisense TVs, iOS devices, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs and Xbox One.
If you’re planning to follow more games on this platform, you can check out the full Fubo soccer schedule to stay up to date with upcoming matches available via the service.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as NordVPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming. If you are not sure which VPN to use, check out World Soccer Talk’s guide to the best VPNs for streaming soccer.

Free resources available to you

Courtesy of World Soccer Talk, download a complimentary copy of The Ultimate Soccer TV And Streaming Guide, which features details on where to watch all of the leagues from around the world on US TV and streaming.
To find out when soccer games are on, download the free Soccer TV Schedules App which includes listings of all of the live soccer matches available in the United States (available on Apple iOS devices and Android devices).

Murilo of Pameiras

Boxing’s youngest male champion Abdullah Mason announces first title defence against ex champ Cordina

5 May 2026 at 23:12

‘s highly-anticipated return to the ring has been officially announced, as he takes on Welshman Joe Cordina in Cleveland. Mason is widely-regarded as one of the most exciting young fighters in the entire sport, with the 22-year-old having become world champion when he competed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia back in November. It was a competitive […]

The post Boxing’s youngest male champion Abdullah Mason announces first title defence against ex champ Cordina appeared first on Boxing News.

Canelo’s trainer still holding out hope for one fight: “I know we can beat him”

5 May 2026 at 22:35

Ahead of his September return for , trainer Eddy Reynoso is mapped out how the final chapter of his career might look. Last year, Canelo became a two-time undisputed super-middleweight world champion when he outpointed Cuba’s William Scull to regain the IBF world title, having vacated it the year prior. That triumph set up a […]

The post Canelo’s trainer still holding out hope for one fight: “I know we can beat him” appeared first on Boxing News.

‘Galatasaray beni yenemez! Sami Yen'de yenilgim yok‘

Sami Uğurlu daha önce Sami Yen'de Galatasaray'a hiç yenilmedi. 1 galibiyet 1 beraberlik aldı. Antalyaspor'un hocası hafta sonunda oynanacak; sarı-kırmızılılar için şampiyonluk, kendileri için kümede kalma maçı için tüm tuşlara bastı. Özellikle geçen sezon Kasımpaşa ile aldığı beraberliğin notlarını Antalyasporlu oyuncularla da paylaştı! "Puansız dönmek yok" diye motive etti.

Galatasaray için bu hafta çok kritik... geçen hafta kaybedilen Samsunspor maçından önce "3 puan" nasıl şampiyon yapacaksa bu hafta sonunda da Rams Park'a gelecek Antalyaspor karşısında alınacak "3 puan" yine şampiyonluk demek.

Süper Lig'de kalabilmek için son iki haftada 4 puan çıkarması gereken Antalyaspor'da ise tek hedef Rams Park'tan "en az 1 puanla" dönmek. Yönetim de kolları sıvadı. 1 puana prim yazdı.

Galatasaray

RAMS PARK'TA HİÇ KAYBETMEDİ

Antalyaspor'un başındaki Sami Uğurlu ise Galatasaraya ters gelen bir teknik adam...

Galatasaray maçları performansı

O     G     B     M     A/Y   

4     1     1     2     10:10 

Uğurlu, Kasımpaşa'nın başında 2021-22 sezonunda Torrent'in çalıştırdığı Galatasaray'ı Rams Park'ta 3-1 yendi. Geçen sezonun 7. haftasındaki maç da 3-3 bitti. O maçta Osimhen (2 gol) ve Icardi (1 gol) beraber oynayıp goller atmasına rağmen Uğurlu'nun Kasımpaşa'sı 1 puanı kaptı. Hatta galibiyeti kaçıran taraf da Kasımpaşa'ydı. Uğurlu şimdiye kadar Rams Park'ta Galatasaray'a boyun eğmedi.

KASIMPAŞA BÖYLE GALİBİYETİ KAÇIRDI

Sarı-kırmızılılar geçen sezon 0.93 gol beklentisi üretip 3 gol atarken, Kasımpaşa'nın savunmasından çok destek aldı. Galatasaray %300 verimlilikle oynarken Kasımpaşa ise 2.24 xG ve 3 büyük şans ile aslında maçı kazanacak taraf oldu. Kasımpaşa geçen sezon her istatistikte üstündü.

İkili Mücadele Kazanma: %37 (GS) - %63 (KSP)

Hava Topu Mücadelesi: %38 (GS) - %62 (KSP)

Sahipsiz Top Kazanma: 44 (GS) - 47 (KSP)

Galatasaray

UĞURLU OYUN PLANINI BELİRLEDİ

Sami Uğurlu geçen sezon Kasımpaşa ile 3-3 berabere kaldıkları maçın videolarını Antalyaspor'daki oyuncularına izletti. Puan almak için neler yapmaları gerektiğini tek tek gösterdi:

- Galatasaray'ın teknik kapasitesi yüksek oyuncularına "topla dönme" şansı tanımamak.

- Hava topu hakimiyeti sağlamak merkezde fiziksel temasla Galatasaray orta sahasını oyundan soğutmak.

- Galatasaray'ın ön alan baskısını beklerin arkasına atılan direkt toplarla kırmak.

- Galatasaray'ı sürekli kanatlardan orta yapmaya zorlamak.

Icardi'nin yerini dolduracak: Osimhen'in yeni golcü kararı

Galatasaray'da son zamanlarda şu soru cevabını arıyor: Mauro Icardi neden bu kadar kötüydü? Bazılarına göre sakatlıktan dönemedi, küstü. Bazılarına göre Arjantinli daha önceki yıllarda iyi bir sistemin son ütücüsüydü. Bu sezon Osimhen için sistem bozuldu. Nijeryalı sisteme uyan değil sistemi yaratan olduğu için Icardi de "auta" çıktı. Tüm bunlar üst üste konulduğunda Icardi ile yolların ayrılması kesinleştiği için yedeğine gelecek forveti seçme konusunda Osimhen'in özellikleri belirleyici olacak.

Mauro Icardi kötü olduğu için mi sezon sonu yolcu... yoksa Galatasaray'ın oyun sistemi değiştiği için mi? Arjantinli iddia edildiği gibi takıma ve camiaya küstü mü, yoksa Okan Buruk sistemini Nijeryalı golcüsü Osimhen'e adapte olduğu için mi takımdan kopuk gibi duruyor?

Sorular çok fazla ama cevap tek ve net: Icardi valizlerini hazırladı. Amedspor'un da kendisine ilgi gösterdiği ortamda Galatasaray'dan ayrılmak için yola koyuldu.

Galatasaray

OSIMHEN ATLET ICARDI SEZGİSEL

Osimhen "atlet" forvet. Patlayıcı gücü, hızı ve dikey sıçrama kapasitesi olağanüstü. Savunma arkasına yaptığı koşularda rakip stoperlerin yetişmesi imkansız.

Icardi ise hızıyla değil, pozisyon bilgisiyle fark yaratan bir golcü. Kısa mesafede çevik. Ancak uzun mesafeli koşucu değil. Gücünü ikili mücadelelerde değil topun düşeceği yeri sezerek kullanıyor.

İSTATİSTİKLER ÇOK DİKKAT ÇEKİCİ          OSIMHEN              ICARDI

Bitiricilik (xG-Gol Beklentisi)        14.67 (Yüksek hacimli şut)    12.80 (Yüksek verimli şut)

Maç Başı Şut                         4.2 - 5.0                2.5 - 3.1

Hava Topu Hakimiyeti                 %55.0 Başarı                  %38.0 Başarı

Ceza Sahası Buluşması                Maç başı 7.5                  Maç başı 4.2

Galatasaray

SİSTEM OLMADIĞI İÇİN ICARDI BİTTİ

Osimhen sisteme muhtaç olmadan kendi pozisyonunu "yaratabilen" bir atlet. Bu yüzden Icardi için kurulan yapıya kolayca adapte oldu. Icardi ise sistemin bir "parçası" değil sistemin "son noktası"ydı. Sakatlandıktan sonra dönüşünde de sorun oldu. Sistem de son noktaya kadar tıkır tıkır işlemediği için Icardi'nin verimi de sistem kalitesine paralel olarak düştü.

Şimdi soru şu: Galatasaray, "çok şey başarmış" Icardi'nin yerine Osimhen tarzı bir forveti nereden bulacak. Rotasyonda tutacak olsa bile ne kadar harcamak zorunda kalacak?

Gabriel Sara'da 40 milyon euro'luk risk

Sol ayak bileği iç-ön yan bağlarında hasar ve kemikte ödem tespit edilen Gabriel Sara'nın bıçak altına yatması, cerrahi temizlik (artroskopi) yapılması gündeme geldi. Premier Lig dahil pek çok talibi olan ve Brezilya ile Dünya Kupası'na gitmesi gündemde olan sambacı için Galatasaray yönetimi 40 milyon euro ve üzeri bir satış beklentisi içine girmişti.

Brezilya Milli Takımı'na seçilen ve piyasası zirve yapan Gabriel Sara'ya başta Premir Lig olmak üzere pek çok ülkeden teklif var. Yönetimin hayali satışından en az 40 milyon Euro'yu kasaya koymak. Ancak sambacı, Mart ayındaki milli ara sırasında Brezilya Milli Takımı kampında sol ayak bileğinden bir sakatlık yaşadı. Yapılan kontrollerde sol ayak bileği iç-ön yan bağlarında hasar ve kemikte ödem tespit edildi.

Galatasaray

ANTALYASPOR MAÇINDA OYNAYABİLİR Mİ?

Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Fenerbahçe derbisi öncesinde Sara'nın hafta boyu takımla çalışamadığını, sadece maçtan bir gün önce çok kısa bir süre denendiğini açıkladı.

Derbiden sonra da Gabriel Sara'nın bilek ağrıları devam etti. Antrenmana başlayınca ağrılar nüks etti. Samsunspor maçında riske edilmedi. Antalyaspor maçında oynama ihtimalindan bahsediliyor. Ancak sakatlığı ile ilgili sürpriz de bir iddia da var.

ATROSKOPİ YAPILMASI GÜNDEME GELDİ

Sara hali hazırda ani yön değiştirmelerde, sıçrama sonrası yere inişlerde ve ayak bileğinin dışa veya içe doğru kontrolsüzce "kaçtığını" hissettiğini teknik ekiple paylaştı. Bu durum sağlık ekibi tarafından bağın eklemi tutamadığı şeklinde yorumlandı.

Sara her sahaya çıktığında, antrenman sonrası ayak bileği portakal gibi şişiyor... bu da eklem içinde bir kronik inflamasyon olduğuna işaret olarak kabul edildi. Ağrı kesicilerle baskılanamadığı için cerrahi temizlik (artroskopi) yapılması gündeme geldi.

Galatasaray

2.5 AY SAHALARDAN UZAK KALABİLİR

Sambacının Brezilya Milli Takımıyla Dünya Kupası'nı kaçırmasına bile neden olabilecek atroskopi ise en az 2.5 aylık bir sahalardan uzak kalma anlamına gelir. Sara daha büyük bir sakatlık pahasına bile olsa seçilme şansı varsa Brezilya Milli Takımı'nın nihai kadrosunun açıklanmasını ve Dünya Kupasına gitmeyi hayal ediyor. Eğer Dünya Kupasına gidemezse o zaman bıçak altına yatması gündeme gelecek.

Davinson Sanchez, Okan Buruk ve Dursun Özbek'in arasını açtı!

Galatasaray Teknik Direktörü Okan Buruk ne yaptı, ne ettiyse Davinson Sanchez'i kazanamadı. Bunun üzerine yönetime "van Dijk'i alıyorsak, gönderelim" raporu verdi. Başkan Dursun Özbek ise daha sezon başında 30 yaşındaki oyuncuya 3 yıllığına hem de yüzde 30 zamla sözleşme imzalanmasına onay veren Buruk'a sert çıktı: Sözleşme zammına onay veren sendin, oyuncuyu kazanacak olan da sensin.

Davinson Sanchez bu sezona kadar Galatasaray'da "duvar" gibiydi. Gelen çarpıyor, giden yıkılıyordu. Ta ki 15 Ağustos 2025'te sözleşmesinin yenilendiği açıklanana kadar. Hem 2028-29 sezonu sonuna kadar süre, hem de 4.5 milyon Euro maaşın üstüne yüzde 30 zammın yer aldığı sözleşmeyi kaptı. O günden sonra Kolombiyalı oyuncu sürekli geri gitmeye başladı. Davinson'un "istop" etmesiyle ilgili bomba bir de iddia var:

- Virgil van Dijk'le anlaşma yapıldı. Davinson'u yedek kalma korkusu sardı.

Galatasaray

VAN DIKJ YÜZÜNDEN KRİZ ÇIKTI

Ancak Okan Buruk iddiaların aksine Ağustos ayındaki zamlı sözleşme sonrası Davinson'un yaşadığı düşüşü "konfor alanı sendromu" olarak yorumladı. 4.5 milyon Euro üzerine gelen %30 zam, oyuncuda "başardım" hissi yarattığını savundu. Yardımcılarıyla paylaştı.

Buruk eski agresifliğini ve çizgi savunmasındaki zamanlamasını geri kazanması için Davinson'a ekstra fiziksel yükleme de yaptı, psikolojik olarak destek de oldu. Ancak sonuç sıfır.

NE YAPTIYSA BAŞARILI OLAMADI

Bunun üzerine Buruk sözleşme zammı sonrası düşüş yaşandığı tespiti yaptırdı. Antrenman verilerinde ve maç içindeki özellikle mücadele istatistiklerinde belirlenen baremin altında kaldığını Davinson'a gösterdi. "Cezai yaptırım" tehdidi savurdu. Bu da işe yaramadı. Yönetimle görüşerek "performans odaklı disiplin yönetmeliğini" hatırlattı. Ancak şampiyonluk yarışında ceza kesilmedi.

Galatasaray

6 MİLYON EURO'NUN ÜZERİNDE MAAŞ

Tüm bunlara rağmen Davinson'dan bir geri dönüş alınamadı. Okan Buruk da yönetime yeni raporunu sundu: "van Dijk transferini tamamlarsak Davinson'ı gönderelim" dedi.

Ancak maaşı 6 milyon Euro'yu aşan 30 yaşına gelmiş bir stoperi hem de 3 sezon daha sözleşmesi varken göndermek yönetim için "imkansız görev" gibi. Bu yüzden Dursun Özbek, Okan Buruk'a, "sözleşme zammına onay veren sendin, oyuncuyu kazanacak olan da sensin" karşılığını verdi.

Fatih Tekke kafaya koydu: O isimler Trabzon'a gelecek

Fatih Tekke'ye göre Galatasaray ve Fenerbahçe bu sezon kendilerine defalarca "gelin 2. olun. Gelin şampiyon olun" dedi. Ancak Trabzonspor'un zirve yarışını götürecek iyi oyuncuları olmasına rağmen takımı yarışta tutacak rotasyon oyuncuları olmadığı için üçüncülükle yetinmek zorunda kaldılar. Tekke'ye göre gelecek sezon daha yukarısının hedeflenmesi için gereken rotasyon oyuncuları mutlaka transfer edilmeli.

Trabzonspor taraftarı şaşkın... kaçan şampiyonluğa üzülen de var, bu kadroyla sezonun sonuna kadar şampiyonluk mücadelesinin içinde kalmanın gururunu yaşayan da. Şampiyonluk umutları matematiksel olarak bitti. 2. olma umudu hala devam ediyor. Ancak 3'üncülük artı garanti. Çünkü Beşiktaş'ın Trabzonspor'u yakalama şansı kalmadı.

Trabzonspor

FIRSATLAR TEPİLMESE BAŞKA ŞEYLER OLURDU

10-11 kişilik ana oyuncu grubuyla buralara kadar gelen ekipte her maç sonu oyuncuların sahadaki bitkin halleri, dökülen terin ve verilen emeğin en somut kanıtı oldu. Trabzonspor göze hoş gelen futbol oynamadı ama "mücadele etmediği" yönünde kimse görüş belirtmedi. Galatasaray ve Fenerbahçe’nin dengesiz sonuçlar aldığı dönemlerde Trabzonspor ayağına kadar gelen liderlik fırsatlarını tepmese bugün bambaşka şeyler de konuşuluyor olabilirdi.

ROTASYON GÜÇLENDİRİLECEK

Bu yüzden Başkan Ertuğrul Doğan ile Fatih Tekke gelecek sezonun transfer planlaması üzerinde çalışmaya devam ederken özellikle rotasyonu güçlendirmenin üzerinde duruyorlar.

Her ne kadar as takıma takviyeler yapılacak olsa da söz gelimi her iki kanadı da savunacak bir bek, stoperleri yedekleyecek iyi bir rotasyon beki, 6 ve 8 oynayacak her an forma giymeye hazır orta saha oyuncusu ve hem 10 hem de kanatlar ile hem santrfor hem de kanat forveti olabilecek İsviçre Çakısı gibi isimler üzerinde araştırmalar yoğunlaşıyor.

Trabzonspor

YERLERİNİ ALACAK İSİMLER OLMADI

Fatih Tekke'ye göre Savic ve Batagov'un sakatlığında Nwaiwu'nun yanına stoper ekleyememek, Mustafa ve Lovik düştüğü zaman bek çıkaramamak, Oulai ve Folcarelli yokluğunda Bouchouari ve Ozan Tufan'dan daha iyisinin elde olmaması, kanatlar düştüğünde eksik kalınması ve Onuachu'ya yakın ayarda bir santrforun olmaması bu sezonun belki de şampiyon olunamamasının nedenlerinin başında geldi.

Galatasaray'dan yılda 40 milyon dolar'lık proje

Fenerbahçe, EuroLeague'de kalmayı tercih etti. Hali hazırda şampiyon olduğu halde 7-8 milyon Euro kazanan sarı-lacivertliler yeni sistemle 15 milyon Euro'ya kadar rakam kazanabilecek. Ancak ABD'lilerin "NBA Europe'a katıl" diye bastırdıkları Galatasaray yeni proje sayesinde potada da para basmaya başlayacak. Kurucu üyeler arasında yer alarak yılda 35-40 milyon Euro'yu kasaya koyacak.

NBA Europe projesi 2027 Ekim ayında başlaması planlanan 12'si kurucu ve daimi üye olmak üzere 16 takımlı bir sistem olarak planlanıyor. 2026 yılı Mayıs ayı itibarıyla Galatasaray'ın da aralarında bulunduğu kurucu üyeler ve hedef pazarlar netleşmeye başladı.

Zaten Başkan Dursun Özbek de bunu açıklamıştı:

- NBA Europe kuruluyor, bizi ziyaret edip 'sizi aramızda görmek istiyoruz' dediler. 'Neden biz?' dedim, bana 'tesisleşmeye önem veriyorsunuz ve şampiyonluk kutlamanızdaki görüntüleriniz bize geldi, yağmurda 1 milyon taraftarınız vardı' dediler. Biz taraftarlarımızla birlikte yürüyoruz.

Galatasaray

DEVLERLE BERABER KURUCULAR ARASINDA

Kurucuları arasında Galatasaray dışında Bayern, PSG, Olimpia Milano, London Lions, Real Madrid ve Panathinaikos'un olacağı NBA Europe için NBA ve FIBA'nın hedeflediği potansiyel medya değeri 20 milyar dolar. Bu potansiyele ulaşışması durumunda, Galatasaray'ın da aralarında yer alacağı kurucular sadece yayın ve merkezi pazarlama havuzundan yıllık 15 ila 25 milyon dolar arasında "ayak bastı" parası alarak sezona başlayacaklar.

AYAK BASTI PARASI BİLE 10-15 MİLYON DOLAR

NBA sistemine kurucu olarak gireceği için Galatasaray, forma göğüs sponsorluğu ve arena isim hakkı gibi kalemlerden de yıllık ekstra 10-15 milyon dolar ekstra gelir elde edecek.

Zaten Aslantepe'de yapılacak basketbol salonu için daha şimdiden NBA'in aracılığı ile ABD'den bir kaç sponsorla görüşmeler başladı bile.

Maç günü gelirleri için yıllık 5 ile 8 milyon dolar gibi bir rakamın konuşulduğu ortamda Galatasaray'ın yıllık kazancının basketbolda 35-40 milyon dolar bandına kadar yükselmesi işten bile değil.

Galatasaray

FENERBAHÇE ÇOK GERİDE KALACAK

Yeni yapılan anlaşmayla beraber Fenerbahçe'nin Euroleague'den (yayın, galibiyet ve sıralama dahil) elde edeceği toplam yıllık gelirin yeni dönemde 10 ile 15 milyon Euro bandına doğru evrileceği hesaplanıyor.

Sarı-lacivertliler geçtiğimiz sezonu şampiyon tamamlayarak 1.8 milyon Euro'nun üzerine yayın ve ticari havuz paylarıyla 7.5 milyon Euro civarında bir gelir elde etti.

Mehmet Ali Aydınlar neden çekildi? Fenerbahçe'de her çaldığı kapı yüzüne mi kapandı?

Mehmet Ali Aydınlar'ın başkan adaylığını açıklaması bekleniyordu... tam tersi oldu. Kenara çekildi. İddialara göre iki konu etkili oldu. Birincisi; Aziz Yıldırım'ın "dilinin kemiğinin olmadığı" muhalefeti. İkincisi de genç isimlerin kendisiyle çalışmak istememesi. Camiada konuşulanlara göre de Ailesi 2014'te canını çok yakan Yıldırım'la yeniden rakip olmamasını istedi. Genç işadamları ise 3 Temmuz süreci yüzünden Aydınlar'la aynı safta yer almak istemedi.

Camianın kararını "yarın ya da yarından yakın" açıklayabileceğini konuşup durduğu Mehmet Ali Aydınlar tüm "ben bilirim"cileri taca çıkardı. AA muhabirine şu yazılı açıklamayı yaptı:

- Fenerbahçe'nin yarınlarının, şahsım üzerinden oluşacak tartışmalarla gölgelenmesine izin vermemek adına yapılacak seçimli olağanüstü genel kurulda aday olmayacağım.

Fenerbahce

GENÇ İSİMLERLE ÇALIŞMAK İSTİYORDU

2014 yılında Aziz Yıldırım'a kaybeden Aydınlar, en doğru zamanda en doğru isimlerle en doğru manifesto ile adaylığını resmen açıklamaya hazırlanıyordu. Ancak iddialara göre kapısını çaldığı pek çok genç yönetici adayı kendisine olumsuz cevap verdi. Bahsi geçen (Nezih Barut, Necdet Ersoy ve Hamdi Akın) iş adamlarından çok genç ve dinamik isimlerden oluşan bir yönetim kurulu listesi düşünüyordu.

AYDINLAR'A HAYIR DİYEN İSİMLER

Ancak Aydınlar'ın kapısını çalıp hayır cevabı aldığı o kadar çok isim oldu ki, başkan adaylığı konusunda geri adım atmak zorunda kaldı. Bu isimlerin net olarak işaret etmeseler de 3 Temmuz sürecini gündeme getirmeleri Acıbadem'in patronunun fikrini çok fazla etkiledi.

İşte Aydınlar'a hayır diyen yönetici adayları:

- Berkay Erdim

- Tuna Akın

- Mehmet Emin Özturan

- Batuhan Özdemir

- Emrah Tünay

- Cenk Öztanık

- Alper Alpoğlu

- Özgür Özaktaç

Fenerbahce

AİLESİ DE AYDINLAR'I ETKİLEDİ

İddialara göre Mehmet Ali Aydınlar, 2014 yılında girdiği başkanlık yarışı sırasında Aziz Yıldırım'ın kendisine söylediği sözleri hiç unutmadı. O dönemde Yıldırım kendisine ve Hamdi Akın gibi kendisiyle başkanlık yarışına giren isimlere öylesine ağır ithamlarda bulundu ki, ailesi Aydınlar'a "dur" dedi. Dingin bir hayat sürerken Yıldırım gibi "sert bir rakibin karşısına çıkılmaması" tavsiyesi verildi.

Hoca Thomas Frank, golcü Guirassy! Fenerbahçe protokolleri imzaladı

Fenerbahçe Başkanı Sadettin Saran "sanki hiç gitmeyecekmiş gibi" ekibiyle transferler konusunda sabah akşam çalışıyor. Gelen bilgilere göre Başkan Saran teknik direktör olarak Thomas Frank'ı ikna etti. Protokol imzaladı. Ertan Torunoğulları da Serhou Guirassy için Dortmund'u ikna etti. İmzalı protokolü aldı. Ömer Topbaş da Rafael Leao ya da Karim Adeyemi konusunda son aşamaya geldi. Başkan Saran'dan 10 gün istedi. Protokollerin ortak özelliği hepsinin "yeni yönetim isterse" devreye girecek olması olarak planlandı.

Sadettin Saran yönetimi sanki seçimde aday olacakmış gibi çalışıyor. Fenerbahçe Başkanı teknik direktör konusunda, futboldan sorumlu yönetici Ertan Torunoğulları santrfor konusunda, Ömer Topbaş ise kanat transferi konusunda görüşmelerine devam ediyor. İddialara göre Başkan Saran teknik direktör olarak Brentford ile harikalar yaratan ancak Tottenham dönemimde yere çakılan Thomas Frank ile anlaştı.

Fenerbahce

THOMAS FRANK DÜNDEN HAZIR

Hatta Danimarkalı teknik adamın İstanbul'a gelen menajeriyle prensip anlaşmasına vardı. Başkan adaylarına gönderdiği mesajda eğer istemeleri durumunda Frank'ın "ön protokol imzalamaya hazır olduğu" bilgisini bile verdi.

Hatta Thomas Frank'ın Fenerbahçe'yi çalışmaya başladığı, sezon bitene kadar raporun Başkan Saran'ın elinde olacağı da gelen bilgiler arasında.

Fenerbahce

GUIASSY'DE İŞLEM TAMAM

Torunoğulları'nın da Serhou Guirassy için Dortmund'la 30+5 milyon euro'luk protokol (bu protokol ancak yeni yönetim kabul ederse devreye girecek) imzaladığı haberleri geliyor. Yeni yönetim Gineli golcü ile sözleşme imzalamak isterse 15 Haziran'a kadar zamanı olacak. 30 yaşındaki golcünün de Torunoğulları'na evet dediği menajerinin de yine 15 Haziran'a kadar geçerli olmak üzere bir protokol için söz verdiği bildirildi.

YA LEAO YA DA ADEYEMI

Ömer Topbaş ise aralarında Rafael Leao ve Adeyemi gibi isimlerin de bulunduğu bir kaç kanat oyuncusu ile temas halinde. Şu an için herhangi birisiyle anlaşamadı ancak gelen bilgilere göre 10 gün içinde bir kanat oyuncusu konusunda son aşamaya gelecek. Şarta bağlı protokol imzalama konusunda hem kulübü hem de oyuncu ve menajeriyle önemli aşama kaydetme konusunda Başkan Saran'a söz verdi.

Aziz Yıldırım'dan beklenen hamle geldi: Büyük gün yarın

Fenerbahçe'de başkan adaylığına kesin gözle bakılan Mehmet Ali Aydınlar'ın aday olmayacağını açıklamasının ardından gözler Aziz Yıldırım'a çevrilmişti. Aziz Yıldırım'ın başkanlığa aday olacağı öğrenildi.

Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray derbisinde alınan 3-0'lık mağlubiyetin ardından seçim kararı almıştı. Mevcut başkan Sadettin Saran'ın başkanlığa aday olmayacağı açıklamasının ardından ise gözler yeni başkan adaylarına çevrilmişti.

Fenerbahce

MEHMET AYDINLAR ADAY OLMAYACAK

Öte yandan adaylığına kesin gözle bakılan Mehmet Ali Aydınlar bugün açıklama yaparak aday olmayacağını duyurdu. Aydınlar, yaptığı açıklamada " Fenerbahçe'nin yarınlarının, şahsım üzerinden oluşacak tartışmalarla gölgelenmesine izin vermemek adına yapılacak seçimli olağanüstü genel kurulda aday olmayacağım." ifadelerini kullandı.

Fenerbahce

AZİZ YILDIRIM'DAN HAMLE

Eski başkan Aziz Yıldırım'ın ise 6 Mayıs 2026 Çarşamba TSİ 14.00'de bir basın toplantısıyla Fenerbahçe SK Başkan Adaylığını açıklaması ve YK ekibini tanıtması bekleniyor.

Fenerbahçe'ye başkan adaylığını resmen açıkladı

Hakan Safi, Fenerbahçe Kulübünün seçimli olağanüstü genel kurulunda başkanlığa aday olduğunu duyurdu.

Eski Fenerbahçeli yönetici Hakan Safi, sarı-lacivertli kulübün seçimli olağanüstü genel kurulunda başkanlığa aday olduğunu duyurdu.

Safi, AA muhabirine yaptığı yazılı açıklamada, "Çocukluğumdan beri sevdalısı, 1999 yılından bu yana ise kongre üyesi olarak büyük bir gururla parçası olduğum bu kıymetli camianın hep beraber daha güçlü yarınlara ulaşması adına önemli bir sorumluluk üstlenme kararı almış bulunuyorum. Bu vesileyle seçimli olağanüstü kongremizde Fenerbahçe Kulübü Başkanlığı'na şartsız ve koşulsuz adaylığımı resmi olarak sizlerle paylaşmaktan onur duyuyorum." ifadelerini kullandı.

Fenerbahçe ailesinin her bir ferdini kapsayan ve herkesi kucaklayan bir anlayışla yola çıkacağını aktaran Safi, şunları kaydetti:

"Fenerbahçe, yalnızca bir spor kulübü değil; milyonların kalbinde yaşayan büyük bir değer, bir aidiyet ve bir tutkudur. Amacım ve ilk hedefim, göreve geldiğimiz ilk sezonda her zaman en iyisini hak eden camiamızı şampiyonluklarla buluşturmak olacaktır. Tüm camiamızın desteği ve inancıyla, Fenerbahçe'mizi daha güçlü, daha başarılı ve daha mutlu yarınlara hep birlikte taşıyacağımıza yürekten inanıyorum."

Hacıosmanoğlu'nun istifası istenecek! Galatasaray'la ilişkiler kesilecek

Fenerbahçe'de Başkan adaylığı ile adını tüm Türkiye'nin duyduğu Barış Göktürk ortalıkta çok fazla dolaşıp sesi çok çıktığı için puan toplamak yerine puan kaybetmeye başladı. Öyle bir gündem oluştu ki Göktürk'ün aslında başkanlığı değil de güçlü bir adayın yönetim kurulunda yer almak için çalışma yaptığı camia içinde yüksek sesle konuşulmaya başlandı.

Barış Göktürk "en çok konuşan" ancak Fenerbahçe camiasınada beklediği karşılığı bir türlü bulamayan başkan adayı olarak öne çıkmaya başladı. Basınla yaptığı son tanışma toplantısında söyledikleri camiayı tatmin etmezken, Selahattin Baki'nin de yönlendirmesiyle strateji değiştirmeye hazırlanıyor.

Seçilirse Ozan Balaban’ın idari liderliğinde, Baki’nin operasyonel gücüyle destekleyeceği futbol şubesini Bülent Uygun'un yönetmesini düşünen Göktürk'ün yeni stratejisi daha saldırgan olacak.

Fenerbahce

YENİ STRATEJİ ŞU ŞEKİLDE OLACAK

Tüm teknik stratejinin merkezinde 'futbol aklı' sıfatıyla Bülent Uygun yer alacak. Uygun'un transferden altyapıya kadar tam yetkiyle donatılması bekleniyor. Uygun'un gündeme getirdiği Baki'nin de onayladığı yeni strateji ise "daha kavgacı" olacak. İşte tahmin edilen bazı detaylar:

- Ali Koç ve Sadettin Saran dönemlerinin aksine TFF'yle iyi geçinilmeyecek. İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu ilk kez istifaya davet edilecek.

- MHK ve hakemler aleyhine çok daha sert olunacak. Yabancı VAR şart koşulacak.

- 1959 öncesi şampiyonluklar konusunda agresif olunacak.

- Kulüpler Birliği tanınmayacak, Galatasaray'la ilişkiler net olarak en alt seviyeye indirilecek.

Fenerbahce

ASIL AMACI BİR YÖNETİME GİRMEK

Gelen haberlere höre Barış Göktürk ilerleyen dönemde biraz daha az konuşmayı planlıyor. Şu anda camiada "kendisine sığınacak bir dal arıyor" havası esmeye başladı. Göktürk'ün derdinin başkanlık değil de Aziz Yıldırım'ın ya da diğer adayın yönetimine girmeyi planladığı da ciddi ciddi konuşuluyor.

İşte Aziz Yıldırım'ın başkan adayı: Hem genç hem zengin

Mehmet Ali Aydınlar çekildi... Aziz Yıldırım şu ortamda aday olmayı düşünmüyor. Camiada konuşulanlara göre bu yüzden uzun süredir başkan adayı olmasını istediği Batuhan Özdemir'i öne çıkarabilir. Ya da "bana bir sene verin" diyerek aday olarak Özdemir'i 2027 yılına başkan adayı olarak hazırlayabilir.

Aziz Yıldırım başkan adayı olmayacak ama meydanı da boş bırakmayacak gibi... Mehmet Ali Aydınlar "aday olmayacağım" dedi. Yıldırım'ın da aday olmaması bekleniyor. Ancak Aziz Yıldırım'ın her an bir sürpriz yapabileceğine inannanların sayısı da bir hayli fazla.

Fenerbahce

Camia içinde konuşulanlara göre "efsane başkan" sadece 1 sezon için göreve hala talip olabilir. "Bu geçiş döneminde kulübü bana bırakın, sonra yepyeni yüzlerle devam edelim" diyebilir.

Bu iddia sahiplerine göre şampiyonluk gelse de gelmese de 2027'deki seçimde kesinlikle aday olmayacak. Bu bir yıl için gelecek, sezon sonunda yapılacak seçime "yeni ve genç başkanı" hazırlayacak. Sezon bitiminde yapılacak kongrede bu adayı destekleyecek. Pişmesini ve tanınmasını sağlayacak.

ŞU ANDA KİMSEYİ İŞARET ETMEDİ

Aziz Yıldırım, şu an için belirli bir ismi işaret ettiğine dair haberleri "spekülasyon" olarak nitelendiriyor. "Her şey bir berraklaşsın" diyerek adaylık konusunda da net bir tavır koymuyor. Önce tüm adayların ortaya çıkmasını bekliyor. Fenerbahçe'ye katkı sağlayacak ve "çocukların ağlamasını önleyecek" güçlü bir oluşum kurulursa kendisinin de aday olabileceğine dair açık kapı da bıraktı.

Fenerbahce

ÖZDEMİR'İN YANINDA ÖZOKUR İSMİ

Yakın çevresine ve camianın önde gelen isimlerine "artık gençlerin elini taşın altına koyma vakti geldi" diyerek Batuhan Özdemir ve Ahmet Özokur gibi isimlerin adaylığını destekleyebileceği yönünde kulis bilgileri yansıdı.

Özellikle Nihat Özdemir ile Aziz Yıldırım'ın uzun yıllara dayanan yol arkadaşlığı, Batuhan Özdemir isminin "Yıldırım'ın işaret edeceği genç aday" profilinde öne çıkardı.

BABASI YÜZÜNDEN SORUN YAŞAYABİLİR

Batuhan Özdemir ismi daha önce de yönetim listelerinde geçti... ancak başkan adaylığı çok daha büyük bir sorumluluk. Babası Nihat Özdemir'in TFF başkanlığı döneminde Fenerbahçe ile yaşadığı gerginlikler camia içinde önyargıların oluşmasına neden oldu. Aziz Yıldırım'ın desteği bu önyargıları kırmak için kritik bir rol oynayabilir. Ancak resmi bir "adayım Batuhan" sözünü söylemesi oldukça ciddi.

Mourinho Fenerbahçe'ye dönüyor! ‘Transferleri yapıp arkama yaslanacağım‘

Jose Mourinho'yu gözünü bile kırpmadan 250 bin euro'luk hediye alacak kadar seven Fenerbahçe'nin başkan adaylarından birisinin camiayı yerinden zıplatacak bir karar aldığı iddia edildi. İddiaya göre adı geçen başkan adayının eski yönetimin Portekizli teknik adamı getirdiğini ancak kendisine istediği takımı veremediği için "günah keçisi" ilan edildiğini savundu. Başkan seçilirse Mourinho'ya "bu kez istediği takımı kurarak" bir şans daha vereceğini söyledi.

Yardım vakıflarının faaliyetlerinde veya hayır işlerinde sık sık önümüze çıkan Fenerbahçe'nin "zenginliği" ile kendini ön plana çıkaran başkan adayının en büyük özelliği Kasımpaşa'dan yetişmiş olması. Ailesinin ve yakınlarının düğünlerinde nikah şahitleri ve onur konukları ile dikkatleri çeken Fenerbahçe kulübünün başkan adayının servetinin temelleri 1960'lı yıllarda atıldı.

Fenerbahce

1 MİLYAR DOLAR SINRINI AŞIYOR

Forbes Türkiye'nin 2025-2026 verilerine göre kişisel serveti yaklaşık 750 milyon dolar civarında olan Fenerbahçe'nin başkan adayı aynı zamanda Türkiye'nin en zengin 100 ismi arasında. Sahip olduğu Holding'in yıllık toplam cirosu 1 milyar dolar sınırını aşıyor.

Kısacası Kasımpaşa’da yerel bir kömür ticaretiyle başlayan aile mirasını, ikinci kuşak olarak modern limancılık, ağır sanayi ve küresel lojistikle birleştirerek Fenerbahçe'ye "paralı" başkan adayı olacak kadar zengin bir işadamına dönüştü.

"50 MİLYON DOLAR HİBE ETTİM"

Seçim kampanyası "ekonomik güç" ve "stadyum" üzerine kurulu. Kulübe son 15 ayda herhangi bir hizmet veya sponsorluk karşılığı olmadan 50 milyon dolar hibe verdiğini söyleyen aday "Galatasaraylılarla iş yapmayacağız, onlarla maddi ve manevi mücadele etmek için geliyoruz" diyerek hedefini ezeli rakibini geçmek olarak belirledi. Yönetim kurulunun %80'inin hazır olduğunu ancak isimleri doğru zamanda açıklayacağını söylüyor.

Fenerbahce

MOURINHO İLE İLGİLİ PLANLARI VAR

Başkan adayıyla ilgili en iddialı dedikodu ise şu günlerde Real Madrid'in başına döneceği iddia edilen Jose Mourinho'yu Fenerbahçe'ye geri getirmek olarak söyleniyor. 250 bin euro'luk hediye alacak kadar sevdiği ve futbol bilgisine güvendiği Portekizli teknik adam için Fenerbahçe başkan adayının, "daha önce kendisine sağlayamadığımız tüm imkanları sağlayacağım. O da bize gerçek Mourinho'yu gösterecek" şeklinde kararını savunduğu iddia ediliyor.

Cüdo millimizin Astanaya gedəcək heyəti açıqlandı

5 May 2026 at 23:00

Beynəlxalq Cüdo Federasiyasının təqviminə əsasən, 8–10 mayda Qazaxıstanın paytaxtı Astanada “Böyük Dəbilqə” turniri keçiriləcək.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, yarışda 7 çəki dərəcəsində 11 cüdoçumuz (6 kişi, 5 qadın) mübarizə aparacaq.

İdmançılarımıza kişilərdən ibarət yığma komandanın böyük məşqçiləri – Elxan Məmmədov və Slavko Tekiç, qadınlardan ibarət yığmanın baş məşqçisi Amina Abdellatif, böyük məşqçi Saşa Herkenrat-Vimar rəhbərlik edəcəklər.

Dünya Cüdo Turuna daxil olan turnirdə 37 ölkədən 303 idmançı (178 kişi, 125 qadın) qüvvəsini sınayacaq.

Azərbaycan milli komandasının “Böyük Dəbilqə” turniri üçün heyəti təqdim edirik:

Kişilər

-66 kq
Rəşad Yelkiyev
Turan Bayramov

-73 kq
Rəşid Məmmədəliyev

-90 kq
Aslan Kotsoyev

+100 kq
Camal Feyziyev
Uşanqi Kokauri

Qadınlar

-48 kq
Könül Əliyeva
Şəfəq Həmidova

-52 kq
Gültac Məmmədəliyeva
Leyla Əliyeva

-70 kq
Südabə Ağayeva

Voleybol millilərimiz Avropa Liqası üçün hazırlığa başladılar

5 May 2026 at 22:30

Voleybol üzrə qadınlardan və kişilərdən ibarət Azərbaycan milli komandaları qarşıdakı Avropa Liqasının hazırlığına start veriblər.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk olaraq fiziki hazırlıq üzrə çalışmalar həyata keçirən qadınlardan ibarət komandamız mayın 5-dən etibarən Gənclər və İdman Nazirliyinin Voleybol Mərkəzində geniş heyətlə əsas hazırlıq mərhələsinə başlayıb.

Təlim-məşq prosesinə ümumilikdə 26 voleybolçu cəlb olunub. Yığmamıza baş məşqçi Faiq Qarayev rəhbərlik edir.

Hazırlıq proqramına əsasən, komandamız Bakıda və ölkə xaricində təlim-məşq toplanışlarında olacaq, həmçinin bir sıra yoxlama oyunları keçirəcək.

Qeyd edək ki, Avropa Liqasında millimizin ilk oyunları 5-7 iyun tarixlərində Bakıda baş tutacaq.

Kişilərdən ibarət millimiz də Gənclər və İdman Nazirliyinin Voleybol Mərkəzində təlim-məşq toplanışındadır. Komandamızın heyətinə 17 idmançı cəlb olunub. Yığmamız Avropa Liqasında yeni baş məşqçinin rəhbərliyi ilə mübarizə aparacaq.

Hazırlıq proqramına əsasən, milli komandamız Bakıda və ölkə xaricində təlim-məşq toplanışları keçəcək, həmçinin bir sıra yoxlama oyunlarında qüvvəsini sınayacaq.

Qeyd edək ki, Avropa Liqasında millimizin ilk oyunları 5-7 iyun tarixlərində İsveçdə keçiriləcək.

Sonda onu da qeyd edək ki, Azərbaycanın kişilərdən ibarət milli komandasına yeni baş məşqçi təyin olunub. Komandamız qarşıdakı yarışlarda Boris Qrebennikovun rəhbərliyi ilə iştirak edəcək. Müxtəlif ölkələrdə fəaliyyət göstərmiş 67 yaşlı təcrübəli mütəxəssis həm klub, həm də milli komanda səviyyəsində bir sıra nailiyyətlər qazanıb.

“Sabah” ardıcıl 4-cü dəfə ABL-in qalibi oldu!

5 May 2026 at 22:00

“Sabah” bu gün keçirilmiş final oyunundan qələbə ilə ayrılaraq Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının (ABL) 2025/2026 mövsümünün qalibi olub.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, “bayquşlar” turnirin final seriyasının üçüncü oyununda da “Abşeron Lions”dan üstün olublar.

Bakı İdman Sarayında baş tutmuş həlledici görüş paytaxt təmsilçisinin 108:95 hesablı qələbəsi ilə bitib. Sözügedən komanda əvvəlki iki görüşdə də rəqibini məğlub etmişdi – 98:93, 112:84.

Beləliklə, “bayquşlar” 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün qızıl medallarına sahib çıxıblar. “Abşeron Lions” isə gümüş medallarla kifayətlənib.

Xatırladaq ki, reqlamentə əsasən, final seriyasında üç qələbəyə ən tez çatmış kollektiv Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının qalibi olur.

Həlledici oyundan sonra çempion komanda mükafatlandırılıb. “Bayquşlar”a çempionluq kubokunu və qızıl medalları gənclər və idman naziri Fərid Qayıbov, həmçinin Azərbaycan Basketbol Federasiyasının prezidenti Emin Əmrullayev təqdim ediblər.

Mövsümü ikinci pillədə başa vurmuş “Abşeron Lions”un oyunçularına gümüş medallar təqdim olunub.

Bundan başqa, “Sabah”ın heyətində Castin Tilman mövsümün ən dəyərli oyunçusu seçilib və xüsusi mülafata layiq görülüb.

Qeyd edək ki, “Sabah” ardıcıl dördüncü dəfə Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının (ABL) qalibi olub.

ChatGPT ads expand with self-serve buying

5 May 2026 at 22:58
How to get cited by ChatGPT: The content traits LLMs quote most

OpenAI is taking the next step in building its ChatGPT ads platform — introducing self-serve buying, CPC bidding and improved measurement to bring more advertisers into the ecosystem

What’s happening. Ads in ChatGPT are moving beyond a limited pilot, with new ways for businesses to buy and manage campaigns. Advertisers can now access inventory through agency and tech partners — or directly via a new beta Ads Manager rolling out in the U.S.

This marks a shift from a controlled test environment to a more scalable ad platform.

Why we care. Until now, access to ChatGPT ads has been restricted and expensive, limiting participation to large advertisers. These updates lower the barrier to entry, opening the door for SMBs, startups and a wider range of brands to test the channel.

At the same time, introducing CPC bidding brings ChatGPT closer to established performance platforms, allowing advertisers to optimise for actions — not just impressions.

Self-serve Ads Manager. The new Ads Manager gives advertisers direct control over campaigns, including budgeting, bidding, creative uploads and performance tracking.

While still in beta, it signals OpenAI’s intention to build a full-service ad platform — not just a partner-led ecosystem.

Between the lines. This is a familiar playbook. Platforms typically start with high-touch, partner-led campaigns before moving to self-serve tools that unlock scale. ChatGPT is now entering that second phase.

CPC bidding arrives. Previously, ChatGPT ads were sold on a CPM basis. The addition of CPC means advertisers can now align spend with user actions — a critical step for performance marketers.

Given the nature of ChatGPT queries — often exploratory, comparative and decision-driven — clicks could become a strong proxy for intent.

Measurement catches up. OpenAI is also rolling out pixel-based tracking and a Conversions API, allowing advertisers to measure actions like purchases, sign-ups and leads.

Importantly, this data is aggregated, with no access to individual conversations — reinforcing OpenAI’s emphasis on privacy.

Why this is a big deal. Measurement has been one of the biggest gaps in early ChatGPT ads. Without it, advertisers struggled to justify spend. These updates begin to close that gap and make optimisation more viable.

The ecosystem grows. OpenAI is also expanding its partner network, working with agencies like WPP and Publicis Groupe, as well as tech platforms such as Criteo and Adobe.

This allows advertisers to buy ChatGPT ads through tools and workflows they already use.

What to watch:

  • How quickly self-serve adoption scales
  • Whether CPC performance holds as competition increases
  • How measurement evolves to match advertiser expectations

Bottom line. ChatGPT ads are moving from experiment to platform — and with self-serve tools, CPC bidding and better measurement, OpenAI is laying the groundwork for scale.

Google expands UCP checkout to main search shopping results

5 May 2026 at 22:46

Earlier this year, Google announced Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a protocol to allow AI-agents to buy directly from search. This went live only in Google’s AI Mode interface in February. But now, it seems to be rolling out in the main Google Search results where there are retailers that support UCP.

What it looks like. Brodie Clark posted a screenshot, which I can replicate, of the UCP-powered “Buy” button in the product detail overlay within Google Search, specifically for the retailer Wayfair. Here is his screenshot:

Clicking the Buy button will connect your Google checkout account with Wayfair and make the purchase without having to go to the Wayfair website to checkout.

About UCP. UCP establishes a shared language between AI agents and commerce systems, removing the need for custom integrations across agents or platforms.

  • UCP works with existing standards (e.g., Agent2Agent, Agent Payments Protocol, and Model Context Protocol).
  • Google co-developed it with partners including Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, and Target.
  • More than 20 additional companies across retail and payments have already endorsed it.

Why we care. A lot of people are saying AI-agents are the future of the web, well, here is a clear sign of how agents can help retailers make money. While Wayfair did not get any traffic from Google for this query, and there is no click, 0 click-through rates from Google Search. There was an impression in Google Search that led to a purchase without any clicks to the web site.

This won’t necessarily stop all searchers for wanting to visit the site and learn more about the product before purchasing. Just like it doesn’t stop all buyers from going into a physical store to touch and feel the product before purchasing. But some may just click “Buy” and never visit your site.

Now that it is rolling out in the main search results, it is something to keep a closer eye on.

Honor Play 70C debuts at $90 with MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra chip

5 May 2026 at 22:58
Honor Play 70C launch specs price

Alongside the Honor Play 80 Plus, Honor today announced another budget smartphone called the Honor Play 70C. The phone gets the basics right and targets the most entry-level segment. 

The phone starts at 599 yuan (around $90) for the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage version. There are two other configurations: 4GB + 128GB at 699 yuan and 6GB + 128GB at 799 yuan. 

Honor Play 70C launch specs price

Honor Play 70C Specifications

For the price, the Honor Play 70C features a 6.75-inch IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate and a 720 × 1600 resolution. The panel includes a waterdrop notch that houses a 5MP front-facing camera, which is about what you’d expect at this price point.

On the back, the device has a single 13MP main camera capable of shooting 1080p video and supporting up to 10x digital zoom.

Honor Play 70C Colors

Powering the phone is the MediaTek Helio G81 Ultra chipset, paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. It’s backed by a relatively large 5,300mAh battery.

The Play 70C runs Android 15 with MagicOS 9.0 out of the box. Connectivity options include dual SIM 4G, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, and even a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Honor is offering the phone in multiple color options, including Midnight Black, Moonlight Silver, and Ocean Blue (also referred to as Ink Rock Black, Moonlit Silver, and Lake Blue in some listings). The device itself is fairly slim at 7.89mm and weighs 186 grams.

Honor Play 70C battery

The Honor Play 80 Plus is a better phone with a larger 7,500mAh battery and a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset. But the Play 70C sticks to the basics, a low-cost phone that focuses on battery life, modest performance, and just enough features to get by.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

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Ugreen launches new 45W 10,000mAh power bank with built-in PD3.0 USB-C cable

5 May 2026 at 22:37
Ugreen 45W 10000mAh power bank

Ugreen has introduced a new 45W power bank, the Rhythm Series S45 (model PB603), currently listed on JD.com in China for 199 yuan ($29). It features a standard 10,000mAh capacity and is designed to address a very common annoyance: remembering your battery pack but forgetting the charging cable. By integrating a built-in USB-C cable, it offers a straightforward solution for keeping your devices powered on the go.

Ugreen PB603 Power Bank Specifications

The device measures 152 x 71 x 29.8 mm. On the outside, it has a ripple-textured finish to help with grip and a small TFT digital display on the front to clearly show the remaining battery percentage.

The built-in 45W USB-C cable sits at the top, supports the PD3.0 fast charging standard, and features a braided finish to handle standard wear and tear. Ugreen hasn’t detailed the rest of the port selection yet.

Inside the casing, the power bank uses ATL battery cells, which are generally known in the industry for their reliability. Ugreen notes that this model includes updated battery technology aimed at extending its overall lifespan.

The company states the new model offers a 166% improvement in charge cycle longevity over its previous generation, which was rated for around 300 cycles.

Ugreen 45W 10000mAh power bank

For safety, it uses a proprietary Battery Management System (BMS) to monitor charging conditions. According to the company, the device has gone through over 150 testing procedures to meet China’s latest 3C safety standards.

Some of these tests are quite specific, for instance, Ugreen says the battery cell passed a puncture test with a 4mm steel needle and withstood 1.43 tons of pressure without catching fire or failing. It also reportedly survived a 135°C heat chamber test.

To keep things cool during standard 45W fast charging, the device relies on a four-layer cooling system. This includes high thermal conductivity graphene materials and an NTC intelligent temperature control system that Ugreen says performs up to 360,000 temperature checks per hour to prevent overheating.

In related news, OnePlus has recently introduced a 15,000mAh power bank with 120W fast charging and advanced battery safety technology.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories! 💡

(JD)

The post Ugreen launches new 45W 10,000mAh power bank with built-in PD3.0 USB-C cable appeared first on Gizmochina.

10 Best Selling Phones in Q1 2026: iPhone 17 Lineup Sweeps Top Three Positions

5 May 2026 at 22:24

The global smartphone market in early 2026 turned out to be increasingly top-heavy. According to market research firm Counterpoint Research, the iPhone 17 was the best-selling smartphone globally in Q1 2026, grabbing 6% of all global smartphone sales on its own. 

The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro followed right behind in second and third place, meaning Apple owned the top three spots on the list entirely.

top 10 smartphones q1 2026

Senior analyst Harshit Rastogi says the iPhone 17 outperformed its predecessor by a clear margin. The base model got meaningful upgrades this time with more storage out of the box, a higher-resolution camera, and a faster screen refresh rate. This narrowed the gap between the standard and Pro models, which seems to have pushed more buyers toward the cheaper option. 

Sales in China and the US grew by double digits year-over-year. South Korea was even better, where sales tripled compared to the previous generation.

Android’s budget segment dominates the market

On the Android side, Samsung dominated with five spots in the top ten, all from its Galaxy A budget lineup. The Galaxy A07 4G was the top-selling Android phone of the quarter, driven by demand in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Samsung is now promising six years of software updates on these devices. 

The Galaxy S26 Ultra didn’t crack the top ten, though Samsung says it opened stronger than the S25 Ultra did.

Redmi A5
Redmi A5

The only Chinese brand to make the list was Xiaomi, with the Redmi A5 landing at number ten. It’s also the cheapest device on the list and has held steady demand in emerging markets since launch.

All in all, the top ten phones accounted for 25% of all global smartphone sales, the highest share ever recorded for a first quarter. Two things explain that: iPhone 17 demand stayed strong, and a memory chip shortage pushed up component costs, which squeezed Android manufacturers trying to compete at lower price points.

Counterpoint’s Karn Chauhan says the overall phone market is likely to shrink in 2026, with the budget segment taking the hardest hit. Manufacturers seem to know this already, as most are shifting resources toward higher-end products rather than racing to sell volume.

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(Source)

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Poco C Pad surfaces in FCC listing ahead of global launch

5 May 2026 at 20:39

Xiaomi seems to be getting ready to bring another budget tablet to more markets, this time under the Poco brand. A new FCC listing has revealed details of what is expected to launch as the Poco C Pad.

The tablet showed up in the FCC database with model number 2603APC14G. The filing itself does not mention the Poco C Pad name, but the same model number has already been linked to it through Xiaomi’s HyperOS code. The listing also confirms support for 18W charging, though it looks like a charger may not be included in the box.

One small detail that stands out is the color options. The device is listed in Pantone finishes, including Cool Gray and Red. It adds a bit of personality to what is otherwise a fairly straightforward tablet.

In terms of hardware, this is not entirely new. The Poco C Pad is expected to be a rebranded version of the Redmi Pad 2 9.7, which Xiaomi launched recently in some markets. So the overall experience should be quite similar.

That means a 9.7-inch LCD display with a 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with a slim metal body that keeps things relatively light at just 401 grams. Under the hood, it is powered by the Snapdragon 6s Gen 2 4G processor, paired with up to 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable via microSD.

The rest of the setup is fairly standard. You get an 8MP rear camera, a 5MP front camera, dual speakers, a headphone jack, and optional 4G connectivity. Nothing flashy, but enough for everyday use. The tablet packs a 7,600mAh battery, which Xiaomi claims can last well over a day on mixed usage. It runs HyperOS 3 based on Android 16, with features like cross-device integration and some AI-assisted tools built in.

Pricing should stay on the lower side. In markets like Malaysia, the Redmi version starts at around RM560, which is equivalent to US$140. Prices may vary across regions, but it should stay in a similar range.

With certification already in place, an official announcement does not seem too far away.

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(Sources: FCC | Xiaomi)

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Zebronics launches the ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 soundbar with 5.1.2 setup & 1030W output

5 May 2026 at 19:23
Zebronics ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 soundbar

Zebronics has added a new flagship soundbar to its home audio lineup in India. The ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 is a 5.1.2 channel system that supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It is currently available on Amazon and Flipkart with a launch price of ₹29,999 ($315).

Zebronics ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 Specifications

The system has a total stated output of 1030W RMS, which is divided among a few different components. The main soundbar unit contains five drivers, three facing forward and two pointing upward to handle the height channels required for spatial audio formats.

The package also includes two rear satellite speakers and an 8-inch (20.32cm) subwoofer. Because the rear speakers and subwoofer connect wirelessly to the main bar, it cuts down on the amount of cabling needed across the living room, making the initial setup a bit more straightforward.

For audio processing, the soundbar relies on its up-firing drivers to bounce sound off the ceiling, simulating overhead audio for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X tracks. Zebronics also includes its own internal audio processing, which it calls Zeb-AcoustiMax, designed to manage the surround sound distribution.

Zebronics ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 soundbar
Zebronics ZEB-Juke Bar 9890 soundbar

Physically, the soundbar and satellite speakers are wrapped in a dark fabric finish, a common design choice intended to help the hardware blend in with standard living room furniture. The main bar features a basic LED display on the front to show the current input or volume level, and the unit includes the necessary hardware to be mounted to a wall.

The connectivity options cover the standard requirements for a modern TV setup. The primary connection is HDMI eARC, which is necessary to transmit high-bandwidth audio formats directly from the TV.

It also features an optical input, a 3.5mm auxiliary jack, and a USB port for playing MP3 files from a flash drive. For wireless audio playback from a phone or tablet, it uses Bluetooth 5.3.

In related news, Sony has recently introduced the HT-B500 soundbar with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and a 3.1-channel configuration, while boAt has launched the Aavante Prime X, a wireless 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos soundbar delivering 700W output

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(Zebronics)

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RingConn Gen 3 smart ring debuts with vibration alerts and vascular health insights

5 May 2026 at 16:18
RingConn Gen 3 smart ring

Smart rings are becoming pretty common, and RingConn has just announced its third-generation model. The main updates for the RingConn Gen 3 are a built-in vibration motor and a feature that tracks nighttime blood pressure trends. It costs $349 globally (or $314 if you pre-order) and, like the company’s previous models, it doesn’t require a monthly subscription to use the companion app.

RingConn Gen 3 smart ring

RingConn Gen 3 Specifications

Physically, the Gen 3 is a titanium ring with a medical-grade epoxy resin on the inside. It’s about 2.3mm thick and weighs between 2.5 and 3.5 grams depending on the size you get, which keeps it in line with the standard footprint for this category. The sensors inside are what you’d expect: an optical heart rate sensor, a temperature sensor, and an accelerometer.

The most noticeable hardware change is the vibration motor. Putting haptic feedback in a ring without making it bulky or severely draining the battery is usually tricky, but RingConn included it to give you physical nudges.

The ring vibrates for things like a low battery, high stress, or if you’ve been sitting still for too long. It’s a small change, but it means you don’t have to look at your phone as often to know what the ring is doing.

RingConn Gen 3 smart ring

On the health tracking side, RingConn is introducing a feature it calls Vascular Health Insights. It is important to note that this isn’t a medical diagnostic tool. Instead, it monitors your blood pressure trends automatically overnight while you sleep. The goal is to show you how your daily habits might be affecting your vascular patterns over time.

The Gen 3 also adds sleep apnea pattern tracking and full-cycle predictions for women. For daily use, it tracks standard metrics like blood oxygen, stress, and workouts, with automatic detection for basic exercises like walking, running, and cycling.

RingConn Gen 3 smart ring

Coming to the battery life, RingConn says the Gen 3 lasts 11 to 14 days if you turn the vibrations off, and 10 to 12 days if you leave them on. It comes with a wireless charging case that holds up to 150 days of standby charge and takes about 90 minutes to recharge the ring. It’s also water-resistant up to 10ATM, so you don’t need to take it off to shower or swim.

The ring works with both iOS and Android, and it syncs with Apple Health and Google Health Connect. If you happen to be away from your phone, the ring can store up to 10 days of data locally.

In related news, Rogbid has recently launched the SR15 smart ring, offering health tracking features along with vibration-based alerts.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

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(RingConn)

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8 Android 17 features in development you’ll actually care about

5 May 2026 at 15:54
Android 17 top features
Android 17 top features

Google has already released four betas of Android 17, which are more than enough to show us what the upcoming version has in store. There are some new, exciting features, as well as many essential upgrades to existing ones, that make the software more useful and feature-rich.

With the stable Android 17 release approaching, here are the eight features or upgrades I can’t wait to try.

1. A native app lock, finally

Google is finally bringing the ability to lock individual apps, a feature users have been requesting for years. You will be able to lock apps directly from the home screen by long-pressing an app icon and choosing the “App lock” option from the quick options menu.

You can set up app lock using a PIN, pattern, password, or biometrics like fingerprint or face unlock, without needing a third-party app. This feature on the Google Pixel works just like any other app lock, but keep in mind that notifications for a locked app, along with all associated shortcuts and widgets, will be hidden.

Google notes that certain AI features, such as Gemini’s screen automation, may still be able to interact with apps, depending on permissions. You’ll be notified if other apps have access to the app you’re locking.

Most Android skins, including One UI, already have this feature, but it’s a nice welcome addition for Google Pixels.

2. Floating app bubbles make multitasking easier

The bubble feature has been around for quite a few years now, but it was restricted to messaging and conversations. Android 17 takes it a major step forward by allowing users to turn any app into a floating bubble.

For example, if you’re watching a tutorial on YouTube and noting important steps on Google Keep, you’ll be able to convert Google Keep into a floating bubble for quicker access. When you tap the Keep bubble, the app will open in a small floating window, while the YouTube tutorial plays in full screen. This is better than switching between the two apps and using them in a split-screen view.

You will be able to close an app bubble by dragging it to the bottom of the screen.

Bubbles are more useful on large-screen devices like foldables or tablets where the user has more screen to work with than on a regular smartphone.

3. A more powerful screen recording with a preview screen

Android 17 will upgrade the screen recording experience with a more refined UI and a new preview screen. Currently, when you tap the screen recording tile in Quick Settings, a pop-up shows up asking about the recording area and audio options.

In Android 17, when you tap the screen recording tile, a new floating pill interface will show up, letting you choose what to record, whether to record device audio or microphone (or both), and whether to show touches. You can tap the status indicator in the status bar to bring back the floating pill UI.

screen recording in Android 17

Once you stop the recording, you’ll see a new preview screen where you can play, edit, delete, or share the clip instantly without opening the gallery.

4. Mandatory Large-Screen Adaptivity

Google enforces a stricter policy on app resizability and orientation, preventing developers from restricting apps to a single orientation on large devices (sw ≥ 600dp). This effectively skips smartphones (generally below 600dp) and targets tablets and larger-screen devices.

The latest move is designed to make Android apps truly adaptive. On a device running Android 16 or an earlier build, if you open a portrait-locked app on a landscape tablet, the app appears as a tall, narrow window in the center of the screen, with thick black bars on the sides. In Android 17, the app would rotate to fill the gap, resulting in a more usable screen and better app experience.

Games are exempted from these strict mandates to ensure they don’t break during critical gameplay.

Google began phasing out apps’ ability to restrict screen orientation and resizability on large-screen devices with Android 16. However, it still allowed app developers to opt out of this change. But Android 17 makes it mandatory, and developers will no longer be able to opt out.

5. Hide app names on the home screen

In the Beta 3 build, Google introduced a feature that lets users hide the app labels on the home screen. This isn’t a big step, but it helps users create a cleaner home screen setup.

To hide app labels, you’ll need to go to Wallpaper & style, tap Home screen, select Icons, tap the Names tab at the bottom, and turn off the toggle for Show app names. Keep in mind that this won’t affect the app drawer or apps inside folders.

6. Separate Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles

On Pixel devices running Android 16 or earlier, if you need to switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data, or turn them on or off, you must open Quick Settings, tap the Internet tile, and then perform the action.

Many users have expressed their frustration with the extra step required to access Wi-Fi or mobile data. After nearly four and a half years, Google is finally allowing users to add separate Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles in Android 17.

This change would particularly benefit Pixel users, as most other Android skins, including Samsung’s One UI and OnePlus’s OxygenOS, already have it.

7. Give apps limited access to your contacts

Right now, there’s no way to give apps access to specific contacts. If you grant the contacts permission, the app will have access to all contacts stored on your device.

This is certainly not a privacy-focused approach, and therefore, Google is introducing a new system-level Contact Picker interface that will allow users to select one or more contacts to share with an app at a time. Google says apps won’t be able to track any changes you make to a contact’s information.

Contact Picker grants temporary, session-based read access to the specific data fields selected by the user. That means the app will need to request permissions again after the session timeout, further strengthening users’ privacy.

8. Seamless task continuity on another device

Google is working on a “Task Continuity” feature, which will allow users to sync notifications, share files, and continue apps across their linked Android devices. Essentially, you will be able to transfer an app’s current state from one Android device to another. This feature could debut with Android 17.

This feature will show a suggestion on the taskbar representing the running app from another device. When you click this suggestion, the system initiates the handoff and passes the remote app’s state, as Android Authority explains.

Google announced the new Handoff API in Android 17 Beta 2, which allows developers to specify the application state to resume on another device. Once enabled, the Android system displays a handoff suggestion in the launcher of the user’s nearby devices.

Final build may not include all of them

If you’ve been following Android releases, you’d know that Google doesn’t include all the features from the beta builds into the final package. But there’s a very good chance some of them will make it to the final release.

All the features we’ve discussed so far are available in the Android 17 beta releases. You can get an eligible Google Pixel to test them or wait for the stable release, which could happen around June 2026.

We’ll regularly update you with the latest information in the Android 17 section on this website. You can visit the page regularly for the latest details, or join our Telegram channel for instant updates.

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Every major flagship phone launched in 2026 so far

5 May 2026 at 15:28
Galaxy-S26-Ultra

2026’s flagship race is already settled, at least on paper. The phones launched between January and April — from Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, Honor, Motorola, Huawei, and iQOO — will define what a high-end Android phone looks like for the rest of the year. 

New chipsets will come, but these are the devices most people will be comparing, buying, and arguing about through December. So here’s what actually shipped, and what each one is trying to do.

January

Motorola Razr Fold 

Motorola introduced the Razr Fold at CES 2026 as its first book-style foldable. Unlike the Razr’s usual clamshell form, this one opens up like a tablet, with an 8.1-inch 2K LTPO inner display and a 6.6-inch cover screen. The cover screen is large enough that you can handle most everyday tasks without unfolding the device.

The camera setup is all 50-megapixel across the board: a Sony LYTIA main sensor, an ultra-wide with macro support, and a periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom. There’s also a 32MP camera on the outer display and a 20MP shooter on the inner screen. Video recording supports Dolby Vision. The phone also supports Motorola’s Moto Pen Ultra stylus. 

Honor Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design 

Honor kicked things off with the Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design, which went on sale in China on January 23rd. The phone is what it sounds like: a high-end device made in collaboration with Porsche Design, with finishes called Slate Gray and Moonstone, and a back panel made of microcrystalline nano-ceramic material that Honor says has a Mohs hardness rating of 8.5.

Inside, it runs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, with configurations going up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide, and a 200MP telephoto with 3.7x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom. Battery is 7,200mAh with 120W wired and 80W wireless charging. It also supports satellite communication and IP68/IP69K water resistance.

Honor is also selling an optional photography kit with a magnetic grip, filter adapter, and external telephoto lens. It runs MagicOS 10 with Porsche Design-themed UI elements layered on top.

February

Samsung Galaxy S26 Series

Samsung’s February Unpacked event brought the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. The base S26 has a 6.3-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, while the S26+ bumps that up to 6.7 inches at QHD+ resolution. Both have 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rates and Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus

Depending on your region, these phones ship with either the Exynos 2600 or the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. The main camera across the standard models is a 50MP sensor, paired with a 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom. The S26 has a 4300mAh battery, the S26+ has a 4900mAh battery, and both support Qi2 wireless charging at 20W.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The S26 Ultra takes a different direction. It has a 6.9-inch QHD+ display with Gorilla Armor 2, runs exclusively on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and includes a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultra-wide, a 10MP telephoto at 3x, and a 50MP periscope lens at 5x zoom. Battery is 5000mAh with Super Fast Charging 3.0. The S Pen is still here. The software on all three runs One UI 8.5 on Android 16, with AI features like Photo Assist, Now Brief, and Creative Studio built in.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Xiaomi launched the 17 Ultra in China in February, and it arrives with one of the more interesting camera setups of the year. The main camera uses a 1-inch Light Fusion 1050L sensor co-developed with Leica, shooting at 50MP. The telephoto is a 200MP Leica-certified lens that supports lossless optical zoom between 75mm and 100mm, going up to 400mm digitally. The ultra-wide is a 50MP sensor with 115-degree FOV.

The display is a 6.9-inch OLED with up to 3,500 nits peak brightness, 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and Dolby Vision support. It runs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and Xiaomi says the phone can mirror and control Apple devices through its HyperOS 3.0 software.

The battery is 6,800mAh, the largest in any Xiaomi Ultra device. It charges at 90W wired and 50W wireless. Despite all of that, Xiaomi says the 17 Ultra is the thinnest Ultra device it has made, at 8.29mm.

iQOO 15 Ultra

The iQOO 15 Ultra is a performance-first phone, and it makes that clear from the spec sheet. The display is a 6.85-inch flat Samsung AMOLED at 2K resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate and 8,000 nits peak brightness. The touch sampling can go up to 4000Hz. 

The phone runs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 alongside iQOO’s in-house Q3 esports chip, and the company claims an AnTuTu score of 4.51 million.

iQOO 15 Ultra
iQOO 15 Ultra

For cooling, it has a 59-blade fan and an 8,000mm² vapor chamber. The phone also includes pressure-sensitive shoulder triggers and a 500Hz gyroscope. Battery is 7,400mAh with 100W wired and 40W wireless charging.

On the camera side, it’s a triple 50MP system consisting of main, ultra-wide, and periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom. Not the headline feature here, but solid. It runs OriginOS 6 on Android 16 and supports 8K video recording.

March

OPPO Find X9 Ultra

OPPO’s Find X9 Ultra is the most camera-forward device on this list. It’s the only 2026 flagship to use two 200MP cameras, one for main and another for 3x telephoto. Both deliver maximum detail in portrait and general photography. There’s also a dedicated 50MP 10x optical zoom telephoto and a 50MP ultra-wide.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra Design

OPPO is leaning hard on the Hasselblad partnership here. The new Hasselblad Master Mode includes features like True Detail for 8K output across six focal lengths, a full-link ProXDR pipeline, and nine film presets that try to simulate real film color behavior rather than just slapping a filter on.

Video-wise, it supports 8K at 30fps and 4K at 120fps in 10-bit Log format, along with custom 3D LUT import and an ACES color management workflow. TILTA accessories like ND filters and manual focus grips are available for it. The phone runs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with a 144Hz 2K display, a 7,050mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, and IP66/IP68/IP69 water resistance.

OPPO Find N6

OPPO’s Find N6 is pitching itself as the world’s flattest foldable, and the engineering behind that claim is genuinely interesting. The hinge uses a bionic four-axis structure built with chip-level polymer 3D printing, reducing surface unevenness to 0.1mm. Paired with memory glass that restores up to 99.9% flatness after folding, the crease situation is about as controlled as any foldable has managed. It’s TÜV certified for 600,000 folds.

The inner display is an 8.12-inch QXGA+ foldable OLED, and the outer cover screen is a 6.62-inch FHD+ AMOLED, both running 1-120Hz adaptive refresh with 240Hz touch sampling. The outer panel peaks at 3,600 nits.

Cameras follow the same Hasselblad-partnership playbook as the Find X9 Ultra: a 200MP main with dual-axis OIS leads, supported by a 50MP ultra-wide, a 50MP 3x telephoto, and a dedicated Danxia color calibration lens. It supports 8K stills and 4K 120fps Dolby Vision video.

The chipset is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, paired with a 6,000mAh battery, 80W wired and 50W wireless charging. It folds to 8.93mm and weighs 225g, with IP56/IP58/IP59 ratings.

Vivo X300 Ultra

Vivo’s X300 Ultra follows a similar camera-first philosophy as the Find X9 Ultra, but leans into a Zeiss partnership instead of Hasselblad. The camera array includes a 50MP ultra-wide (Sony LYTIA 818), a 200MP main camera (Sony LYTIA 901), and a 200MP telephoto (Samsung HP0) with gimbal-level stabilization.

Vivo X300 Ultra - Victory Green
Vivo X300 Ultra – Victory Green

Vivo is also selling two external teleconverter modules, one for 200mm and one for 400mm. The imaging system supports 4K 120fps Dolby Vision and 4K 120fps 10-bit Log recording, along with 3D LUT imports and ACES workflows.

The display is a 6.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED at 144Hz. Battery is 6,600mAh with 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. It runs OriginOS 6 on Android 16 and carries IP68/IP69 ratings.

April

Huawei Pura 90 Pro and Pura 90 Pro Max

Both the Huawei Pura 90 Pro and 90 Pro Max share the same XMAGE imaging philosophy and a Red Maple multispectral lens, but the Pro Max gets better hardware meaningfully across the board.

The Pro Max camera system leads with a 50MP RYYB main sensor (1/1.28-inch) with OIS, LOFIC tech, and a variable aperture from f/1.4 to f/4.0. The telephoto is a 200MP RYYB periscope unit with 4x optical zoom, up to 8x optical-quality zoom, CIPA 7.0 stabilization, and what Huawei calls an industry-first three-in-one super concentrating prism. Rounding it out is a 40MP RYYB ultra-wide.

The standard Pro keeps the same main sensor and aperture setup but steps down to a 12.5MP ultra-wide and a 50MP periscope telephoto.

Both phones run on the Kirin 9030S, a step below the Kirin 9030 Pro found in the Pura X Max foldable. Huawei claims a 200 percent improvement in NPU image understanding over the previous generation, with gains in AI ISP color processing, telephoto video clarity, and stabilization accuracy. AI features are central to the software pitch — AI pose recommendations, composition assist, portrait retouching, and one-click photo creation are all present, alongside an upgraded Xiaoyi assistant with real-time pointing recognition and voiceprint detection.

The Pro Max has a 6.9-inch display; the Pro gets 6.6 inches. Both use single-punch-hole cutouts. The Pro Max also gets Kunlun glass protection, which Huawei says cuts reflections by 70 percent and improves scratch resistance up to 16 times over standard glass. Both phones run HarmonyOS 6.1.

OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra

The OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra is squarely aimed at mobile gamers. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, built on TSMC’s third-gen 3nm process, with OnePlus claiming a 32% performance uplift and 55% better power efficiency over the previous generation.

Keeping things cool is a 6,000mm² vapor chamber that sits alongside a Glacier Cooling System and a deeper integration of OnePlus’s Wind Chaser Gaming Kernel.

OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra
OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra

The headline accessory is an optional Strix Gaming Controller with a joystick-free layout, mechanical triggers rated at 1.8ms response time, a dedicated e-sports chip, and support for magnetic cooling modules. It’s the kind of peripheral ecosystem you’d more typically associate with a dedicated gaming phone brand.

The display is a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPS OLED at 165Hz with 4,000Hz instantaneous touch sampling. As for cameras, it has a 50MP main with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide unit. The battery is a large 8,600mAh dual-cell unit with 120W wired charging. It runs ColorOS 16 on Android 16, and carries IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K ratings.

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Honor 600 China Variant Could Pack Up to 9000mAh Battery, Snapdragon 8 Elite

5 May 2026 at 15:15
Honor 600

The upcoming Honor 600 series is gearing up for its China debut later this month, and new leaks have revealed some exciting upgrades. According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the China variant could bring major improvements, especially in battery capacity and color options.

One of the biggest highlights is the massive battery upgrade. While the global version already offers a large 7000mAh battery, the China model is expected to push this further to around 8500mAh to 9000mAh, making it one of the biggest batteries in a mainstream flagship-style smartphone. This suggests a strong focus on long-lasting performance and heavy usage without frequent charging.

In terms of design, the Honor 600 series will reportedly arrive in six vibrant colors, including Good Orange, Lucky Star, Jasmine White, Green Apple, Light Feather Blue, and Obsidian Black. The device is also said to feature a premium metal frame and high durability ratings, including IP68, IP69, and IP69K protection against dust and water.

The smartphone is expected to sport a 6.57-inch 1.5K flat display with a 120Hz refresh rate and ultra-slim 0.98mm bezels on all sides. It will also use 3840Hz PWM dimming technology, aimed at improving eye comfort during extended use.

Under the hood, the device is rumored to be powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, paired with MagicOS 10 based on Android 16.

For photography, the Honor 600 series could feature a 200MP main camera, along with a 12MP ultra-wide lens and a 50MP 3.5x periscope telephoto sensor. A 50MP front camera is also expected for selfies.

Overall, the China variant of the Honor 600 series appears to focus heavily on battery life while retaining flagship-grade performance and camera capabilities.

Read More:

(via)

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Honor Play 80 Plus debuts as the first Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 phone, packs 7,500mAh battery

5 May 2026 at 14:51
Honor Play 80 Plus

Honor has quietly introduced the Honor Play 80 Plus in China, adding a new entry to its budget lineup with a focus on battery life and everyday performance. The device stands out with a large 7,500mAh battery, a 120Hz display, and Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 platform. It also brings MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, positioning it as a modern entry-level 5G option. Here is a closer look at what the phone offers.

Honor Play 80 Plus specifications and features

Honor Play 80 Plus
Honor Play 80 Plus

The Honor Play 80 Plus features a 6.61-inch TFT LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1604 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. The panel supports eye protection features and delivers a 20.05:9 aspect ratio. Like the recent Honor phones, the Play 80 Plus runs on MagicOS 10 based on Android 16.

Powering the device is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chipset, making it the first phone to feature this platform. Announced in December 2025, the 4nm processor comes with an octa-core setup featuring 2 x 2.3GHz Cortex-A78 performance cores and 6 x 1.95GHz Cortex-A55 efficiency cores paired with the Adreno 613 GPU. The chipset focuses on improved power efficiency, better AI handling, and stable connectivity. It is designed to handle daily tasks smoothly while keeping battery consumption in check, which aligns well with devices targeting long endurance.

Honor Play 80 Plus

The phone includes a 13-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 5-megapixel front camera. The device is backed by a huge 7,500mAh battery with support for 45W fast charging. Additional features include dual SIM support, Bluetooth 5.0, dual-band Wi-Fi, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a USB-C port. The device measures 163.9 x 75.9 x 8.29mm and weighs around 205 grams.

Honor Play 80 Plus price and availability

The Honor Play 80 Plus is available in Aquamarine, Black, and Gold color options. Pricing in China starts at 1,699 Yuan (~$250) for the 6GB+128GB variant and goes up to 2,099 Yuan (~$310) for the 8GB+256GB model. The device is already on sale in China, but there is no confirmation yet regarding its global availability.

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B by Lenskart smart glasses price and specifications officially revealed

5 May 2026 at 14:24
B by Lenskart smartglasses

Lenskart first introduced its AI-powered smart eyewear, B by Lenskart, back in November 2025, offering an early glimpse at its vision for connected wearables. The company has now moved a step further by opening early access, with the official microsite revealing key details about the pricing and full specifications.

B by Lenskart smart glasses specifications and features

B by Lenskart smartglasses
B by Lenskart

The B by Lenskart smart glasses are designed to feel like regular eyewear, weighing around 45g and supporting prescription lenses from -6 to +6. Under the frame, the device runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platform, paired with 32GB internal storage. It supports Bluetooth 5.3 and works with devices running iOS 18 and above or Android 12 and above. Interaction is handled through touch controls and voice commands, including a wake phrase for the built-in assistant powered by Google Gemini.

For imaging, the glasses feature a 12 megapixel Sony camera with a 16mm ultra-wide lens. It captures photos at up to 4032 x 3024 resolution and records videos at 1080p in landscape and 1440 x 1920 in portrait at 30fps. Audio is handled through dual directional speakers, while a three-microphone setup supports calls and voice inputs.

B by Lenskart smartglasses
B by Lenskart

Battery life is rated at up to 4 hours on a single charge, with the included charging case extending total usage to up to 48 hours. Fast charging is supported, with 50 percent charge achieved in around 15 minutes. The glasses can be charged through the case or directly using a cable.

B by Lenskart smart glasses price and availability

The B by Lenskart smart glasses are priced at Rs 22,000 (~$230) as an early access offer, compared to a listed price of Rs 27,000 (~$285). They are available in Black and Silver colour options and come bundled with a charging case.

The product is currently open for waitlist registrations, indicating a phased rollout. Features like real-time AI assistance, multi-language support, note-taking and hands-free capture position it as more than just a wearable accessory.

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These new Inllie smart bracelets bring jewellery-inspired design to wellness tracking

5 May 2026 at 14:02
Inllie smart bracelets

Inllie has introduced two new wearable devices, the Luna Core Bracelet and Sense Core Band, bringing a different take on everyday fitness tracking. The announcement highlights a shift towards blending wellness features with a more refined design language, setting the tone for what these devices aim to deliver.

Inllie Luna Core Bracelet and Sense Core Band features and design

Inllie smart bracelets
Inllie smart bracelets

The Inllie Luna Core Bracelet is designed to resemble a piece of jewellery, featuring a stainless steel bracelet paired with a zinc alloy and epoxy resin case. It includes gold and silver accents, giving it a polished look suitable for both casual and formal wear. The device weighs 11.6g, making it comfortable for extended use. The Sense Core Band follows a slimmer and more conventional design, with a 5.6mm thin body and a weight of 16.5g. It offers strap options, including metal Milanese and silicone, allowing flexibility between style and practicality.

Inllie smart bracelets
Inllie smart bracelets

Both devices focus on integrating health tracking into daily wear without appearing overly sporty. They support heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, stress tracking, heart rate variability, menstrual cycle tracking, sleep insights, step count, and multiple exercise modes. The Sense Core Band also features a compact display that shows essential data such as steps, battery status, and heart rate.

Battery capacity differs between the two models. The Luna Core Bracelet houses a 26mAh battery, while the Sense Core Band includes an 18mAh battery. Each device is rated to deliver around 5 to 7 days of usage on a single charge, with standby extending up to 12 days for Luna Core and 10 days for Sense Core.

Inllie Luna Core Bracelet and Sense Core Band price and availability

Inllie smart bracelets
Inllie smart bracelets

The Luna Core Bracelet is priced at $149, while the Sense Core Band is available for $109. The company is also offering a limited-time bundle where both devices can be purchased together with a $79 discount.

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Honor Play 11 Plus debuts with 120Hz AMOLED display, 7,000mAh battery, Dimensity 6500 Elite

5 May 2026 at 13:59
Honor Play 11 Plus

Honor has quietly introduced the Honor Play 11 Plus in China, where it is already listed on the brand’s official website and available for purchase. This mid-range 5G phone offers a balance of battery life and everyday performance by packing a large 7000mAh battery and a bright AMOLED display in a slim design. Here is a closer look at its specifications, features, and pricing.

Honor Play 11 Plus specifications and features

Honor Play 11 Plus
Honor Play 11 Plus

The Honor Play 11 Plus features a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2600×1200 pixels, offering DCI-P3 color support and up to 6500 nits peak brightness. It also includes 3840Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort and aluminosilicate glass protection.

Powering the device is the Dimensity 6500 Elite chipset paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. It packs a 7000mAh battery with support for fast wired charging and reverse charging. The phone runs MagicOS 10 based on Android 16 and brings several AI-driven features such as YOYO smart assistant, AI notes, translation tools, and system-level optimizations.

For photography, the phone includes a 50-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and support for up to 10x digital zoom. On the front, it has an 8-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. It also supports 1080p video recording.

Honor Play 11 Plus
Honor Play 11 Plus

Other features include in-display fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, IP66 rating, NFC, infrared remote, Bluetooth 6.0, and dual SIM 5G support. Despite packing a huge battery, it measures 7.34mm in thickness, with a weight of around 185 grams. To sum up, this phone appears to be a rebranded version of the Honor X80i, which debuted earlier this year in China.

Honor Play 11 Plus price and availability

The Honor Play 11 Plus is available in an 8GB + 256GB variant priced at 2,199 Yuan (~$320). It comes in Sunrise Gold and Lanyue Silver colour options, also referred to as Moon Embracing Silver in some listings. The device is already on sale in China via official channels.

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Samsung Turned Smartphone Screens Into Health Monitors: Blood Pressure, Heart Rate and More

5 May 2026 at 13:49
samsung display health monitor

At SID Display Week 2026 in the United States, Samsung showcased a range of next-generation display technologies that could redefine how smartphones are used in daily life. The highlight of the event was the shift from traditional screens to multi-functional displays that combine visuals, health tracking, and privacy features.

One of the most impressive innovations is the Sensor OLED display. This technology allows users to measure heart rate and even blood pressure simply by placing a finger on the screen. It works by using light emitted from the display, which reflects off the skin and is captured by built-in sensors. This removes the need for smartwatches or separate health devices, making smartphones more useful for quick health checks.

Samsung also introduced the Flex Chroma Pixel display, which focuses on brightness and color accuracy. It can reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness and covers 96% of the BT.2020 color range. The goal is to deliver richer colors while improving power efficiency, especially for future premium devices.

Another key feature is Flex Magic Pixel technology, designed for privacy. It limits viewing angles so sensitive content like messages or health data stays hidden from people nearby, without affecting the main viewing experience.

Samsung also showcased a stretchable Micro LED display aimed at automotive use, along with improvements in EL-QD display efficiency.

Overall, Samsung is pushing toward displays that do much more than just show content. Future smartphones could act as health monitoring tools, offer built-in privacy, and deliver better visual performance, all through a single screen.

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(via)

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Motorola Razr Fold India launch imminent as landing page goes live

5 May 2026 at 13:29
Motorola Razr Fold-

Motorola officially unveiled the Motorola Razr Fold, its first-ever book-style foldable, at MWC 2026. The device is now gradually making its way to different markets. While it has already landed in Europe, it is making its way to China this month. Now, a new development reveals that it is also heading to India in the coming days.

Motorola Razr Fold teaser page

The landing page for the Motorola Razr Fold has gone live in India, indicating that the launch may not be far away. The page states “coming soon” suggesting that t The page includes a notify option, allowing users to register interest ahead of the official launch.

Motorola Razr Fold specs, price

The specifications of the Motorola Razr Fold are already known, as the device has debuted globally. It features a 6.6-inch pOLED outer display with a 2520 x 1080 resolution, 165Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of up to 6000 nits, protected by Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3. The inner display measures 8.1 inches with an LTPO panel, 2484 x 2232 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 6200 nits brightness, along with UTG protection.

The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB storage. It houses a 6000mAh silicon-carbon battery with support for 80W wired, 50W wireless, and 5W reverse wired charging.

For photography, the Razr Fold includes a 50-megapixel main camera with a Sony LYT-828 sensor and OIS, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens with a 122-degree field of view, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera offering 3x optical zoom with OIS. It also features a 32-megapixel front camera on the outer display and a 20-megapixel inner camera. The device supports 8K video recording along with Dolby Vision.

On the software front, it runs Android 16 and is promised to receive seven Android upgrades along with seven years of security updates. Additional features include Motorola Pen Ultra support and an IP48/49 rating for durability.

In Europe, the Motorola Razr Fold is priced in the premium segment, placing it alongside other flagship foldables. However, there is no information yet regarding its pricing in India. Once launched, it is expected to compete with upcoming foldable devices such as the Vivo X Fold 6 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 in the Indian market.

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Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Review: Massive, Energy-Efficient Desert Cooler

5 May 2026 at 13:13
Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

For the past ten years, I have relied almost entirely on air conditioning to get through the summer. Where I live, temperatures regularly reach 45°C (113°F), and the heat can be difficult to manage.

However, running an AC unit all day comes with a significant downside: high electricity bills. This year, I decided to look for a more cost-effective way to cool my home during the daytime. I wanted to see if a modern desert cooler could do the job without using as much power.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

To test this out, I received the Kenstar TALL BOY Honey Comb 105 Litre BLDC Desert Cooler (Model: KCLTBDBL105FRH) as a review unit. It retails for ₹15,990 ($168) and features a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor, which is designed to be energy efficient.

After using it for a week, including during a particularly hot and humid stretch of weather, I have a clear understanding of how it performs, where it works well, and what its limitations are. Here is my experience using it as a daily cooling solution.

Design and Dimensions

The first thing you notice about the Kenstar Tall Boy is its height. It stands 1428 mm tall, which is about 4.7 feet. It is a large appliance that will be very noticeable in whatever room you place it in. However, the height serves a specific, practical purpose.

Many standard desert coolers are relatively short, meaning the air they blow often hits the side of a bed or the back of a chair. By elevating the 40.6 cm (16-inch) fan, the Tall Boy directs the airflow higher up. When I am sitting at my desk or lying in bed, the air reaches me directly rather than cooling the floor.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review
Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

Despite being tall, the cooler’s footprint is fairly standard for its capacity, measuring 630 x 445 mm. It fits reasonably well into the corner of my dining room and doesn’t take up too much floor space on my balcony. The body is made from ABS and HIPS plastic. It feels sturdy enough for regular indoor and covered outdoor use, and it hasn’t shown any signs of strain.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

When the cooler is empty, it weighs 18 kg, which is manageable to move. But this model has a 105-liter water tank. Once you fill it up, the total weight exceeds 120 kg. To handle this, Kenstar included four castor wheels at the base. I was initially concerned about moving it when full, but the wheels roll smoothly on flat floors. I can push it from the living room to the terrace without much effort, though you do have to be careful over door thresholds.

BLDC Motor and Power Consumption

This model comes with a BLDC motor. Traditional desert coolers of this size usually consume between 200 and 250 watts of electricity. The Kenstar Tall Boy is rated at 145 watts. While that might not sound like a massive difference on paper, it adds up over a month when you are running the cooler for 10 to 15 hours a day. It is a noticeable reduction in power consumption compared to older models.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

This low wattage also provides a very practical benefit during power cuts. Because it draws only 145 watts, the cooler runs easily on my standard home inverter. In areas where the power grid can be unreliable during peak summer months, being able to keep your primary cooling appliance running on battery backup is highly convenient.

Kenstar says that the motor uses a double ball bearing system. In practice, this is meant to reduce internal friction, which should help the motor last longer and run a bit smoother. It comes with a five-year warranty on the motor, which provides some peace of mind regarding its durability.

Cooling Performance and Airflow

If you are transitioning from an air conditioner to a desert cooler, there is a learning curve. I made the mistake of setting the Tall Boy up in a closed bedroom on the first day. Desert coolers use evaporative cooling, which naturally adds moisture to the air. Because the room lacked ventilation, the humidity increased quickly, and the room just felt sticky and uncomfortable.

Once I realized my error, I moved the cooler to my dining area and opened a window to allow for cross-ventilation. The difference was immediate. In an open space, the cooler works effectively. The fan pushes out 4500 m³/h (cubic meters per hour) of air, and Kenstar claims an air throw of 50 feet.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

While I didn’t measure the exact distance, it easily circulates air across my entire living space. The motorized louvers move side to side, helping to distribute the air evenly rather than blowing it in just one direction.

The cooling media consists of honeycomb pads on three sides. They hold water well, don’t sag, and provide consistent evaporation.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review
Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

For particularly hot afternoons, the cooler has an ice chamber on top. You can add ice cubes to cool the water before it runs through the pads. It does lower the temperature of the air noticeably for a short period. Once the ice melts, it returns to standard evaporative cooling, which is still effective as long as you keep a window or door open.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

Day-to-Day Use and Maintenance

Living with a 105-liter cooler is fairly straightforward. The large tank is very convenient; a full tank easily lasts me 12 to 15 hours of continuous use. I can fill it in the evening and run it through the night without worrying about the water running out. There is a clear water level indicator on the front, so you can check how much water is left at a glance.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

The cooler includes a dust filter net on the outside of the cooling pads. This is a simple but useful feature. It catches larger dust particles, pet hair, and insects, stopping them from getting stuck in the honeycomb pads. This means the pads stay cleaner for longer, and the air smells fresher. Also, a quick heads-up for new buyers: if you have just bought it, you will likely notice a distinct smell for the first two days of use, but it eventually goes away completely.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

The control panel is a modern touch interface that is intuitive and easy to use, and it also comes with a handy remote control. The touch panel works really well with absolutely no issues, housing all the necessary buttons including power, fan settings, cooling on or off, swing, and a timer. It offers seven different fan speeds, which is highly practical. You can keep it on a low setting for a gentle breeze or turn it up when you need to cool the room quickly.

There are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. First, moving this volume of air generates noise. On the lower settings, it is a manageable background hum. But on the highest fan speeds, it is quite loud. If you are watching TV or taking a phone call in the same room, you will likely need to turn the fan speed down.

Kenstar Tall Boy 105L BLDC Desert Cooler Review

Second, maintenance is required. If you live in an area with hard water, minerals will eventually build up on the honeycomb pads. You will need to periodically drain the tank and descale the pads to keep the cooler working efficiently. It isn’t a difficult process, but it is an extra chore you don’t have with an AC.

The Verdict

The Kenstar TALL BOY 105 Litre BLDC Desert Cooler is a practical and effective appliance, provided you use it in the right environment. It will not replace an air conditioner in a sealed room, and it won’t drop the room temperature to 18°C.

However, if you have a large, well-ventilated space, like a living room, a spacious bedroom with open windows, or a covered patio, it performs very well. The 4.7-foot height ensures the air reaches you where you are sitting, and the 105-liter tank minimizes the need for constant refilling.

At ₹15,990 ($168), the initial cost is reasonable, and the 145W BLDC motor helps keep ongoing electricity costs down. It is a sensible, energy-efficient alternative for managing the summer heat, especially if you need an appliance that can run on a home inverter during power outages.

You can purchase this model from here.

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Oppo Find X9 Ultra focuses on 10x optical zoom with redesigned periscope camera

5 May 2026 at 13:00
Find X9 Ultra - Industry-first Quintuple Prism Reflection Periscope Structure

Since the beginning of this month, Oppo has been teasing the arrival of the Find X9 Ultra in India, but is yet to confirm the launch date. Most likely, the company may unveil it after its rival brand Vivo introduces the Vivo X300 Ultra tomorrow in India. Ahead of the expected launch this month, Oppo has now shared key details about the camera capabilities of the Find X9 Ultra.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra promises next-level smartphone zoom photography

Find X9 Ultra - Industry-first Quintuple Prism Reflection Periscope Structure
Find X9 Ultra – Industry-first Quintuple Prism Reflection Periscope Structure

The Oppo Find X9 Ultra introduces a redesigned periscope camera system that aims to deliver 10x optical zoom without increasing module size. At its core is the Industry-first Quintuple Prism Reflection Periscope Structure, where light is redirected multiple times within a compact 29mm space before reaching the 50-megapixel sensor. This design extends the optical path, enabling an approximate 230mm focal length while keeping the device slim.

To maintain image quality across this complex setup, Oppo has developed a refined optical path system that reduces stray light and preserves clarity. The device also integrates sensor shift stabilisation, which physically moves the sensor to counter hand movements at higher zoom levels. This helps in capturing stable shots even at extended zoom ranges.

Find X9 Ultra - Triple Active Optical AlignmentFind X9 Ultra - Triple Active Optical Alignment
Find X9 Ultra – Triple Active Optical Alignment

The camera module is further refined through Triple Active Optical Alignment, a precision-based assembly process that ensures accurate positioning of the lens, prism, and sensor for consistent sharpness. The overall setup includes a 200-megapixel main camera with a Sony LYTIA 901 sensor, a 200-megapixel 3x telephoto lens for portraits and telemacro use, and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera. All lenses support 4K 60fps Dolby Vision recording, supported by an image engine focused on colour and detail refinement.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra launch date (rumored)

According to tipster Sanju Choudhary, the Oppo Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s could launch in India on May 15. Pricing is expected to be positioned above the Find X9 Pro, which is currently priced at Rs 1,09,999, with the Ultra variant likely to cost significantly more. The Find X9s, on the other hand, may start at around Rs 70,000.

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Mysterious Xiaomi Ultra flagship with Xring O3 reportedly in development

5 May 2026 at 12:43
Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Last year, Xiaomi launched the Xiaomi 15s Pro powered by its homegrown Xring O1 chip. There have been reports that the brand is now working on a successor version of the chip dubbed the Xring O3. Speculation suggests that the Xring O3 may debut as early as this year, possibly powering the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Fold (tentative name) foldable smartphone. Now, a new leak reveals that it may also power the next-generation Ultra-branded flagship phone.

Xiaomi’s mysterious Ultra flagship with Xring O3 in the works

Xiaomi 17 Ultra
Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Tipster Yogesh Brar suggests that Xiaomi is working on a new Ultra-branded smartphone powered by its in-house Xring O3 chipset. The report indicates that this device is being developed alongside the upcoming Xiaomi 18 Ultra, which is still expected later this year.

The new Xring O3-powered Ultra model is said to be a separate offering from the 18 Ultra, raising questions about its positioning within Xiaomi’s flagship lineup. It is also being suggested that this device may remain limited to China, with no plans for a global rollout at this stage.

What’s known about the Xring O3?

Reports have revealed that the Xring O3 will arrive with a simplified yet more powerful architecture. It is expected to shift to an octa-core design, moving away from the earlier 10-core layout. The new setup may include a Prime core clocked at up to 4.05GHz, Titanium cores at around 3.42GHz, and efficiency-focused little cores reaching 3.02GHz.

The GPU is also tipped to improve, nearing 1.5GHz frequencies. Memory speeds may remain unchanged at 9600 MT/s. Overall, these changes are likely aimed at improving multitasking, background processing, and sustained performance efficiency across demanding workloads.

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(source)

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Samsung hikes prices of several Galaxy M and F series phones

5 May 2026 at 10:48

Samsung has quietly increased prices for a bunch of its budget and mid-range Galaxy phones in India, and this is not the first time this year. The latest revision, which took effect in early May 2026, marks the sixth price hike so far in 2026.

This time, the increase hits models across the M and F series, including the Galaxy F06, F36, F70e, M06, M17e, M17, and M36. Based on updated listings on Samsung’s official website, most variants have gone up by a flat ₹1,000.

The change was first pointed out by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X, who shared what looks like internal communication sent to retailers.

For the more affordable models like the Galaxy F06 and M06, prices now start at ₹12,499 for the 4GB/64GB variant, going up to ₹15,999 for the 6GB/128GB version. For context, the 4GB/128GB version of the Galaxy F06 was priced at ₹9,999 at launch and now stands at ₹13,999.

The F36 and M36 series now sit between ₹21,999 and ₹27,999 depending on the configuration. Mid-tier options like the F70e and M17e have also seen a similar ₹1,000 bump across variants, while the Galaxy M17 lineup now starts at ₹16,999 and goes up to ₹20,999.

Samsung has not officially explained the reason behind the repeated increases, but the broader industry trend gives some context. Component prices, especially memory and storage, have been climbing due to demand from AI infrastructure and data centers, and that shift seems to be trickling down to consumer devices.

What stands out is how frequent these adjustments have been. Samsung has been revising prices almost every month this year, and while ₹1,000 might not sound like much to some buyers, it starts to add up over multiple hikes.

Seasonal sales on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart could offset some of the increase, depending on discounts and exchange offers. So the actual street price may still look reasonable in some cases. Still, if this trend continues, these phones are slowly drifting away from their original “budget” positioning.

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(Sources: 1, 2)

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Open AI agent phone to be powered by 2nm Dimensity 9600

5 May 2026 at 10:35
openAI

Previous reports suggested that OpenAI was exploring hardware such as AI-focused earbuds and possibly a phone developed with partners like MediaTek and Qualcomm. Now, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared deeper insights into a dedicated AI agent smartphone, including timelines, specifications, and the broader strategy behind it.

OpenAI’s AI agent smartphone vision takes shape

openAI

According to Kuo, OpenAI may accelerate development of its first smartphone, targeting mass production as early as the first half of 2027. MediaTek is currently the leading candidate to supply the processor, which is expected to be a customised chip based on the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 and manufactured using TSMC’s N2P process in the second half of 2026.

The hardware is said to focus heavily on AI-driven tasks, with a dual NPU architecture designed for layered computing. Memory and storage could also see upgrades with LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0, aiming to reduce bottlenecks when handling continuous AI workloads. For imaging, an enhanced ISP is expected to improve high dynamic range output, which could help the device better interpret real-world environments visually.

Kuo suggests that the device may rethink how users interact with smartphones. Instead of relying on multiple apps, the focus could shift to AI agents that handle tasks directly based on user intent. This approach may require deep integration between hardware and software, allowing OpenAI to control the entire experience without platform-level restrictions seen on existing ecosystems.

The phone is also expected to continuously process user context, which includes behaviour and usage patterns, making on-device efficiency critical. Simpler tasks could be handled locally, while more demanding processes may be executed through cloud-based AI systems.

Security features such as pKVM and inline hashing are also expected to be part of the system design. If development stays on track, shipments could reach around 30 million units across 2027 and 2028 combined.

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Motorola Edge 70 Pro+ to get three key upgrades over Edge 70 Pro

5 May 2026 at 08:53
Motorola Edge 70 Pro+

Motorola has launched two different versions of the Edge 70 Pro for India and global markets. Now, the brand is working on a new model called the Edge 70 Pro+ for the Indian market. According to reliable tipster Mukul Sharma, this phone is scheduled to launch by the end of this month. Ahead of the launch, he has revealed that the device will offer three major upgrades over the existing Edge 70 Pro.

Motorola Edge 70 Pro+: Key features revealed

Motorola Edge 70 Pro+
Motorola Edge 70 Pro+

The leak reveals that the Motorola Edge 70 Pro+ will feature a telephoto lens, support wireless charging, and offer a 16GB RAM variant. Additionally, it will be available in three shades, as shown in the image. The extreme left one is dubbed Satin Wine Red, and there is also a wood finish variant.

While the other specifications of the phone are under wraps, they are likely to be identical to the regular Edge 70 Pro. It appears that the global version of the Edge 70 Pro, which includes all the above-mentioned specifications, will be called the Edge 70 Pro+ in the Indian market.

The Edge 70 Pro is priced at Rs 38,999 (~$410) in the Indian market. Therefore, the Edge 70 Pro+ with its distinguishing features may carry a sub-Rs 50,000 price tag.

The Edge 70 Pro+ may feature a 6.8-inch AMOLED panel offering a 1.5K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 5200 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, it could be equipped with the Dimensity 8500 Extreme chip and a 6,500mAh battery with 90W wired and 15W wireless charging.

The Edge 70 Pro+ could be equipped with a 50-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (main) + 50-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 50-megapixel (3.5x periscope) triple camera setup. The device will run on Hello UX-based Android 16 and is expected to receive three major Android updates.

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Casio launches two new affordable AE1600HX digital watches in the US

5 May 2026 at 00:41
Casio AE1600HX-1BV

Casio recently added two new digital watches to its US lineup: the AE1600HX-1BV and the AE1600HX-3AV. Both models are priced at $45.95. If they look familiar, it is because they were already listed on Casio’s international and European websites last month, but they are now officially available for US buyers.

Casio AE1600HX-1BV

Design Details

The main difference between these new “HX” models and the standard AE-1600H series is the strap length. Standard Casio resin bands usually fit wrist sizes up to 215mm. These new models come with an extra-long rally-style strap that accommodates wrists from 145mm up to 235mm.

It is a practical change for people who usually find standard watch bands too tight. The longer band is also useful if you need to wear the watch over a jacket or long sleeves while working or spending time outdoors. The strap uses a double-hole design, which helps keep the watch secure on the wrist.

As for the design, both watches have a large resin case measuring 54.1 by 49.7mm, and they are 15.9mm thick. Despite the bulky size, they only weigh 55 grams. The AE1600HX-1BV is the black model. It uses a negative LCD, meaning the screen background is dark while the numbers are light, and has small light blue text on the case.

Casio AE1600HX-1BV
Casio AE1600HX-3AV

The AE1600HX-3AV comes in a dark olive color with a standard LCD screen and lime yellow text. Both versions have a large button on the front of the case that turns on an amber LED backlight, making it easy to check the time in the dark.

Internally, these watches offer the standard set of features you would expect from an affordable Casio. They are powered by a CR2032 coin battery that is rated to last for about 10 years. They also have 100-meter (10-bar) water resistance, meaning you can swim or wash your hands with them without an issue.

The software includes basic daily tools: a dual time function, a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, and five alarms (including one snooze option). The digital calendar is fully automatic up to the year 2099.

In related news, Casio has recently unveiled two new Star Wars G-Shock watches, while also introducing the Mudmaster GWG-B1000MG-1A9 with a magma-inspired design.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

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(Casio 1,2)

The post Casio launches two new affordable AE1600HX digital watches in the US appeared first on Gizmochina.

“Sabah” Azərbaycan çempionu oldu

5 May 2026 at 22:00

“Sabah” Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının qalibi olub.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “bayquşlar” final seriyasının üçüncü oyununda da “Abşeron Lions”u məğlub edib – 108:95.

Əvvəlki iki matçda da qalib olan “Sabah” mövsümün çempionu adını qazanıb.

“Qızıl əlcəy”in sahibi bilindi

5 May 2026 at 21:32

“Arsenal”ın qapıçısı David Raya Premyer Liqada mövsümün “qızıl əlcək” mükafatını qazanıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, o, ardıcıl üçüncü mövsüm bu mükafata layiq görülüb.

Raya cari “futbol ili”ndə 35 oyunun 17-də qapısını toxunulmaz saxlayıb.

“Arsenal” Premyer Liqada 35 turdan sonra 76 xalla liderdir.

Report: Barcelona disappointed as Bastoni transfer from Inter fades away

5 May 2026 at 22:39

Reports in Italy claim that Barcelona have been left ‘disappointed’ by the fact that a potential deal for Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni seems to be fading away, but there are also suggestions that the financially-troubled LaLiga giants should priorities the signing of a new striker rather than a new defender. 

Why Bastoni’s move to Barcelona is beginning to look unlikely

For several weeks, reports in Spain and Italy have linked Barcelona with a summer move for Italy international Bastoni, who was part of the squad that celebrated Inter’s 21st Serie A title over the weekend. 

MILAN, ITALY - MAY 03: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Nerazzurri President Beppe Marotta has recently admitted: “I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona (in Bastoni), but nothing concrete yet.” 

However, according to the latest updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Barcelona’s interest in the left-sided defender is now beginning to fade away. 

There are several reasons for this, but perhaps most importantly is the player’s apparent unwillingness to leave San Siro this summer. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Inter value Bastoni in the region of €70m, but Barcelona had believed that they would be able to negotiate a discounted fee closer to €50m. In order for that to happen, though, they would have needed for Bastoni to express his desire to leave for Barcelona, thus forcing Inter’s hand into a sale.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, this has not happened, and the Nerazzurri have no intention of letting Bastoni go for a cut-price fee. 

Whether a €50m or a €70m fee, it is still a significant investment for a club who continue to feel the impact of LaLiga’s strict financial rules. As a result of their recent financial troubles, the only new, permanent signings that Barcelona have been able to complete over the last two seasons have been Dani Olmo in a €58m deal, Joan Garcia in a €27m deal and youngster Roony Bardghji in a €2m deal. 

Given that it has practically been a case of one new first-team signing per summer for Barcelona over the last two years, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Bastoni would not be the best use of available funds during the upcoming transfer window. 

BARCELONA, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 07: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and RCD Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou on February 07, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images) (Juventus links)
BARCELONA, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 07: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and RCD Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou on February 07, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

That is because Barcelona will likely need a new striker too, as the high-earning Robert Lewandowski, 37, is likely to leave the club this summer, which leaves Hansi Flick with a big gap to fill at centre-forward, which would likely be Barcelona’s priority rather than the signing of a luxury centre-back. 

Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid Champions League line-ups: Two Italians start

5 May 2026 at 21:55

Riccardo Calafiori and Matteo Ruggeri are both in the starting line-ups as Arsenal host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League final on Tuesday evening.

Arsenal and Atletico are level at 1-1 at the halfway stage of their Champions League semi-final after goals from Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvaerz, both from the penalty spot, at the Metropolitano last week.

Tonight’s second leg will kick off at 20.00 BST.

Calafiori keeps his place in the Arsenal starting XI after a stellar performance against Fulham in the Premier League over the weekend. The Italy international was denied his first goal at The Emirates after a late VAR review on Saturday.

The former Roma and Bologna defender had missed four matches across all competitions with a knock leading up to the first leg of this tie, and was left on the bench for the opening game last week. This is the first time since December that Calafiori has started two games in a row for Arsenal.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Ruggeri also keeps his place at left-back in the Atletico Madrid line-up. The former Atalanta wing-back has started in 12 of Atleti’s 15 Champions League outings this term and was one of several key players that Diego Simeone decided to rest for the LaLiga match against Valencia over the weekend.

Former Atalanta star Ademola Lookman also starts for Atletico, and former Dea goalkeeper Juan Musso is named among Simeone’s substitutes.

Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid: Confirmed line-ups

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 14: Matteo Ruggeri of Atletico de Madrid reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 14: Matteo Ruggeri of Atletico de Madrid reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Gyokeres.

Subs: Kepa, Setford, Mosquera, Hincapie, Havertz, Odegaard, Norgaard, G.Jesus, Martinelli, Zubimendi, Dowman, Madueke. 

Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano, Llorente, Koke, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann.

Subs: Musso, Gimenez, Lenglet, Molina, Bonar, J.Diaz, Mendoza, Cardoso, Alex B., Vargas, Sorloth, Almada. 

05-05-2026 20:00
1/2 Final

Season Analytics

Arsenal
Positions
Atl. Madrid

Last matches

29-04-2026 D
15-04-2026 D
07-04-2026 W
17-03-2026 W
11-03-2026 D
15-04-2026 Sporting D
17-03-2026 Leverkusen W
28-01-2026 Kairat W
26-11-2025 Bayern W
21-10-2025 W

Last matches

D 29-04-2026
L 14-04-2026
W 08-04-2026
L 18-03-2026
W 10-03-2026
W Barcelona 08-04-2026
L Tottenham 18-03-2026
D Club Brugge 18-02-2026
D Galatasaray 21-01-2026
W PSV 09-12-2025

Mo Salah names three players without whom Liverpool “would not have won anything”

5 May 2026 at 22:47

Mohamed Salah has named Gini Wijnaldum, James Milner, and Jordan Henderson as three players who do not get the credit they deserve for their pivotal roles in Liverpool’s trophy-laden success in recent years.

While the “Egyptian King” has been the headline stealer for Liverpool over the years, Salah was quick to point out that the foundation of the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs was built on the backs of these selfless engine-room operators.

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Reflecting on the era under Jürgen Klopp, the departing Salah emphasised that individual awards often overlook the tactical discipline and leadership provided by the veteran trio.

Mohamed Salah names trio as unsung heroes for Liverpool

During a recent interview with Steven Gerrard on TNT Sport, Salah named Jordan Henderson, Gini Wijnaldum and James Milner as three teammates who deserve more recognition for their role in Liverpool’s success.

Salah said: “I think people don’t know how good Alexander-Arnold is, but I think he gets a lot of credit.

“But I would say Gini Wijnaldum and Millie [Milner] and Hendo [Henderson]. These guys just, without them, we wouldn’t have won anything.”

Wijnaldum’s role in Liverpool’s success

Gini Wijnaldum was a key part of Klopp’s midfield, known for his ability to retain possession under extreme pressure and his tactical flexibility.

His most iconic contribution, two goals in the historic 4-0 comeback against Barcelona, which remains one of the best European nights at Anfield.

Jordan Henderson’s role in Liverpool’s success

As the captain who hoisted every major trophy, Jordan Henderson’s leadership was the heartbeat of the squad.

He captained Liverpool through their most successful era in recent history. Salah has even called for fans to give him a proper sending off that he deserved but couldn’t receive due to his sudden exit last summer.

In the same interview he said:

“I think last game of the season against Brentford, people in the city knows how much it meant to Hendo also, being captain of the club, being here for 12 years – more than me, more than Virg, more than Robbo, more than anyone.

“He didn’t get the send-off that he deserved because he left suddenly. I don’t know how the club is going to manage it.

“I have no plans, and I don’t know how the supporters will also manage it, but I really wish they do something special for him, because he’s been one of the best players in this club.”

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James Milner’s role in Liverpool’s success

James Milner, often referred to as the ultimate professional, was the glue that held the dressing room together.

He was one of Klopp’s favourite players, in fact, he is every manager’s dream player.

Whether filling in at left-back or right-back or dominating the midfield, Milner provided a level of experience and fitness that was indispensable.

These three players represent the selfless spirit that defined Liverpool’s return to the pinnacle of world football.

The post Mo Salah names three players without whom Liverpool “would not have won anything” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea pushing to sign £35m defensive star on Liverpool & Man United wishlist

5 May 2026 at 22:30

Chelsea are interested in signing the Ecuador defender Joel Ordonez at the end of the season.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, they will also face competition from Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Chelsea have been tracking the 22-year-old defender since 2022, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done this summer. They need more quality in the defensive unit. They have looked quite poor at the back this season, and they need to improve in that area if they want to compete with top clubs next season.

The 22-year-old central defender could be the ideal acquisition for them. He has shown his quality in Belgium with Club Brugge, and this is the right time for him to take on a new challenge. Chelsea would be a huge opportunity for him, and he’s likely to be tempted.

Meanwhile, Liverpool need an alternative to Ibrahima Konate, who will be out of contract in the summer. It will be interesting to see if they can get a deal done for the 22-year-old South American defender.

Manchester United and Tottenham also need more quality in the defensive unit. Both clubs have looked vulnerable at the back this season. Manchester United need a long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, and Tottenham could lose Cristian Romero in the summer. It remains to be seen which of the Premier League clubs can get the deal done.

The Belgian club could demand around £35 million for the South American defender, and the Premier League club certainly has the financial muscle to afford him.

The post Chelsea pushing to sign £35m defensive star on Liverpool & Man United wishlist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Supercomputer makes bold Tottenham Premier League prediction as season nears its end

5 May 2026 at 22:09

A supercomputer has predicted how the fight for survival will play out in what has been a nightmare season for Tottenham.

After a campaign defined by managerial upheaval and a staggering lack of form, the data suggests that Spurs fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief.

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Tottenham predicted to escape relegation

According to the latest simulation from FindSisterSites (via The Sun), Tottenham are tipped to avoid a historic relegation to the Championship by just three points.

The prediction comes following a tumultuous period where the club fell into the bottom three under former boss Igor Tudor, before turning to a familiar face in the Premier League to navigate the crisis.

While the supercomputer predicts Arsenal to clinch the title on goal difference, the drama at the bottom of the table is equally intense.

Tottenham’s predicted survival comes at the direct expense of their London rivals, West Ham.

The model expects the Hammers to join Burnley and Wolves in the second tier next season, unable to keep pace with a rejuvenated Spurs side in the final weeks.

For Tottenham, finishing 17th for second season in a row is disastrous, but in a season where they went months without a league win, survival is the only metric that matters.

Tottenham look completely different under Roberto De Zerbi

The catalyst for this predicted escape has been the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi. Since taking over, he has made an instant impact, injecting strong mentality and fighting spirit in a depleted Spurs side.

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Under him, Tottenham finally ended their winless run in 2026 with back to back wins over Wolves and Aston Villa and the supercomputer expects that momentum to carry them through a grueling final run-in.

The Italian has already made fans excited on what’s to come under him and if they survive relegation, Spurs can be a team to watch for next season.

 

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Liverpool eye explosive 19-year-old Arsenal target to kickstart post-Salah era

5 May 2026 at 22:00

Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in signing the Bournemouth attacker Eli Junior Kroupi at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old has 12 goals in 30 league matches for the Cherries, and top clubs are interested in securing his signature. According to a report from INews, Liverpool are looking to reshape their attacking unit after the departure of Mohamed Salah, and they are firm admirers of the French attacker.

They believe he could become a key player for the club. However, the Cherries are unwilling to sanction his departure. The player is valued at in excess of £100 million, and they are hoping to offer him a new contract after his impressive debut campaign.

It will be interesting to see if Liverpool decides to come forward with an offer for him at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are keeping tabs on his situation as well. Even though Viktor Gyokeres has scored 20 goals in all competitions, this season, he has not been prolific enough in the Premier League.

Arsenal need more quality in the final third, and the French attacker would be ideal for them.

The 19-year-old has the potential to develop into a star in the Premier League, and joining clubs like Arsenal or Liverpool could be attractive for him. It would be a huge step up for him, and he would get to compete at the highest level with them.

However, it is unlikely that any club would be willing to pay in excess of £100 million for him this summer. Therefore, any move might have to wait for the future.

The post Liverpool eye explosive 19-year-old Arsenal target to kickstart post-Salah era appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United ready to pounce on rivals to sign “ultimate Premier League midfielder”

5 May 2026 at 21:30

Manchester United are interested in signing the West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. 

The 21-year-old has done quite well for the London club this season, and he has been one of their brightest performers despite a disappointing season. Naturally, top clubs are interested in him. According to Ben Jacobs, Manchester United are looking to sign him in the summer, and it will be interesting to see how the situation develops.

West Ham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, and they will struggle to keep their best players if they go down. Fernandes will want to compete at a high level, and the move to Manchester United would be ideal for him.

The hard-working central midfielder will add defensive cover, control and composure in the middle of the park. It could be the ideal next step in his development. Manchester United will be able to provide him with Champions League football and the opportunity to fight for trophies.

In theory, he should be the ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo. He has been described as “an ultimate Premier League midfielder”.

Manchester United will need to invest in a reliable defensive midfielder as well. Adding more quality in the middle of the park should be a top priority for them as they head into the summer transfer window. They have shown great improvement in recent months, but they need quality additions in order to close the gap with Arsenal and Manchester City.

Convincing Fernandes to join the club will not be difficult for them. The opportunity to play for them will be exciting for the young midfielder. However, they will need to secure an agreement with West Ham United. They could demand a premium for the talented young midfielder.

The post Man United ready to pounce on rivals to sign “ultimate Premier League midfielder” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Spurs chief Johan Lange flies out for talks with 19-year-old sensation as top clubs circle

5 May 2026 at 21:00

Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to agree on a new deal with Luka Vuskovic at the end of the season.

The Croatian has been on loan at Hamburg, and he has been outstanding for the German club since joining.

He has been linked with multiple clubs in recent weeks, but Tottenham are determined to keep him at the club for the long term. According to a report from the Sun, they are prepared to offer him a new deal. The report further claims that Johan Lange personally flew to Hamburg to discuss a new deal with the player.

He has a contract with Tottenham until 2030, but he joined on relatively low wages. Tottenham is prepared to offer him a pay rise, given his performances in Germany this season. They expect him to be a key player for the club in the coming seasons.

Vuskovic has been very reliable defensively and has scored 5 goals as well. He has proven himself to be a revelation in German football, and there is no doubt he has the quality to succeed in England as well. He is regarded as one of the finest young defensive talents in the world right now, and Tottenham must do everything in its power to keep him at the club for as long as possible.

Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season. They will need someone to step up and fill the void. The creation defender could be ideal. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He has all the attributes to develop into a future star.

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Prediction: Bayern Munich vs Paris Saint-Germain

Verdict: Home win Best odds: 3/5 Bookmaker: ZetBet Eight days after one of the most astonishing matches in Champions League history, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint‑Germain meet again on Wednesday night as their enthralling semi‑final concludes at the Allianz Arena. PSG arrive in Bavaria holding a slender but dramatic 5–4 advantage from a record‑breaking first […]

The post Prediction: Bayern Munich vs Paris Saint-Germain appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Prediction: Bayern Munich vs Paris Saint-Germain appeared first on Soccer News.

Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola

There was a time, not so long ago, when Phil Foden looked like the inevitability in Manchester City’s future. He was more than just the academy success story or Pep Guardiola’s prized project. Coming out of the 2023–24 season, Foden was arguably the most complete English footballer in the Premier League, sweeping every major individual […]

The post Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola appeared first on Soccer News.

Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker

According to Sky Sports, Juventus have made Alisson Becker their primary transfer target for this summer, and they will set aside both time and significant funds to sign the Liverpool goalkeeper. Juventus have been credited with strong interest in Alisson before, and it seems they’ve decided that this would be the transfer window when they […]

The post Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker appeared first on Soccer News.

Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola

There was a time, not so long ago, when Phil Foden looked like the inevitability in Manchester City’s future. He was more than just the academy success story or Pep Guardiola’s prized project. Coming out of the 2023–24 season, Foden was arguably the most complete English footballer in the Premier League, sweeping every major individual […]

The post Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Phil Foden Agrees New Manchester City Contract Despite Losing Starting Spot Under Guardiola appeared first on Soccer News.

Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker

According to Sky Sports, Juventus have made Alisson Becker their primary transfer target for this summer, and they will set aside both time and significant funds to sign the Liverpool goalkeeper. Juventus have been credited with strong interest in Alisson before, and it seems they’ve decided that this would be the transfer window when they […]

The post Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Juventus step up efforts to sign Alisson Becker appeared first on Soccer News.

Is Arsenal v Atletico Madrid on TV? Channel, streaming and how to watch Champions League semi-final

Last week’s semi-final first leg finished 1-1 in Madrid  (Getty)

Arsenal take on Atletico Madrid bidding to reach their first men’s Champions League final in 20 years at the Emirates.

The first leg of the semi-final finished all square in Madrid last week following a tense 1-1 draw, where Arsenal were aggrieved to have been denied a late penalty at the Metropolitano.

But the Gunners will be flying after their 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday was followed by Manchester City dropping points against Everton in the Premier League title race last night.

Suddenly, Arsenal’s title hopes are in their hands and Mikel Arteta’s side can start to dream of a memorable Premier League-Champions League double this season.

Diego Simeone’s side will offer fierce competition, though, with the visitors set to arrive at the Emirates with a gameplan to get into Arsenal’s heads and spoil the party.

Here’s everything you need to know

When is Arsenal v Atletico Madrid?

Kick-off at the Emirates is 8pm BST on Tuesday May 5.

How can I watch it?

It will be shown on Amazon Prime Video. New customers to Amazon can take out a free Prime subscription for 30 days; after that, it is £8.99 per month. You can also sign up for just Prime Video for £5.99 per month.

What is the Arsenal team news?

Arteta will be boosted by the availability of captain Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, who has missed the past two games with a knee injury. Bukayo Saka was removed at half-time against Fulham so is fully rested, while Viktor Gyokeres was also taken off before full-time and appears to be in contention to lead the line.

What is the Atletico Madrid team news?

Diego Simeone was able to make 11 changes for last weekend’s win at Valencia in LaLiga. Former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez, who scored from the penalty spot and impressed last week, could not complete the first leg but looks set to overcome injury to start for Atleti.

Possible Arsenal v Atletico line-ups

Arsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli

Atletico Madrid XI: Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Le Normand, Ruggeri; Simeone, Koke, Cardoso, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann

What have the managers said?

Mikel Arteta: “We will take to the pitch as beasts tomorrow and enjoy the moment and go for it. I can’t wait. I feel the energy among the team and our supporters. This is the moment that we want to live together. We have worked hard as a club and as a team after 20 years to be in this position again. And we are so hungry to get through to that final.“It is a feeling of huge excitement. It’s difficult to express the desire to live that moment, especially with our people in front of us.“They’ve been waiting for so long to have this kind of night. So let’s push hard tomorrow, because something amazing is going to happen.”

Diego Simeone: “As coaches, we have to think about what could happen but it is down to the players. We have to manage our emotions and play as well as possible. The game changes as soon as it kicks off. Over time, you do become patient. It is not about being passive, but calm, and that is what we need in this type of game.”

Top-ranked Big Ten commitments in the updated 2027 Rivals300

Big Ten

The Big Ten has established itself as college football’s preeminent conference on the field over the last three years, and it’s looking to do the same on the recruiting trail.

After back-to-back-to-back College Football Playoff national titles, the league is gaining major steam with top prospects — including at schools outside its traditional powers (Ohio State, Michigan, USC, etc.). Top recruits are flocking to the conference, and it’s showing up on the field and in the recruiting rankings.

With the release of the latest Rivals300 rankings last month, we break down where the top committed prospects in the Big Ten are currently headed:

5-star EDGE David Jacobs Jr. – Ohio State

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 12 (#1 EDGE)
School: Blessed Trinity Catholic (Ga.)
Scouting Summary: “Athletically gifted EDGE defender who thrives as an edge setter in the run game and is a multi-faceted pass rusher. Verified 6-foot-5, 235-pound defender with excellent bend and hand usage. In the run game, he is violent with his hands when shocking blockers at the point of attack. As a rusher, he wins with a great burst off the line of scrimmage that lets him get vertical in a hurry to blow by tackles with speed. But he can also convert that speed to power and bull pass protectors into the quarterback. He will need to continue harnessing his ability to gain leverage due to his below-average length, but Jacobs has the physical tools and tenacity to be an immediate impact player the moment he steps on campus. Possesses the play strength and athleticism to develop into a dominant three-down defender at the next level that can stand up or play with his hand in the dirt along the defensive front.”

5-star QB Will Mencl – Oregon

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 13 (#1 QB)
School: Chandler (Chandler, AZ)
Scouting Summary: “Hyper-accurate passer who looks like one of the more well-rounded quarterback prospects in the 2027 cycle. Measured in at around 6-foot-3, 205 pounds with 10-inch hands prior to his senior season. Turned in a strong finish to his junior season, completing over 70% of his passes for 3,815 yards and 33 touchdowns against five interceptions while leading his team to a state title berth. Touts smooth mechanics. A high-level processor who is able to locate open receivers and read defender leverage. Made tough throws over the middle of the field as a junior. Also proved to be a dangerous run threat on designed keepers, rushing for 741 yards and 17 scores. Turned in the best showing from a quarterback on the national all-star circuit at the Navy All-American Bowl prior to his senior season. Will need to continue gaining key in-game experience throughout the rest of his high school career. Arm strength is good but not overwhelming at this stage.”

5-star EDGE Mekai Brown – USC

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 17 (# EDGE)
School: Greenwich Country Day (Greenwich, CT)
Scouting Summary: 
“Explosive athlete gifted with a prototypical frame whose motor runs hot from off the edge all game long. Tremendous frame and build with room to fill out at the next level. Bouncy hooper on the hardwood that plays above the rim consistently. Plays with that burst and explosiveness off the edge, getting off the line of scrimmage when rushing the passer. Has the balance and body control to win in space and has tremendous change of direction in the open field. Needs to polish his hand usage and utilize his length more effectively as a rusher. Has the raw strength to shed blocks against the run but can play with poor pad level at times. One of the more gifted physical and athletic specimens for the position, but he needs to develop his technique as a rusher and continue improving his hand placement at the point of attack. Has the ability to develop into a premier three-down defender if he can continue to polish his technique and develop his pass-rush arsenal. One of the older prospects in the 2027 recruiting cycle.”

IOL Kellen Wymer – Ohio State

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 30 (#3 IOL)
SchoolLiberty Center (Liberty Center, OH)
Scout’s Take: “Wymer is an elite athlete on the offensive line. I think there’s a case to be made that he might be the most natural mover and explosive mover of all the offensive linemen nationally. He can really, really scoot at the second level. This is a guy who is at his best when he’s pulling and getting on linebackers and he runs like a tight end. There’s a ton to like there, and we feel like as he continues to get bigger and stronger, there’s just so much upside just with his natural athleticism and movement skills.” — — Charles Power, Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings

ATH Honor Fa’alave-Johnson – USC

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 36 (#1 ATH)
School: Cathedral Catholic (San Diego, CA)
Scouting Summary: “One of the more unique athletes to come out of the West in some time and could legitimately play four positions at the college level. He was recruited primarily as a running back and safety but we’ve seen him play receiver and corner and he’s very capable at those two positions as well. He’s a true home run threat at running back with explosive speed and 22.76 MPH on the GPS as a junior. He has some power to him as well, excellent contact balance and can run through would be tacklers. At safety, he’s smart, rangy, has excellent ball skills and plays with a mean streak. He has an edge in his game and is one of those players you love on your team but hate to play against. He brings special teams value as a return man as well and has all the talent to compete for playing time immediately at the college level.” — Rivals’ Greg Biggins

CB Ai’King Hall – Oregon

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 39 (#7 CB)
School: Dothan (Dothan, AL)
Scout’s Take:
 “Ai’King Hall is a corner that we continue to like at Rivals. The Oregon commit has great feet in coverage, a really good combination of reactive quickness and top-end speed. He consistently runs in the 10.8-10.9 range in the 100-meters and we’re high on his film.”

SAF Tory Pittman – Nebraska

Rivals300 Ranking: No. 43 (#3 SAF)
School: Millard North (Omaha, NE)
Scouting Summary:
“Great natural feel for the position with high end football instincts. Not a big framed safety but will hot you and plays a physical game. Ability to quickly read and react jumps out on tape. Really flashes to the football, takes great angles and is one of the better open field tacklers in this year’s class. Strong track profile with back to back top 5 state finishes in the long jump and a personal bet of 23’4.5”. Has some offensive production and shows value in the return game as well. Explosive football player who just makes plays and has the type of all around game where we can see him playing early in his college career. High power 4 prospect with the talent to play for anyone and an NFL ceiling.”

Other notable top committed prospects in the Big Ten

EDGE Rashad Streets – Oregon
WR Braylon Pope – Washington
WR Jamier Brown – Ohio State
CB Monsanna Torbert – Indiana
QB Trae Taylor – Nebraska

CB Kei’Shjuan Telfair – Penn State
CB Danny Lang – USC
SAF Semaj Stanford – Oregon
WR Quentin Hale – USC
QB Blake Roskopf – Washington

DL Stanley Montgomery – Penn State
CB Juju Johnson – UCLA
WR Charles Davis – Cal
QB Kamden Lopati – Michigan
WR Roye Oliver – USC


Detroit Pistons' Jalen Duren finds ways to be productive during postseason

Detroit — From the moment Jalen Duren attempted to receive an entry pass in the restricted area of Little Caesars Arena, it was evident the Detroit Pistons' first-round series against the Orlando Magic would be challenging for the All-Star big man.

The moment came at the 11:03 mark of the first quarter of Game 1 on April 19. Ausar Thompson tried to connect with Duren on an alley-oop attempt, but the Magic sent four players to collapse the paint, which disrupted his timing and ability to finish the two-hand dunk attempt.

The way the Magic sent extra bodies around Duren was their way of executing coach Jamahl Mosley's defensive scheme to contain him amid his leap to All-NBA status. Despite the Pistons' 3-1 comeback in the series, Mosley's strategy nearly made Duren ineffective on the offensive end.

Against the Magic, Duren averaged 10.9 points with a field-goal percentage of 52.9%, marking a significant decline from his career-best regular-season averages of 19.5 points on 65.0% shooting. Despite his offensive struggles, Duren still made an impact by stepping up on defense.

More: Richard Hamilton astonished by Pistons' 3-1 comeback: 'This was amazing'

"Just trying to stay with it. Obviously, (it) started out really rough, trying to just figure out my spots, figure out where I can be effective at. But as the series went on, watching film, just understanding that every series, every game is going to bring a different challenge," Duren said. "If I’m struggling for the ball, my whole thing was let me just be effective on defense, let me attack the boards, let me try to keep them off the boards, let me try to protect the paint, protect the rim the best that I can."

The Pistons entered their second-round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers with arguably the best defense among the final eight teams. Detroit produced the highest defensive net rating of 101.9 while limiting Orlando to a league-low average of 97.7 points per game. The Pistons also ranked first and ninth in blocks and steals, averaging 9.4 and 7.6, respectively.

Similar to the regular season, Isaiah Stewart and Thompson received much of the credit for the Pistons' strong defense; however, Duren was equally impactful.

He averaged 1.3 blocks during the seven-game series. His best defensive performance came despite the Game 3 defeat, in which Duren notched a season-high five blocks inside Kia Center on April 25. However, Duren's most important non-scoring moment came in the final seconds of Detroit's Game 5 victory.

Detroit center Jalen Duren dunks the ball during the second quarter of Game 7 of the NBA first-round playoff series between the Detroit Pistons and the Orlando Magic at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

"He impacts the game in so many ways. I think people want to focus on stats and numbers and points, but that’s not only where he helps us," coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. "He does a great job defensively protecting the rim, communicating our defense. Our defense isn’t where it is without the anchors that we have here. Every single night, he went out and anchored our defense, and our defense was elite through this whole series."

With 35.5 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Cade Cunningham made a mid-range jumper that helped the Pistons secure a 116-109 victory, staving off elimination. The crucial moment was set up after Thompson won a 50-50 ball from the Magic's Jalen Suggs. It followed Tobias Harris' missed 14-foot jumper over Paolo Banchero.

Amid the ensuing chaos, Thompson gained control of the loose ball that resulted from Duren tipping an offensive rebound to his teammate. If it hadn’t been for Duren’s hustle, the Pistons' season could have ended in Game 5, especially since the Magic had all the momentum during the last five minutes of the game.

"You can be effective in different ways," Duren said. "Scoring has never been the main part of my game; it’s something that I’ve added, and over the last couple of years and months or whatever. But I feel like it was just key for me to stick with it. That’s it."

More: Vegas insider likes Detroit Pistons vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, for these reasons

Duren finally overcame his struggles during the Pistons' Game 7 clincher. Along with grabbing 15 rebounds, he notched his only double-double performance of the series by adding 15 points. Duren's play helped lift the Pistons to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

Although Duren provided enough production to prevent a major upset for the Pistons, they will need more from their star big man against the Cavaliers, considering the consistent offensive threat they pose.

Duren's struggles were challenging during the first round. But, starting in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the second round gives him a chance to apply the lessons learned against the Magic to have an even greater impact versus the Cavaliers.

"I know who I am, I know who the team is," Duren said. "I never doubted anything. I never doubted the guys that I was going to war with. I never doubted the coaches. Never. Let’s keep going, let’s keep proving the world wrong."

NBA Playoffs, second round: No. 1 Pistons vs. No. 4 Cavaliers

Game 1: at Detroit, Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. (Peacock/NBCSN)

Game 2: at Detroit, Thursday, 7:00 p.m. (Amazon Prime)

Game 3: at Cleveland, Saturday, 3:00 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)

Game 4: at Cleveland, Monday, May 11, 8:00 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)

x-Game 5: at Detroit, Wednesday, May 13, TBD (TBD)

x-Game 6: at Cleveland, Friday, May 15, TBD (TBD)

x-Game 7: at Detroit, Sunday, May 17 TBD (TBD)

x-If necessary

coty.davis@detroitnews.com

@cotydavis_24

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Detroit Pistons' Jalen Duren finds ways to be productive in postseason

The Blackhawks’ Coaching Staff Underperformed in Year One

Oct 17, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill talks with the team during the third period against the Vancouver Canucks at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

After firing Luke Richardson in the dog days of the 2024-25 campaign, the Blackhawks led a coaching search that ended in Jeff Blashill’s hiring. With him came some new faces.

Michael Peca and Mike Velucci came along to run the special teams. Anders Sörensen, the previous interim head coach, was retained to coach the defensemen and to keep a familiar face in the room. Jimmy Waite remained as the goaltending coach.

More specifically, Peca worked with the penalty kill while Velucci ran the power play. Both of these coaches also worked closely with the forward group. Sörensen gained plenty of favor for his longtime employment with the Blackhawks and IceHogs coaching staffs. Waite, a former Blackhawks player, has held his position for over a decade and is widely considered one of the best goaltending coaches in the NHL.

Blackhawks assistant coach duties this season:
Vellucci and Peca: forwards
Vellucci: PP
Peca: PK
Sorensen: defensemen
Waite: goalies

More things we learned from my recent talk with Jeff Blashill: https://t.co/rXUr9HvMKm

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) August 11, 2025

Holding it all together at the top was Blashill, a former longtime Red Wings head coach. After spending some time under Jon Cooper in Tampa Bay, the Blackhawks’ front office saw a cohesive vision between Blashill and the rebuild. 

Many questions arose from the quality of the roster, which the fanbase focused on instead of the coaching. Ultimately, great coaches get the best out of their players, and they fell short in their first season as a staff.

Power Play Struggles

Although the Blackhawks had tons of offensive firepower, the unit severely struggled to capitalize. By the end of the season, they ranked fourth to last in power play percentage. This number is simply inexcusable with the young, fast, talented offensive players the Blackhawks have. 

Something the Blackhawks don’t lack in terms of personnel are goal scorers. Many are still young and figuring out the NHL’s pace of play, but they still should be able to score on the man advantage. Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Nick Lardis, and Oliver Moore all saw power-play time. Unfortunately, they struggled to put together consistent zone entries and opportunities.

Blackhawks drawing plenty of boos for their power play tonight.

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) April 14, 2026

Even when Anton Frondell entered the first power play unit to end the season, the team simply could not find the back of the net very often. Although, it’s worth mentioning that their structure was solid, and they found plenty more chances.

Velucci would occasionally change who ran the point. Artyom Levshunov, Sam Rinzel, and Bedard all took that spot at different points in the season. Ultimately, there was a fundamental issue with the way the unit performed. 

To give Velucci some credit, the power play passed the eye test towards the end of the season. Adding Frondell and going to a five-forward power play with Bedard quarterbacking really helped the first unit. Unfortunately, though, the execution just was not there, and they still struggled to score.

A five percent uptick in production would put them in the middle of the league standings, but would do wonders for the overall success of the Blackhawks. Expect Velucci to really shake things up next season to find a system that works for new faces and the improved young talent. 

Is Sörensen the Guy?

Kyle Davidson has prioritized drafting defensemen. So, the man in charge of those players is one of the most important coaches on the staff. Sörensen led a lackluster playing career as a defenseman, but has carved out a coaching career built on developing players.

He started in the Chicago area as a youth hockey coach before coaching the Chicago Mission some years later. During that time, he would help develop future Blackhawks in Ryan Hartman, Vinnie Hinostroza, and Nick Schmaltz.

After a coaching stint in Sweden, Sörensen was hired by the Blackhawks as a player development coach in 2013. Fast forward thirteen years, and he is now one of the most important voices in the room. So far, his contribution has looked shaky, but hopeful.

Blackhawks D-Core

Rinzel, Levshunov, Wyatt Kaiser, Louis Crevier, and Alex Vlasic were all players who stayed relatively consistent as blue liners. Crevier and Kaiser were both excellent, unlocking pieces of their game that took their contribution to the next level. Not giving Sörensen some credit here would be a misstep.

Rinzel and Lev both have a lot of young player woes to work out. Improved consistency, decision-making, and physical strength will make these two next-level defensemen. With time, Sörensen will really be able to flex his developmental muscle with these two.

Alex Vlasic was disappointing. After a career year, Vlasic signed a deal that felt like a steal at the time. So far, he has seemed timid and simply ineffective in high-leverage areas. Even though he has his money locked up, more is needed out of a guy who is expected to wear an ‘A’ next season. 

The ‘Pronger’ Model

Hockey Hall of Famer Chris Pronger often cites a 300-game benchmark to evaluate defensemen. Across the five players mentioned above, not a single one has passed that threshold. The only player who is even close is Vlasic, who has 260 games under his belt. Ethan Del Mastro, another young hopeful, has played 45 games. Kevin Korchinski, the first draft pick of the rebuild, sits at 105.

Defenseman take a lot longer than forwards to development. Typically 300 NHL games before you know what you have. https://t.co/0h78ottYl3

— Chris Pronger (@chrispronger) March 27, 2026

Long story short, the defensemen are fine, at least for now. If the opinion of one of the greatest defensemen in league history holds any water, then it could take seasons to know what the Blackhawks have on their blueline. Now’s the time for Sörensen to show what he came to Chicago to do: develop.

Though the defense may be a question mark, the Blackhawks did have a few exclamation points on the year.

Peca’s Penalty Kill

The penalty kill was incredible, and at times, it felt like the Blackhawks almost wanted to be on it. Objectively, this was where the team played their best hockey.

After the trade deadline, speculation swirled on whether the unit would stay solid with Connor Murphy and Jason Dickinson, arguably their two best penalty killers, being shipped off. 

Nevertheless, the Blackhawks finished at 83.6%, second-best in the league behind only Colorado. Ilya Mikheyev and Teuvo Teravainen both showed their excellent killing abilities. Ryan Greene and Landon Slaggert joined these two veterans while Vlasic, Crevier, Kaiser, and Rinzel backstopped the effort. Peca worked wonders coaching this group, and it will be interesting to see if any adjustments will be made next season.

Goaltending

Spencer Knight, in his first full season as a starting goaltender, was simply stunning. Having over a year to work with Waite, compounded with his raw talent, made him incredibly reliable. On a contending team, Knight would be in the Vezina discussion. 

Arvid Soderblöm was shaky, but for a backup goaltender on a defensively poor team, he did about the best he could. He made some marginal improvements in his rebound control and positioning, but he failed to stand on his head like Knight could. Again, on a contending team, Sodie would make for a rock-solid backup netminder.

Drew Commesso is another interesting goalie who looked awesome in his three starts. Waite could really bring out the best in him with what he has already shown. If the Blackhawks want to move on from Soderblöm, they know they have their next man up. Adam Gajan could be sneaky in the discussion, too, in a couple of seasons.

Interesting Line Combinations

Where Blashill got the most heat was in his line combinations. For much of the season, Bedard flew alongside Andre Burakovsky and Greene. It was an intriguing experiment, but not at all the answer. With the talent coming up and additions to be made this offseason, this hit to Blashill’s perception could be quickly turned around. 

To close the season, Blash finally put Bedard and Nazar on a line together. Frondell also saw time on Bedard’s wing, and Lardis eventually became a mainstay. Although they never caught true fire the way many expected to, the framework is there. Ultimately, the lines are moving in the right direction.

The Bottom Line

The coaching staff did not do enough to prove they can lead a dynasty, but they didn’t prove otherwise either. There were some bright spots and blemishes, but mostly a lot of unanswered questions.

Blashill believes in the rebuild. He believes in the potential these young players possess. Goal alignment between the coaching staff and the front office was the most important part of the search, and they got just that. Now, it’s time to see that vision turn into reality.

The post The Blackhawks’ Coaching Staff Underperformed in Year One appeared first on The Lead.

Can't Wait For Saturday More than enough bowls to cover the Big Ten

May 5—***

The list of available bowl slots following the 2026 college football season has dwindled. Most fans — not me — would say that is a positive thing.

Postseason games in Detroit, Los Angeles and the Bahamas have gone the way of the Bowl Alliance (remember that?)

Will there be more trimming in the coming years? Maybe. It depends on if the folks in charge of the College Football Playoff decide to take a bold step and expand the field to 24 teams.

Some will resist the change, fearing what it will do to the bowl system. By my count, adding 12 teams means the loss of six bowl games. I could get rid of those on the first pass with very little pain to the tradition and history of the sport.

Games in nice stadiums located in destination cities will continue to exist. And the Power Four conferences figure to have landing spots for teams that want to continue playing.

One bowl projection by CBS Sports pits Illinois against Florida State in the Duke's Mayo Bowl in Charlotte N.C. After games the past two years in Orlando and Nashville, adding a new state to the list of bowl sites would be a good thing. Illinois has not played a bowl in North Carolina.

Of course, the preference for Illinois and all teams is to be a part of the CFP. If that doesn't work, nice to know the season can still continue.

As seen in a video shared by New York Basketball, fans …

J.R. Smith, 40, was at Madison Square Garden to see the Knicks dominate the Philadelphia 76ers in a 137-98 win on Monday, May 4, giving New York a 1-0 edge in the second-round series. But Smith, who played for the New York Knicks for four seasons, became a victim of the chaos as the celebrations poured into the city streets. As seen in a video shared by New York Basketball, fans became rowdy while celebrating the playoff win, and Smith got caught in the middle of the raucous.

People

“Relax man relax “

JR Smith joined the crowd outside MSG

At one point it got out of hand pic.twitter.com/LCHRWM0EJN

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) May 5, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: As seen in a video shared by New York Basketball, fans …

Why Man City weren't ready to win the Premier League this season

Manchester City fan's voice banner
[BBC]
Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki react at full-time
[Getty Images]

The dream of bringing the Premier League title back to Etihad Stadium may not be mathematically over for Pep Guardiola's squad, but Monday night's chaotic 3-3 draw at Everton felt like the moment when the cold, hard reality of squad transition finally caught up with us.

For all of Manchester City's brilliance at various points this season, they were never quite ready to win the league. The blueprint of their undoing was laid bare in a 13-minute second-half period when those on Merseyside entirely lost their heads.

Under the suffocating intensity of Hill Dickinson Stadium, Guardiola's men showed a clear inability to compose themselves.

Forced mistakes - highlighted by Marc Guehi's costly backpass error - led to a flurry of Everton goals that perhaps a peak, battle-hardened and experienced City side of years gone by would have comfortably blocked out.

But was this defensive collapse just inevitable at some stage?

Over the past 18 months, the squad has changed a lot, with a lack of experience in key positions. Expecting flawless game management in a hostile Merseyside environment was always a big ask.

There is a strong argument to suggest City might have actually overachieved this season.

That might sound far-fetched when looking at the money spent on the squad, but pushing a settled, meticulously built Arsenal side this deep into May is a commendable feat, especially when contrasted with their long-standing, work-in-progress project under Mikel Arteta.

City are rebuilding - and yet they are still competing for the biggest prize in England right until the bitter end.

If anything, a wild night against Everton was another hugely promising pointer towards a bright future, and the very shining light was Jeremy Doku.

The Belgian's performance felt like a true coming-of-age moment. As usual, he dazzled with his one-v-one traits, but he added that end product when the pressure couldn't have been greater.

This season may belong to Arsenal but, with talents like Doku evolving before our eyes, City's transitional phase will be incredibly short-lived.

Whatever the future holds on a managerial front, the greatest of trophy-winning days may only be around the corner in the grand scheme of things.

Find more from Freddie Pye at City Xtra

Treble winners Maxwell and McDaniel make Reds return

Cliftonville have confirmed Northern Ireland internationals Danielle Maxwell and Louise McDaniel have returned to the club after spending last season at Burnley.

Both players played a key role Cliftonville's two title winning seasons in 2022 and 2024 before moving to England.

Maxwell scored 11 league goals and McDaniel netted the opener in the 5-0 Irish Cup final win against Lisburn Rangers as the Reds won a domestic treble and enjoyed an 'invincible' Women's Premiership campaign in 2024.

Winger Maxwell, who previously had a short stint at Blackburn Rovers, won the Women's Premiership Player of the Year award in 2023 and 2024.

The 24-year-old scored in Northern Ireland's 4-0 World Cup qualifying win over Malta at Mourneview Park last month.

McDaniel originally joined the Reds in 2021 after spells with Linfield, Hearts and Blackburn Rovers and was part of Northern Ireland's Euro 2022 squad.

Cliftonville, who relinquished the Premiership title to Glentoran last season, opened the new season with a 5-0 win over Lisburn Ladies on Friday.

Nebraska rewards basketball coaching staff after impressive season

Nebraska had an eye-opening run to the Sweet 16 during March Madness, and the Cornhuskers are looking to stabilize their coaching staff in order to make another bid for a deep NCAA tournament push next year.

To that end, head coach Fred Hoiberg announced that several key assistants have had their contracts extended.

“The success our program had this year is really a testament to the efforts of our entire staff, and it is important to reward them for all of their work,” Hoiberg said in a release. “The work they pour into our players is evident in their development in our program. Nate, Ernie and Luca have been vital over the last four years in helping us build a winning culture and enjoy sustained success that Nebraska basketball has not seen in a long time.  Pat stepped in seamlessly and made a significant impact on our program with his work ethic and knowledge in recruiting. He is a rising star in the coaching field.”

Nebraska announces contract extensions for its men’s basketball staff.

Nate Loenser has added the official title of associate head coach. https://t.co/lRZFxNTNVE

— Mike Sautter (@MikeSautter_) May 5, 2026

Nate Loenser, Ernie Zeigler and Pat Monaghan will remain by Hoiberg's side for the near future. General manager Luca Virgilio will also be on hand to help the Cornhuskers build for success.

Contact/Follow @College_Wire on X and @College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Nebraska Basketball: Fred Hoiberg extends several key assistants

Dolphins select franchise QB in new mock for 2027 NFL draft

The Miami Dolphins, with new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley, made a change at quarterback this offseason, replacing Tua Tagovailoa with Malik Willis.

While they have faith in Willis, who signed a three-year deal, Miami shouldn't stop looking for a long-term solution at the position. And, if things go poorly this year, they'll likely have a top pick in the 2027 NFL draft, putting them in position to grab a franchise quarterback.

In a recent mock draft, CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson projected that the Dolphins will do just that, as he has them taking Oregon quarterback Dante Moore with the first-overall pick.

"Moore would've been the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft had he not decided to return to Oregon. He plays with high-end pocket composure, handles pressure well and once the play breaks down, is elite out of structure."

Moore, 20, was a five-star recruit out of Martin Luther King High School in Detroit, Michigan, before committing to UCLA and transferring to Oregon just a year later.

In 29 games between the two schools so far, he's completed 65.9% of his passes for 5,224 yards, 41 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. His 2025 season was his best by far, completing 71.8% of his passes for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions on his way to All-Big Ten honors.

If Moore has another great year, he'll be around the top of the draft, where the Dolphins will likely be picking, so there's a real chance that this happens. However, there's a lot of time between now and the 2027 draft, and a lot could happen.

More Dolphins: Why Dolphins owner is knowingly sacrificing chance to host Super Bowls

This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins select franchise QB in new mock for 2027 NFL draft

Marcellus Wiley responds to sexual assault allegations: ‘How dare you’

Marcellus Wiley responds to allegations
Credit: Marcellus Wiley on YouTube

Former ESPN and Fox host Marcellus Wiley responded to the latest sexual assault allegations against him by four new accusers.

The new allegations were filed in court last month, joining three existing claims of sexual assault against Wiley. The first accuser came forward in 2023, alleging Wiley raped them in 1994 while he was a football player at Columbia University in 1994. Wiley previously called those claims “B.S.,” and his lawyer similarly denied the allegations in a 2024 court filing.

Rolling Stone was first to report the latest accusations filed against Wiley last week. In the new filings, one claim was made by an ESPN production assistant, who alleged Wiley assaulted them in his hotel room while the two were coworkers in 2009. Another accuser in the new filings claimed Wiley raped her on her 18th birthday in Dallas while he was a member of the Cowboys, alleging he had been grooming her since she was 13.

Tuesday morning, Wiley went live on his YouTube channel for his regular show, which generally addresses the more salacious topics and headlines in sports. And Wiley included the allegations against him in the rundown. While Wiley didn’t address any specific allegation against him, he claimed to have evidence that would disprove his accusers.

“Pick a date, pick the encounter, pick the allegation,” Wiley said. “For every one of them, I either saw, communicated through email, text, phone, was invited by these individuals after these dates to engage, to be intimate, or all of the above. After the dates that are in question. It directly contradicts the narrative that they’re trying to present publicly.”

“I got one straightforward question for all the accusers,” Wiley continued. “Why did you continue to see or maintain friendly communication at a minimum, that can be verified, will be verified, with someone that you’re accusing after the alleged incidents?”

Wiley did not provide any records, receipts, or direct evidence during his show, but said there are tons of details he’s refraining from addressing at this time, citing “the burden is not on me to prove innocence…it is on them who are making these accusations to prove their claims are credible, prove their claims are truthful, prove that they’re supported by evidence.”

Wiley insisted he’s going to fight the allegations, noting there are no criminal charges, and claimed his accusers are using him to get to the deep pockets of ESPN and Columbia University. And because the former ESPN host and Columbia football player is not the only party named in the filings, Wiley was careful with how much information he shared. But according to Wiley, he will fight the allegations because of his son, who shares his name.

“To you, it’s about money,” Wiley said. “To me, it’s about my son’s name that he will one day Google and think this is about him, but he’s gonna know it’s about his dad. And how dare you stain the brain of my child and his hero?”

Wiley has not worked in mainstream media since leaving Fox Sports in 2022, but he has built a following on YouTube with over 500,000 subscribers to his channel. And Wiley said he will continue to do his YouTube show amid these latest court filings, just as he has since being hit with the first round of sexual assault allegations a few years ago.

The post Marcellus Wiley responds to sexual assault allegations: ‘How dare you’ appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Hansi Flick’s major selection dilemma heading into Barcelona vs Real Madrid

Hansi Flick’s major selection dilemma heading into Barcelona vs Real Madrid
Hansi Flick’s major selection dilemma heading into Barcelona vs Real Madrid

Just one point. That is all FC Barcelona need to confirm their coronation as the champions of La Liga for the second consecutive season.

And, Hansi Flick & co. have the golden opportunity to do so against none other than their bitter rivals, Real Madrid, in the upcoming El Clasico on 10 May at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Frenkie de Jong or Gavi in midfield?

Leading up to the match on Sunday, Barcelona manager Flick is staring at a major selection in midfield, reports SPORT.

Indeed, the manager has a decision to make about who partners with Pedri in the middle of the park – Frenkie de Jong or Gavi.

De Jong has been a key figure in the starting line-up since Flick’s arrival at Barcelona. He has earned that role through his performances, not only because of his technical quality but also due to an increase in intensity that had sometimes been questioned in the past.

However, over the past two months, his presence has declined significantly. The main reason for this absence is the muscle injury he suffered in training on 26 February, which led to him missing a series of important games.

Gavi or De Jong in midfield for El Clasico? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

After missing nine matches, his return has been handled in an extremely cautious manner by Flick & co. In the last five games, he has played only 95 minutes, a limited involvement for a player of his influence.

Gavi has stepped up

Barcelona have not felt De Jong’s absence as strongly as expected, largely because it has coincided with the strong return of Gavi. In recent matches, the La Masia graduate has become indispensable for Flick.

He has taken his opportunity to show that his physical issues are behind him and that he is ready for major challenges, starting in five consecutive matches, all of which ended in victories.

As a result, De Jong’s place in the starting line-up against Real Madrid, which would normally be certain, is far from guaranteed for the upcoming match at Spotify Camp Nou.

The Dutch midfielder is fit to start, and the final decision rests with the coach, but at present Gavi appears to be the more likely option.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse reportedly steps away from team Tuesday for brother's funeral

Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse stepped away from the team on Tuesday to attend the funeral of his brother, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Steve Nurse, 62, reportedly died unexpectedly last Wednesday, the day before the Sixers’ Game 6 against the Boston Celtics in the first round. His brother’s team went on to complete a historic 3-1 comeback to reach the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Nick reportedly traveled from New York to his hometown of Carroll, Iowa, on Monday night, following the Sixers’ Game 1 loss against the New York Knicks. He is expected to rejoin the team later Tuesday.

In Nurse’s absence, the Sixers reportedly held a film session on Tuesday but did not practice. They are scheduled to face the Knicks in Game 2 on Wednesday in New York (7 p.m. ET, ESPN).

Nurse, who won an NBA title with the Toronto Raptors in 2018-19, is in his third season with the Sixers. This is the farthest they have been in the playoffs during his tenure after posting a 45-37 record in the regular season and advancing through the NBA play-in tournament.

Are we BUYING or SELLING these 6 NFL offseasons?

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Nate Tice, Matt Harmon & Charles McDonald buy or sell the 6 NFL teams with the most interesting offseason changes. The guys kick things off by deep diving on three teams trying to lift themselves out of the dredges of the NFL: the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants and Tennessee Titans. Did they do enough this offseason to make waves in 2026?

Next, the three hosts look at some potential playoff teams hoping to get over the hump this season. Did the Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Chargers and Detroit Lions do enough to call themselves contenders?

Nate, Matt & Charles wrap things up with Breakout Watch, where they shout out Ashton Jeanty, Josh Downs and Jalen Redmond as potential breakout stars this fall.

(5:40) - Buying or selling offseason plans: non-playoff teams (Raiders, Titans, Giants)

(44:55) - Buying or selling offseason plans: contending teams (Ravens, Chargers, Lions)

(1:20:50) - 2026 Breakout Watch

HENDERSON, NEVADA - APRIL 24: Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, selected yesterday by the Las Vegas Raiders as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, attends a news conference at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on April 24, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
HENDERSON, NEVADA - APRIL 24: Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, selected yesterday by the Las Vegas Raiders as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, attends a news conference at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Health Performance Center on April 24, 2026 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Ethan Miller/Getty Images

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out all episodes of Football 301 with Nate Tice and the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Mark Cuban Says He Paid for Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Deal

Mark Cuban had one of the biggest assists in Indiana’s run to the national championship.

In Dec. 2024, Cuban, one of the Hoosier’s wealthiest alumni, was at IU’s first-round College Football Playoff game against Notre Dame, which the Fighting Irish won 27-17 . In the middle of the game, the former Mavericks majority owner found himself talking to athletic director Scott Dolson, a fellow IU alum, and university president, Pam Whitten.

The conversation would lead to Cuban opening his wallet for the most important player in program history: Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza

“The first thing I said to Scott was, ‘Well, at least this year you’re not having to look for another football coach,’” Cuban told FOS in a forthcoming episode of Portfolio Players. “Because that was kind of a time-honored tradition in Indiana, always looking for a football coach. And so he’s like, ‘Yeah, that’s the positive.’” 

Until then, Cuban, who is worth $6 billion, according to Forbes, had never donated to IU athletics. His charity strictly focused on academics. That’s when Dolson made his pitch to Cuban to change that.

“[Dolson]’s like, we’ve got this quarterback that we really, really like that we think would be great in Cig’s system, we just need a litttttle bit more,” Cuban recalled. “I’m like, ‘How much is a little bit?’ And so he told me, and I’m like, ‘OK, you know, we’re on a roll, I’ll put up the money to get this quarterback.’”

"I'll put up the money and we can go get Fernando [Mendoza]."

Mark Cuban tells FOS that he provided the NIL money which allowed Indiana to sign the Heisman winning QB before the 2025 season. pic.twitter.com/BZAFOSt6ng

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) May 5, 2026

It didn’t hurt that both Cuban and IU coach Curt Cignetti both hail from Pittsburgh and are just three years apart. Cuban was also familiar with Mendoza’s family, as Fernando’s younger brother, Alberto, used to interact with Cuban at Heat games when they were facing the Mavericks.

“I knew [Alberto] who was already on the team, was a Heat fan and he would sit behind the Miami bench, and when I would come to go to Mavs-Heat games, he was like, ‘Oh yeah, I’m go to IU and da da da,’” Cuban said. “So we met. And so I’m like, OK, I’ll put up the money, and we can go get Fernando, and the rest is history.”

Cuban has never disclosed how much he’s given to Indiana for NIL, other than saying he increased his amount this past season amid IU’s 16–0 season that ended with a victory over Miami for the program’s first national championship. 

Let’s just say they are happier this year than last year,” Cuban wrote in a January email to FOS

Mendoza was reportedly making $1.6 million in his final season at California in 2024, before netting $2.6 million to transfer to IU, according to Yahoo Sports. In addition to winning the Heisman Trophy, he led the Hoosiers to the national championship in his lone season in Bloomington. Last month, the Raiders selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft.

Cuban reiterated that he doesn’t donate with specifications and instead lets Dolson decide where it’s best used. 

“I just give Scott money and it’s up to him,” Cuban said. “We talk a lot, we talk about approach, understanding how to put together a team. Because I did it for 20-something years. So it’s not like I have to direct him to something specific. I understand how they’re approaching things.”

The post Mark Cuban Says He Paid for Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza Deal appeared first on Front Office Sports.

🔴 Arsenal-Atletico | Calafiori starts, Lewis-Skelly surprise! London 🔥!

🔴 Arsenal-Atletico | Calafiori starts, Lewis-Skelly surprise! London 🔥!

It’s the night of nights for Arsenal and Atletico Madrid: a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final in Budapest is at stake.

Watch all Serie BKT matches live on OneFootball for just €9.99 a month. Click here to buy the LaB Channel Monthly Pass with no automatic renewal.  

It starts again from the 1-1 draw at the Metropolitano, with the Gunners — also thanks to Manchester City’s slip-up in the Premier League yesterday — seemingly having rediscovered the confidence that had started to waver in recent days.

In the round robin, this clash, played in London, ended 4-0, but beware of underestimating Cholo Simeone’s men: this is a different stage, and what’s at stake is completely different, and we know how formidable the Colchoneros are at annihilating even the strongest opponents. Who will fly into the final? Tell us in the comments!


🔴 Article constantly updated: for live text commentary, click on the match card above.


🔥 RED-HOT atmosphere outside the Emirates Stadium

A red-hot atmosphere at the Emirates for the clash between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid. According to Sky Sports, Atletico’s bus arrived first, with a few objects thrown but no major problems. Then came Arsenal’s arrival, surrounded by red smoke and deafening chants: visibility was almost zero and the atmosphere electric.


✅ The OFFICIAL line-ups

ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Eze, Trossard, Gyökeres.

Unavailable: Timber, Merino.

ATLETICO MADRID (4-4-2): Oblak; Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Simeone, Llorente, Koke, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann.

Unavailable: Nico Gonzalez, Barrios.

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

Inside the new Jonathan Greenard contract

During the second night of the 2026 NFL draft, the Vikings traded defensive end Jonathan Greenard to the Eagles. The Eagles, in turn, agreed to (reportedly) a four-year, $100 million deal with Greenard.

We've gotten a look at the full details of the new deal. Here they are, per a source with knowledge of the terms:

1. Signing bonus: $23.275 million.

2. 2026 base salary: $1.215 million, fully guaranteed.

3. 2026 per-game roster bonus: $510,000 total, fully guaranteed but must be earned.

4. 2027 option bonus: $22.905 million, fully guaranteed.

5. 2027 workout bonus: $240,000, fully guaranteed but must be earned.

6. 2027 base salary: $1.345 million, fully guaranteed.

7. 2027 per-game roster bonus: $510,000, fully guaranteed but must be earned.

8. 2028 option bonus: $21.86 million.

9. 2028 workout bonus: $240,000.

10. 2028 base salary: $1.39 million.

11. 2028 per-game roster bonus: $510,000.

12. 2029 option bonus: $21.815 million.

13. 2029 workout bonus: $240,000.

14. 2029 base salary: $1.435 million.

15. 2029 per-game roster bonus: $510,000.

The deal also includes a 2027 escalator in the amount of $500,000, based on being a first-team All-Pro in 2026, a 2028 escalator in the amount of $500,000, based on being a first-team All-Pro in 2027, and a 2029 escalator in the amount of $500,000, based on being a first-team All-Pro in 2028.

The four-year deal replaces the two years that were remaining on his prior deal, at $38 million. Given the base value of the new deal ($98 million), the two-year extension has a new-money average of $29.5 million.

The deal includes $50 million fully guaranteed at signing, with team-held options for 2028 and 2029.

This means, as a practical matter, that the Vikings likely could have kept Greenard under contract for the next two years by increasing his pay from $39 million to $50 million, and by guaranteeing all of it in full at signing. The extra two years, at $48 million, could have been added at no immediate cost to the Vikings, allowing them to move on after 2027, if they decided to do so.

That fact will prompt some to wonder why the Vikings didn't just increase his pay to $50 million over the next two years, from $39 million. Given that the market for pass rushers has increased to $50 million per year, it's not an unreasonable question to ask.

2026 SuperMotocross Round 17, Salt Lake City Preview: previous winners, historic results, who to watch

All eyes are focused on Ken Roczen and Hunter Lawrence this weekend as the Monster Energy Supercross series concludes with Round 17 of the SuperMotocross World Championship at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.

But perhaps, fans should look elsewhere for the winner.

Cooper Webb is the winningest rider at this venue with four victories. He has not had the season he expected when the series kicked off in Anaheim, California, this January, and he wants to end on a high note.

Chase Sexton has had a much more disappointing 2026 season, cut short by injury, but he has a knack for Salt Lake City, its altitude, and its dirt. He seeks his fourth consecutive win there this weekend, as well as his sixth consecutive podium. Recently, he has improved in every race with a fifth-place result in April 2021, a third in May, a second in 2022, and the first of his three victories in 2023.

These four riders have accounted for nearly 70 percent of the podiums awarded in the first 16 rounds.

Eli Tomac will also factor into the mix this week. He returned to the field in his hometown of Denver and scored his ninth podium, bringing the total to 5 riders with 88 percent of the podiums. The other podiums have gone to Justin Cooper (3), Malcolm Stewart (1), and Jorge Prado (1).

Even though they are mathematically eliminated, Webb, Sexton, and Tomac could factor heavily in the championship. If all three podium, they will push Roczen and Lawrence into points-paying positions that decrement by one. Should that happen and Lawrence finishes ahead of Roczen, the championship contenders will be tied in points—and Lawrence's five runner-up finishes will provide the tiebreaker since both riders have five victories apiece.

If Roczen wins the title, he will have the biggest come-from-behind championship since David Bailey overcame a 47-point deficit in 1983, according to WeWentFast.com.

If Lawrence wins, he will join a list of legendary riders who scored their first career win and championship in the same season, a feat most recently earned by Hunter's brother Jett Lawrence in 2024.

Justin Barcia finished eighth last week in Denver for his first top-10 in his second start of the season (he failed to make the first 14 rounds with an injury). Dylan Ferrandis has a best result of sixth this year, and both of them want to give Ducati its first top-five in their debut season.

250 Notes

Sexton is not the only rider with Salt Lake momentum on his side.

Haiden Deegan wants to finish out his 250 career with one more win, and he enters the weekend as the two-time defending champion of the race and series.

But this is an East/West Showdown race, and the competition is heavier.

Deegan is certainly aware of the record book. If he wins this week's Showdown, he will be the first rider to score four such victories. For now, he's tied with Jeff Emig, Kevin Windham, and Adam Cianciarulo.

If Deegan's teammate, Cole Davies, wins this weekend, he will join Deegan and the others with three Showdown wins.

The battle for second in the 250 West division is tight. With 155 points, Levi Kitchen holds a seven-point advantage over Max Anstie. Ryder DiFrancesco is only one point behind Anstie, so no one can afford to have a bad result. This is where the addition of the Eastern divisional competitors could play a major role, and so far, they have scored more top-fives and -10s than their Western compatriots in the two previous 2026 Showdowns.

2026 SuperMotocross Top-10 finishers

450s

Hunter Lawrence (5 wins, 12 podiums, 14 top-fives, 15 top-10s) [3 Moto wins]
Ken Roczen (5 wins, 11 podiums, 14 top-fives, 16 top-10s) [3 Moto wins]
Eli Tomac (4 wins, 9 podiums, 11 top-fives, 12 top-10s) [1 Moto win]
Cooper Webb (1 win, 8 podiums, 11 top-fives, 14 top-10s)
Chase Sexton (1 win, 2 podiums, 8 top-fives, 12 top-10s)

Justin Cooper (3 podiums, 8 top-fives, 13 top-10s) [2 Moto wins]
Malcolm Stewart (1 podium, 3 top-fives, 11 top-10s)
Jorge Prado (1 podium, 3 top-fives, 8 top-10s)

Joey Savatgy (4 top-fives, 11 top-10s)
Justin Hill (2 top-fives, 6 top-10s)
Jason Anderson (2 top-fives, 3 top-10s)

Dylan Ferrandis (11 top-10s)
Garrett Marchbanks (7 top-10s)
Aaron Plessinger (6 top-10s)
Shane McElrath (5 top-10s)
Christian Craig (2 top-10s)
Colt Nichols (2 top-10s)
Dean Wilson (2 top-10s)
RJ Hampshire (1 top-10)
Jordon Smith (1 top-10)
Justin Barcia (1 top-10)

250s

Haiden Deegan (7 wins, 8 podiums, 9 top-fives, 9 top-10s) [3 Moto wins]
Cole Davies (5 wins, 8 podiums, 9 top-fives, 9 top-10s) [4 Moto wins]
Seth Hammaker (1 win, 6 podiums, 9 top-fives, 9 top-10s) [1 Moto win]
Max Anstie (1 win, 2 podiums, 4 top-fives, 8 top-10s)
Nate Thrasher (1 win, 2 podiums, 4 top-fives, 7 top-10s) [1 Moto win]
Pierce Brown (1 win, 2 podiums, 3 top-fives, 3 top-10s)

Levi Kitchen (4 podiums, 7 top-fives, 8 top-10s)
Ryder DiFrancesco (3 podiums, 7 top-fives, 8 top-10s)
Cameron McAdoo (3 podiums, 5 top-fives, 5 top-10s)
Jo Shimoda (3 podiums, 5 top-fives, 5 top-10s)
Daxton Bennick (2 podiums, 6 top-fives, 9 top-10s)
Michael Mosiman (2 podiums, 4 top-fives, 6 top-10s)
Devin Simonson (1 podium, 1 top-five, 7 top-10s)
Chance Hymas (1 podium, 1 top-five, 2 top-10s)
Landen Gordon (1 podium, 1 top-five, 1 top-10)

Coty Schock (2 top-fives, 8 top-10s)
Maximus Vohland (2 top-fives, 7 top-10s)
Henry Miller (1 top-five, 4 top-10s)
Kayden Minear (1 top-five, 1 top-10)

Hunter Yoder (6 top-10s)
Parker Ross (4 top-10s)
Carson Mumford (3 top-10s)
Cullin Park (3 top-10s)
Nick Romano (3 top-10s)
Derek Kelley (3 top-10s)
Dilan Schwartz (2 top-10s)
Avery Long (2 top-10s)
Jalek Swoll (2 top-10s)
Maximus Vohland (2 top-10s)
Kyle Peters (2 top-10s)
Drew Adams (2 top-10s)
Marshal Weltin (2 top-10s)
Josh Varize (2 top-10s)
Anthony Bourdon (1 top-10)
Luke Neese (1 top-10)
Izaih Clark (1 top-10)
Gavin Towers (1 top-10)
Lux Turner (1 top-10)
Robbie Wageman (1 top-10)

Recent Salt Lake City races

450s
2025: Chase Sexton (followed by Malcolm Stewart, Justin Cooper)
2024: Chase Sexton (Justin Cooper, Cooper Webb)
2023: Chase Sexton (Aaron Plessinger, Justin Hill)
2022: Jason Anderson (Chase Sexton, Justin Barcia)
2021, Race 2: Cooper Webb (Marvin Musquin, Chase Sexton)

250s
2025 (Showdown): Haiden Deegan (Julien Beaumer, Tom Vialle)
2024 (Showdown): Haiden Deegan (RJ Hampshire, Jordon Smith)
2023 (Showdown): Jett Lawrence (RJ Hampshire, Levi Kitchen)
2022 (Showdown): Nate Thrasher (Hunter Lawrence, Pierce Brown)
2021, Race 2 (Showdown): Jett Lawrence (Colt Nichols, Hunter Lawrence)

Supercross Previews

Anaheim 1 | San Diego | Anaheim 2 | Houston | Glendale | Seattle | Arlington | Daytona | Indianapolis | Birmingham | Detroit | St. Louis | Nashville | Cleveland | Philadelphia | Denver

Sabres host Canadiens in 2nd round with youthful teams eager to go on long playoff run

BUFFALO, N.Y. — In between addressing the Sabres’ anemic power play and needing to be better on home ice, coach Lindy Ruff took time to reflect on Buffalo’s rich but relatively ancient playoff history against the Montreal Canadiens.

His memories go back to 1983, when a 23-year-old Ruff was part of a Sabres team that swept Montreal in a best-of-five first-round series.

“The Forum, yeah,” Ruff said, referring to playing in the historic arena that served home to the Canadiens until 1996. “It was in black and white, too,” he said, chuckling.

Everything might seem vintage for the Sabres in rekindling generations-old rivalries after snapping a 14-season playoff drought.

Coming off a six-game elimination of the Bruins in the first round, the Sabres gear up to face Montreal — yet another former Adams Division foe — in a second-round series opening at Buffalo.

No need to dust off the history books. The matchup is less about the past and more reflects a changing of the guard taking place in the Eastern Conference this season.

These Sabres are still new to the postseason, while the Canadiens are making their second straight appearance, but just their fifth in 11 years. Montreal advanced to the second round for just the second time over that span after beating Tampa Bay in Game 7.

Both teams have speed, are flush with youth, finished the regular season ranked among the NHL’s top 10 in scoring, and eager to show they’re Stanley Cup contenders.

“There’s no reason why we can’t make a deep run,” Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle said, following a series-clinching 2-1 win at Tampa Bay. “We have all of the tools in here, and I’m not shocked at all that we’re in this position right now.”

Beating the Lightning with all games decided by one goal was regarded as the next step for a Canadiens team eliminated in five games by Washington a year ago. The Canadiens essentially have been rebuilt from scratch in four years under general manager Kent Hughes.

“Been probably faster than most people expected,” captain Nick Suzuki said of Montreal’s turnaround. “But when you get a lot of great players together with a great system and great leadership, things can turn quickly.”

It took far longer in Buffalo. The Sabres hadn’t made the playoffs since 2010-2011 and hadn’t won a series since 2006-07.

And yet, these upstart and playoff-untested Sabres didn’t deviate from the up-tempo and tenacious style that had them finish the season riding a 39-9-5 surge and win their first Atlantic Division title.

“A pretty damn resilient team. We can manage the emotions of a series,” Ruff said of how the Sabres didn’t falter after losing Games 2 and 5 at home, while winning all three on the road. “Our group did a good job of being able to control the emotions and put games away when it didn’t go our way.”

Tale of the hockey tape

Buffalo and Montreal split their four-game regular-season series, with the Sabres winning two of the three matchups in January just before the Olympic break. The Sabres were 0-5-2 at home against Montreal before a 5-3 win on Jan. 15.

Montreal has a 4-3 playoff series edge over Buffalo. The Sabres won the previous matchup in a four-game sweep of a second-round series in 1998 during Ruff’s first stint as coach. Established in 1970, Buffalo’s franchise playoff debut ended in a first-round six-game loss to Montreal in 1973.

Power-play troubles

The Sabres converted 1 of 24 power-play opportunities against Boston. Their 4.2% conversion rate was tied for 865th out of 897 teams having 20 or more opportunities in a playoff series since 1978, according to Sportradar. Buffalo also went 0 for 22 on the power play over its final seven regular-season games.

Montreal converted 5 of 26 power-play opportunities against Tampa Bay, while allowing the Lightning to convert 5 of 29 chances.

O Canada

Canadiens fans should feel at home in the border city that attracts many fans from southern Ontario.

Sabres fans made headlines during Game 5 of the Boston series by taking over singing `O Canada,’ after performer Cami Clune’s microphone failed. In founding the team, brothers Seymour H. Knox III and Northrup Knox, went with the French version of Sabres for a nickname. They also established a rule that still stands in having both Canadian and U.S. anthems performed no matter the opponent.

Slafkovsky doing OK

Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovsky said he’s had no ill-effects from being bowled over by a heavy open-ice hit by Lightning defenseman Max Crozier in Game 4. Slafkovsky briefly left the game before being cleared to return after being evaluated for a concussion.

“I think I’m good. I can’t really get much dumber,” said Slafkovsky, who leads the team with three goals in the playoffs. “Yeah, I don’t know what to say. It didn’t really hurt. Just ready to go.”

Ranking the Dodgers Rotation: Who Drops Out for Blake Snell?

Apr 15, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani reacts against the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a problem. It’s a good problem, but a problem nonetheless.

Which of your starting pitchers gets moved to make way for the returning Blake Snell?

With that in mind, Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain ranked the Dodgers’ rotation based on their performance so far this year.

1. Shohei Ohtani

It’s hard to argue with the top choice. Ohtani has a 0.60 ERA and was recently named National League Pitcher of the Month.

That ERA would be best in the NL if Ohtani had enough qualifying innings, though he’s at 30 going into Tuesday’s start. Depending on how long he goes, he could take the NL lead outright.

Apr 15, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani reacts against the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

That might be made a little easier by the face that Ohtani will only pitch, not hit, on Tuesday after manager Dave Roberts reversed his decision on Monday.

“Shohei Ohtani, without question, with a bullet,” McKain said. “He’s been the Dodgers’ best starting pitcher. He hasn’t been just the Dodgers’ best starting pitcher, he’s been the best starting pitcher in all of Major League Baseball and definitely the National League.”

2. Tyler Glasnow

Coming in second is Tyler Glasnow, who might be a surprise for some given the pitchers he’s topped on the list.

Through six starts, though, he has a 3-0 record with a 2.56 ERA, WHIP of 0.828 and 47 strikeouts.

“Tyler Glasnow has put together a really good start to the season,” McKain said.

3. Justin Wrobleski

Justin Wrobleski gets the third spot, which some might find odd considering he’s leading the NL with his 1.25 ERA.

Despite that incredible ERA, though, he lags behind Glasnow in other categories, with a WHIP of 1.000 and only 15 strikeouts.

“Three, I’ve got to go Justin Wrobleski. I know Wrobleski’s ERA will say he’s had a better year so far, but I think Glasnow’s bigger stuff is just better, so I’ve got to go with Glasnow,” McKain said.

4. Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Before the season, it would’ve been hard to imagine that the Dodgers’ ace and Opening Day starting pitcher would be in the bottom half of the rotation, but that’s just how strong the Dodgers’ starting pitching is.

“Yama and Glasnow are really close; it’s Yama after Glasnow though,” McKain said.

Yamamoto (3-2) has an ERA of 3.09, WHIP of 1.008 and 40 strikeouts on the season.

5. Roki Sasaki

Now we’re getting into the post-Snell-return danger zone, though Roki Sasaki’s potential puts him slightly ahead of Sheehan, according to McKain.

“I think Roki still has some more upside there,” McKain said.

Sasaki (1-3) has an ERA of 5.97, WHIP of 1.674 and 26 strikeouts.

6. Emmet Sheehan

While Sasaki may have a slightly higher potential, Sheehan’s stats, while not great, are currently better than Sasaki’s.

Sheehan (2-1) has an ERA of 5.23, WHIP of 1.323 and 36 strikeouts.

That said, Sasaki has shown some progression as the season has gone on.

Do you think Sasaki or Sheehan will be moved to make way for Snell’s return?

Kentucky could be about to miss on another potential roster addition

The Kentucky Wildcats and coach Mark Pope are on the hunt for players to fill out their 2026-27 roster. They still have three spots open, and have a need for another scoring threat and more depth at center. If Malachi Moreno stays in the NBA draft, that second need becomes even greater.

To that end, Pope recently made a trip to Israel to watch forward Marcios Santos, a 6'8" frontcourt player for Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Euroleague. He has shown an ability to score and rebound, but has made 40% of his three-point shots, making him a solid fit for Kentucky's offense under Pope.

It seemed likely that Santos would become a Wildcat, but that outlook has changed, and it's now expected that he will land elsewhere. Reports seem to indicate that Santos will take a bigger offer from the LSU Tigers, making another miss for Pope.

If Santos does choose LSU, spuring Kentucky, it leaves Kentucky in a tough situation. A player like Milan Momcilovic pulling out of the draft and heading to Lexington would be a huge win, and there are a few other players available in the portal. However, time is running out, and the list of players who could make a difference is getting short. It's desperation time for Kentucky, and Pope as his seat gets hotter and hotter.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky basketball expected to miss on forward Marcios Santos

Nets' Egor Demin addresses fans on status for Las Vegas Summer League

Brooklyn Nets rookie guard Egor Demin had a solid rookie season for the Nets as he was able to calm some of the concerns surrounding his three-point shooting and whether that would translate to the NBA. However, Brooklyn wasn't able to get a full season out of Demin as he suffered plantar fasciitis in his left foot and it's possible he may not be ready to play for the Las Vegas Summer League.

"We'll see if I play Summer League," Demin said a recent livestream after being asked by Nets fans if he would be able to play in either of the Summer Leagues. Not only are the Nets playing in the Las Vegas Summer League like every other NBA team, but they will also be playing in the California Classic Summer League that occurs prior to the Las Vegas event.

Demin's statement over whether he'll playing in either of the summer leagues had some fans concerned that he was sitting out for reasons other than those related to his recovery from his plantar fasciitis. Demin clarified that whether he plays in the summer or not will not be entirely up to him as he seems to imply that Brooklyn's medical staff could be a factor in the decision as well.

When the Nets announced in early March that they ruled out Demin for the rest of the season, the press release mentioned that the team is expecting Demin "to return to basketball activity early in the offseason and be a full participant in the summer development program." This statement could mean that Demin should be healthy enough to play in the summer leagues, but there is plenty of time between now and July when those events take place.

Demin, 20, finished the 2025-26 season with averages of 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 39.9% from the field and 38.5% from behind the three-point line in 52 appearances. Demin said during his exit interview that he is looking forward to this summer given that he knows where he'll be next season and that he also wants to improve as a player once his plantar fasciitis subsides.

Egor Demin on if he’ll play summer league: pic.twitter.com/3GjtOQXSih

— 3gor (@3gorDemin) May 4, 2026

Man it’s literally not my decision if I play or no what are you even talking about 😂🤦🏽

— Egor Dëmin (@whoisegor3) May 4, 2026

This article originally appeared on Nets Wire: Nets' Egor Demin addresses fans on status for Las Vegas Summer League

🤩 Arsenal starlet sits among iconic names with UCL start against Atleti

🤩 Arsenal starlet sits among iconic names with UCL start against Atleti

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are just 90 minutes away from a second-ever appearance in a Champions League final, and one of the key figures tonight is none other than Myles Lewis-Skelly.


A Gunner through and through who has brilliantly risen through the club's ranks before breaking into the senior side last season, the 19-year-old England international has been entrusted by his manager in what is one of the biggest nights in the club's history.

Despite questions being raised on whether his future remained in north London amid murmurings that he could be viewed as a sellable asset this summer, his top-class performance in midfield at the weekend against Fulham was enough to see him retain his place in the XI this evening.

With his inclusion from the first whistle tonight, MLS has closed ranks with two iconic football names as teenagers to start in a Champions League semi-final - Spain legend Iker Casillas and Nigerian icon, as well as former Gunner, Nwankwo Kanu.

With a possible place in Thomas Tuchel's England side this summer at the 2026 World Cup also on the line, another brilliant showing tonight at the Emirates could propel Lewis-Skelly to dizzying heights, perhaps he couldn't dream of.

Liverpool Are Ready To Launch A Move For This Tottenham Hotspur Star: Should The Reds Go For Him?

Liverpool Are Ready To Launch A Move For This Tottenham Hotspur Star: Should The Reds Go For Him?
Liverpool Are Ready To Launch A Move For This Tottenham Hotspur Star: Should The Reds Go For Him?

In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Liverpool are ready to launch a move for Tottenham Hotspur star Micky van de Ven. It has been mentioned that the Reds are hoping to make a €95m offer to sign the Dutch defender this summer.

Van de Ven’s Impressive Form In English Football

Van de Ven has enjoyed a good run of form at the North London club after he produced a string of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The 25-year-old has scored seven goals and grabbed one assist in 42 matches for Tottenham this season in all competitions.

The Dutch talent is still among the best centre-backs in the Premier League when he is playing with confidence on the field. However, it is no wonder that Liverpool are showing interest in him in this upcoming transfer window.

His current contract at the North London club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Reds to sign him on the cheap later this year.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – MAY 03: Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur at Villa Park on May 03, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Should Liverpool Go For Van De Ven?

Van de Ven is a solid tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.93m, the Dutch talent can use his strong frame to win his fair share of aerial duels. Van de Ven has also got the pace to get back and make some important recovery runs inside his half. He has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to settle into life at the Merseyside club.

We can expect Van de Ven to add more bite and steel to Liverpool‘s defence. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Premier League club.

At 25, Van de Ven has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a worthy target for the Reds to pursue later this year. All in all, Liverpool would be wise to go for a player of his quality and skill set in this summer transfer period.

Good Morning, Illini Nation: Freshmen haven't fallen out of favor

May 5—The final ranking for the Class of 2026 was published Monday. While Kansas-bound wing Tyran Stokes held on to his spot atop the class, there was some movement in the rankings.

Like future Illinois guard Quentin Coleman vaulting up the rankings to No. 15 — the first player outside the five-star recruits. Coleman became the Illini's highest-profile prospect when he committed on the eve of the Final Four, but Brad Underwood and Co. are adding another high-level recruit in Lucas Morillo, who was ranked No. 34 in Rivals' latest effort.

Coleman and Morillo headline a five-man class that also includes three-star wing and No. 135 overall prospect Zavier Zens and unranked three-stars Ethan Brown and Landon Davis. That group ranks fifth in the Big Ten and 15th nationally, per Rivals, and marks the biggest class of high school recruits for Illinois since 2018.

"I'm really excited about this group," Underwood said. "We've got every position covered in terms of the way we're trying to recruit. I like this group. As usual, we're going to rely on some of these freshmen to be instrumental pieces for us. I always hold it close to the chest a little bit until you coach them and get them on campus, but it's a very talented group and one we like a lot."

"You've got to make sure that we keep freshmen in the mix. I think we've got to make sure we keep guys who are developing, carrying over culture, and guys that keep growing in our program. Not everybody is going to come in here and be a one-and-done or, for that matter, a pro. You've got to find that right balance."

Forest hopeful of Gibbs-White fitness for Europa tie

Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White and Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez collide while going for the ball
Morgan Gibbs-White and Robert Sanchez were both taken off after the collision [Getty Images]

Morgan Gibbs-White might need a "miracle" to be ready for Nottingham Forest's Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa - but his head coach Vitor Pereira is hopeful.

Gibbs-White and Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez both had to come off with their heads bandaged after they collided during Forest's 3-1 Premier League win at Stamford Bridge on Monday.

Forest, unbeaten in 10 matches in all competitions, take a 1-0 lead into Thursday's match at Villa Park.

"He has a deep cut, we will see, he is a fighter and we hope for a miracle," said Pereira.

"We'll see what happens. I really believe we can have him next game. I said to him: Don't head the ball, just play."

The midfielder posted a photo on social media on Monday night, thanking people for their messages and showing the stitches across his forehead and nose.

Sanchez also posted a photo of some stitches at the top of his head and added in reference to Gibbs-White: "Seen that you came out worst [worse] than me, hope you are OK big man."

Morgan Gibbs-White's Instagram story showing stitches across his forehead and nose. He also has a cotton bud up one nostril to stem bleeding
Gibbs-White uploaded an image to Instagram on Monday [Getty Images]

Pereira said that Gibbs-White's substitution was not related to concussion, so he is not subject to strict protocols surrounding such head injuries.

That means that his availability for Thursday is only dependent on whether the cut on his face heals in time.

Had Gibbs-White been judged to be concussed, he would probably have been ruled out. Players must not return to activity for at least 24 hours before undergoing a 48-hour period of rest and a six-stage "return to play" process.

Premier League teams are permitted to make one concussion replacement per match, which do not count towards their usual substitution limits. Chelsea used that dispensation during Monday's match for youngster Jesse Derry.

The 18-year-old, who was making his debut, clashed heads with Forest's Zach Abbott and was taken to hospital. Chelsea said he was "conscious, talking and undergoing precautionary checks".

Brain injury charity Headway's chief executive Luke Griggs praised the care given to Derry and Abbott but added that the subsequent collision between Gibbs-White and Sanchez "shows that head injury protocols need to go much further".

"The use of concussion substitutions is certainly welcome, though with each team only receiving one permanent concussion substitute per game, clubs are limited as to what they can do when additional head injuries occur and frustration remains with football's unfathomable refusal to allow temporary concussion subs," said Griggs.

"Questions will rightly be asked about Gibbs-White and Sanchez not being subjected to the mandatory return-to-play protocols due to them not being replaced as concussion substitutes.

"This is not about the clubs, which clearly provided first-rate treatment to their players, it's about the laws and protocols of the game - ensuring player welfare drives decision-making."

Michael returns to UI as deputy director of athletics

May 5—CHAMPAIGN — Tom Michael is returning to the University of Illinois.

Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman announced Tuesday that Michael — a former Illini men's basketball standout who is wrapping up his 12th year as athletic director at Eastern Illinois — will join the UI as deputy director of athletics. As the second-highest ranking administrative officer in the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics, Michael will have a role in campus, Big Ten and NCAA governance.

He starts May 14, filling a void created by Roger Denny's hiring as the Oklahoma athletic director back in January.

The UI announced that Michael "will contribute to developing and implementing competitive strategy for the athletics program and will work closely with sport programs and student-athlete support services, including daily oversight of football and men's and women's track and field/cross country. Michael also will oversee facilities management and capital projects along with the business office."

The 55-year-old Michael was the longest-serving athletic director in the Ohio Valley Conference. The Panthers claimed 24 conference titles in his watch, including 12 during the last four years. After winning five OVC championships during the 2022-23 season, EIU won four league titles in 2023-24 to capture the OVC Commissioners Cup.

"Tom has established himself as an experienced, respected leader in Division I, having served on various conference and national committees while leading Eastern Illinois for more than a decade," Whitman said in a statement. "As a former men's basketball standout, Tom's passion for the Orange and Blue is unquestioned, and I know he will bring great pride to such an important position. Tom and I have known each other for more than 20 years, and I look forward to working closely with him to continue our program's upward trajectory."

Michael served on the President's Council to EIU President Jay Gatrell. He also served on the FCS Football Oversight Committee and was part of the FCS Playoff Selection Committee from 2021-24.

"There is so much positive momentum right now at Illinois," Michael said in a statement. "As an alum, there is a tremendous amount of pride in the success that is being achieved across the board. And as a professional, I am honored to be able to return to Champaign and work alongside the best teams, coaches and staff you will find in college athletics."

Prior to his work at EIU, Michael spent 18 years in various roles at Illinois, rising to associate athletic director in 2008 and senior associate athletic director in 2012.

Michael was a four-year letterwinner, three-time team captain and two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection in basketball under coach Lou Henson. The Carlye native played for the Illini from 1990-94 after helping lead Carlyle to a 1989 Class A state championship in Champaign. He remains the Illini school record holder for career three-point field goal percentage (.449) and single-season three-point percentage (.493).

He and his wife Shana have three children, Nicholas, Nate and Kylie. All three of his children played high school sports at St. Joseph-Ogden High School, with Nate helping the SJ-O boys' basketball team place fourth in Class 2A in 2013 and Kylie helping the SJ-O volleyball team place second in 2A in 2016. Nate is currently an assistant men's basketball coach at EIU, and Kylie, a two-time News-Gazette All-Area volleyball Player of the Year, played college volleyball at EIU.

Three-time MLB All-Star, World Series champion, dies

Bob Skinner, a three-time All-Star outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who went on to manage the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres, died. He was 94.

MORE: Tributes pour in for Yankees broadcaster who dies at 87

“We are saddened to relay the news of the passing of former Pirates outfielder and coach Bob Skinner,” the Pirates wrote on X on May 5. “Skinner was a member of the 1960 World Series Championship Pirates and a coach on the 1979 World Series Championship team. He made his Major League debut with the Bucs in 1954 and played nine of his 12 seasons in Pittsburgh.”

Skinner played for the Pirates from 1954-63. He was an All-Star in 1958 and again twice in 1960, when MLB staged two All-Star games every summer.

MORE: Angels announce tragic death of 2002 World Series champion at 53

In 1960, Skinner helped Pittsburgh defeat the New York Yankees in a seven-game World Series. He drove in the first run with his only hit in the series early in Game 1, which the Pirates ultimately won. Skinner didn’t play again in the series until Game 7.

By 1964, Skinner had been traded for the second time in as many seasons, this time to the St. Louis Cardinals. St. Louis would go on to face the Yankees in the World Series; like the Pirates four years earlier, they won in seven games. Skinner went 2 for 3 with an RBI to collect his second and final World Series ring as a player.

Skinner retired after the 1966 season with a career batting average of .277, 103 home runs, and 531 RBIs for the Pirates, Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds.

MORE: Dodgers announce death of former World Series champion, coach, 4-time All-Star

A La Jolla, California native, Skinner was coaching for his hometown Padres — then a minor league affiliate of the Phillies — when he was promoted to Philadelphia as a midseason replacement for Gene Mauch in 1968.

Skinner returned as the Phillies’ manager in 1969, but he was fired after going 44-64.

As a coach, Skinner went on to work for the Padres (1970-1973), Pirates (1974-1976), the Padres again (1977), the California Angels (1978), the Pirates again (1979-1985), and the Atlanta Braves (1986-1988). He collected another World Series ring as a coach with the Pirates in 1979.

Rahm says player concessions needed to save LIV Golf

Spain's Jon Rahm says LIV Golf players will likely have to make concessions to save the series after Saudi financial backers said they are pulling out after the 2026 season (Chris Graythen)

Jon Rahm, thrilled at a new deal allowing him to play on the DP World Tour, said Tuesday he expects LIV Golf players must make concessions to save the series.

The 31-year-old Spaniard, a former world number one, spoke ahead of this week's LIV Golf Virginia event at Trump National Washington.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which had promised long-term support for the series, says it will pull funding after this 2026 campaign concludes.

While LIV Golf chief executive officer Scott O'Neil seeks new backers, two-time defending LIV season champion Rahm says players will likely face compromises if the series is to continue.

"It's a team effort. It's not about one person agreeing or not. We all, as captains and team owners and players involved in the league, need to in essence have a large majority to agree on for it to work," Rahm said.

"I do believe that for the business plan to change, whatever they're coming up with, there will need to be some concessions on our part."

Several big names jumped to LIV Golf from the PGA Tour, which banned those players from its events. Some players have made the move back, such as five-time major winner Brooks Koepka, but a return path for others remains uncertain.

Rahm, for his part, said he likes where he is at with LIV.

"We want to be here. It has been a lot of fun. I want to keep competing. I want to keep sharing some time with them," Rahm said.

"But only time will tell. Scott and his team have a lot of hard work to do, but obviously they're experienced in the area, and that's why they've been chosen to take this role."

Rahm, the 2021 US Open and 2023 Masters champion, jumped in 2024 and won the past two season crowns.

This year, in his final tuneup for next week's PGA Championship, Rahm has won LIV titles at Hong Kong in March and Mexico City in April.

Rahm ended a long-running issue on Tuesday as the DP World Tour announced they reached a deal with Rahm allowing him to play on the European circuit this year while paying all outstanding fines since his 2024 jump to LIV.

"There's no longer a standoff. We were able to reach an agreement," Rahm said. "There was some concessions on both sides. I offered some, they extended an olive branch. That will not be a stress anymore."

Rahm will no longer have to worry about his place on the Europe side for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Ireland or future stops.

"The Ryder Cup is still really far away, but I'm happy that hopefully I won't have to think about any worries or any predicaments (ahead of) Adare Manor then or hopefully ever," Rahm said.

"I want to support the DP World Tour. There's a lot of events I want to play."

- 'Don't see many ways out' -

When it comes to getting out of his LIV contract, Rahm said he isn't worrying about that for now.

"I have several years on my contract left and I'm pretty sure they did a pretty good job when they drafted that," Rahm said.

"I don't see many ways out, and as of right now, I'm not really thinking about it since we still have a season to play and majors to compete for."

Rahm said players had been told there would be funding for many years from PIF so learning last month of the Saudi's financial pullback was a shock.

js/amz

How the NFL’s Replay and onside kick rules will impact late-game coaching decisions

Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Photo by Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The NFL has introduced two rule changes this offseason that fans will notice right away. The league has approved a one-year trial allowing the replay center to correct clear errors during referee stoppages, as well as a new kickoff rule that lets teams declare an onside kick at any point, regardless of score. These changes aren’t just procedural; they give coaches new options late in games.

The onside kick rule is a more significant change than people realise

In the past, it was up to the team that was behind to decide when an onside kick could happen. Now, anyone can choose to do it. This doesn’t mean coaches will start taking unnecessary risks, but it does remove the old restrictions tied to the score. Teams will now have to consider unexpected decisions, which changes how special teams coordinators and hands units need to prepare.

Strategy evolves, not just changes

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The real shift isn’t about frequency – teams won’t be declaring onside kicks every week. It’s about flexibility. Coaches now have an earlier option if they want to protect a narrow lead or steal a possession, without waiting for the typical late-game scenario. Even if it doesn’t happen often, just the possibility forces opponents to prepare differently.

Replay centre steps in for officiating stoppages

If there is an official work stoppage, the NFL has given the replay centre authority to step in and correct clear errors. This isn’t a constant presence; it’s designed as a backup plan to keep things on track if normal oversight isn’t possible.

Stronger review of ejections

That’s how the NFL finds a bit more control around what it can see and fix, whether it happens on or off the field. It is another small but useful attempt to keep the league’s decisions balanced when an official might miss something like that in the moment.

Why coaches won’t need long to notice the difference

Rules only really matter when they change the choices coaches have to make, and these ones do just that. One widens the window for taking risks with possession. The other gives referees more leeway to clean up big mistakes, even when things are getting chaotic. So, coaches are going to need to adapt early, even before there’s enough game tape to fully understand how teams are using these new rules.

Read more:

Angels' Mike Trout is on pace to break 3 personal single-season records in 2026

Mike Trout

Angels' Mike Trout is on pace to break 3 personal single-season records in 2026 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Angels have seen Mike Trout return to form this season, in one of the best developments of the season.

But Trout isn't simply back to playing well; he's actually playing better than he has in any season before in his MLB career. Despite winning MVPs, Trout's start to the season has him on pace for a few personal records.

As Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller highlighted, Trout is on pace to break personal single-season records in three key statistics: walks, runs, and, most interestingly, home runs.

Mike Trout on pace to break personal records in 3 stats

"Trout's career high for home runs in a single season is 45, while his previous best marks in runs and walks were 129 and 122, respectively," Miller writes. "But through 35 team games, he is on pace for 46 home runs, 139 runs scored, and 157 free passes."

The Angels center fielder is on pace to set career highs in a few key statistics, with the home-run record the most impressive.

Trout has 10 home runs this season through 35 games, which would have him on pace for 46.28 in a 162-game season. It's going to be difficult to maintain that pace all year, but if he does, his single-season HR record is within reach.

When it comes to runs scored, Trout has 30 in 35 games, which has him on pace for 138.85 runs scored over a 162-game season.

MOREAaron Judge makes baseball history never done before by Yankees player

His previous career-best is 129 runs in a season. He's well on his way to breaking this record, but it's still far from a guarantee.

Lastly, he has 34 walks in 35 games, which is the most in baseball this season, and would have him on pace for a ridiculous 157 walks on the year.

His previous record was 122 walks in a season, so while he's well on his way to breaking this record, it's hard to imagine he would have such a drastic improvement on his previous career-best from his prime.

Trout breaking his personal best in walks and runs might be possible, but his home run record might be a bit of a stretch. As good as he's been this year, the 34-year-old Trout may run out of steam a bit over the course of the year.

More MLB news:

Sanju Samson anchors Chennai to 8-wicket win over Delhi in Indian Premier League

DELHI, India (AP) — Opening batter Sanju Samson smashed an unbeaten 87 off 52 balls and anchored Chennai Super Kings to an eight-wicket win over Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League on Tuesday.

Samson, who has scored two centuries this season for his new franchise, led Chennai to 159-2 with 15 balls to spare as the five-time champions continued a remarkable turnaround in the tournament with three wins in the last four games.

Delhi was limited to 155-7 with spinners Akeal Hosein (1-19) and Noor Ahmad (2-22) troubling the home team batters on a tricky wicket.

Samson was slow off the blocks and scored run-a-ball 22 before cutting loose in the latter half of the chase and smashing six sixes and seven boundaries. Kartik Sharma made an unbeaten 41 off 31 balls and together with Samson shared a match-winning partnership of 114 runs to leave Delhi at No. 7 with four wins in 10 games.

Chennai is at No. 6 with 10 points from five wins and five losses.

___

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

Caleb Banks earns praise from his college coach after the NFL Draft

The Vikings' selection of Caleb Banks is going to be debated for months until he steps on the field in a regular season game. Given the injury concerns, folks will want to see how sustainable his play is, but, of course, they will hope for the best.

The Athletic's Alec Lewis wrote up some additional takeaways from the Vikings' 2026 NFL Draft class. Beyond what the fans are worried about, there is someone throwing their voice into the arena to allow fans to feel better about the selection of Caleb Banks.

His former head coach at Florida, Billy Napier, spoke to Lewis and offered up his two cents on Banks as a player. Napier told Lewis, “I would just tell you that, within the last decade or 20 years, this is a generational height, length, twitch and intelligence type of guy who also has a competitive streak that makes him different.”

Banks earning high praise from his coach should help fans feel better about the pick. Again, if Banks is healthy, this pick is going to be the steal of the draft. Once October rolls around and he has played every game, everyone can look back at this moment and laugh, right?

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Billy Napier offers his praises to Caleb Banks after the NFL Draft

Ravens rookie tight ends are embracing competition and versatility

Cuevas Embracing Competition in Tight End Room

There's always competition in an NFL position room—but the best players know how to turn that into something productive. For Josh Cuevas, that's exactly how he's approaching things alongside fellow tight end Matt Hibner.

When asked how the two are being used early on, Cuevas made it clear that this isn’t just about competing; it’s about growing together.

“I can't really say much about that right now. I'm still trying to fit into my role and see kind of where they see me at mostly out here. They're kind of using both of [Matt Hibner and I] everywhere, a little bit in line, a little bit spread out. But one thing's for sure, ‘Hibby’ and I are going to work off of each other, and we're going to help each other out wherever we can and see where that works out.” 

That flexibility reflects Baltimore’s broader offensive approach, where tight ends are often asked to contribute in multiple ways—blocking, receiving, and creating mismatches across the formation. Despite the natural competition, Cuevas made it clear that collaboration will be just as important.

For the Ravens, that balance between competition and cooperation could be key. As both rookies continue to develop, their ability to push each other while growing within the system may ultimately determine how the position group evolves heading into the season.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Josh Cuevas embraces tight end competition with Matt Hibner

Wild make switch in net for Game 2, go with Filip Gustavsson after Jesper Wallstedt allows 8 goals vs. Avalanche

DENVER — The Minnesota Wild are making a switch in net for Game 2, going with Filip Gustavsson after Jesper Wallstedt allowed eight goals in a 9-6 loss to Colorado.

Wild coach John Hynes announced the goaltender swap several hours before puck drop. Gustavsson hasn’t played since allowing five goals at St. Louis on April 13. He went 28-15-6 with a 2.69 goals-against average during the regular season.

Wallstedt surrendered 14 goals in six games during a first-round series win over Dallas. He struggled in Game 1 against the high-scoring Avalanche in allowing eight goals on 42 shots. Wallstedt and Gustavsson split time throughout the season.

“We have confidence in both of our goalies. They’re both excellent,” Hynes said. “They both played really good hockey. We believe either one of them can win us a game. It’s a good opportunity to get Gus in the net. He’s hungry to get in.”

Gustavsson has played in 11 postseason games for the Wild, posting a 4-6 mark with a 2.54 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage. The 27-year-old Gustavsson stayed sharp waiting for his turn, Hynes said, and has been “very supportive” of the decision to go with Wallstedt.

“But the thing I liked about it, too, was that he didn’t just concede it, either,” Hynes said. “He wants to play. He wants to get in the net. He was working for it. He’s making sure that he was prepared to do it.

“It could be a little bit of a negative response, but his was, ‘I understand the decision.’ As it went on, he wanted to get into the net. But his attitude toward the team and toward Wally was top shelf.”

The Wild remain without forward Joel Eriksson Ek and defenseman Jonas Brodin because of lower-body injuries. Hynes said there could be more tweaks to the lineup, but those will be game-time decisions based on health.

Texas' Sean Miller estimates $20 million NIL spenders in NCAA hoops

Texas head coach Sean Miller is no stranger to the cutthroat world of college basketball recruiting. Some programs seem to have deeper pockets than others to secure the best talent, which is something that Miller was asked about on the Field of 68 show recently.

The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman and Rob Dauster wondered how many programs would spend a minimum of $20 million on their rosters next season.

"I would say that I pay close attention to the SEC, and you know, I think we competed at a very high level," Miller said. "The University of Texas is investing in our basketball program to allow us to compete for the top prize, and I think we’re in the company of about seven or eight, where guys are really along the same lines as us. But…educated guess? Sometimes you don’t have all the information. I would say 20 to 25 (teams).”

How many 20+ million dollar rosters are there in college basketball this offseason? Sean Miller's perspective:

"Educated guess? Sometimes you don't have all the information... I would say 20-25." 👀

🎥: https://t.co/kRYnhn5fpCpic.twitter.com/nG8CMfoVOg

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) May 4, 2026

Miller declined to disclose whether the Longhorns fall into that category, but it's hard to think that they wouldn't push towards that threshold considering the immense competition Texas faces in the SEC.

Contact/Follow @College_Wire on X and @College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Texas Basketball: Sean Miller guesses number of $20 million rosters

Liverpool could finally replace Luis Diaz with £52m forward

Liverpool could finally replace Luis Diaz with £52m forward
Liverpool could finally replace Luis Diaz with £52m forward

Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Eye £52m Porto Winger

Liverpool’s search for attacking solutions may be turning towards Portugal, with Record reporting that the Reds are monitoring FC Porto winger Oskar Pietuszewski ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 17-year-old, who joined Porto from Jagiellonia Białystok in January, has made a swift impression in Portugal and is already attracting attention from several major European clubs. Record credit Liverpool with interest, while Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are also said to be watching his development.

Pietuszewski currently has a release clause worth around £52m, though Porto are reportedly keen to offer fresh terms and increase that figure. For a club with Porto’s record of developing and selling elite attacking talent, that is hardly surprising.

Diaz Departure Still Haunts Liverpool

The Luis Díaz angle makes this story particularly relevant for Liverpool. Diaz left Anfield for Bayern Munich last summer, and rather than signing a direct replacement, Liverpool placed their faith in Cody Gakpo to help carry the load from the left side of the attack.

That decision has not aged well.

Gakpo has struggled badly this season, both in terms of output and influence. At his best, the Dutchman offers intelligent movement, clean ball striking and positional flexibility. This campaign, however, he has too often looked short of rhythm, sharpness and authority in the final third.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s failure to replace Diaz now feels like one of the defining recruitment calls of last summer. Diaz gave the side vertical thrust, intensity, unpredictability and a capacity to beat defenders in moments when structure alone was not enough. Without him, Liverpool’s left flank has lost some of its menace.

Pietuszewski Profile Fits Liverpool’s Need

Pietuszewski has reportedly produced three goals and four assists in 14 Portuguese top flight appearances, impressive numbers for a player still only 17.

Operating mainly from the left, he is viewed as a direct, explosive winger with confidence in one against one situations. Those qualities are precisely what Liverpool have lacked since Díaz’s departure.

This is not to say Pietuszewski would arrive as an instant senior solution. At his age, any move would have to be framed as both a present squad option and a long term investment. Yet Liverpool’s issue is clear. They need more speed, more incision and more natural width in attack.

Photo: IMAGO

Summer Rebuild Requires Conviction

Arne Slot won the Premier League title in his debut season, but Liverpool’s title defence has been disappointing. Despite spending £450m last summer, the Reds sit 4th, and another busy window is expected.

That creates a delicate recruitment picture. Liverpool cannot afford another summer where a major attacking departure is not properly addressed. The Diaz exit left a gap, and trusting internal solutions has backfired.

Pietuszewski may be young, expensive and far from proven in England, but the logic behind the interest is easy to understand. Liverpool need to restore danger to their wide areas, and Record’s report suggests they are already assessing one of Europe’s more exciting emerging options.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report lands with a mixture of interest and frustration. Oskar Pietuszewski sounds exactly like the type of player Liverpool should be tracking, young, explosive, technically sharp and already producing in senior football. But fans have heard enough about long term planning. What they need now is evidence that the club have learned from last summer’s mistake.

Luis Diaz leaving for Bayern Munich was a major moment. Liverpool chose not to replace him properly, trusted Cody Gakpo to step up, and that gamble has failed. Gakpo has looked miles off the required level this season, and the left side of Liverpool’s attack has lacked speed, aggression and spark.

That is why this story matters. Pietuszewski might be an outstanding talent, but supporters will question whether a 17-year-old with a £52m clause is the answer to a problem that already needed fixing a year ago.

Liverpool need certainty this summer, not only potential. Slot’s title win bought him time, but this season has exposed serious flaws in the squad build. If Pietuszewski is part of a wider attacking rebuild, fine. If he is the headline answer, it feels risky.

Interesting player, logical profile, but Liverpool cannot afford another half measure.

Chelsea not expected to hire Xavi despite contacting him

Chelsea not expected to hire Xavi despite contacting him
Chelsea not expected to hire Xavi despite contacting him

Chelsea are not expected to proceed with a move to bring Xavi Hernandez into the Stamford Bridge dugout, according to Ben Jacobs.

The Blues had contacted his camp to discuss the Spaniard replacing Liam Rosenior.

However, even though he is open to a switch to England, the West Londoners will not hire him.

Chelsea are searching for a fourth permanent head coach in four years under BlueCo, after inexplicably dismissing Enzo Maresca, who had salvaged a badly assembled squad.

A little call for backing in the transfer market and a downturn in form prompted the Club World Cup champions to part ways with Maresca and hire Rosenior.

Unfortunately, the English tactician was a disaster, leaving after 106 days with Chelsea now in danger of missing out on Champions League football for the third time in four years.

The club’s hierarchy desperately needs to get its next hiring decision right, or risk plunging this team into even more trouble than it already is.

Xavi is what the squad is crying out for. He is a fine coach who did a stellar job with Barcelona, guiding them to the league title while playing exciting football.

The 46-year-old was renowned for giving opportunities to young starlets such as Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Gavi, and others.

He has top experience leading the Catalan outfit out in Europe as a player and as a manager. He would be an excellent addition.

Xavi would be a much better choice for the current Chelsea squad than other names like Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.

He has managed at a much higher level than the Premier League duo and is the kind of big-name winner these players need.

Besides Xabi Alonso, he is the only other name on the Chelsea shortlist that makes sense.

This managerial search remains open with the club hierarchy facing a make-or-break situation.

Real Madrid superstar will 100% stay next season despite difficult moment – Romano

Real Madrid superstar will 100% stay next season despite difficult moment – Romano
Real Madrid superstar will 100% stay next season despite difficult moment – Romano

Things do not seem to be okay at all between Real Madrid and their ace goalscorer Kylian Mbappe.

Since his ill-advised trip to Italy this past week, there has been tension developing between the French superstar and the club, while reports of unrest in the dressing room have also taken centre-stage.

Some players at the Spanish capital outfit are not entirely happy with the 27-year-old forward, his attitude and the privileges he has seemingly been granted at the club.

Meanwhile, Mbappe himself has not taken too well with the club’s decision to sack Xabi Alonso midway through the season, and the club’s mishandling of his knee injury is also seen as a concern in his camp.

Not the best moment, but no exit for Mbappe

Providing the lowdown on the situation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Real Madrid and Mbappe are not at all considering the possibility of parting ways in the summer.

Not going anywhere. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

While it is true that, at the moment, things are not at their best between the two parties, there is no doubt that the 27-year-old superstar will stay at the club and remain a part of the project next season.

The situation is described as a ‘difficult moment’, exacerbated by the fact that Real Madrid, as a club, are going through a precarious situation.

The disappointing season, the clashes inside the locker room, and the search for Alvaro Arbeloa’s replacement, have all contributed to the situation.

Mbappe’s trip to Italy, while Real Madrid are going through difficult period, was not welcomed.

However, the relationship between the player and the club is not broken and he will continue to remain an integral part of the project next season, with the Merengues set to restart from scratch after an underwhelming campaign.

Kyle Van Noy: 49ers have something cooking, I'd love to play with Fred Warner

Free agent linebacker Kyle Van Noy wouldn't mind making a move to California for the 2026 season.

Van Noy made an appearance on Up & Adams on Tuesday and brought up the 49ers when the conversation turned to where he would like to continue his career.

"I'd really like to play with my little brother, Fred Warner, with the Niners," Van Noy said. "I think they got something cooking over there. I know they love Joey Bosa because of Nick and all that. I get that, but I would love to play with my little brother. That's my guy, and I think they got something cooking over there."

Van Noy declined to share how much communication he's had with the 49ers. He said he had some contact with the Seahawks before they agreed to a deal with Dante Fowler and that he remains open to a possible return for a fourth season in Baltimore, so it doesn't appear that all of his eggs are in one basket at this point in the job search.

Van Noy had 20 tackles, two sacks and an interception for the Ravens last year. He had 21.5 sacks in his first two seasons with the AFC North team.

Patriots' Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Breaks Silence On Mike Vrabel Scandal

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel

Patriots' Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Breaks Silence On Mike Vrabel Scandal originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The scandal involving Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini has been a hot topic over the last few weeks, and one New England Patriots legend recently shared his thoughts.

By now, every Patriots fan knows about the pictures released of Vrabel and Russini. The pictures essentially illustrate an affair between the two that has been going on for years. Both are married, and Russini has resigned from her position at The Athletic. As for Vrabel, the NFL has noted that his actions have not violated the personal conduct policy, and the Patriots have seemed to support him as he figures things out.

Vrabel spoke to the media before the NFL Draft and noted that he is committed to coaching the Patriots and being the best version of himself. He missed Day 3 of the NFL Draft to attend counseling, which raised questions about whether the scandal would, in fact, impact his ability to do his job. Vrabel has noted that he has already addressed the team on the matter, and Rodney Harrison spoke on how that message may have been received in the locker room.

“The one saving grace, no matter what goes on in your life, has always been an NFL locker room. Those players are going through some of the same things Mike Vrabel is going through with some of the temptations, some of the things that’s out there, things they struggle with,” Harrison told MassLive's Karen Guregian. “So they have a great deal of empathy. So I think they’ll understand, and they’ll forgive Mike. I think it’ll bring the locker room even closer together.

“You still might have a few holes. A few who might be skeptical, ‘Well he said this, he said that’ but the majority in that locker room, they love Mike Vrabel and they respect him. They know he’s a human being, he’s a good person and he made a mistake. And, they’re going to forgive him.”

Harrison spent 15 years in the NFL and was with the Patriots from 2003 to 2008. He and Vrabel were teammates and won two Super Bowls together. He knows Vrabel better than most media personalities speaking on the scandal, and he also has the perspective of how things are inside a locker room.

More NFL: Insider Reveals How Mike Vrabel Scandal Has Impacted Patriots Trading For A.J. Brown

Why Penguins losing Evgeni Malkin could be especially painful for Pittsburgh

Why Penguins losing Evgeni Malkin could be especially painful for Pittsburgh originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Pittsburgh Penguins may bring Evgeni Malkin back for another season.

Or, in a move that would be tough for most involved, they could decide to move on. Malkin doesn't want to retire. He's expressed that he'd sign with a new NHL team if needed.

One of those outcomes will feel a whole lot better to Pittsburgh than the other.

The reality, though, is that Malkin is heading for free agency, and the Penguins have played a little tough to get here. They haven't rushed to give the aging Malkin a new contract before he turns 40 this summer.

MORE: Sabres' storybook season is real, and Stanley Cup dreams are valid

It's not obvious yet which way this will go in the end. What's clear is that it'll hurt if Malkin is gone.

First, on the individual level, for the captain Sidney Crosby.

"Crosby, who has one year left on his contract, has publicly said he’d like Malkin to return next season," The Athletic's Josh Yohe wrote in a new article on Tuesday.

But really, this is about so much more than Crosby. Yohe did a great job of capturing why this is a negotiation that will matter so deeply to the entire city.

"It’s worth emphasizing that this isn’t a normal case," Yohe writes. "Malkin isn’t another Hall of Famer. Very few, if any, Pittsburgh athletes have made such a strong connection with local fans. Crosby is beloved, sure, but he’s not as emotional on the ice as Malkin... Malkin is an artist in the most traditional of ways: He makes you feel. Whether you’re in awe, frustrated or right there with him when he cross-checks someone, he conjures strong emotions. So, if this is the end, it will hurt a little bit more. The guy from Russia who speaks limited English is one of us. He’s a Pittsburgher to the core."

MORE: Canadiens win a playoff game like none other in NHL history

When you consider that description, you understand how crucial it is for the Penguins to get this right.

If they let Malkin go, the team they put on the ice without him better be a good one, and he better not flourish too much somewhere else.

Everyone would be a bit happier to see 'Geno' stick around.

More NHL news:

A star pitcher at USC, he was cut after six years in the minors. Then Banana Ball came calling

The Savannah Bananas do a kick line before their game during their "Banana Ball World Tour," in Seattle.
Sure, the Dodgers have Shohei Ohtani, but can they do this? Members of the Savannah Bananas ball club rock a kick line before a 2025 game in Seattle. (Lindsey Wasson / Associated Press)

Chris Clarke had gone the traditional route, pitching for three years at USC after starring at Newbury Park High, then toiling for six more seasons in the Chicago Cubs minor league system after being a fourth-round draft pick in 2019.

But his big league dream abruptly became a wake-up call last August when the Cubs released him a week before his wife gave birth to their first child. No more paychecks. No more health insurance.

So imagine how jarring it was for Clarke to take the mound in front of a record 102,000 fans in the Texas A&M football stadium Saturday, which had been converted to accommodate (sorry Dodgers) the most popular team in baseball: the Savannah Bananas.

"It was surreal," Clarke said. "In fact, it was so incredible, I didn't feel anything. My body went numb. There was a moment in the third inning when everybody was screaming. I couldn't hear myself talk."

It was the most people ever crammed into Kyle Field, the nation's fourth-largest college stadium, trailing only Michigan (107,601), Oregon (106,572) and Ohio State (102,780).

Texas A&M is ROCKING hours before the Savannah Bananas and Texas Tailgaters start the game at 8pm ET pic.twitter.com/FoY7ydGuwN

— Banana Ball (@BananaBall_) May 2, 2026

Clarke pitched for the opposing team, the Texas Tailgaters, one of five squads created by Bananas founders Jesse and Emily Cole that serve as touring partners to face the yellow-clad star attraction. All six teams practice at a complex in Savannah.

The game in College Station attracted the largest crowd in the Bananas' six-year history, and Clarke shined, striking out five in four innings. He also entertained, as all players in the Banana Ball Championship League are cheerfully required to do.

"The amount of joy it brings to fans and even people online, it's really something," Clarke said. "There definitely is a winner and a loser — which holds some weight — but for the most part, fans are there because it's a really good show."

Clarke, a 6-foot-7 right-hander, was the third overall pick in the inaugural Banana Ball draft held in November. Tailgater coaches contacted him beforehand to gauge his interest and he told them, "Pick me."

That level of bold fits right in. Banana Ball is fast-paced, hilarious and maximizes fan engagement. It features innovative rules: Fouls caught by fans count as outs, for example, and batters who walk get to run the bases until all nine defensive players have touched the ball. Choreographed dances, acrobatic tricks, a pitcher on stilts and other antics keep the entertainment flowing.

"I like to think of every game as a stepping stone to the next show," Clarke said. "Whether it goes well or is terrible, we will make it better for next time. Banana Ball is a relaxed culture, so when it comes to the entertainment stuff, there is no fear of failure. We are seeing what works and what doesn't."

Read more:Going bananas: Why Savannah Bananas tickets cost more than a Dodgers-Yankees rematch

Guest stars are frequent and on Saturday the Bananas sent Texas-grown YouTube sensation Tyler Toney, a member of the sports comedy troupe Dude Perfect, to the plate as a pinch-hitter. Clarke struck him out on four pitches: a called strike, a swinging strike, a ball Clarke purposely launched high into the stands for laughs, then strike three swinging on a cut fastball.

It was a rare humbling moment for Toney, who with fellow Dude Perfect members Cody Jones, Garrett Hilbert, and twins Cory and Coby Cotton generates more than $20 million annually from YouTube, merchandise and tours.

Clarke had watched Dude Perfect videos religiously when he was at USC and was starstruck to meet them in person.

"Dude Perfect is the reason I failed econ twice," he said. "I watched every single Dude Perfect video. To meet them and shake their hands was fun. It was the only moment in my life where I was a fanboy."

He's also a breadwinner again for his family. The burgeoning popularity of Banana Ball has made the gig more lucrative than playing in the minor leagues.

Read more:Banana Ball gets 'biggest partnership to date' with ESPN and Disney, including a trip to Disneyland

"I'm making five times as much and playing half the time," Clarke said. "My contract is also for 12 months of the year. In affiliated baseball, it's only six months. So, there's that. I've never met anyone in baseball who has had the luxury to spend time with a newborn child. To come to Banana Ball and actually feel like there is respect, a culture and guidelines, that was something I hadn't experienced."

It is also giving him notoriety. Twenty-five Banana Ball games this year are being streamed on the ESPN app and Disney+, with select games airing across ESPN networks and ABC. The first Bananas broadcast on ABC will take place at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., June 27-28. The games have been sold out since October.

Highlights from Saturday's game flooded social media and traditional outlets alike. Family friends and former teammates reached out to Clarke. What was it like pitching in front of 100,000 people? Are you improving your dance moves?

"The entertainment side of it takes pressure off performance," he said. "Performing well is still very much there, but there is a level of relaxation that makes it easier."

Clarke admits he thinks back to USC and the 2019 season when he posted a stellar earned-run average of 1.03. He also occasionally misses the heightened competition and quest to make the major leagues of affiliated baseball.

He pitched two seasons in triple-A and is only 27. Would he leave Banana Ball next year if an MLB team offered him an invite to spring training?

"I'm not in a situation to close any doors," he said. "That's the mindset that got me here. I wanted to investigate Banana Ball and I told them I'd give them a full year for us both to evaluate it. Either way, I think it's a win. Just comes down to what's best for my family."

Meanwhile, more games in packed stadiums await. In addition to a handful in football stadiums against the Bananas, the Tailgaters will play three games a week against other Banana Ball League teams through the summer, mostly in minor league baseball stadiums from Tulsa to El Paso to Nashville to Charlotte.

Exponentially larger crowds than those venues are accustomed to are a given.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Dak Prescott pulled into wild Cowboys fan ‘curse’ on Steelers

Dak Prescott 032526

Dak Prescott pulled into wild Cowboys fan ‘curse’ on Steelers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Dallas Cowboys are heading into a rebuilding period after a disappointing 2025 season in which they failed to make the playoffs. Dak Prescott and the roster are working to break through their postseason struggles, with a major defensive overhaul designed to support the quarterback better.

In a video posted by ML Football, NFL fans were seen placing and burying a card featuring Prescott on the field at the Steelers’ stadium. The stunt seems to be a superstition-driven attempt to transfer the Cowboys’ long-standing playoff woes onto Pittsburgh. Fan curses are actually a familiar part of NFL culture, but stadium staff usually discover and remove such items during routine field upkeep.

THIS IS WILD…

These #NFL fans buried a card of #Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott at the grounds of the #Steelers stadium inside the field.

😳😳😳

These fans were attempting to curse Pittsburgh for the upcoming season. pic.twitter.com/rbA7UYZpYh

— MLFootball (@MLFootball) May 4, 2026

As for the Cowboys' postseason struggles, they remain a frequent topic of discussion in the NFL. Since their last Super Bowl title in the 1995 season, Dallas has often entered the postseason with strong records and high seeds, only to suffer early exits. The team has one of the highest regular-season winning percentages in the league over the last three decades, but it has not reached an NFC Championship Game since January 1996.

Meanwhile, the Steelers are preparing for the 2026 season under new head coach Mike McCarthy, who returns to his hometown after leaving the Cowboys following the 2024 season. He was named the 17th head coach in franchise history after posting a 49–35 record in Dallas over five seasons.

It is funny and ironic that the fan video attempts to curse Pittsburgh with Cowboys-like playoff struggles, even though the Steelers just hired the coach most associated with that very era in Dallas. Even the Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016.

More NFL news:

Emma Raducanu withdraws after completing her Italian Open press obligations

British tennis player Emma Raducanu withdrew from the Italian Open shortly after doing her pre-tournament press conference.

Raducanu has been dealing with the aftereffects of a viral illness that sidelined her since Indian Wells. She posted a vague health update last week, but fans were encouraged when they saw her in Rome, spending time practicing and laughing with her peers.

With no clay court match preparation, will Raducanu play the French Open?

MORE: Aryna Sabalenka thinks players might have to boycott a future Grand Slam because of prize money

Raducanu has not been specific about her health issues

She does not owe the fans any explanation for what’s been plaguing her, but it is as perplexing as Emma Navarro‘s situation.

In both cases, we know the players are dealing with prolonged health issues that limit their ability to train and prepare correctly for competitive tennis.

Aug 29, 2025; Flushing, NY, USA; Emma Raducanu of United Kingdom serves against Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan in the third round of the womenís singles at the US Open at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images


MORE: Tennis players’ issues are much deeper than 2026 French Open purse

Raducanu is a WTA one slam champ

I have previously detailed the group of players who came from relative obscurity to win their one and only Grand Slam. In addition to Raducanu, Bianca Andreescu, and Marketa Vondrousova fall into this category.

All three have dealt with severe physical and mental health issues, and turbulence behind the scenes since their landmark wins.

Hopefully, we see a healthy Raducanu on the court soon, if not at the French Open, during the grass season and particularly at her home tournament, Wimbledon.

Jon Rahm doesn’t ‘see many ways out’ of his LIV Golf contract

Jon Rahm said Tuesday that he doesn’t “see many ways out” of his LIV Golf contract as he spoke openly for the first time about what his options will be now that the league has announced it’s no longer funded by Saudi Arabia’s PIF and is looking for investors for it to continue.

The two-time major champion was asked in Washington, D.C., ahead of their event at Trump National, if he was able to get out of his contract with the league if he feels like it’s not suitable for him beyond this year.

“I have no idea, I couldn't tell you,” he said. “I have very few talents in my life, and reading a contract or business are not two of them.

“As of right now, I have several years on my contract left, and I'm pretty sure they did a pretty good job when they drafted that. So I don't see many ways out, and as of right now, I'm not really thinking about it since we still have a season to play and majors to compete for. So it's not something I want to think about just yet.”

He may not be thinking about it yet, but it’s something Rahm is likely going to have to deal with soon. He’s willing to see what CEO Scott O’Neil comes up with first.

“I don't think he would ask anybody to buy into anything without giving us a business plan first,” Rahm said. “Until we have that, I don't think we can really answer the rest, right? It would just be speculation at that point.”

Rahm said that the league has worked with team captains, of which he is for Legion XIII, about their respective ideas. He’s given his opinion but realizes it’s impossible to make everyone happy in a situation like this where there are 57 players and 13 teams.

For now, he’s trying to focus on playing this week in the nation’s capital. He leads the season’s individual standings, has won twice—including two weeks ago in Mexico City—and hasn’t finished worse than fifth place in six events.

But it’s not easy to focus on the golf course when there are so many distractions off of it. On Tuesday, he squashed one distraction by announcing that he and the DP World Tour have ended their dispute and he’s now eligible to play on Europe’s Ryder Cup team next year. The LIV Golf intrusions, however, do not appear to be going away soon.

“It's definitely extra noise, there's no denying it,” he said. “But I think we deal with it as athletes honestly. I think it's part of the job a lot of times, and sometimes that extra noise is internal for something that may be happening family-wise that's not public, which is much worse than this.

“We practice enough so once you get in competition mode, it doesn't matter. It might be a worry before or after, but it shouldn't be once you get to that first tee. We've said a few times, when it's so uncertain and so out of our control, there's really nothing to think about.”

Tiger Woods officially out of PGA Championship. The surprise was an invitation for Dustin Johnson

Tiger Woods is officially out of the PGA Championship. Ditto for Phil Mickelson, who has played only one LIV Golf event this year as he copes with a family health matter and withdrew shortly after the list of 154 players was announced Tuesday for Aronimink Golf Club.

And the big surprise was Dustin Johnson, who was extended one of the special invitations to the PGA Championship next week despite his eligibility running out last year.

“Very excited,” Johnson said from LIV Golf Virginia, “I want to play in all the majors. I feel like my game is still good enough to compete with everyone and still can win. The PGA was nice enough to give me an invitation. So yeah, I'm very, very happy and thankful for that.”

The PGA of America held back two spots in case the winners of two PGA Tour events, the Truist Championship and the Myrtle Beach Classic, are not already eligible.

Scottie Scheffler is the defending champion at the second major of the year, which returns to Aronimink for the first time since Gary Player won in 1972.

Johnson is among 30 players who competed at Aronimink when it hosted the BMW Championship in 2018, when Keegan Bradley defeated Justin Rose in a playoff that didn't finish until Monday because of so much rain.

The PGA Championship committee is the least transparent in filling the field for its major, with 33 players receiving special invitations.

Most of them came from the top 100 in the world ranking. The PGA Championship strives to have the top 100 and often will go a few places outside the top 100 to make sure no one sneaks in in the final week before the major.

It gave invitations to Andy Sullivan of England (102), Angel Ayora of Spain (103), Keith Mitchell (104), Chandler Blanchet (106) and Billy Horschel (107).

It also has a category of its PGA points list — based on official PGA Tour money earned in the last 12 months — to fill the field beyond the top 70.

Sudarshan Yellamaraju of Canada is the leading player not eligible at No. 80. He becomes the first alternate, with a reasonable chance of getting in because only four players at the Truist Championship — Yellamaraju is one of them — are not yet in the PGA.

The alternates all came from the PGA points list.

Woods not playing was expected. He was arrested Feb. 27 on suspicion of DUI and received permission from a Florida judge to seek treatment outside the country. Woods has not played in a major since the 2024 British Open.

Mickelson has not said publicly what he's dealing with at home. His only LIV Golf event was in South Africa in March. He did not play in the Masters.

The PGA of America also awarded a spot to Ian Holt, a two-time winner this year on the Korn Ferry Tour who leads the points list, and Kota Kaneko of Japan from the Federation Ranking of tours around the world. The PGA Championship takes players from the leading three tours. Kaneko on the Japan Golf Tour was fourth.

Johnson, a former No. 1 player in the world with two majors, has been eligible for every major since the 2009 Masters. He did not play in three of them because of injury or because of taking time away from the game (2014 PGA Championship).

His 10-year exemption from winning the U.S. Open expires after this year. He is not eligible for the British Open, which historically does not offer special exemptions.

Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald of Team Europe received an invitation, which has become a PGA Championship tradition. U.S. captain Jim Furyk is not playing. Vijay Singh, a two-time PGA champion, and 2025 Senior PGA champion Angel Cabrera chose not to play.

___

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

Valve confirms Steam Controller restock plans

Valve plans to update Steam fans on their controller restock plans soon Valve’s Steam Controller went on sale yesterday, and as expected, it quickly sold out worldwide. Today, Valve has confirmed that it is “working on getting more stock”, and that it plans to give gamers an update and a restock timeline soon. Scalpers have […]

The post Valve confirms Steam Controller restock plans appeared first on OC3D.

N‑Studio brings a full screen recorder and editor to the Microsoft Store with a generous free tier

N‑Studio is now available on the Microsoft Store, offering a free Starter version with screen recording, audio capture and export tools. A $36 Professional upgrade adds timelapse support, extra adjustments and a full multi‑layer editor.

Valve Confirms Steam Controller Restock is Happening Soon

5 May 2026 at 21:15
Valve's highly anticipated release of the Steam Controller was so successful that the entire stock sold out in just 30 minutes. The demand has been nothing short of exceptional, even for a controller priced at $99 in the United States, €99 in European Union countries, £85 in the UK, $149 CAD in Canada, and $149 AUD in Australia. At around 17:00 UTC on May 4, the Steam Controller officially went on sale through Valve's website. The site experienced such a high volume of customers that the payment processing system froze, causing many to encounter errors before both the website and payment processor resumed functioning. To prepare, some customers loaded their Steam Wallets with funds days in advance, but the high demand still prevented them from securing a unit immediately. For those who managed to purchase one, congratulations. However, those who didn't are turning to resellers, who are charging about $300 for the controller. Valve is reassuring customers not to worry, as another stock drop is coming soon.
ValveSteam Controller ran out faster than we anticipated, and we hate that not everyone who wanted one was able to get it. We're working on getting more in stock and will have an update on expected timeline soon.

Xbox CEO Brings Over More CoreAI Execs, Dismisses Some of the Old Guard to “Evolve How We Work”

5 May 2026 at 22:15

A large crowd gathers inside a modern atrium with multiple levels, watching two presenters on a stage with large monitors displayed nearby.

A new report from CNBC reveals that Xbox chief executive officer Asha Sharma is bringing over more of her former CoreAI team to the Xbox side of Microsoft in an overhaul of Xbox's executive team with five new members in total, the fifth coming instead from Sharma's other previous home of Instacart. Part of the move also includes the dismissal of more of the old guard, as one moves to an advisory role, and the other leaves the company. Since Asha Sharma stepped into the role of chief executive officer of Xbox, the former CoreAI president has been establishing what […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/xbox-ceo-asha-sharma-adds-more-coreai-execs-shuffles-old-guard/

LG’s Third-Gen Tandem OLED Slashes Power Draw By 18% While Doubling Durability, Hitting 1200 Nits And 15,000-Hour Lifespan

5 May 2026 at 21:57

A futuristic display setup featuring '3rd gen Tandem OLED' with vibrant swirling colors on a monitor, flexible screen, and embedded in a robot and car dashboard.

LG has showcased new OLED technologies at the SID Display Week 2026, but its 3rd-gen Tandem OLED was the main highlight of the show. LG Showcases 3rd Gen Tandem OLED That Targets Efficiency, and a 5K OLED Panel With 221 PPI The LG Display is expanding its OLED stack by introducing new monitors and new panel technologies. At SID Display Week 2026, held in Los Angeles, LG Display showcased the 3rd-generation Tandem OLED technology and a 5K RGB OLED monitor panel. The biggest highlight was the 3rd-gen Tandem OLED that brings meaningful improvements over previous OLED technologies. As per the […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/lg-introduces-third-gen-tandem-oled-panel-and-5k-oled-panel/

NVIDIA’s CEO Jensen Huang Draws a Hard Line on China: No Blackwell, No Rubin, But US Firms Must Still Fight In Global Markets

5 May 2026 at 21:30

A person is holding NVIDIA server hardware at a presentation, showcasing multiple circuit boards with visible chipsets.

NVIDIA CEO has said that China should not have access to its most advanced AI chips, such as Blackwell or Rubin. Blackwell or Rubin AI Chips are a no-go for China, but NVIDIA's CEO Wants US Firms To Continue To Compete In Global Markets The US AI policy shift towards China has been ongoing since NVIDIA's Hopper generation of chips. Export controls restricted NVIDIA from selling its bleeding-edge chips to Chinese firms & this ban has extended into the Blackwell generation. Reaffirming the US-first policy, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has stated that the company's most advanced AI chips, Blackwell and […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-draws-a-hard-line-on-china-no-blackwell-no-rubin/

Apple iPhone 20 Tipped To Pack A 6,000mAh Battery With Reverse Wireless Charging, Dwarfing Every iPhone Apple Has Ever Shipped

5 May 2026 at 21:11

A conceptual design of the Apple iPhone 20 showcasing a triple camera setup and a display with 'Tiburon,' '65°,' and app icons for FaceTime, Calendar, Photos, and Camera.

Apple is still a fair distance away from unveiling the 2027-launching iPhone 20. Yet, the iPhone has been the focus of supply chain leaks for quite some time, which is hardly a surprise given the quantum of change that Apple is reportedly bringing to the proverbial table. Now, a well-known tipster has tried to wholly demystify the iPhone 20 by pairing feature leaks with plausible speculation. Apple iPhone 20 to sport an all-glass look, replete with solid-state buttons, a quad-curved display, and hefty use of under-display tech, and topped off with a massive battery The Weibo-based tipster Instant Digital has […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/apple-iphone-20-tipped-to-pack-a-6000mah-battery-with-reverse-wireless-charging-dwarfing-every-iphone-apple-has-ever-shipped/

IO Interactive Confirms 007 First Light Runs 20 Hours, With No New Game+ But A HITMAN-Style Escalation Mode

5 May 2026 at 21:00

An in-game scene from 007 First Light featuring a detailed architectural environment with statues and people, highlighted by an 'RTX ON' graphic in the bottom right corner.

IO Interactive's James Bond licensed game, 007 First Light, is now just three weeks away from its debut. As we got closer to the launch, the developers started revealing new details; now, YouTuber JorRaptor has reported that Gameplay Director Andreas Krogh confirmed the game's average length is around 20 hours. That's without counting the Tactical Simulator mode (inspired by HITMAN's escalations), which will repurpose main story locations with added difficulty, restrictions, and online leaderboards, with new missions added post-launch. Notably, all cosmetic outfits (including pre-order and special edition ones) are restricted to the Tactical Simulator and cannot be worn in the main campaign, where Bond's wardrobe […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/007-first-light-20-hours-no-new-game-plus-hitman-escalation-mode/

Intel Invests In Company That Is Building The World’s Most Powerful Quantum Processor, Driving 10,000 Qubits, 100x More Than Today

5 May 2026 at 20:45

A person in a lab adjusts a complex quantum computing device suspended from above in a dimly lit laboratory setting.

Quantware is building the world's most powerful Quantum processor, and Intel is one of the investors behind it and the company's KiloFab project. Quantware's VIO-4K Quantum Processor Can Drive 10,000 Qubits, 100x More Than Today's State-of-the-Art Quantum Computers Quantware has raised $176 million to build the world's fastest and largest quantum processor to date, the VIO-4K. The company will also be building KiloFab, the largest dedicated quantum open architecture fab, as it anticipates strong customer demand, boosting its production capacity by 20x. In the announcement, Quantware secured new investors, including Intel Capital, In-Q-Tel, and ETF Partners, which are in addition […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/intel-invests-in-company-that-is-building-the-worlds-most-powerful-quantum-processor/

Exemplar Dev – AI-enabled developer platform for SRE and Day 2 operations


Exemplar provides a web and API-based hub for SRE and Day 2 operations by centralizing uptime monitoring, incident management, and self-service automation. It integrates directly with major cloud and productivity platforms to consolidate engineering workflows under a freemium model. It supports cross-platform integrations including AWS, GitHub, Linear, JIRA, and Grafana, and provides built-in SRE tools such as status pages, SSL tracking, and vendor monitoring. The platform offers flexible access through web, MCP, and API platforms.

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Woop AI – Unify audits, content, and competitor intel to rank higher in search


Woop solves one thing: Search Results. Analyze your website, competitors, and keywords to target what makes your product stand out. It generates actionable insights and executes them.

It has six features: Woop AI Chat, your SEO strategist on call; Deep SEO Analysis with every metric in one view; Site Architecture Map to expose what's invisible; AI Blog Generator structured for Google and readers; Keyword Intelligence to find gaps before your rivals do; and 1-Click Publishing to go live quickly.

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Renowide – Hire autonomous AI agents to run ads, finance, and operations


Renowide is a marketplace for trained AI agents. There are many AI agents now, and anyone can build one. But most are not helpful if they aren't trained enough or on the right data. So we made a place where developers list agents they have actually trained and earn 85% every time one gets hired. Businesses can hire them and stay compliant with laws like data residency and audit trails. Set a budget, approve proposed actions, and the agent runs 24/7. You can also embed an agent on your site or use one API key to access 200+ agents and 36 MCP tools. Currently, there are 200+ agents listed, 65 active hires, and free credits for early testers.

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Banking groups reject Clarity Act yield compromise

5 May 2026 at 22:10
Major US banking associations rejected the Clarity Act’s stablecoin yield compromise, splitting publicly from Coinbase and Circle Major US banking associations publicly rejected the stablecoin yield compromise brokered by Senators Tillis and Alsobrooks in the Clarity Act. The banking groups…

OnRe Finance raises $5M as Forward lines up $25M ONyc buy

5 May 2026 at 22:00
OnRe Finance raised $5M from Forward and RockawayX as Forward prepares up to $25M into ONyc, scaling Solana-based, tokenized reinsurance with DeFi integrations. OnRe Finance said it has closed a $5 million strategic funding round to accelerate development of its…

Garlinghouse defends Clarity Act Senate momentum

5 May 2026 at 21:10
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse defended Clarity Act progress at Consensus 2026, calling the past week a “big positive shift.” Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse took the Consensus 2026 stage in Miami today and told attendees the Clarity Act is gaining genuine…

Ripple to share DPRK hacker intel with crypto industry after $577M in DeFi hacks

5 May 2026 at 21:00
Ripple is feeding North Korea–linked threat intelligence into Crypto ISAC, hoping shared context on DPRK operatives and DeFi exploits can blunt a 2026 hack wave led by Drift and KelpDAO. Ripple said it has begun sharing internal threat intelligence on…

Critical Apache HTTP/2 Flaw (CVE-2026-23918) Enables DoS and Potential RCE

The Apache Software Foundation (ASF) has released security updates to address several security vulnerabilities in the HTTP Server, including a severe vulnerability that could potentially lead to remote code execution (RCE). The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2026-23918 (CVSS score: 8.8), has been described as a case of "double free and possible RCE" in the HTTP/2 protocol handling. This issue

DAEMON Tools Supply Chain Attack Compromises Official Installers with Malware

A newly identified supply chain attack targeting DAEMON Tools software has compromised its installers to serve a malicious payload, according to findings from Kaspersky. "These installers are distributed from the legitimate website of DAEMON Tools and are signed with digital certificates belonging to DAEMON Tools developers," Kaspersky researchers  Igor Kuznetsov, Georgy Kucherin, Leonid

Oceania Dropping NCFs on 2028–29 Sailings

Oceania Cruises is eliminating non‑commissionable cruise fares (NCFs) on all newly launched sailings, set to be announced in May and June. Covering the 2028 summer and 2028–29 winter seasons and 2028 and 2029 Around the World voyages, the change is meant to simplify advisor compensation and expand their earning opportunities. Once the new itineraries go...

Pennsylvania sues Character.AI after a chatbot allegedly posed as a doctor

5 May 2026 at 21:46
According to Pennsylvania's filing, a Character.AI chatbot presented itself as a licensed psychiatrist during a state investigation, and also fabricated a serial number for its state medical license.

GTA 6 will be expensive, but will remain well under $100, according to analyst

GTA 6 could raise the price level of new triple-A games, but still not be quite as expensive as some customers had feared. An analyst from Bank of America has now commented specifically on the price of the game. Meanwhile, the CEO of Take-Two speaks of "terrifying" expectations.

Using Tailscale while on vacation: How I access my home network from abroad

Amazon content restricted, no access to the home server: geoblocking can quickly become annoying while on vacation. That’s why, before leaving, I installed Tailscale on my small home server/NAS and on the devices I take with me. Together, they form a network that lets my travel devices browse through my home network and its German IP address.

Dell releases new 16-inch laptop globally with LPCAMM2 RAM and Intel Panther Lake

Dell has released a new 16-inch laptop featuring Intel Panther Lake processors and up to a 70 Wh battery. Available globally, the Dell Pro 5 Series 16 can also be configured with up to 64 GB of LPCAMM2 RAM and PCIe Gen 5 storage. OLED display options are missing altogether, though.

Samsung shows off a Privacy Display that can also measure your heart rate and blood pressure

5 May 2026 at 21:18

Today is the first day of Display Week 2026 and Samsung Display will demonstrate a new OLED display that combines privacy and health tracking features, a display that improves brightness and color rendering, a brighter QD display and a stretchable display for cars. The company’s upgraded Sensor OLED Display is a 6.8” panel, which incorporates biometric sensors that can detect heart rate and blood pressure. This is done by organic photodiodes, which are embedded alongside the regular OLEDs. These photodiodes detect blood flow by seeing light that comes from the display and reflects off your...

Apple is looking to diversify its chip production with Intel and Samsung

5 May 2026 at 20:31

Apple had a long-lasting partnership with Intel until the company decided to move away from the chip designer and manufacturer and rely on its own silicon for its MacBooks. With TSMC, Apple's relationship started in 2014, with the Taiwanese company shipping the Apple A8 chip. TSMC has remained the only chip supplier ever since. Now, Apple is trying to restore its partnership with Intel. Numerous reports suggest that Apple has been looking to diversify away from TSMC for quite some time, but with the supply chain disruptions and chip shortage, fueled by the AI data centers, the matter...

Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid LIVE Updates: The Champions League semifinal is underway (0-0)

5 May 2026 at 23:26
Arsenal and Atletico Madrid are clashing on the Emirates Stadium for the second leg of the 25-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals, a must-watch game with our liveblog coverage.

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid are clashing at the Emirates stadium on Tuesday, May 5, for the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals, looking for a place in the final. Make sure not to miss a single detail of this game with our liveblog coverage.

The first leg was played at the Air Riyadh Metropolitano, where the Gunners found the opener with Viktor Gyokeres scoring from the penalty spot in the 44th minute. In the second half, Atletico proved to be superior, but were only able to score the equalizer with Julian Alvarez scoring also from the penalty spot.

With the away-goal advantage abolished back in 2021, the winner of the game at the Emirates will be earning their ticket to the final in Budapest. This marks the third meeting between Arsenal and Atletico this season; their first clash came during the UCL league phase, where the Gunners cruised to a dominant 4-0 victory at the Emirates, a result Mikel Arteta’s side will be desperate to replicate.

Bukayo Saka (L) of Arsenal and Julian Alvarez (R) of Atletico Madrid.

Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid: Confirmed lineups for second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals

5 May 2026 at 21:59
Arsenal and Atletico Madrid will be clashing for the UEFA Champions League semifinals at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal host Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, May 5, for the decisive second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals. While both powerhouse clubs are navigating nagging fitness concerns, they are each expected to push their stars to the limit to secure a ticket to the final in Budapest.

The Gunners struck first in the opening leg after David Hancko was whistled for a foul on Viktor Gyokeres inside the area, with the striker clinicaly converting in the 44th minute. However, Atletico showed their trademark resilience, leveling the score after a Benjamin White handball gifted Julian Alvarez a penalty of his own to knot the game.

Following the 1-1 draw at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the tie will be decided in North London. This marks the third meeting between Arsenal and Atletico this season; their first clash came during the UCL league phase, where the Gunners cruised to a dominant 4-0 victory at the Emirates, a result Mikel Arteta’s side will be desperate to replicate.

Injury updates and key returns

A major concern for Atletico Madrid following the first leg was the health of Julian Alvarez, though manager Diego Simeone was quick to downplay the severity of the Argentine’s second-half exit. Additionally, Alexander Sorloth, who missed the first leg due to discomfort, was rested over the weekend and is expected to be at peak fitness for Tuesday’s clash.

Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid is challenged by Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice of Arsenal.

Los Colchoneros traveled from Spain to England with a 21-man squad, missing only Nicolas Gonzalez and midfielder Pablo Barrios. On a positive note, veteran defender Jose Maria Gimenez has recovered from an injury sustained in early April and is expected to provide a defensive boost from the substitutes’ bench.

On the Gunners’ side, Mikel Arteta confirmed during Monday’s press conference that both Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are fit and available. The most notable absences remain Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber; Merino is sidelined for the remainder of the season, while Timber continues to struggle with ongoing fitness issues.

Confirmed lineups for Arsenal and Atletico Madrid

Arsenal’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): David Raya; Benjamin White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori; Eberechi Eze, Miles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyokeres, Leandro Trossard.
Head coach: Mikel Arteta.

Atletico Madrid’s confirmed lineup (4-4-2): Jan Oblak; Marc Pubill, Robin Le Normand, David Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Marcos Llorente, Koke, Ademola Lookman; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez.
Head coach: Diego Simeone.

Martin Odegaard (L) of Arsenal and Antoine Griezmann (R) Atletico Madrid.

Xavi Hernández may have a new path far from Barcelona as Chelsea reportedly chase him for head coach role

5 May 2026 at 21:24
Two years after leaving Barcelona, Xavi Hernández appears to have a new professional path. Ahead of the 2026–27 season, Chelsea are reportedly targeting the Spaniard as their top priority for the head coach position.

Xavi Hernández became one of the key architects of Barcelona’s project success, building a promising roster. Although he was dismissed, he was the one who helped develop young players such as Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal. Despite being without a team for two years, Chelsea have reportedly decided to pursue the Spanish head coach as the leader of their sporting project, aiming to build an elite-level team.

According to The Independent, the Blues have decided to prioritize the appointment of Xavi Hernández as their new head coach for the 2026–27 season. Although he has been without a team since leaving Barcelona in 2024, the Spaniard coach is highly regarded for his attacking philosophy and solid results. In addition, the English side believes his time at the LaLiga club provided him with valuable experience to lead this project.

Far from being a straightforward decision for Xavi Hernández, he could have serious doubts about accepting Chelsea’s proposal. Given the club’s instability with managers, the Spaniard might not have the opportunity to build a long-term project, as Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior were not afforded that chance either. If he fails to deliver strong results, he could once again exit through the back door, potentially affecting his career, as happened with Graham Potter.

In case Xavi Hernández manages to build a solid project at the Blues, he could once again reestablish as one of the best managers in the world. However, he would likely need to win the Premier League or the UEFA Champions League. In addition, he could request greater control over transfers, aiming to reshape several areas of the squad with players suited to his dominant, attacking style of play.

FC Barcelona Head Coach Xavi Hernandez interacts with Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Barcelona and SSC Napoli.
FC Barcelona Head Coach Xavi Hernandez interacts with Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona.

Report: Chelsea also chase Cesc Fabregas as leading coaching candidate

In an effort to restore the competitive direction of their project, Chelsea appear determined to back a coach who excels at developing young talent. While Xavi Hernández seems to be the front office’s top priority, they are also keeping alternatives in mind in case an agreement cannot be reached. As a result, they have set their sights on Cesc Fàbregas, who is impressing at Como in Serie A.

According to CaughtOffside, the Blues believe Cesc Fàbregas would be an ideal solution for the head coach role. After establishing as a club legend, the Spaniard could be tempted to return to the Premier League. However, he has already made it clear that leaving Como 1907 will not be easy, as he is a shareholder in the club and feels strongly connected to the project, although he has always expressed his love for the English league.

Both Xavi Hernández and Cesc Fàbregas stand out in one key area: Developing young players. Because of this, Chelsea are making it clear that their focus is on maximizing the potential of the young players in their squad, something Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior did not manage to achieve. As a result, they are targeting coaches who have already made an impact on youngsters, with Nico Paz and Lamine Yamal standing out as clear examples of this philosophy.

Xavi, Then Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on before the LaLiga EA Sports match.

Cristiano Ronaldo nearly joined Lionel Messi at Barcelona in 2009 as ex-Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon reveals reason why it failed

5 May 2026 at 21:22
The possibility of both stars wearing the same shirt once came dangerously close to reality, only for one decisive factor to change everything.

The careers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have long been defined by rivalry, but a new revelation suggests their paths could have briefly converged. Long before their iconic battles between Real Madrid and Barcelona, there was a moment when history could have taken a dramatically different turn. The possibility of both stars wearing the same shirt once came dangerously close to reality, only for one decisive factor to change everything.

The summer of 2009 is remembered as a turning point, when Cristiano Ronaldo completed a blockbuster move to Real Madrid, beginning a legendary chapter. However, fresh insight reveals that the deal was far from straightforward and nearly collapsed at a critical stage.

According to former Los Blancos president Ramon Calderon, there was a genuine possibility that Ronaldo could have joined Barcelona instead, creating a partnership with Messi that would have redefined the sport.

Calderon explained that the Blaugrana made a serious push to secure Ronaldo’s signature during that period. “Barcelona offered Cristiano Ronaldo a larger amount. There was a real possibility of him moving to Barcelona and joining Messi,” he said on the YouTube podcast Ingenios, as reported by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.

ronaldo messi
Lionel Messi of Argentina and FC Barcelona (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Real Madrid (R)

The financial aspect of the offer made the situation even more compelling. Barcelona was reportedly willing to outbid Real Madrid, presenting Ronaldo with a lucrative alternative that could have altered his career trajectory. At the same time, Alex Ferguson played a key role behind the scenes. As Manchester United’s manager, he was reluctant to see Ronaldo move to Madrid due to tensions between the clubs.

The decisive moment behind the collapse

The crucial turning point came during discussions about Ronaldo’s next step, when Ferguson attempted to redirect the transfer. “Sir Alex Ferguson… told him at the time: ‘Okay, you will leave, but to Barcelona.’”

It was at this moment that Ronaldo made his stance clear, effectively shaping soccer history. “No, I have reached an agreement with Real Madrid, with Ramon Calderon, and I will go to Real Madrid.”

ronaldo ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson the manager of Manchester United talks with Cristiano Ronaldo

This response closed the door on a potential Barcelona move and ensured that Ronaldo’s long-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid would go ahead, preserving the iconic rivalry between him and Messi rather than uniting them.

Resistance inside Real Madrid and complicated relationship behind the success

Interestingly, even after Ronaldo chose Madrid, the deal still faced internal resistance. Calderon revealed that Florentino Perez, upon returning as president, was initially hesitant to finalize the agreement.

“When Florentino arrived and saw the contract, he did not want to complete the deal. He did not even want to present it… Those around him convinced him that the matter was something crazy.” This hesitation highlights how the transfer was not universally supported within the club at the time, despite its eventual success.

ronaldo perez
ristiano Ronaldo poses with the trophy as all-time top scorer of Real Madrid CF and president Florentino Perez

Calderon also shed light on the relationship between Perez and Ronaldo, suggesting it was strained from the beginning. “The relationship between Perez and Ronaldo was not good at all from the beginning.”

He went further, recalling the circumstances of Ronaldo’s departure in 2018. “He did not accept the exit either; Perez agreed on the condition that the player bring a cheque worth €100 million [$117m]… and when the player arrived with the cheque, there was no room to back out.”

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid CF (R)

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr receive timely lift as Al-Shabab excludes Abderrazak Hamdallah from Riyadh Derby, all thanks to Yannick Carrasco

5 May 2026 at 21:19
As Al-Nassr prepares for another defining moment, developments involving Abderrazak Hamdallah and Yannick Carrasco have cast a shadow over Al-Shabab.

The spotlight once again falls on Cristiano Ronaldo as developments off the pitch hand Al-Nassr a potential advantage ahead of a crucial derby. As Al-Nassr prepares for another defining moment, developments involving Abderrazak Hamdallah and Yannick Carrasco have cast a shadow over Al-Shabab.

The buildup to the Riyadh derby has taken an unexpected turn, with internal conflict at Al-Shabab emerging at the worst possible time. The club now faces questions about squad harmony and readiness, while its rival prepares to capitalize on any instability. For Al-Nassr, the situation presents a timely boost as the club continues its push at the top of the table.

The issue at Al-Shabab did not arise overnight, but it escalated dramatically following a disappointing 5-1 defeat in the league. What began as a disagreement quickly evolved into a wider problem that forced the club’s hierarchy to step in.

At the heart of the controversy was a heated moment between Hamdallah and Carrasco during a match. A disagreement over decision-making on the pitch led to visible frustration, which later continued beyond the final whistle.

il a bien raison jai vu le match du début à la fin malgré la défaite 5-1 je suis rester et j’ai vu un Carrasco horrible et même les journalistes on confirmer que il joue personnelle l’an passé il était blesser et l’équipe était mieux classé il mérite mieux hamdallah pic.twitter.com/lRtZhKNvek

— Hamdallah Sati (@hamdallahsati) May 4, 2026

The situation reportedly extended into the dressing room, requiring intervention from staff members to prevent further escalation. What might have been a minor dispute instead turned into a full-blown internal issue, raising concerns about discipline and unity within the squad.

Club responds with firm sanctions

Al-Shabab has, thus, reacted decisively, making it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated. According to the Arriyadiyah newspaper, the club imposed a series of disciplinary measures on the Moroccan striker, including exclusion from the upcoming clash against Al-Nassr and suspension from team training for seven days.

Beyond the immediate suspension, questions are now being raised about Hamdallah’s long-term position at the club. Arriyadiyah also goes on to suggest that his future could be in doubt, with the possibility of an early departure not ruled out.

Hamdallah
Abderrazak Hamdallah of Al Shabab battling for the ball

This was not an isolated incident, either. SBA Sport has reported ongoing tension between Hamdallah and Carrasco throughout the season, indicating that the clash was the culmination of unresolved issues rather than a one-off disagreement.

While efforts are believed to be underway to resolve the situation internally, the damage may already have been done. The incident has exposed deeper issues within the squad, leaving the club with a difficult balancing act between discipline and stability.

Golden opportunity for Al-Nassr

For Al-Nassr, the timing of this crisis could hardly be better. Facing an opponent dealing with internal disruption, Jorge Jesus and his player have a clear opportunity to strengthen their position in the league standings.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr.

With Ronaldo continuing to deliver on the pitch with 25 goals this season, the focus now shifts to whether the Knight of Najd can take full advantage of the situation. The absence of a key attacking figure from the opposition may prove decisive in a match where margins are often thin.

Abderrazak Hamdallah (left), Cristiano Ronaldo (center), and Yannick Carrasco (right)

Kylian Mbappé could have joined Barcelona, but staff prioritized Ousmane Dembélé, says ex-president Josep Maria Bartomeu

5 May 2026 at 20:13
Even though Kylian Mbappé is now the cornerstone of Real Madrid, he could have become a Barcelona player in 2017. Despite this, the technical staff prioritized the signing of Ousmane Dembélé, as revealed by former president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Kylian Mbappé has become Real Madrid’s cornerstone after arriving as a marquee signing from PSG. However, the Frenchman was close to joining Barcelona when he was still at AS Monaco. After the departure of Neymar Jr., the Blaugrana were looking for their next star on the left wing, ready to pay a huge transfer fee. While he was a clear option, the staff decided to prioritize the signing of Ousmane Dembélé, as revealed by former president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

“We didn’t want the players to leave for other teams, so we matched the offers. Neymar’s departure led other clubs to pay high amounts… We asked about Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, but the coaching staff preferred Dembélé. The only decision I made as president was the signing of Luis Suárez,” reveló Josep Maria Bartomeu, via Cadena SER.

After several brilliant seasons at AS Monaco, Mbappé pushed for a move away in 2017, with Real Madrid as the main interested party. However, he rejected that option, as Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale would not have guaranteed him a starting role. While he eventually signed for PSG for €180 million, he could have become a Barcelona player had they decided to pursue his signing instead of Ousmane Dembélé, who never truly shined at the club.

While Ousmane Dembélé went on to become one of the best players in the world, the Frenchman had a disappointing stint at Barcelona. Signed as one of the world’s most promising young talents, the Blaugranas expected him to make a major impact on the field, but injuries and poor decisions on field prevented him from shining. In contrast, Mbappé excelled at PSG, becoming the team’s best player, proving that the Spanish club’s decision was completely wrong.

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe smiling
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid reacts during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League.

Barcelona’s post-Neymar transfers: Three big failures under Bartomeu

Despite being one of the best players in the world, Neymar Jr. decided to leave Barcelona via his €222M release clause to PSG. While this record fee could have been key to rebuilding the squad, president Josep Maria Bartomeu and his front office instead chose to sign Philippe Coutinho, Ousmane Dembélé, and Antoine Griezmann, all of whom ultimately failed to meet expectations and later left as free agents.

Far from acknowledging the failure of his decisions, Bartomeu chose to justify them in a surprising way: “It’s a shame. Dembélé has succeeded at PSG. Xavi said he shouldn’t have been let go. Maybe he was signed too young, I don’t know. Griezmann came to lead a generational transition, which I may have handled too late. I should have started it after the defeat in Liverpool, and I did it a year later,” he said, via Cadena SER.

In case the Blaugranas had pursued the signing of Mbappé in 2017, he likely would have formed an ideal partnership with Lionel Messi, becoming the cornerstone of the team for the future. Moreover, Coutinho and Dembélé would not have arrived, avoiding the multimillion-dollar failure that shook the club’s financial and sporting stability for years.

Kylian Mbappe of Monaco and Ousmane Dembele of FC Barcelona.

Carlo Ancelotti’s son Davide on Brazil’s World Cup challenges: ‘Not an easy job’

Davide Ancelotti, an assistant to his father Carlo with the Brazil national team, discussed expectations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

At the end of this month, Carlo Ancelotti will have to finalize the 26-man roster that will compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With that deadline approaching, his son and assistant Davide opened up about the challenges facing Brazil.

If you analyse the actual situation of Brazil, there are really good defenders, some of the best in the world, really good transition players – the wingers, the 10s, and the strikers too,” Davide Ancelotti said in a recent interview with BBC Sport.

This gives you an idea of what kind of football you can play, but then there is the culture of the nation,” the assistant added, suggesting that not only the players’ attributes and the coach’s opinions matter when defining a national team’s style of play.

You need to have a clear identity but to adapt. You have to be able to balance your ideas with the characteristics of the players and then the identity of the nation,” Davide explained. “It’s not an easy job… And then you have to win the World Cup as well!”

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.

This perhaps represents the biggest challenge Carlo Ancelotti has faced since taking over Brazil in the summer of 2025. At that time, the team were struggling in the World Cup qualifiers—something the Italian coach quickly managed to fix. However, in terms of on-field performances, they still appear to have room for improvement.

Brazil have a well-defined style

Few national teams in the world have as rich a tradition as Brazil. The great stars who have represented the national team since the 1950s helped shape the style fans expect to see, but that identity has not been easy to maintain in recent years.

Davide Ancelotti described that style as to play attacking football, winning football, and to play with a smile. You have to consider that.” He also spoke about the fans’ expectations: “Brazilian people love football, they like to joga bonito (play beautifully), but they like to win a lot.”

Brazil’s challenges in recent decades

South Korea – Japan 2002 was Brazil’s most recent World Cup title. That squad perfectly embodied the country’s style, featuring world-class stars such as Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Kaka, Cafu, and Roberto Carlos. Much of that generation also competed at Germany 2006, where they were eliminated by France in the quarterfinals.

Since then, Brazil have struggled to maintain that identity—a challenge Carlo Ancelotti continues to face today. That attacking, seemingly carefree style has not delivered results in subsequent World Cups, where they have fallen short of reaching the final.

Perhaps the closest examples of Brazil’s traditional style came under coach Tite at Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, although they were eliminated in the quarterfinals on both occasions. Now, Ancelotti faces the challenge of changing that narrative and leading Brazil deep into a World Cup once again.

Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil, chats with his assistant coach Davide Ancelotti.

Heavyweight world champion warns Benavidez that moving up to his division is a ‘step too far’

5 May 2026 at 20:52

has been warned against moving up to the heavyweight division. Benavidez proved his worth as one of the best fighters in the world on Saturday when he successfully stepped up to cruiserweight to dethrone WBA and WBO champion Gilberto Ramirez with a sixth round stoppage win. It is the third division that Benavidez has held […]

The post Heavyweight world champion warns Benavidez that moving up to his division is a ‘step too far’ appeared first on Boxing News.

Zeynep Sönmez Roma Açık'ta tur atladı

Milli tenisçi Zeynep Sönmez, Roma Açık'ta 2. tura yükseldi.

Milli sporcu Zeynep Sönmez, Roma Açık Tenis Turnuvası'nda İtalyan rakibi Jennifer Ruggeri'yi 2-1 yenerek 2. tura çıktı.

Başkent Roma'da Foro Italico Kompleksi'ndeki toprak kortlarda düzenlenen Kadınlar Tenis Birliği (WTA) 1000 düzeyindeki Roma Açık'ta bugün ilk tur maçları oynandı.

Dünya sıralamasının 65. basamağında yer alan Zeynep Sönmez, ilk kez ana tabloda mücadele ettiği Roma Açık ilk turunda ev sahibi ülkeden klasmanın 265. basamağındaki Ruggeri ile karşılaştı.

İlk sete tutuk başlayan ve sonradan açılan Zeynep, rakibi karşısında ilk seti 6-4 kaybetti.

İkinci sete hızlı başlayan milli tenisçi, rakibinin servisini 3 kez kırarak seti 6-2 aldı ve maçta durumu 1-1'e getirdi.

Müsabakanın final setinde Zeynep Sönmez, oyunda kontrolü bırakmadı ve bu seti de 6-2 aldı.

Toplamda 2 saat 7 dakika süren maçı 2-1 kazanan Zeynep Sönmez, adını bir üst tura yazdırmayı başardı.

Beşiktaş GAİN-Aliağa Petkimspor:81-69 (MAÇ SONUCU)

Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi 28. hafta erteleme maçında Beşiktaş GAİN, Aliağa Petkimspor'u konuk etti. Beşiktaş mücadeleyi 81-69 kazandı.

Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi 28. hafta erteleme maçında Beşiktaş GAİN, konuk ettiği Aliağa Petkimspor'u 81-69 yendi.

Salon: Beşiktaş GAİN Spor Kompleksi

Hakemler: Mehmet Karabilecen, Seher Ayşe Nur Yazıcıoğlu, Uğur Akyıldız

Beşiktaş GAİN: Berk Uğurlu 5, Yiğit Arslan 5, Morgan 12, Lemar 15, Anthony Brown 9, Dotson 9, Sertaç Şanlı 11, Thomas 11, Vitto Brown 4

Aliağa Petkimspor: Whittaker 14, Efianayi 12, Blumbergs 6, Yunus Emre Sonsırma, Floyd 7, Franke 15, Mustafa Kurtuldum 4, Troy Şav, Sajus 11, Flowers

1. Periyot: 23-21

Devre: 43-37

3. Periyot: 64-50

Beş faulle oyundan çıkan: 38.44 Sajus (Aliağa Petkimspor)

Sergen Yalçın: Bizim için çok önemli

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde Beşiktaş ile Konyaspor sahasında karşı karşıya gelecek.

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde Beşiktaş ile Konyaspor sahasında karşı karşıya gelecek. Mücadele öncesi Beşiktaş teknik direktörü Sergen Yalçın açıklamalarda bulundu.

Sergen Yalçın'ın açıklaması şöyle:

-Türkiye Kupası bizim için çok önemli. Final oynamak istiyoruz. İyi hazırlandık, kazanıp final tarafına geçmek istiyoruz.

-Temennim, Beşiktaş’taki maç sayımın 500’e ulaşması. Aldığım plaket beni mutlu etti, kendimi değerli hissettim. Camiamıza, başkanımıza ve yönetimimize teşekkür ediyorum. İnşallah bugün kazanıp finale yükselir ve mutluluğumuzu daha da artırırız.

İlhan Palut: Kolay maç olmayacak

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde Beşiktaş ile Konyaspor sahasında karşı karşıya gelecek.

Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde Beşiktaş ile Konyaspor sahasında karşı karşıya gelecek. Mücadele öncesi Konyaspor teknik direktörü İlhan Palut açıklamalarda bulundu.

İlhan Palut'un açıklaması şöyle:

-Kolay bir maç olmayacak farkındayız. Karşımızda uzun süredir Türkiye Kupası'na odaklanmış bir takım var. Çok savaşmamız gerekecek. Sahaya karakterli bir oyun ortaya koymak lazım. Hedefimiz buradan güzel bir sonuçla ayrılmak.

VakıfBank'tan sakatlık açıklaması

VakıfBank, Sırp voleybolcu Dangubic'in sağlık durumu hakkında bilgilendirme yaptı.

VakıfBank Spor Kulübü, Sırp voleybolcu Katarina Dangubic'in sol diz çapraz bağında yaralanma tespit edildiğini duyurdu.

Kulüpten yapılan açıklamada, CEV Zeren Group Şampiyonlar Ligi yarı finalindeki A. Carraro Imoco karşılaşmasında yaşadığı sakatlık nedeniyle maça devam edemeyen Katarina Dangubic'in Academic Hospital'da yapılan ileri düzey tetkikleri neticesinde sol diz çapraz bağında ameliyat gerektirecek düzeyde yaralanma tespit edildiği kaydedildi.

Ayrıca açıklamada, Dangubic'in tercihi ve kulübün onayıyla gerekli olan operasyonun Sırbistan'da gerçekleştirileceği aktarıldı.

Minifutbol millimiz Monteneqroda çempion oldu

5 May 2026 at 21:30

Minifutbol üzrə Azərbaycanın milli komandası Monteneqroda təşkil edilmiş “Millətlər Oyunları” beynəlxalq turnirinin qalibi olub.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Azərbaycan Minifutbol Federasiyasının mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.

Komandamız Qazaxıstan və Monteneqro millilərinin iştirakı ilə keçirilmiş yarışda birinci olub.

Yığma üzvlərindən Vəli Qafarov turnirin ən yaxşı qapıçısı seçilib. İsa Atayev isə yarışın ən məhsuldar futbolçusu seçilib.

Xanlar Əliyev: “Turnirin Bakıda keçirilməsi bizim üçün üstünlükdür”

5 May 2026 at 21:00

16 yaşadək qızlardan ibarət Azərbaycan millisinin baş məşqçi əvəzi Xanlar Əliyev Bakıda keçiriləcək UEFA İnkişaf Turnirindən danışıb.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis AFFA-nın mətbuat xidmətinə açıqlamasında komandanın oyunlara hazır olduğunu deyib:

“Aprelin 30-dan təlim-məşq toplanışındayıq. Komandanın hazırlıq durumu və məşqlərdəki reaksiyaları bizi qane edir. Bunun bəhrəsini sabahkı oyunda müsbət nəticə ilə görəcəyimizə inanıram. Bildiyiniz kimi, son Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsinin ardından 2009-cu il təvəllüdlülər yuxarı yaş qrupuna keçiblər. Turnir üçün əsasən 2010-2011-ci il təvəllüdlü oyunçuları dəvət etmişik. İlk dəfə millinin heyətində olanlar var. Onlar üçün yeni təcrübədir. Komandanın psixoloji durumu və məşqlərə yanaşması yaxşıdır”.

Xanlar Əliyev rəqiblər barədə də fikirlərini bildirib:

“Bu turnirdə yeni oyunçuların son durumlarını görmək imkanımız olacaq. Onların özlərini göstərmələri baxımından yaxşı şansdır. Rəqibləri təhlil etmişik. Rumıniya son Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsində A Liqasında mübarizə aparıb. Gürcüstan yığması bizə tanış rəqibdir. İlk rəqibimiz olan Litva ilə görüşə yaxşı hazırlaşmışıq. Futbolçuların inkişafı baxımından turnir bizim üçün çox önəmlidir. Hər kəsə şans verəcəyik”.

O, komandanın azarkeş dəstəyinə ehtiyac duyduğunu da sözlərinə əlavə edib:

“Turnirin Bakıda keçirilməsi bizim üçün əlavə üstünlükdür. Azarkeşlərdən xahişim budur ki, oyunlarımıza gəlsinlər, qızları dəstəkləsinlər. Qarşıda bizi Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsi gözləyir. UEFA İnkişaf Turniri də həmin yarışa hazırlıq məqsədi daşıyır”.

Xatırladaq ki, U-16 millimiz UEFA İnkişaf Turniri çərçivəsində mayın 6-da Litva, 8-də Rumıniya, 11-də isə Gürcüstan yığması ilə qarşılaşacaq. Oyunlar Binə stadionunda keçiriləcək.

Füzuli Məmmədov: “0:2-dən sonra geridönüş çox çətin idi”

5 May 2026 at 20:30

“Karvan”ın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov Premyer Liqanın 30-cu turu çərçivəsində “Neftçi”yə qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Yevlaxda baş tutmuş görüşü meydan sahiblərinin 0:3 hesablı məğlubiyyəti ilə yekunlaşıb.

Füzuli Məmmədov matçdan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:

“Oyun barədə çox danışmağa lüzum görmürəm. Ciddi hazırlaşmışdıq. Düşünürdük ki, evdə daha yaxşı oynayacağıq. İlk qola qədər komanda planlı oynayırdı. Sadəcə, mövqe səhvindən buraxdığımız qol mənfi təsir etdi. Birinci hissənin sonlarında rəqibin belə rahat qol vuracağını gözləmirdik. Deyərdim ki, ikinci qoldan sonra oyunumuzda düşüş baş verdi. Bu da normaldır. Məğlub olmaq istəmirdik. 0:2 hesabından sonra geridönüş etmək çox çətin idi. Üç oyunumuz qalıb. Şans varsa, son ana qədər mübarizə aparacağıq. “Neftçi”ni təbrik edirəm.

“Qəbələ” üçün də, bizim üçün də çətin oyunlar var. Aramızda 6 xallıq fərq var və “Qəbələ” ilə evdə oynayacağıq. 6 xallıq fərqi aradan qaldırmaq üçün hər oyuna ciddi hazırlaşacağıq. Biz az istirahət edəcəyik. Planımızı təqvimə uyğun tutmağa çalışacağıq”.

Vernidub: “Mövsümün əvvəlindən burada olsaydım…”

5 May 2026 at 20:00

“Neftçi”nin baş məşqçisi Yuri Vernidub Premyer Liqanın 30-cu turu çərçivəsində “Karvan”a qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Yevlaxda baş tutmuş görüşü paytaxt təmsilçisinin 3:0 hesablı qələbəsi ilə yekunlaşıb.

Yuri Vernidub matçdan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:

“Qarabağ”la oyundan sonra futbolçularda böyük emosiyalar yarandı. Yalan demiyəcəyəm, bu matça görə məndə həyəcan var idi. Adətən böyük oyunlardan sonra futbolçuların emosional vəziyyəti həmişə yaxşı olmur. Amma hamımız birlikdə bunun öhdəsindən gəldik. Oyunçularıma minnətdaram.

Bizim üçün hər oyun finaldır. “Şamaxı”, “Sabah” və “Kəpəz”lə oyunlarımız var. Futbolçular da yaxşı başa düşürlər ki, bütün matçlarda maksimumu göstərməliyik. Bəli, kubokun finalından da çox şey asılıdır. Mən bütün qarşılaşmaları çətin hesab edirəm. Bu oyunlardan sonra harada olacağımızı görəcəyik.

Falaye Sakoya təşəkkür edirəm. O, peşəkar futbolçudur. Bütün oyunlarda öz peşəkarlığını ortaya qoymalıdır. Sakonun kifayət qədər təcrübəsi var, Fransa çempionatında oynayıb.

“Neftçi” kimi tarixi olan komandada işləmək böyük şərəfdir. Ən önəmlisi odur ki, oyunçular da “Neftçi”də oynamağın adi bir şey olmadığını başa düşməlidirlər. Hər zaman peşəkar davranmalı və bu ada layiq olmalıdırlar.

Kimlərin qalıb, kimlərin gedəcəyinə gəlincə, vaxtı çatanda hər şeyi deyəcəyəm. Mətbuatda çox şey yazırlar. Hətta yazırlar ki, mənim futbolçularla münaqişəm var. Mən ümumiyyətlə konfliktli insan deyiləm. Bir-birimizə hörmətlə yanaşırıq. Nə olur-olsun, ortaq dil tapacağıq. Onu deyim ki, seçimlərdə həssas yanaşacağıq. Bizim kriteriyalara uyğun futbolçularla yola davam edəcəyik.

Məndən əvvəl də çox xallar itirilmişdi. Mənim vaxtımda da “Turan Tovuz”, “Zirə”, “Şamaxı” ilə oyunlarda xal itkiləri olub. Maksimum nəticələr əldə etmək üçün hamımız əlimizdən gələni edirik. Mövsümün əvvəlindən burada olsaydım, daha fərqli danışmaq olardı. Amma buna baxmayaraq, müsbət mənada bir çox dəyişikliklərə nail olmuşuq. Gələcəkdə ən yuxarı yerlərdə olmaq ən böyük arzumdur. Bu, futbolçuların və rəhbərliyin də arzusudur”.

Google rolls out new data, experimentation and MMM tools to improve measurement

5 May 2026 at 20:49

Google is rolling out new tools to help advertisers better understand performance across increasingly complex customer journeys.

What’s happening. As AI continues to transform campaigns, creatives and targeting, Google is introducing updates focused on data integration, experimentation and media mix modelling — all aimed at helping marketers turn fragmented signals into actionable insights.

Why we care. Automation has made it easier to run campaigns, but harder to understand what’s actually working. These updates make it easier to connect data, prove what’s actually driving results, and make smarter budget decisions across channels. As AI handles more of the execution, having strong measurement in place becomes the key differentiator for performance and growth.

Data is the starting point. Google is expanding its Data Manager to give advertisers a clearer view of how their data flows across platforms like BigQuery, HubSpot and Shopify.

A new map-based interface will help marketers visualise connections between data sources and identify gaps in tracking or configuration. At the same time, updates to the Google tag aim to simplify setup, allowing advertisers to upgrade existing tags without additional coding.

The goal: make it easier to unify signals and improve data quality — which directly impacts campaign performance.

Between the lines. Google is acknowledging a long-standing issue — advertisers struggle more with data setup and integration than with campaign execution itself.

By simplifying tagging and data flows, Google is trying to remove one of the biggest blockers to effective AI adoption.

Proving what actually works. Google is also introducing Meridian GeoX, a new geo-experimentation tool designed to measure incremental impact across regions.

Built on an open-source framework, GeoX feeds into Google’s broader Marketing Mix Model, Meridian, giving advertisers a more defensible way to validate performance — especially when presenting results to finance teams.

This signals a shift toward causal measurement, not just correlation.

Why it matters. As privacy changes reduce visibility and attribution becomes more complex, marketers are under pressure to prove impact. Tools like GeoX aim to provide that “ground truth” — something many attribution models struggle to deliver.

Simplifying media mix modelling. To address the complexity of Marketing Mix Models (MMMs), Google is launching Meridian Studio — a Google Cloud-powered platform that helps teams build, customise and scale models more easily.

The focus is on operationalising MMMs, making them less resource-intensive and more accessible for enterprise teams managing large datasets.

What to watch:

  • Whether advertisers adopt MMMs more widely with simplified tools
  • How effective GeoX is in proving incremental impact
  • If improved data visibility translates into better campaign performance

Bottom line. Google is making a strategic shift: in an AI-driven world, better measurement — not just better automation — will determine who wins.

Qayıbov idmançılarla görüşdü

5 May 2026 at 21:13

Bu gün gənclər və idman naziri Fərid Qayıbov ötən ay beynəlxalq yarışlarda yüksək nəticələr əldə etmiş idmançılarla görüş keçirib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, Azərbaycan İdman Akademiyasında təşkil olunan tədbir Dövlət Himninin səsləndirilməsi ilə başlayıb. Ardınca “Azərbaycan Respublikasının idman ustası” adına layiq görülən idmançılara müvafiq vəsiqə və döş nişanları təqdim edilib.

Daha sonra nazir idmançıların beynəlxalq arenalarda qazandıqları uğurları yüksək qiymətləndirərək onları və məşqçilərini təbrik edib. Qayıbov bildirib ki, aprel ayı ərzində Azərbaycan Respublikasının Dövlət Himni 13 ölkədə səsləndirilib, idmançılarımız isə ümumilikdə 82 qızıl, 56 gümüş və 70 bürünc medal qazanıblar.

Tədbir zamanı beynəlxalq yarışlarda əldə olunan nəticələri əks etdirən videoçarx nümayiş etdirilib. Bir sıra idman növləri üzrə nümayəndələr isə iştirak etdikləri yarışlar və əldə etdikləri nailiyyətlər barədə məlumat veriblər.

Sonda nazir Fərid Qayıbov idmançılara gələcək yarışlarda da uğurlar arzulayıb.

“Sumqayıt” akademiyasının üzvləri ekskursiyada olub

5 May 2026 at 20:51

“Sumqayıt” Futbol Akademiyasının U-14, U-15 oğlanlar və U-16 qızlar komandaları üçün klubun baş sponsoru olan “Azərikimya” İstehsalat Birliyinə (İB) maarifləndirici ekskursiya təşkil edilib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, səfər çərçivəsində “Azərikimya” İB-nin baş direktoru Elnur Məmmədli gənc futbolçularla görüşərək, onlara gələcək karyeraları və şəxsi inkişafları ilə bağlı tövsiyələrini verib.

Görüşün ardından iştirakçılar müəssisənin inzibati binası ilə tanış olub, daha sonra Etilen-Polietilen zavoduna yollanıblar. Burada gənc futbolçulara istehsalat prosesləri və müasir qurğuların iş prinsipi barədə ətraflı məlumat verilib.

Tədbirin əsas məqsədi gənclərin dünyagörüşünü artırmaq, onları real iş mühiti ilə tanış etmək və gələcək ixtisas seçimlərində onlara dəstək olmaqdır.

Sonda ekskursiyanın təşkilinə görə “Sumqayıt” FK-nın vitse-prezidenti Aydın Xəlilova, akademiya meneceri Zərifə Bayramovaya və “Azərikimya” İB-nin İstehsalat üzrə böyük mütəxəssisi Rəhim Əkbərova minnətdarlıq ifadə olunub.

Azərbaycan təmsilçisi Dünya Kubokunda mübarizə aparacaq

5 May 2026 at 20:30

8–10 may tarixlərində Macarıstanın Seqed şəhərində kayak və kanoe üzrə Dünya Kubokunun birinci mərhələsi keçiriləcək.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, 2028-ci ildə Los-Ancelesdə təşkil olunacaq Yay Olimpiya Oyunlarına reytinq xalı verən bu yarışda Azərbaycan Su İdman Növləri Federasiyasını Tatyana Smilovenko təmsil edəcək.

Kanoe üzrə milli komandanın liderlərindən olan Tatyana Smilovenko Dünya Kubokunda medallar və reytinq xalları uğrunda yarışacaq.

Fiziyev Bakıda Torreslə döyüşəcək

5 May 2026 at 19:45

Bakıda keçiriləcək UFC turnirinin əsas döyüşündə Azərbaycan təmsilçisi Rafael Fiziyev meksiyalı Manuel Torreslə üz-üzə gələcək.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, idmançılar yüngül çəkidə münasibətlərə aydınlıq gəticəklər.

İkinci əsas döyüşdə isə azarkeşləri ulduz döyüşçü Şarabutdin “Shara Bullet” Maqomedov (Rusiya) ilə “dağıdıcı” döyüş tərzi ilə tanınan Miçel Pereyra (Braziliya) arasında yüksək səviyyəli orta çəki qarşılaşması gözləyir.

Qeyd edək ki, Rafael Fiziyev (13-5, Bakı, Azərbaycan) hazırda yüngül çəki divizionunda 11-ci pillədə qərarlaşıb və doğma arenada qələbə qazanaraq çempionluq mübarizəsinə dönməyi hədəfləyir. Onun rəqibi isə Meksikanın Tijuana şəhərindən olan, UFC-dəki bütün qələbələrini nokautla qazanan və 100 faiz finiş göstəricisinə sahib Manuel “Loco” Torresdir (17-3).

Bu il “UFC Fight Night” iyunun 27-də Milli Gimnastika Arenasında baş tutacaq.

Əliyev: “Azarkeşlərdən xahişim budur ki…”

5 May 2026 at 19:29

16 yaşadək qızlardan ibarət Azərbaycan milli komandasının baş məşqçi səlahiyyətlərini müvəqqəti icra edən Xanlar Əliyev Bakıda keçiriləcək UEFA İnkişaf Turniri ilə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis AFFA-nın mətbuat xidmətinə açıqlamasında komandanın oyunlara hazır olduğunu deyib:

“Aprelin 30-dan təlim-məşq toplanışındayıq. Komandanın hazırlıq durumu və məşqlərdəki reaksiyaları bizi qane edir. Bunun bəhrəsini sabahkı oyunda müsbət nəticə ilə görəcəyimizə inanıram. Bildiyiniz kimi, son Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsinin ardından 2009-cu il təvəllüdlülər yuxarı yaş qrupuna keçiblər. Turnir üçün əsasən 2010-2011-ci il təvəllüdlü oyunçuları dəvət etmişik. İlk dəfə millinin heyətində olanlar var. Onlar üçün yeni təcrübədir. Komandanın psixoloji durumu və məşqlərə yanaşması yaxşıdır”.

Əliyev rəqiblər barədə də fikirlərini bildirib:

“Bu turnirdə yeni oyunçuların son durumlarını görmək imkanımız olacaq. Onların özlərini göstərməsi baxımından yaxşı şansdır. Rəqibləri təhlil etmişik. Rumıniya son Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsində A Liqasında mübarizə aparıb. Gürcüstan yığması bizə tanış rəqibdir. İlk rəqibimiz olan Litva ilə görüşə yaxşı hazırlaşmışıq. Turnir futbolçuların inkişafı nöqteyi-nəzərindən bizim üçün çox önəmlidir. Hər kəsə şans verəcəyik”.

O, komandanın azarkeş dəstəyinə ehtiyac duyduğunu sözlərinə əlavə edib: “

“Turnirin Bakıda keçirilməsi bizim üçün əlavə üstünlükdür. Azarkeşlərdən xahişim budur ki, oyunlarımıza gəlsinlər, qızları dəstəkləsinlər. Qarşıda bizi Avropa çempionatının seçmə mərhələsi gözləyir. UEFA İnkişaf Turniri də həmin yarışa hazırlıq məqsədi daşıyır”.

Qeyd edək ki, U-16 UEFA İnkişaf Turniri çərçivəsində mayın 6-da Litva, 8-də Rumıniya, 11-də isə Gürcüstan yığması ilə qarşılaşacaq. Oyunlar Binə stadionunda keçiriləcək.

Juventus yet to meet Lewandowski agent as Barcelona star weighs up future

5 May 2026 at 20:59

Juventus have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Robert Lewandowski in Italy, but a face-to-face meeting with the Polish striker’s agent Pini Zahavi has yet to take place, leaving the situation unresolved as the Barcelona forward continues to weigh up his options.

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According to Fabrizio Romano, via CalcioMercato, Juventus have established a degree of priority over AC Milan through intermediary contacts with Zahavi, though the in-person meeting that will determine whether Italian clubs have a genuine chance remains to be scheduled.

Milan had moved first, attempting to replicate the kind of deal that brought Luka Modric to Serie A, but Juventus have since overtaken them in the race.

BARCELONA, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 28: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF at Spotify Camp Nou on February 28, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 28: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF at Spotify Camp Nou on February 28, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Lewandowski collecting all offers before making decision amid Juventus links

Lewandowski’s contract at Barcelona expires on June 30, making him a free agent, though the club retain a renewal clause in the agreement. Barcelona have so far respected an informal understanding that they would negotiate with the player before activating it rather than impose the option unilaterally.

The Poland international and his family are understood to want to gather all available proposals, including any renewed offer from Barcelona, as well as approaches from Chicago Fire and clubs in the Middle East, before making what is described as a life decision as much as a footballing one.

A resolution is not expected until after Barcelona have officially wrapped up their Liga title challenge.

Revealed: Kone release clause as Inter, Milan & Juventus battle for Sassuolo star

5 May 2026 at 20:26

Ismael Kone has a €35 million release clause in his Sassuolo contract that is valid until the end of July, with Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus all understood to be among the clubs interested in signing one of Serie A’s standout performers this season.

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According to Fabrizio Romano, via TuttoMercatoWeb, contacts between the parties are expected before the start of the World Cup, which Koné will feature in as a key member of the Canada squad.

Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has also addressed the situation publicly. “I haven’t spoken with Inter or Milan about Koné, but it’s also true that we have had some requests from foreign clubs,” he said. “It’s possible that an Inter-Milan derby could emerge. We need to find the best situation for him, but at the same time for us too.”

PISA, ITALY - JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone' of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Sassuolo open to Kone sale as Serie A giants circle ahead of World Cup

Milan sporting director Igli Tare has already publicly confirmed his club’s interest, and with the release clause set at a fixed figure, the race is likely to come down to the player’s preference rather than a negotiation over fee.

Inter and Juventus have also been linked with the Sassuolo man, in what promises to be a difficult battle for his signature.

As Carnevali noted, there is also interest from abroad in the Canadian, meaning Italian clubs will want to act fast to avoid missing out.

Koné will head into the summer with considerable leverage, having established himself as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Serie A this season.

Atalanta join Aston Villa & Tottenham Hotspur in race for Parma talent Keita

5 May 2026 at 20:05

Mandela Keita has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe after an impressive debut Serie A season with Parma, with Atalanta joining Premier League sides Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur in monitoring the Belgian.

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According to ParmaToday, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Atalanta’s interest is directly linked to the expected departure of Ederson, who is widely anticipated to leave Bergamo this summer with Manchester United understood to be ahead of Atletico Madrid in the race for his signature.

While Keita is a different profile to the Brazilian, he is reported to fit the technical criteria Raffaele Palladino’s side are working to ahead of next season.

BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Mandela Keita of Parma Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Mandela Keita of Parma Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Atalanta scouts watch Keita closely as Parma hold firm on valuation

Atalanta’s interest remains at an exploratory stage for now, with club scouts having watched Keita on multiple occasions to assess his physical qualities and ability to break into opposition lines.

No formal offer has been submitted by any of the interested clubs.

Keita arrived at Parma from Antwerp in the summer of 2024 for around €13 million and has developed into one of the cornerstones of Carlos Cuesta’s side.

Parma are under no financial pressure to sell, though as is often the case, the right offer could change the picture quickly.

Milan regret after snubbing move for in-form Malen as Roma approach obligation trigger

5 May 2026 at 19:45

Milan passed up the opportunity to sign Donyell Malen in January, with the Dutch striker having since transformed Roma’s attack under Gian Piero Gasperini and emerged as one of Serie A’s most effective forwards in the second half of the season.

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According to CalcioMercato, an intermediary offered Malen to Milan during the winter window, but the club declined to commit to an operation worth a total of around €27 million.

Instead, Roma secured the former Aston Villa forward on an onerous loan of approximately €2 million, with an obligation to buy that will be triggered should the Giallorossi qualify for next season’s Europa League or Champions League.

VERONA, ITALY - APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director, looks on prior to the Serie A match at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Malen form at Roma highlights Milan’s costly January miscalculation

The numbers make for uncomfortable reading from a Milan perspective.

Since joining Roma, Malen has scored 11 goals and contributed two assists in 15 Serie A appearances, adding a further assist in the Europa League against Bologna.

The Dutchman left Aston Villa seeking a club that would trust him as an out-and-out centre-forward rather than a wide attacker, and Gasperini’s direct, vertical system has brought out the best in him.

Milan’s January business, by contrast, yielded little. Sporting director Igli Tare operated without a significant budget, and the arrival of Niclas Fullkrug, the only notable attacking addition, has produced just one goal, against Lecce.

Inter 26/27 home shirt leaked as club embrace gold detailing

5 May 2026 at 19:19

Inter Milan’s home kit for the 2026/27 season has been leaked online, with Footy Headlines revealing images of a Nike design that retains the club’s classic black and blue stripes while introducing a striking deep yellow finish on the club’s badges and logos.

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According to Footy Headlines, who published exclusive images of the authentic version on April 25, more images of the shirt have since been leaked in collaboration with KamilBerberler.

The outlet also reported that the jersey was spotted on sale ahead of its official launch, with the inside collar carrying the inscription “Made of Milalo.”

Leaked Inter Home Kit 26/27 - FootyHeadlines
Leaked Inter Home Kit 26/27 – FootyHeadlines

Gold logos and zig-zag detailing mark Inter new Nike home shirt

The design largely lets the stripes do the talking, but there are subtle departures from tradition.

The black stripes are notably thicker than the blue, and the blue stripes feature a zig-zag pattern at both ends, a contemporary touch on an otherwise classic template.

The deep yellow used on the crests and Nike branding is described as sitting midway between yellow and orange, giving the shirt a warmer, more distinctive feel than a standard gold.

The Nike Inter Milan 2026/27 home shirt will reportedly be available to purchase from May 2026.

Man City or Arsenal? Crazy supercomputer prediction names Premier League winners in dramatic twist

5 May 2026 at 20:39

A supercomputer has predicted how the Premier League finale will play out, forecasting one of the most dramatic conclusions in the history of English football.

With only weeks remaining in the 2025/26 campaign, the data suggests the title race will be decided not by points, but by the thinnest of margins.

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The latest simulation from FindSisterSites (via The Sun) has processed thousands of variables to map out the final standings, and the results point toward a photo finish between the two heavyweights of the modern era: Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

Arsenal predicted to win the Premier League by just one goal

In a scenario that would mirror the legendary 1989 finale, the Gunners are tipped to clinch their second title in three years by a single goal.

According to the supercomputer, both Arsenal and Manchester City are expected to finish the season level on 83 points.

However, the North London side is projected to edge out the Cityzens with a goal difference of +45, compared to City’s +44.

For this nerve-wracking outcome to manifest, the model predicts Arsenal will win two and draw one of their final three fixtures.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are expected to take maximum points from their remaining four matches, including their crucial game in hand.

Such a result would represent the closest title race in Premier League history, eclipsing the famous “Agueroooo” moment of 2012.

Top 5 set with Liverpool and Aston Villa expected to grab final spots

While the title fight takes center stage, the race for elite European football is also reaching its conclusion.

Despite a season of significant ups and downs, Manchester United are backed to secure third place, continuing their impressive form under the Michael Carrick.

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The supercomputer expects Liverpool and Aston Villa to round out the top five, claiming the final Champions League spots.

Arne Slot’s side is predicted to do just enough to claim the fourth spot while Unai Emery’s Villa, despite their dip in form are expected secure back-to-back seasons in Europe’s premier competition.

If these predictions hold true, the final day of the season will be less about the points on the board and more about every shot, save, and goal scored across the country.

 

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Report: Euro giants make surprise enquiry for Liverpool manager Arne Slot

5 May 2026 at 20:07

According to Dutch media, Ajax have made an audacious enquiry for under-fire Liverpool manager Arne Slot as the Amsterdam giants continue their search for a permanent head coach.

The startling revelation comes from Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf, who revealed that the Eredivisie club reached out to the 47-year-old tactician despite his current role at Anfield.

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However, the approach was reportedly met with a swift and decisive refusal from the Liverpool boss.

Arne Slot turns down enquiry from Ajax

Speaking on the Kick-off podcast, Verweij detailed the exchange, noting that Slot remains committed to his long-term project on Merseyside.

“I was told again that they also informed Arne Slot,” Verweij said (quotes via Soccer News).

“Slot is still very firmly in the saddle; he will continue at Liverpool. I also understood that Arne Slot is not very keen to go to Ajax at this time in his career.”

Liverpool insist to continue with Arne Slot next season despite horrible season

The enquiry from Ajax highlights a paradoxical situation at Anfield.

Liverpool have endured a torrid 2025/26 campaign, recently suffering a 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, a result that marked their 11th league loss of the season and left them 18 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.

Despite breaking a 113-year-old record for home-and-away losses to both Manchester clubs in a single season, the Liverpool hierarchy reportedly remains behind their manager.

Unlike the chaotic managerial revolving door at Ajax, who are searching for their fourth permanent manager in three seasons, FSG appear determined to allow Slot the time to fix the current situation.

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While he has lost the support of the fans, winning the Premier League title just 12 months ago seems to have bought him the time to oversee a rebuild next season.

For now, the Dutch giants will have to look elsewhere, with Girona’s Míchel now emerging as the favorite to take the hot seat at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

 

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Liverpool plot blockbuster £82m move for “Rolls-Royce” Premier League speedster

5 May 2026 at 20:00

Liverpool are interested in signing the Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven. 

The 25-year-old defender has been outstanding for Tottenham since joining the club from Wolfsburg, and he has attracted the attention of top clubs recently. Liverpool would be willing to spend around €95 million (£82m) to sign the player in the summer, according to reports from FussballDaten.

Tottenham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see if they can stay up. Even if they do, the top players could look to move on in the summer. They will look to compete at the highest level and fight for trophies. Liverpool is certainly better placed than Tottenham to fight for League titles or the UEFA Champions League.

The Netherlands International could be attracted to the idea of joining the Premier League champions. Liverpool has a strong Dutch contingent, and convincing Van de Ven to join will not be difficult for them.

Meanwhile, the Reds have looked poor at the back this season, and they need to improve defensively. Signing the Tottenham star would be ideal for Liverpool. He could replace Ibrahima Konaté at the heart of the Liverpool defence. The French International will be out of contract soon, and he has not signed an extension with the club.

Van de Ven is not just a quality defender; he is quite accomplished on the ball, and his recovery pace could add a new dimension to the Liverpool defence. He is a proven performer in the Premier League and at the peak of his career. This could be the right time for the Premier League site to secure his signature.

Van de Ven has been hailed as a Rolls-Royce player.

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Tottenham and Newcastle enter race to sign £265k-a-week Bundesliga star

5 May 2026 at 19:30

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are interested in signing Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich. 

The 29-year-old central defender could be sold in the summer, and the two Premier League clubs are among the most interested. According to a report from FussballDaten, they have already expressed interest in signing the South Korean International as well. He could cost around €35-40 million during the summer transfer window.

The defender has struggled for regular opportunities at the German club, and it would be ideal for him to move on. Spurs or Newcastle might be able to provide him with regular opportunities next season. However, he earns around €16 million (£265k-a-week) at the German club, and he would have to take a significant pay cut to seal the move.

Tottenham need more in the defensive unit, especially with players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven expected to leave. They need to tighten up at the back, and the 29-year-old could prove to be a useful acquisition for them. He has the experience and the quality to succeed in the Premier League.

On the other hand, Newcastle need more depth in the defensive unit as well. They are looking to build a formidable team, and the 29-year-old will help them tighten up at the back. They have looked vulnerable defensively this season.

Tottenham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, while Newcastle is in the midtable. It will be interesting to see where the South Korean ends up.

The defender has a contract with Bayern Munich until 2028, and they will be hoping to get rid of him this summer to recoup as much as possible. His value is likely to plummet next season.

The post Tottenham and Newcastle enter race to sign £265k-a-week Bundesliga star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

McFarlane confident Colwill return will have impact on Chelsea

Chelsea interim boss Calum McFarlane believes Levi Colwill will be an important player for the Blues in the coming weeks. Colwill suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during pre-season and made his first appearance of the 2025-26 campaign during Chelsea’s defeat to Nottingham Forest on Monday. The centre-back, who played 35 Premier League games […]

The post McFarlane confident Colwill return will have impact on Chelsea appeared first on Soccer News.

The post McFarlane confident Colwill return will have impact on Chelsea appeared first on Soccer News.

MLB suspends Pirates pitcher, manager for intentional throw at player

The Pirates’ manager and a pitcher were both suspended during a recent incident during a game against the Cincinnati Reds.

The MLB announced Tuesday that pitcher Chris Devenski was suspended for three games and issued an undisclosed fine for intentionally throwing at Sal Stewart at the top of the seventh inning last Saturday. The throw led to Devenski’s ejection from the game.

The suspension, unless appealed, will begin on Tuesday — which is the start of the Pirates’ road series in Arizona. If Devenski elects to appeal, the discipline will be held until the appeals process is complete.

Kelly was suspended for one game and issued an undisclosed fine for Devenski’s actions. He will serve the suspension on Tuesday.

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Chargers projected to receive 3rd-round comp pick in 2027

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Odafe Oweh #98 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs downfield during the second quarter of an AFC wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Ever since Joe Hortiz stepped foot in the The Bolt as the Chargers’ new general manager, he has spouted about his love for getting the compensatory pick formula rolling as soon as possible. In each of his first three offseasons, that has largely been shown. This offseason specifically, the Chargers had several players go sign sizable contracts elsewhere, providing a nice foundation for the formula heading into 2027.

However, the Charges then went out and made some questionable signings that took those comp picks away, mainly the addition of offensive guard Cole Strange. Strange signed for $6.5 million per year which washed out one of their comp picks while signing a player many do not believe should be a starter if it wasn’t for him being familiar with Mike McDaniel’s offense system.

Add in the signing of tight end Charlie Kolar at $8.1 million (an objectively-good signing), the Bolts are essentially left with a single comp pick for edge rusher Odafe Oweh who signed for $24 million per year in Washington.

Well, even if it’s just the one pick, NFL.com’s Dan Parr currently projects that selection to come in the third round.

The Commanders did not spend an early draft pick on an edge rusher, so I’m expecting the highly paid Oweh to play enough snaps to ensure the Bolts are awarded a third-round selection.

As things stand at this point in the offseason, the Chargers only have five draft picks next year. They traded their 2027 sixth-round pick in exchange for offensive lineman Trevor Penning and their 2027 seventh was used to acquire offensive tackle Austin Deculus before he was cut last summer by the Texans.

However, that’s the same amount of picks they began the 2026 draft with before wheeling and dealing their way to eight used picks by the end of the weekend. I wouldn’t be shocked in the slightest if something similar happened a year from now, especially if they have an extra third (or fourth) to use in the process.

Hurricanes overcome penalties, deficit to beat Flyers in OT for 2-0 lead in 2nd-round playoff series

RALEIGH, N.C. — Rick Tocchet got the response he wanted from his Philadelphia Flyers. Rod Brind’Amour had reason to be frustrated with his Carolina Hurricanes taking too many penalties, disrupting their preferred 5-on-5 rhythm.

And yet, the Hurricanes still are unbeaten in the NHL playoffs, thanks to a comeback from their first deficit of the postseason and a gritty-effort overtime winner from Taylor Hall.

Carolina’s 3-2 win gave the Eastern Conference’s top seed a 2-0 lead in the second-round series, coming after an uphill climb with the Flyers getting to their game much more effectively than in the series opener to build some confidence as the series shifts to Philadelphia.

“We don’t quit. I think we’ve shown that all year,” said Carolina winger Nikolaj Ehlers, who had a goal and assisted on the tying score in the third period. “If we keep playing the right way and keep putting a lot of pressure on their players, every single shift, we will get back to playing some pretty good hockey and creating a lot of turnovers, a lot of good chances.

“You want adversity. We had that in the Ottawa series as well, because it’s going to happen again. And now we know what we need to do for the next time it happens.”

Carolina swept that first-round series against the Senators and never trailed. That series started with a home shutout and then a 3-2 double-overtime win in Game 2. The Hurricanes started this series in similar fashion, first with a Game 1 shutout and then another 3-2 win in extra time on Hall’s score at 18:54 of OT.

The Flyers host the next two games in the best-of-seven series.

The Hurricanes had at least one clear area to clean up: penalties. Carolina committed eight — two for delay of game for putting pucks over the glass, one for too many men on the ice — and had a steady line of players heading to the penalty box.

The penalty kill was good enough to hold Philadelphia to a 1-for-7 showing, pushing Carolina to 30 for 32 (.938) this postseason. Brind’Amour, however, said the rash of penalties “kills your team, kills your momentum, kills everything.”

“We’re taking too many,” the coach said. “The ones that are self-inflicted for me — the over the glass, little tic-tac ones — you’ve got to avoid these. Too many men. We’ve had too many of those here. We’ve gotten away with it, because we’ve been able to kill it. But it’s not how you draw it up.”

As for Tocchet, the latest loss offered a welcome sign of pushback after Game 1, which left the Flyers coach talking about the need for his players to react quicker against Carolina’s aggression and speed, as well as to carry the puck more into the tough areas of the ice.

“Mentally and physically I just thought we had more energy, and I think we believed that we can compete with this team,” Tocchet said.

Philadelphia did that early, with Jamie Drysdale and Sean Couturier scoring in a 39-second span of the first period for the Flyers. And they outshot Carolina 15-8 in overtime to carry that competitiveness to the end despite playing again without injured regular-season goals leader Owen Tippett.

Yet this one ended with Hall hopping to his feet after being knocked to the ice by Denver Barkey as Hall charged toward the crease, then grabbing a loose puck kept alive by Jackson Blake to slip it past Dan Vladar’s left skate for the winner.

That pushed Carolina to a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series for the 10th time in the Hurricanes’ eight-year playoff run under Brind’Amour. Carolina has won eight of the previous nine, the outlier being a seven-game loss to the New York Rangers in the 2022 second round.

Then again, the Flyers became the first NHL team to make the playoffs after being 10 points out with 22 or fewer games remaining, securing Philadelphia’s first postseason appearance since 2020. Then the Flyers beat Pittsburgh in six games in the first round.

“Just the belief in the room, I think that really helps,” Tocchet said. “The belief in the room of just staying with it. And we’ve been dead before, and we’ve climbed out of the grave. We keep hearing we’re dead and dead, but the guys won’t give up. So that’s why I’m proud of them.”

Report: Newcastle United eyeing summer move for Liverpool midfielder

Report: Newcastle United eyeing summer move for Liverpool midfielder
Report: Newcastle United eyeing summer move for Liverpool midfielder

Curtis Jones Transfer Latest: Newcastle and Inter Milan Circle Liverpool Midfielder

Curtis Jones Faces Defining Liverpool Summer

Curtis Jones has always carried something more than talent at Liverpool. He carries place, accent, memory and meaning. He is the boy from the city who grew into the shirt, a midfielder shaped by academy pitches, Anfield expectation and the heavy privilege of representing your own.

According to TeamTalk, Newcastle United have now entered the race for Jones, while Inter Milan are emerging as a particularly attractive option should the Liverpool midfielder leave Anfield this summer. That alone gives this story significance. This is not simply squad housekeeping. This is about Liverpool deciding how much room remains for one of their own in Arne Slot’s evolving midfield.

Jones, still only 23, finds himself in a delicate footballing corridor. He is neither a fading veteran nor an untested prospect. He is experienced enough to demand meaningful minutes, young enough to keep improving, and versatile enough to interest clubs with serious ambition.

Photo IMAGO

Inter Milan Interest Adds European Intrigue

TeamTalk report that Inter Milan first explored a deal in January, only for Liverpool to refuse a mid-season departure. That was understandable. Clubs with title ambitions rarely weaken themselves in winter. Summer, though, changes the temperature of every conversation.

Inter’s interest feels credible in footballing terms. Serie A would test Jones differently. It would sharpen his tactical discipline, reward his ability to retain possession under pressure and place him in a league where midfielders are often asked to think before they run. For Jones, Italy may offer reinvention rather than retreat.

Liverpool must be careful. Letting homegrown talent leave can look clinical on a spreadsheet and painful from the stands. Supporters understand evolution, but they also value identity. Jones is one of the few players who visibly links the current squad to the city beyond matchday symbolism.

Newcastle and Villa Monitor Midfield Opportunity

Newcastle’s interest adds a Premier League edge. TeamTalk claim the Magpies are assessing midfield reinforcements, with Sandro Tonali expected to depart this summer. Aston Villa have also made enquiries about Jones’ availability, which suggests the market sees something Liverpool may be tempted to undervalue.

For Newcastle, Jones would bring press resistance, ball carrying and an ability to operate between lines. For Villa, he would offer control and tactical intelligence. For Liverpool, he represents both depth and sentiment, which is where the decision becomes harder.

Liverpool are reportedly targeting Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid. Both names point towards a midfield refresh built on athleticism, technical quality and long term planning. Yet recruitment should not automatically mean removal. Jones has already shown he can contribute at elite level.

Liverpool Must Weigh Value Beyond Transfer Fee

Every successful side must make ruthless decisions. Sentiment cannot pick a midfield three. Yet Liverpool should ask whether selling Jones strengthens the squad, or merely tidies the balance sheet.

If Inter offer the right project, Jones may understandably listen. If Newcastle or Villa promise central status, he may feel the pull of regular Premier League football. But Liverpool should not mistake familiarity for limitation. Sometimes the player already inside the building remains more valuable than the one admired from afar.

Jones’ future now feels open. What Liverpool do next will say plenty about Slot’s rebuild, the club’s midfield priorities and how much space still exists at Anfield for local talent with unfinished business.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a concerned Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report should set a few alarms ringing. Curtis Jones may not be the flashiest name in the squad, but losing him would feel like another step away from the emotional core of the club. There is a difference between refreshing midfield options and casually allowing a technically gifted, homegrown player to walk away.

Jones has flaws. He can hold the ball too long, he has not always nailed down one fixed role, and injuries have interrupted momentum. Yet when Liverpool are functioning properly, he offers press resistance, composure and tactical discipline. Those qualities are not easy to replace, especially when squad rules and homegrown numbers matter.

Inter Milan would be a fascinating move for him, and perhaps even a smart one. Serie A could polish his game. Newcastle or Villa would be more uncomfortable, because watching Jones mature for a domestic rival would sting. Liverpool supporters have seen that story before with players allowed to leave too early.

The concern is not that Liverpool are planning boldly. They should be. The concern is whether they recognise what Jones still might become under Slot. Selling him should require a very strong fee, a clear midfield upgrade and absolute certainty. Anything less would feel premature.

Tuesday Bantering: Lauer, Piñango

ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - MAY 04: Eric Lauer #56 of the Toronto Blue Jays delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on May 04, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Does it give you comfort to know that the Jays have the exact record they had last year at this time? No, me neither. If it is going to be like last year, now is the time to turn it around. In May last year they were 16-12.

Eric Lauer wasn’t throwing as hard as he did last year, not that he was the cause of the loss. The lack of offense made it very unlikely we were going to win, but if he wants to be part of the rotation when we get back Shane Bieber (but that’s no until near the end of the month). They could put him and Jose Berrios together I guess.

From Ben Nicholson-Smith game post:

The left-hander sat 90.3 m.p.h. with his fastball Monday, and he wants to see that number climb. With that in mind, he intends to throw a ‘velo pen’ this week — basically a bullpen session in which he’ll try to max out his velocity, “really try to rip it” by “building the power from the ground up.”


This is the question I’ve been asking myself:

If not Piñango, who? Davis Schneider? Normally I’d like to keep the right-handed batter, but he’s off to a really slow start. Sending him down would force another lefty batter into the lineup against left-handed starters, but then they could hardly be worse than Davis has been.

Schneider was a 1.3 bWAR player in about half a season of play, last year. I don’t believe he could have forgotten how to play over the summer. But he’s going to have to show it at some point and maybe it is time he figures it out in Buffalo.

Or Lenyn Jose could be DFAed. Same thing, he’s a right-handed batter, replacing him for a lefty means there would be one less platoon option.

Anyway, we will find out soon. Addison will be back Friday, if not sooner.


Chris Bassitt’s kids are confused about him playing for the Orioles. “They loved Ace.” I’d be confused too:

Former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher and now a member of the Baltimore Orioles, Chris Bassitt shared a story about his children adjusting to the change.

He said his two children are still confused by the new bird logo and tell him, “That’s not the Blue Jays." They loved Ace.

— Ayako Oikawa/ 及川彩子 (@AyakoOikawa) May 4, 2026

Keep that head up Tarik Skubal managers — here's why it's not the end of your fantasy baseball season

The news came down midday Monday, and it was impossible to shake. Tarik Skubal, headed to the injured list. Loose bodies in the pitching elbow. Likely a 2-3 month absence. As a fantasy baseball player and a Michigan native, this is how you ruin my day in 10 seconds.

The cooling off period has come and gone. Now it’s time to reflect, reassess, regroup and move forward.

We often talk about how starting pitchers are the running backs of fantasy baseball. When you land on the right ones — or when your stars stay healthy — life is wonderful. And when the injury gods frown at you, it can be a long season.

Healthy Christian McCaffrey has been a football cheat code in the right seasons. And he’s been a depressing pick in the wrong seasons, like in 2024, when he was hurt and mysteriously scratched Week 1, before the season even started. And fantasy baseball managers can certainly relate. 

Before Monday, the injured pitcher discussion was dominated by fallen closers. Edwin Díaz, Jhoan Duran, Raisel Iglesias, Josh Hader, Pete Fairbanks and Carlos Estévez are currently hurt. It’s exhausting to see that list, consider just how much wreckage we’ve seen at fantasy baseball’s most volatile position.

But the starting pitcher position has also seen plenty of attrition. Skubal joins Garrett Crochet and Hunter Brown on the injured list — the top-three vote-getters in last year’s AL Cy Young voting. We’re still waiting for Hunter Greene, Gerrit Cole, Nick Lodolo and Blake Snell to pitch this year. Sonny Gray, Carlos Rodón and Nick Pivetta are currently hurt. If Milwaukee's rising ace Jacob Misiorowski (hamstring) misses any time, I’m going to be in rough shape.  

We also should mention there are plenty of name pitchers currently healthy — as far as we know — but not pitching like we expect. Logan Webb, Logan Gilbert and Bryan Woo all have ERAs over 4.00. Cole Ragans and Jesús Luzardo are over 5.00. Luis Castillo can’t get anyone out. Eury Pérez hasn’t put it together yet. That's just the tip of the iceberg. 

The starting pitcher leaderboard through one month is a mix of unusual names, as it often is. Cam Schlittler has been dominant, teammate Max Fried not far behind. Chris Sale and Jacob deGrom can still do it. José Soriano has been a revelation for the Angels, though his last start was messy. Davis Martin is a fun story for the competitive White Sox. Parker Messick is a breakout star in Cleveland. Paul Skenes was rocked on Opening Day — and he’s been terrific since.

Shohei Ohtani (0.60 ERA, 0.87 WHIP) deserves his own paragraph. There are no comps for that guy.

What can fantasy baseball players do with all this pitching madness? Again, we take our cue from fantasy football. Take as many bites of the apple as possible.

Your fantasy football bench will always have a few running backs who are “one break away” from popping. Your baseball bench should similarly have speculation plays at pitcher. The shape of the breakouts are different; in football it often comes down to opportunity, while in baseball it’s more the elusive nature of growth and improvement. Pitchers are constantly changing things — their mechanics, their pitch mix, their windup, their coach, their primary catcher, how they attack the platoon disadvantage. Velocity rises and dips, ebbs and flows. Careers can take off at any moment. Often the improvement won’t be detectable until after it’s happened, but we need to pay close attention anyway.

The key with winning any intellectually-challenging game is to make good decisions. Chess, poker, fantasy sports, it’s all the same. With pitchers, we consider pedigree and we consider environment and we consider ballparks and age patterns and all that stuff. And then we hope to get a break from variance. Good decisions, everyone.

Some measures and metrics are timeless, no matter how sophisticated we get. Some version of K/BB ratio is the best place to start (if you prefer K-BB%, that’s fine too). We’d prefer pitchers in the first half of their career, less mileage, less strain (while trying to stay open to a Sale or a deGrom if they make sense). Ballparks in Seattle or Texas or Tampa Bay can hide some of your mistakes; if you pitch in Colorado or Boston or Philadelphia, your margins are slimmer.

For every Skubal share you’re sweating right now, hopefully you have a Kyle Harrison share to offset it (post-hype sleeper, good age pocket, works for a defensively-sound team). If Castillo or Ragans is hurting you, maybe a Will Warren or a Nick Martinez is coming through for you. Payton Tolle has been excellent in his three Boston starts. Maybe this Sean Burke start is real. Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo have become Ibáñez All-Stars in Kansas City, the reliable value veteran.

Head up, gamers. There’s a bunch of season left. Keep making good decisions. For everything that breaks, the next breakout is never far away. 

Eagles Enemy Draft Analysis: Dallas Cowboys

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 23: Caleb Downs of Ohio State poses for a photo after being selected 11th overall by the Dallas Cowboys during Round One of the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Dallas Cowboys once again proved to be reliable trade partners with the Eagles. Back in 2021, a first-round trade between the two rivals delivered Micah Parsons to Dallas and DeVonta Smith to Philly. I think both teams are hoping this one will be similarly fortuitous. Here’s how the entire Dallas draft went.

Caleb Downs, Safety, Ohio State

For my money, this was the best pick of the first round. And I was pissed about it. Caleb Downs was a top player in this draft and should be an absolute monster in Christian Parker’s defense.

Not only is Downs a great athlete, but he has the skill and instincts to line up everywhere on an NFL defense: Free safety, strong safety, slot cornerback, nickel linebacker… Calling him a Swiss Army Knife feels insulting because a knife can only hurt you so much. He’s a Swiss Army Mech; a heat seeking missile who can be fired from anywhere.

But yeah, this was a great pick by Dallas and I hate them for it.

Malachi Lawrence, Edge Defender, UCF

This is a classic case of a good fit but maybe bad value. I was lower on Lawrence relative to where he was drafted but it’s easy to see his appeal to the Cowboys.

After losing Micah Parsons in a trade, Dallas went after a speedy, incredibly high motor edge defender. Lawrence is definitely a speed player more than a power player, and he would get outmuscled by stronger offensive tackles. Dallas is betting on getting Lawrence isolated on the edge with tight ends or using him on twists and stunts so he can win with speed. He should be an immediate impact player for them. 

Jaishawn Barham, Edge Defender, Michigan

Dallas double dipped on the edges. Like Lawrence, Dallas is betting on athletic traits. Three picks into their draft and there’s an obvious commitment to getting faster at every level of Christian Parker’s defense. 

Drew Shelton, Offensive Tackle, Penn State

Dallas is one of the best teams in the NFL at drafting and developing offensive lineman. Here they take a bet on a big, physical player.

Dallas doesn’t have an immediate need at offensive tackle, giving them the luxury of waiting with Shelton’s development.

Devin Moore, Cornerback, Florida 

Dallas goes defense for the fourth time in their first five picks. Anyone who watched the Cowboys last year know why.

Devin Moore is a long, speedy cornerback who needs to develop locating the ball to be an NFL level defender. They’re banking on developing his physical tools to make him a boundary player. Expect him to be a special teams contributor early in his career.

LT Overton, Edge Defender, Alabama

Dallas drafted THREE edge defenders in this class, probably in some effort to recreate Micah Parsons in the aggregate. Good luck to them on that!

But seriously, LT Overton is a different guy than their previous two picks. He’s not a flashy athlete or a dominating pass rusher. Instead he’s a steady, reliable run defender who brings a ton of energy to each snap and seems to revel in fighting through traffic to bring a running back down. An unsung, but necessary contributor on any defense. I actually felt this was great value for Dallas, even if Overton won’t provide much support on third downs.

Anthony Smith, Wide Receiver, ECU

Dallas has one of the best wide receiver duos in the NFL with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Lamb obviously does his best work in the slot while Pickens is a dynamic deep threat. Dallas definitely wants depth at perimeter receiver. 

Smith is a good late round flier. He is a proven big play receiver that combines a big frame with good athleticism to stretch the field. He is light for his height, which allowed him to get bullied by more physical cornerbacks at the college level. It’s doubtful he makes much of an impact as a rookie on offense, but his appeal in the late round is quite obvious. 

Alabama softball star named SEC Pitcher of the Week for third time

Alabama Crimson Tide star Jocelyn Briski has once again been named as the SEC's Pitcher of the Week.

Briski has been excellent throughout the entire 2026 campaign, as the star flamethrower has shown no signs of slowing down following yet another electrifying week in the circle. Briski has been named as the SEC Pitcher of the Week for the third time this season, and the Crimson Tide star could easily emerge as a top candidate for SEC Pitcher of the Year in the near future as well.

Briski has played a critical role in the Tide’s success as a whole this season, and the junior finds herself with yet another accolade under her belt following the announcement. 

Briski currently holds a team-best 1.46 ERA throughout the 2026 campaign. The star pitcher has an overall record of 20-2 with a team-high 167 strikeouts as well, as Briski will look to keep things rolling into the SEC Tournament following yet another Pitcher of the Week award. 

Briski and the Tide will enter the SEC Tournament as the No. 2 seed and will be in action on Thursday at 1 p.m. CT, as Alabama will look to make a statement throughout their time in Lexington this week. 

✅3rd Pitcher of the Week award - most in SEC
✅10th weekly award for Alabama - program record @Jocelynbriski#Team30#RollTidepic.twitter.com/FpKC5wZydY

— Alabama Softball (@AlabamaSB) May 4, 2026

Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion.

This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: Alabama softball's Jocelyn Briski named SEC Pitcher of the Week

Jakub Kiwior's move to Porto made permanent

Jakub Kiwior's move to Porto made permanent
Jakub Kiwior's move to Porto made permanent

Porto have completed the signing of Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal after a successful loan spell.

The Polish international joined the club last summer and has helped Porto reclaim the Portuguese title with two games to spare. Kiwior has also been part of a solid backline that has conceded just 15 goals in 32 games so far this season, seven fewer than the nearest team (Benfica, 22 goals conceded.)

Porto have now confirmed they have exercised the purchase option for the player that sees him join for an initial €17 million (just over £14.66m), a fee that could raise by a further €5 million depending on targets.

Arsenal could also receive a future €2 million from a future transfer fee should Kiwior be sold.

The defender has signed a four-year contract with Francesco Farioli's side which includes a €70 million release clause.

Rain threat looms over DC vs CSK IPL clash: What if match gets washed out? Playoff equation explained

NEW DELHI: Delhi Capitals will host Chennai Super Kings in match 48 of IPL 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday, with both teams looking to stay in contention for the playoffs.

CSK and DC are placed seventh and eighth on the points table with eight points from nine matches each. Another loss could push them into a must-win situation.

Even though both teams are coming into this match after a win, weather could play a role in the game.


Delhi weather forecast for Tuesday

Parts of Delhi saw hail and thunderstorms as an unseasonal spell of rain and cloud cover brought some relief from the heat. The city remains under an orange alert on Tuesday.

The alert covers New Delhi, Central Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi, Outer North Delhi, North East Delhi, Shahdara and East Delhi, along with parts of South and South West Delhi. Rain, hail and thunderstorms are expected.

Temperatures have dropped across several areas due to the changing weather.

Dark clouds have been seen over the city since Tuesday afternoon. With rain over the past few nights, there could be interruptions during the DC vs CSK match.

The India Meteorological Department has also forecast possible hailstorms in some parts of the city. The maximum temperature is expected to be around 33 degrees Celsius, with rain and thunderstorms likely later in the day.



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What happens if DC vs CSK is washed out?

If rain leads to a washout, both teams will be affected in the playoff race.

With both teams currently on eight points from nine matches, a washout would give them one point each, taking them to nine points. Their maximum possible points would then be 17.

If they lose any more matches after that, they can reach a maximum of 15 points. With Punjab Kings already on 13 points and four other teams on 12 points each, 15 points may not be enough to qualify for the playoffs.

Who will be Bayern Munich’s unsung hero vs. PSG?

Munich, Germany - April 15: Konrad Laimer of FC Bayern Muenchen and Dayot Upamecano of FC Bayern Muenchen talk to each other during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Real Madrid CF at Football Arena Munich on April 15, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Oliver Kaelke/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images) | DeFodi Images via Getty Images

It’s all about optimism here today, so we are going to keep that theme.

When Bayern Munich squares off with Paris Saint-Germain, the spotlight will naturally fall on the superstars. Names like Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembélé, and Jamal Musiala dominate headlines — and for good reason. But matches of this magnitude are often decided not by the obvious stars, but by the players who quietly tilt the balance without grabbing the glory.

So the real question is: who will be the unsung hero?

A strong candidate is Konrad Laimer. He’s not flashy, and he won’t rack up highlight-reel moments, but his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch could be decisive. If Laimer executes his role well, he might not show up on the scoresheet—but he could help give Bayern control of the tempo.

Another under-the-radar figure is Dayot Upamecano. Central defenders rarely get “hero” status unless they score or make a last-ditch tackle, but Upamecano’s composure and positioning will be crucial. PSG thrives in transition, and limiting space for attackers like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (if involved) or Dembélé is no small task. If Upamecano can stay disciplined, avoid costly errors, and win his duels, he could quietly neutralize PSG’s most dangerous weapons.

In midfield, keep an eye on Aleksandar Pavlović. The young talent doesn’t always grab headlines, but his composure on the ball and positional intelligence could be vital in a high-pressure clash like this. If Pavlović can help Bayern play through PSG’s press, recycle possession efficiently, and make smart defensive reads, he becomes a quiet stabilizer—exactly the type of player who enables others to shine while doing the subtle work that keeps everything ticking.

Ultimately, the unsung hero won’t be the player with the most touches or the loudest highlight. It will be the one who does the dirty work, wins the unnoticed battles, and executes their role with precision under pressure.

So, what do you think? Will it be a grinder like Laimer, a defensive anchor like Upamecano, or a calming presence like Pavlović?


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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Ivan Barbashev scores late on disputed goal as the Golden Knights beat the Ducks 3-1 in Game 1

LAS VEGAS — Ivan Barbashev and the Golden Knights played on after a disputed no-call, and his goal off a terrific pass from Pavel Dorofeyev with 4:58 left put Vegas ahead for good in its 3-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks in the opener of their second-round playoff series.

Game 2 in the best-of-seven Western Conference series is in Las Vegas.

Barbashev took advantage after officials did not call icing, which didn’t sit well with Ducks coach Joel Quenneville. It was Barbashev’s pass from behind the red line to teammate Jack Eichel, who was battling Anaheim’s Jackson LaCombe for the puck, that linesman Bevan Mills waved off for icing.

Officials declined to comment to a pool reporter.

“Clearly, I disagreed with the call,” said Quenneville, who said he did not receive an explanation from the officials. “Their guy stopped skating, which really made me annoyed.”

Golden Knights coach John Tortorella said he couldn’t see the play from his spot behind the bench. Barbashev kept skating once no call was made as Ducks players appeared to slow up.

“I tried to put the puck deep and I thought I saw Jack on the far side going deep and I thought for a second he (beat LaCombe) and that’s why they waved it off,” Barbashev said. “Jack put pressure on him, they turned it over and Pav made a great play.”

Vegas’ Brett Howden extended his goal streak to a career-best four games, his fifth during that span. Mitch Marner, who assisted on Howden’s goal early in the second period, added a 162-foot empty-net goal with 6 seconds left, and Carter Hart stopped 33 shots for the Golden Knights.

Mikael Granlund scored for Anaheim, and Lukas Dostal made 19 saves.

The Golden Knights prevailed despite being outshot 34-22.

“They were the better team tonight,” Tortorella said. “I thought as the game went on, we started finding our game, but we couldn’t find it completely. ... It’s a find-a-way league. We found a way to win, and I’m certainly not going to apologize for the win.”

Vegas’ penalty kill continued to shine, extending its stretch to 14 straight without giving up a goal by keeping the Ducks off the scoreboard on four chances. Anaheim converted 8 of 16 power plays in the first round against Edmonton. The Golden Knights are 19 of 20 on penalty kills.

Golden Knights center William Karlsson, out since sustaining a lower-body injury Nov. 8 against the Ducks, returned to the lineup. The crowd roared when Karlsson was shown on the video board after taking the ice less than three minutes into the game.

The Ducks dominated the early action, outshooting Vegas 11-6 in the first period and then controlling the puck to open the second. But the Golden Knights scored first with their first shot on goal in the second when Marner made a pinpoint pass from the right circle to Howden, who scored easily from the left side of the net.

It didn’t appear the lead would last long when Ducks top-line center Leo Carlsson made a dazzling spin move to set up LaCombe with an an open net. LaCombe, however, inexplicably passed up the shot for a pass, and the Golden Knights avoided what appeared would be a sure Ducks goal.

Just as time was starting to run out on the Ducks in the third, they didn’t waste their next opportunity. LaCombe made up for his previous gaffe by walking in on Hart before delivering a pass to Granlund, who was open in the right circle and scored at 13:57.

The tie didn’t last long, with Dorofeyev passing to Barbashev to put the Golden Knights ahead 2-1 just 65 seconds later.

Rockford (IL) Auburn football names new head coach

Photo by Meegan M. Reid / USA TODAY Sports

On Tuesday morning, Rockford (IL) Auburn High School announced who will be their new head football coach for the 2026 season.

[ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]

Per the announcement via social media on X, formerly known as Twitter, the has tabbed Hosea Harris as the program’s next head coach. Harris has already served in many capacities at the school already like as the offensive coordinator, head baseball coach and as an assistant on the boys basketball team.

With over 25 years of experience in RPS205, Coach Harris brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our Football Program. He has served as Head Football Coach at both Middle and High school levels. Coach Harris has had a hand in growing many of Auburn’s athletic programs including previous roles as Varsity Baseball Head Coach and Varsity Football Offensive Coordinator at Auburn. He currently serves as a Student Mentor, Athletic Coordinator, and Varsity Boys Basketball Assistant Coach at Auburn.

Congratulations to our new Head Football Coach at Auburn High School, @HoseaHarris01 ! Coach Harris brings a wealth of knowledge to the position and we are excited to see him back in action on the football field! pic.twitter.com/uZIXqoDYgV

— Rockford Auburn High School (@Auburn_AD) May 5, 2026

The Knights have gone through eight straight seasons finishing at or below the .500 mark, with the last time the program had a winning record was 2017 when Auburn finished with a 8-2 mark. Now Harris will be tasked with aiming to lead the squad to a winning season this upcoming fall after only winning a game a year ago.

Auburn finished with a 1-8 record and as the No. 265 in the state, according to the final 2025 Illinois High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Auburn High School

Auburn High School in Rockford, Illinois, is a public, coeducational high school serving around 1,800 students. Part of Rockford Public Schools, the school provides a comprehensive academic and extracurricular program, emphasizing diversity, college readiness, and community involvement. Auburn is known for its strong athletics program, with teams competing as the “Knights” in red and black, and has achieved success in sports like basketball, football, and soccer. The school also offers a rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program, promoting a global education perspective.

How to Follow Illinois High School Football

For Illinois high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Prairie State, ensuring you never miss a moment. The Rivals High School Scoreboard serves as your primary source for tracking all the high school football excitement throughout Illinois, from thrilling finishes to outstanding performances.

2026 Kentucky Wildcats football position preview: Edge Defender

After previewing each position on the offensive side of the football for the Kentucky Wildcats, we now shift our focus to the defensive side of the ball. Defensive coordinator Jay Bateman brings the total opposite philosophy to the previous regime, it is shifting from a conservative bend-but-don't-break scheme to an aggressive blitzing scheme that will see multiple pressure looks and some man coverage.

The base front is an even front, which is a big difference stylistically than the odd front we have gotten used to seeing from the Mark Stoops era. The even front allows more freedom to the edge defenders, allowing them better opportunities to get after the opposing quarterback and Kentucky has a deep rotation on the edge for 2026.

Starters

  • Mi'Quise Humphrey-Grace
  • Antonio O'Berry

Humphrey-Grace returns to the Wildcats coming off a productive season. The change in front directly affects him as last season in the odd front he played mostly from a 4i defensive technique, which is the inside shoulder of the offensive tackle. The even front will allow him to be a true edge defender and line up outside of the offensive tackle. It is easier to get pressure on the quarterback from this alignment because defenders have a better chance of going one-on-one with an offensive tackle instead of getting the interior offensive linemen to help block.

Humphrey-Grace a true power edge player at 6'4, 271-pounds. He will win with power on the edge as opposed to quick twitch and the ability to bend the edge. Despite a team-leading 3.5 sack season last year, that was actually his career-low in terms of sack production. Now that he returns to a true edge alignment, I would expect an increase in production this season.

Humphrey-Grace is a true power edge, which will coincide well with Gardner Webb transfer Antonio O'Berry. O'Berry has ideal length and impressive quickness to get off the line of scrimmage at his 6'6, 244-pound frame. There is a reason Ohio State was in the mix for him in the transfer portal. O'Berry has the ability to use his long arms to set the edge in the run game and get to the quarterback in pass rush situations.

Backups

  • CJ Works
  • Lorenzo Cowan

CJ Works and Lorenzo Cowan provide incredible depth to this edge room. Both got some much needed experience last season and are two players that can provide legitimate juice in the edge rotation. Works is 6'5, 247-pounds and has great length on the edge, similar to O'Berry. Works was a four-star recruit out of high school and is looking to take another step in his development as a true sophomore.

Cowan is similar to Works as he was a highly rated out of high school as well. Cowan made an impact last season as a redshirt freshman, posting 4.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. We have seen flashes from the 6'3, 250-pound edge and along with Works, seeing those flashes early on is always a positive. Works and Cowan can form a great rotation behind Humphrey-Grace and O'Berry; the ability to have four edge rushers that can make an impact is a massive plus for defensive coordinator Jay Bateman.

Sam Greene

Greene was on a similar trajectory last season to Works and Cowan, he played at USC as a redshirt freshman and then you saw flashes last season at Kentucky. Unfortunately, Greene had a season-ending injury late in the year against Florida. His timetable to return is unknown at the moment, but adding him to this four man edge rotation sometime midseason could be extremely beneficial. This edge room could be the strongest position group on the defense in terms of depth.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky football: Previewing the 2026 edge rusher position

Jon Rahm, DP World tour settle dispute

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - APRIL 19: Jon Rahm of Legion XIII looks on from 18th green during day four of LIV Golf Mexico City at Club de Golf Chapultepec on April 19, 2026 in Mexico City. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Adare Manor will feature Jon Rahm after all.

There had been some discussion and/or concern around whether or not Spaniard Jon Rahm would be able to tee it up on behalf of Team Europe when the Ryder Cup visits Ireland next year. Given Rahm’s relationship with the DP World tour, how that has been fractured by his membership in LIV Golf, and a million other things in between, Rahm was facing fines that he took issue with and those fines threatened his potential to be a part of the European group.

Statement from a spokesperson from the @DPWorldTour: “The DP World Tour and Jon Rahm have come to an agreement on conditional releases to play in conflicting tournaments on LIV Golf during the remainder of its 2026 season. This involves payment of all outstanding fines accrued… https://t.co/J4yrTzz901

— GOLF.com (@GOLF_com) May 5, 2026

Beyond the fines that were of issue, participation in certain DP World Tour events was seemingly a flashpoint. Whatever the case may be it would appear that all matters are resolved which ensures that Rahm will be playing in the Ryder cup.

But what of everything between now and then? With all of the rumors of LIV Golf potentially folding or changing on some level… will Rahm still be a part of it then? Will there be something to be a part of? Could he possibly be back on the PGA Tour? If some other avenue opens up for him to pursue to re-join it?

As there have been for several years now, there remain a lot of questions. Rahm discussed all relevant matters on Tuesday ahead of this week’s LIV event and specifically said that he doesn’t see “many ways out” of his contract with the league.

🚨🗣️🇪🇸 #DONT SEE A WAY OUT — Jon Rahm has commented on his future at LIV Golf. “Again, like you just said, as of right now, I have several years on my contract left, and I'm pretty sure they did a pretty good job when they drafted that….”

“So I don't see many ways out, and as… pic.twitter.com/27TNm2EOCk

— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) May 5, 2026

To be clear Rahm seemed to be talking about his contract with the league. At the moment it would seem that everyone involved is operating under the same sort of overall premise to continue on as planned until something changes. It is all, as it has been, a matter of if anything will change.

BMW insists “WEC remains a great championship, even without Valentino Rossi”

Motorsport photo

After two seasons in the World Endurance Championship, Valentino Rossi has stepped away from the series, and while it's a loss for some fans BMW believes the series is more than capable of absorbing that loss.

Rossi’s raced for BMW's customer WRT team in the LMGT3 category in both 2024 and 2025, but was absent from the entry list this year. The MotoGP legend had become a major crowd-puller for the WEC, but opted instead for a full campaign in the GT World Challenge Europe.

Rossi wanted to race fewer weekends in order to spend more time with his family and therefore had to skip GTWCE events in 2025 — aside from the 24 Hours of Spa — due to his WEC commitments.

Now, the Italian returns to GTWCE, where he competes exclusively against other GT3 cars — something he prefers over multi-class racing. While it does mean the WEC loses an icon, Andreas Roos, head of BMW M motorsport, says the championship has nothing to worry about.

“I think the championship is very stable,” Roos told Motorsport sister title Motorsport-Total.com. “Of course, a driver like Valentino Rossi is an absolute train horse. He has a huge fanbase worldwide.

“He is an icon in motorsport and two-wheeler sport. He has already proven what he can do in four-wheel racing. He has already won races there.

“It's definitely a loss in terms of fan engagement. But the championship still has great names and great manufacturers. I don't want to say it's not a loss. 

"I don't want to say it's a loss to lose Valentino Rossi from a championship. But I think the championship is a great and stable championship with all the manufacturers.”

#46 Team WRT BMW M4 LMGT3: Ahmad Al Harthy, Valentino Rossi, Kelvin Van Der Linde

#46 Team WRT BMW M4 LMGT3: Ahmad Al Harthy, Valentino Rossi, Kelvin Van Der Linde

Fully committed, even without Rossi

For BMW itself, the main difference is simply less crowding around the garage, where Rossi’s many fans often gathered to catch a glimpse of their hero. But the German manufacturer’s commitment to the LMGT3 class remains unchanged.

“We are 100% committed,” Roos emphasised. “With our two drivers, you can see that we are serious about fighting for the M4 GT3 Evo.

“We have already won a lot, but we don't have a championship title yet. There is only one that you can win with the GT3. That is our goal.

“We have already won a lot, but we don't have a championship title yet. There is only one that you can win with the GT3. That is our goal."

Read Also: McLaren's LMDh prototype hits the track for the first time Why the WEC's BoP blackout is a bad call for all parties Ferrari explains where Toyota gained the upper hand in Imola WEC opener

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Packers: Tyrod Taylor signing likely locks in QB hierarchy for 2026

Barring an injury, or an unforeseen opportunity to add an upgrade following training camp, the Green Bay Packers appear to have finally settled their quarterback room into the three distinct tiers after Monday's signing of veteran Tyrod Taylor.

Jordan Love is the starter. Taylor is the backup. And Kyle McCord and rookie Kyron Drones will now compete to be the developmental third quarterback likely stashed on the practice squad. The preferred hierarchy is in place.

Signing Taylor and releasing Desmond Ridder added much needed clarity to the backup situation behind Love in a post-Malik Willis era. Out is Ridder, who ended last season on the 53-man roster, and in is Taylor, who is entering Year 16 in the NFL after spending the better part of the last decade as a journeyman backup quarterback. Unless Taylor is injured at some point this summer, he will go into Week 1 of 2026 as Love's backup -- giving the Packers a highly experienced No. 2 option who was a starter and has won games as a backup.

While now 36 years old and not nearly as mobile or dangerous with his legs as Willis, Taylor is no statue at quarterback (20 career rushing touchdowns, once ran 4.51), and he's generally protected the football, throwing only 34 career interceptions over 100 career games and 62 starts.

Taylor has had recent success as a backup, too. Over a 224-dropback season with the New York Giants in 2023, Taylor averaged 7.5 yards per attempt, finished with 17 "big time throws," per PFF, and tossed only three interceptions. His PFF passer grade was 73.4. Even in spot duty behind Aaron Rodgers in 2024, he threw three touchdown passes and zero picks.

Taylor was not successful as a backup last season, but it's hard to imagine any professional quarterback succeeding in the dumpster fire situation presented by the 2025 New York Jets.

After three seasons with a developing young quarterback behind him, Love will get the luxury of an experienced veteran in the backup chair. Now a decade and a half in at the pro level, Taylor could provide valuable day to day insight for Love in a quarterback room that lost assistant coach Sean Mannion this offseason.

With Taylor all but locked in as the No. 2 quarterback in Green Bay, McCord (a sixth-round pick of the Eagles in 2025) and Drones (an undrafted free agent who visited Green Bay before 2026 draft) will battle to win the third spot. The Packers are generally patient with this role, understanding the difficulties of developing a young, inexperienced quarterback in the NFL. But it may be fluid considering McCord was jettisoned from Philadelphia after just one year on the practice squad, and Drones -- while featuring Willis-like physical abilities -- needs substantial development as a passer in a pro style system.

Just last summer, the Packers went from Sean Clifford and Taylor Elgersma battling in training camp to opening the season with Clayton Tune as the third quarterback on the practice squad. Brian Gutekunst will keep churning this roster spot if necessary.

But now the important pair -- the starter and the backup -- are locked in.

The Packers exited free agency and the draft with a fairly important question mark at quarterback, given the fact that Love has missed starts during each of the last two years. But the signing of Taylor provides answers and creates stability behind Love, and puts in place the desired hierarchy of starter, backup and developmental players at the game's most important position.

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Packers: Tyrod Taylor signing likely locks in QB hierarchy for 2026

Police make arrest as Manchester City players face racist abuse at Everton

Manchester City has "strongly condemned" racist abuse directed at winger Antoine Semenyo during a 3-3 draw with Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, and Merseyside Police confirmed they have arrested one suspected offender.

Additional, City said, defender Marc Guéhi, was subject to racist abuse online in the aftermath of the game, which saw City's Premier League title hopes dented and Arsenal take control of its destiny in the race to the title.

"Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse directed towards Antoine Semenyo at yesterday’s match," the statement read. "We welcome the swift action taken by Everton and the police to identify the individual responsible.

"We are also incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guéhi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night. We will continue to offer our full support to both Antoine and Marc and never accept discrimination of any kind in our game."

Who was arrested for racist abuse at Hill Dickinson Stadium?

Police in Merseyside, the county where Everton calls home, said in a May 5 statement that, "A 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after supporters and stewards reported that racist abuse was shouted by a fan."

He has been bailed with conditions, among the conditions that he not go within a mile of a stadium four hours before, after or during a planned sporting event.

Everton moved to the 52,769-capacity stadium at the start of this season, and Everton has one match remaining at the venue this season, a May 17 home date with Sunderland.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Man City condemns racist abuse at Everton as police arrest one

Soccer fan aged 71 arrested at Everton for alleged racist abuse of Manchester City's Semenyo

A 71-year-old soccer fan was arrested for alleged racist abuse of Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo at a Premier League game, Everton said Tuesday.

Everton said Merseyside Police arrested a 71-year-old man on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offense after supporters and Hill Dickinson Stadium staff reported the incident at the game Monday.

“Racism and discrimination in all forms are completely unacceptable,” Everton said in a statement.

Man City said it welcomed “the swift action taken by Everton and the police to identify the individual responsible.”

Semenyo was targeted in a similar incident at a previous Premier League game in the city of Liverpool, while playing for Bournemouth in the season opener.

The Ghana international, who is Black, alleged he was racially abused by a Liverpool fan while preparing to take a throw-in during Bournemouth’s 4-2 loss at Anfield in August.

That game was paused for the man to be ejected from the stadium. He is due in court later this year.

Man City also condemned online racist abuse targeted at its defender Marc Guéhi after the 3-3 draw Monday evening.

“We will continue to offer our full support to both Antoine and Marc and never accept discrimination of any kind in our game,” the club said.

___

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

Carlos Prates climbs up the rankings as heavyweight and lightweight divisions add new faces

Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images
Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images

After his win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, Carlos Prates has made a big move up the welterweight rankings.

This past Saturday in Perth, Jack Della Maddalena and Carlos Prates squared off in the main event, both hoping to strengthen their claims for a future title shot.

‘The Nightmare’ put on a flawless performance, becoming the first fighter to finish Della Maddalena inside the Octagon when he stopped him in the third round.

Prates has now put himself firmly into welterweight title contention and has been rewarded with a significant boost in the rankings.

Carlos Prates climbs to No. 2 in latest welterweight rankings update

Photo by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC
Photo by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC

After defeating the former champion, who held the top spot going into the fight, the 32-year-old has now climbed three places up to number two.

That result has also had a knock-on effect for Ian Machado Garry, who now moves up to number one and strengthens his case as the division’s top contender.

Makhachev is reportedly set to face Garry next, with that matchup expected to headline UFC 330 in Philadelphia.

Prates may not need another fight before earning his shot at the belt following Machado Garry, with a title opportunity looking likely before year’s end.

It wasn’t just welterweight where rankings shifted. Several other fighters from UFC Perth were rewarded for their performances with moves up their respective ladders.

Salkilld entered the lightweight rankings at number 12 after stopping Beneil Dariush in the first round, jumping ahead of fighters like Michael Chandler.

Steve Erceg also made a move, returning to flyweight’s top ten after edging out Tim Elliot on points.

The heavyweight division also saw a fresh name crack the top 15. Brando Pericic took over spot number 15 after an impressive showing against Shamil Gaziev, providing a much-needed boost to that weight class.

Read more:

Barcelona join hunt for Premier League sensation

Barcelona join hunt for Premier League sensation
Barcelona join hunt for Premier League sensation

La Liga giants Barcelona have joined the growing list of clubs expressing a keen interest in the signing of Bournemouth star Junior Kroupi.

It is of course widespread knowledge at this point that Barcelona are on the lookout for reinforcements in the final third with a view to next season.

Amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of all of Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford, the Blaugrana are scouring the market for a player capable of making a difference in front of goal.

To date, the name most heavily linked with a Camp Nou switch has been Julián Alvarez.

In the knowledge that striking a deal with their counterparts at Atlético Madrid will prove no easy task, though, Barca are also eyeing more affordable backup options.

And as alluded to above, this week, one such option has been highlighted in the form of Junior Kroupi.

As per a report from Mundo Deportivo, citing the Daily Mail:

‘Barcelona have joined the list of major clubs interested in Kroupi. The youngster’s impressive performances have also reportedly attracted the attention of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea.’

Deco and the Camp Nou board have long been keeping a close eye on Kroupi’s development, dating back to his days with Lorient.

Across the season to date, the attacker, still just 19, has racked up an impressive 12 goals in 30 Premier League appearances for Bournemouth.

Conor Laird – GSFN

Josep Maria Bartomeu talks Messi, Negreira case, his worst Barcelona mistake

Josep Maria Bartomeu talks Messi, Negreira case, his worst Barcelona mistake
Josep Maria Bartomeu talks Messi, Negreira case, his worst Barcelona mistake

Josep Maria Bartomeu is not a popular figure at Barcelona, at least not anymore, having been accused of multiple counts of corruption, which is coupled with the financial mismanagement of the club.

However, the former Barcelona president has never been shy about coming out in public to talk about his controversial time at the club.

In a recent interview with Cadena SER (h/t SPORT), Bartomeu talked about Messi’s time at the club and his eventual departure, as well as the Negreira case, among others.

On Messi’s stay and departure

Bartomeu was firm in his defence of the decision to keep Messi at the club despite the famous burofax requesting to leave.

“I’m very happy that Messi stayed with us; I would have kept him until the Qatar World Cup,” he said, adding that contract renewal talks had already been underway with the Argentine, who has recently purchased a stake in Spanish club Cornella.

“I tried to renew Leo Messi’s contract; it was essential to maintain our income level and because we were missing that player who brings a higher level of performance,” he added.

He also revealed that a move to Miami for both Messi and Luis Suarez had been discussed long before it eventually happened. “There had already been talk of a stint in Miami with both Messi and Luis Suarez,” he said.

Laporta wanted Messi to stay. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

On the current Barcelona squad, Bartomeu offered a telling reflection. “All these young players on the team, with Leo, would have learned faster. They are learning a lot, but they would have done so more quickly.”

“One or two more seasons at Barça, at least until the World Cup, would have been very positive for Barça,” he added. “He won a World Cup and another Ballon d’Or, and we couldn’t enjoy him as Barça fans; PSG did.”

Negreira case and his biggest mistake

Bartomeu was equally firm in distancing the club from any wrongdoing in the Negreira case, suggesting that the club only paid a company that produced reports.

“The reporting service has nothing to do with whether Barça had better or worse refereeing. We didn’t pay the vice president of the referees’ committee; we paid a company that produced reports,” he said.

Finally, Bartomeu identified one decision he would reverse. “My biggest mistake was not rising to the occasion when it came to firing Zubizarreta; if I could look back, as president I wouldn’t have made that decision,” he concluded.

Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff Suggest Grand Slam Boycott Over Prize Money Share

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has threatened a potential boycott of Grand Slam tournaments if players continue to feel they aren’t being paid what they deserve.

Sabalenka’s comments come a day after a group of top ATP and WTA players sent a letter over the weekend expressing “deep disappointment” in the French Open’s prize money pool, saying their pay didn’t reflect the increase in projected tournament revenue.

“Without us there wouldn’t be a tournament and there wouldn’t be that entertainment,” Sabalenka said Tuesday at an Italian Open press conference. “I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that’s going to be the only way to fight for our rights.”

“I feel like nowadays, we girls can easily get together and go for this because of some of the things I feel like it’s really unfair to the players. I think at some point it’s going to get to this,” Sabalenka continued.

Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina, the defending French and Australian Open champions, respectively, were both in support of a possible boycott as well. 

Gauff said at the Italian Open Tuesday that she could “100% see” a boycott happening if players “collectively agree on it.” She also said she thinks “few players” also agree with Sabalenka’s sentiment. 

“It’s not about me. It’s about the future of our sport and the current players who aren’t getting as much benefits as even some of the top players are getting,” Gauff said, referring to players who don’t necessarily earn millions in sponsorship money. “When you look at the 50 to 100, 50 to 200 [top ranked players], how much money each Slam makes, it’s kind of unfortunate where the 200 best tennis players are living paycheck to paycheck, whereas other sports it’s not even a discussion.”

The French Open’s prize pool for 2026 increased by $6.5 million to $72.3 million compared with 2025 which represents nearly 15% of the revenue the tournament is projected to earn. This is down from the 15.5% players said they earned in 2024. It’s also a far cry from the 22% share the players want by 2030, which is what they receive from joint ATP and WTA 1000 events like Indian Wells or the Italian Open.

Notably, prize money at the French Open increased by around 11% from 2025 to 2026 for players making the third three rounds, but just 9.8% for champions—a move the French Tennis Federation said was meant to prioritize players who exit the tournament early.

By comparison, players in major American sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB get nearly 50% of league revenue, while the WNBA’s player revenue share increased from roughly 9.3% to 20% after the league’s 2026 CBA agreement. 

Unmet Demands

In their letter, the players noted that they’re “receiving a declining share of the value they help create,” and “while other major international sports are modernizing governance, aligning stakeholders, and building long-term value, the Grand Slams remain resistant to change.”

Twenty players signed onto the letter, including Sabalenka, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Coco Gauff. The group previously sent letters to all four Grand Slams in March and then July 2025, demanding greater share of revenue, greater representation in the form of a Grand Slam Player Council, and increased investment in benefits like pensions and health insurance.

Sabalenka’s rival on the WTA tour, world No. 3 Iga Świątek, was more hesitant. Świątek said at the Italian Open that she was unaware of a possible boycott, and that doing so would be “a bit extreme kind of situation.” 

“The most important thing is to have proper communication and discussions with the governing bodies so we have some space to talk and maybe negotiate,” Świątek said.

ATP world No. 6 Ben Shelton also said he didn’t know about a boycott, but advocated for greater player representation and “a seat at the table” to discuss Grand Slam issues.

The demands made by ATP and WTA players echo those from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), a group co-founded by Novak Djokovic which filed an antitrust lawsuit against the tours and the four Grand Slams. That lawsuit, which was settled between the PTPA and Tennis Australia in December 2025, asked for an increased share of revenue alongside several other player benefits. 

Representatives for all four Grand Slam tournaments have not responded to requests for comment. 

The post Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff Suggest Grand Slam Boycott Over Prize Money Share appeared first on Front Office Sports.

Rahm eligible for Ryder Cup after striking tour deal

Golfer Jon Rahm clenching his fist at the Ryder Cup in 2025
Jon Rahm is a former world number one and two-time major winner [Getty Images]

Jon Rahm will be eligible for next year's Ryder Cup in Ireland after striking a deal to continue playing on the DP World Tour and end a "stand-off."

The Spaniard had been embroiled in a long-running dispute with the European tour and had refused to pay fines for playing LIV events without official permission since he made his debut on the breakaway tour in 2024.

Rahm, 31, had become ineligible for DP World Tour events and as a member not in good standing would not have been available for Ryder Cup selection next year.

Throughout the dispute, Rahm had argued that a solution would be found.

He will now pay fines believed to be about £2m and be required to play a minimum of five DP World Tour events.

The deal comes a week after Saudi Arabia announced it would not be funding the LIV Golf League beyond the 2026 season.

"There's no longer a standoff," the two-time Major winner said.

"We were able to reach an agreement. There was some concessions on both sides. I offered some; they extended an olive branch. That will not be a stress anymore."

"The DP World Tour and Jon Rahm have come to an agreement on conditional releases to play in conflicting tournaments on LIV Golf during the remainder of its 2026 season," said a DP World Tour spokesperson.

"This involves payment of all outstanding fines accrued from 2024 to date, along with participation in agreed DP World Tour tournaments (outside the majors) in the remainder of the 2026 season."

Europe's Ryder Cup captain, Luke Donald, will be thrilled that the Spaniard will be available for the next tournament at Adare Manor in County Limerick, Ireland, from 17-19 September 2027.

Rahm has played four contests with the continent winning three of them including the last two in Rome and New York.

In those events he was a stalwart for Donald and forged a formidable partnership with fellow LIV star Tyrrell Hatton. They are unbeaten in five matches, celebrating four victories.

In all Rahm has played 17 matches, winning nine, losing five and halving three. In foursomes he has a perfect record, winning all six contests against American pairings.

Hatton is among eight other players who had already agreed terms with the DP World Tour to continue playing LIV events without incurring sanctions. They are required to play at least six events on the DPWT.

Laurie Canter, Tom McKibbin, Thomas Detry, Victor Perez, Adrian Meronk, David Puig and Australia's Elvis Smylie are the others to agree a deal which allows the tour to stipulate two of the tournaments they must play.

The deal struck by Rahm is said to be "akin" to what the other eight players agreed last February.

'I don't see many ways out of LIV contract'

Rahm joined LIV in December 2023 as the then reigning Masters champion for a reported $300m (£222m).

In two completed seasons, he has earned nearly $92.5m (£68.4m) in prize money and this season has won twice on the tour.

Speaking about his contract on Tuesday, he said: "I have several years on my contract left, and I'm pretty sure they did a pretty good job when they drafted that.

"So I don't see many ways out, and as of right now, I'm not really thinking about it since we still have a season to play and majors to compete for. So it's not something I want to think about just yet."

Rahm's DP World Tour decision comes at a time when LIV's future is shrouded in uncertainty following the withdrawal of Saudi funding.

Last week it was also announced that June's tournament in Louisiana has been postponed, citing hot weather and a date clash with the men's football World Cup being mainly held in North America.

LIV has couched the withdrawal of Saudi funding as an opportunity for "strategic evolution" and a "multi-partner investment model".

It has appointed businessmen Gene Davis and Jon Zinman who have expertise in raising investment.

The breakaway league also announced this week it has retained Ducera Partners LLC as its investment banking advisor to help secure long-term investment partners.

Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards, once and for all, put the pre-draft 'not loving basketball' narratives to rest

Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards, once and for all, put the pre-draft 'not loving basketball' narratives to rest originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

To be fair, Anthony Edwards brought the discussion about himself.

When he was an NBA Draft prospect from the University of Georgia, in the running to be the No. 1 pick but not yet chosen in that spot by the Minnesota Timberwolves, he admitted that he was "not really into" basketball.

Football, Edwards said in the pre-draft process, was his first love. 

And while Edwards also later in interviews used the word "love" alongside basketball, too, it was that first thought that made for good fodder. What were NBA teams supposed to do with the hooper who was still thinking about his football career, who said he'd leave for the NFL if drafted there?

Minnesota clearly wasn't that concerned, or they wouldn't have made him the top pick in the draft.

MORE: Why Cade Cunningham is wearing a flak jacket during the playoffs

But maybe everyone else missed the point.

Pick whatever word you want. The word is not the point. Actions speak much louder.

And on Monday night, Edwards' actions ended any final misgivings about his desire to be on a basketball court.

Because he was just nine days removed from a left knee injury that looked terrible to everyone who saw it.

The ligaments were intact, somehow -- after all, this is the quick healing, Wolverine-like Edwards.

But it was supposed to be a multi-week injury, 14 days minimum, Game 4 of the Spurs series at the earliest for a return.

Monday night was Game 1, and Edwards played. He came off the bench, a bit of a minutes limit, and a slow start.

When the fourth quarter arrived, though, so did Edwards. Two quick 3-pointers, 11 points total, a big block.

Was he 100%? No chance. Was he going to miss this game? No chance.

In his postgame article, The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski made the comparisons to Michael Jordan -- who played through all sorts of pain -- and Kobe Bryant -- who wouldn't leave the court with a torn Achilles until he made his free throws. 

Edwards' talent has always been viewed as at least approaching that level, but before he really got the chance to prove himself, doubters wondered if he had even remotely the same drive.

Turns out, that's exactly what Edwards has. He has the innate desire it takes to push up to your limits, and then leap beyond them.

Maybe when Edwards was a kid, that got him into the end zone.

On Monday night, though, it got Edwards back on the basketball court faster than anyone thought he could, and it got the Timberwolves a win.

They probably didn't even realize when they drafted Edwards that he had this inside him. But they sure are glad they did, and that he does.

More NBA news:

PGA Championship field for Aronimink

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. (AP) — The 154 players in the field for the 108th PGA Championship on May 14-17 at Aronimink Golf Club. Players listed only in the first category for which they qualified. Two spots are being held in case winners of the Truist Championship and Myrtle Beach Classic are already eligible:

PGA Champions (Lifetime)

Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Brooks Koepka, Justin Thomas, Phil Mickelson, Collin Morikawa, Jimmy Walker, Jason Day, Rory McIlroy, Jason Dufner, Keegan Bradley, Martin Kaymer, Y.E. Yang, Padraig Harrington, Shaun Micheel.

Masters champions (5 years)

Jon Rahm.

U.S. Open champions (5 years)

J.J. Spaun, Bryson DeChambeau, Wyndham Clark, Matt Fitzpatrick.

British Open champions (5 years)

Brian Harman, Cameron Smith.

Players Championship winners (3 years)

Cameron Young.

Top three from Federation Ranking of the OWGR on April 27

Casey Jarvis, Travis Smyth, Kazuki Higa.

Senior PGA champion

Stewart Cink.

Top 15 and ties from the 2025 PGA Championship

Harris English, Davis Riley, Taylor Pendrith, J.T. Poston, Jhonattan Vegas, Ryan Gerard, Ben Griffin, Joe Highsmith, Si Woo Kim, Denny McCarthy, Joaquin Niemann.

Top 20 from the PGA Professional Championship

Jesse Droemer, Ben Kern, Michael Kartrude, Tyler Collet, Zach Haynes, Garrett Sapp, Austin Hurt, Braden Shattuck, Mark Geddes, Ben Polland, Michael Block, Bryce Fisher, Ryan Lenahan, Jared Jones, Francisco Bide, Chris Gabriele, Derek Berg, Ryan Vermeer, Paul McClure, Timothy Wiseman.

U.S. and European rosters from the 2025 Ryder Cup

Sam Burns, Patrick Cantlay, Russell Henley, Ludvig Aberg, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Rasmus Hojgaard, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, Robert MacIntyre, Justin Rose, Sepp Straka.

PGA Tour winners dating to the 2025 Charles Schwab Challenge

Ryan Fox, Aldrich Potgieter, Brian Campbell, Chris Gotterup, William Mouw, Kurt Kitayama, Steven Fisk, Michael Brennan, Adam Schenk, Sami Valimaki, Jacob Bridgeman, Nico Echavarria, Akshay Bhatia, Ricky Castillo, Gary Woodland, Alex Fitzpatrick.

Top 70 from the PGA Championship points list (official PGA Tour money from May 11, 2025, through May 3, 2026)

Maverick McNealy, Rickie Fowler, Corey Conners, Hideki Matsuyama, Min Woo Lee, Harry Hall, Jake Knapp, Nick Taylor, Adam Scott, Daniel Berger, Sam Stevens, Matt McCarty, Nicolai Hojgaard, Jordan Spieth, Andrew Novak, Ryo Hisatsune, Max Greyserman, Alex Noren, Michael Thorbjornsen, Pierceson Coody, Alex Smalley, Bud Cauley, Patrick Rodgers, Chris Kirk, Michael Kim, Sahith Theegala, Matti Schmid, Matt Wallace, Andrew Putnam, Emiliano Grillo, David Lipsky, Rico Hoey.

Top three from the 2026 European tour Asian Swing

Mikael Lindberg, Bernd Wiesberger, Jordan Gumberg.

Special invitations

Luke Donald, Patrick Reed, Marco Penge, Aaron Rai, Kristoffer Reitan, David Puig, Thomas Detry, Jayden Schaper, Jordan Smith, Johnny Keefer, Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, Sungjae Im, Max McGreevy, Haotong Li, Garrick Higgo, John Parry, Austin Smotherman, Elvis Smylie, Lucas Glover, Daniel Hillier, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Daniel Brown, Stefan Jaeger, Adrien Saddier, Tom McKibbin, Dustin Johnson, Andy Sullivan, Angel Ayora, Keith Mitchell, Chandler Blanchet, Billy Horschel, Ian Holt, Kota Kaneko.

Alternates

Max Homa, Sudarshan Yellamaraju, Tom Hoge, Kevin Yu, Mac Meissner, Tony Finau, Kevin Roy, Davis Thompson.

___

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

Blue Jays-Mets trade pitch sends $30M two-time All-Star, NL wins leader to Toronto amid slow start

Blue Jays-Mets trade pitch sends $30M two-time All-Star, NL wins leader to Toronto amid slow start originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Mets have not gotten off to the start they expected, raising plenty of questions about the team’s early struggles. Despite that, the organization is sticking with manager Carlos Mendoza for now.

“Amid one of the worst starts in franchise history, the Mets are backing their manager," MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo wrote. "Carlos Mendoza will remain at the helm for the Mets, president of baseball operations David Stearns said Friday morning.”

If the Mets fail to turn things around and are still in a similar position by the trade deadline, they could look to move key pieces. One name that stands out is ace Freddy Peralta.

“Peralta is a prime trade chip. He’s an elite clubhouse presence and someone who is highly regarded by his teammates. He’s a high-end pitcher who has a career 3.60 ERA in nine major-league seasons. He’s also on an expiring contract and if the Mets want to get something in return in a potential lost season, then trading the right-hander should be on the table,” FanSided’s Robert Murray wrote.

If it gets to that point, the Toronto Blue Jays could be one of the first teams to show interest.

“The Blue Jays never really sniffed around the Freddy Peralta sweepstakes this past winter, but that was mostly because they'd already added two major pieces to their rotation in Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce. Ponce is now lost for the year due to knee surgery, and seemingly every other Toronto pitcher around Cease and Kevin Gausman has struggled to stay healthy as well. I still think this team will be there come September, but they're going to need some rotation reinforcements, and Peralta fits the bill beautifully if the Mets decide to sell. Yes, he'd be a rental, but we know the Jays have money to burn, and he has frontline stuff when it's clicking,” FanSided’s Chris Landers wrote.

Toronto’s pitching staff entered the season with promise but has been hit hard by injuries. Adding Peralta would be a major boost, as he could provide stability and top-end production to a struggling rotation.

Peralta is in the final year of his contract and has earned roughly $30 million over his career. Acquiring an ace of his caliber could give Toronto a legitimate chance to get back into contention and make another push toward the World Series.

More MLB news:

Lou Trivino agrees to 1-year contract with Orioles after release by Phillies

NEW YORK — Right-handed reliever Lou Trivino agreed to a one-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles after he was released from a minor league deal by the Philadelphia Phillies.

The 34-year-old made his Orioles debut in a 12-1 loss to the New York Yankees, allowing six runs, four hits and three walks while getting two outs in the eighth inning.

He was 3-0 with a 2.77 ERA in 10 relief outings for the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

“Heavy sinker. Turbo sinker,” Orioles manager Craig Albernaz said before the game. “I just remember him just attacking hitters no matter what the circumstance was. Obviously he’s had an arm injury since then. I wouldn’t say back to his form, but he’s healthy and he’s back pitching. He’s throwing the ball extremely well. The (velocity) is there.”

Baltimore optioned right-hander Trey Gibson to Triple-A Norfolk, a day after he started against the New York Yankees in his major league debut. The team also said right-hander Albert Suárez cleared outright waivers and accepted an assignment to the Tides.

Trivino is 24-27 with a 3.87 ERA in 229 relief appearances and three starts over six seasons with Oakland (2018-22), the Yankees (2022), and San Francisco, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets (2025). His career was interrupted by Tommy John surgery in May 2023.

Baltimore infielder Jordan Westburg, on the injured list since spring training with a sprained right UCL, felt discomfort when he increased the intensity and distance of his throwing program. Albernaz said Westburg will be re-evaluated.

Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday, whose return from surgery on Feb. 12 to repair a broken hamate bone in his right hand was interrupted by a sore right wrist, will take batting practice at Double-A Chesapeake and could resume a rehab assignment. Holliday played in 14 minor league games from March 27 to April 21.

Baltimore outfielder Heston Kjerstad, sidelined since straining his right hamstring during a spring training game on March 19, also could begin a rehab assignment soon.

Brian Kelly says Lane Kiffin can do the one thing he couldn’t at LSU

Brian Kelly was fired at LSU primarily because he didn't win a national championship — something his three predecessors on the Bayou did. Nick Saban won one in 2003, Les Miles won one in 2007 and Ed Orgeron won one in 2019.

So will Kelly's successor in Baton Rouge bring the Tigers a national championship?

EXCLUSIVE: Brian Kelly says he was fired for not winning enough at LSU — not golfing too much

Kelly joined USA TODAY Sports' "Sports Seriously: College Football Show" this week and was asked: Yes or no, will Lane Kiffin win a title at LSU?

LSU head coach Brian Kelly and Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin shake hands after a college football game between Ole Miss and LSU at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Miss., on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025.

"I think so," Kelly said. "That wasn't yes... Here's why I would say yes, okay, I think that they have invested in NIL for him. They have given him the opportunity. There's a lot of good things moving in that direction. The recruiting classes are really in solid shape. And I think Lane's a really smart football coach, so I think it's in a really good place, and I believe because there's an investment in that NIL he's going to be able to be Lane Kiffin. And that's important.

"You know he's not going to take the 18-year-old kid and develop him, you know all the way through the ranks. And that's fine. And because that's what they wanted. I think with those things in place he can win the national championship. And I'm sorry, that was a long answer, but that's that's kind of how I feel."

The rest of Kelly's conversation with USA TODAY Sports' college Insiders John Brice and Blake Toppmeyer will beavailable Wednesday, May 6, on USA TODAY Sports' YouTube page and wherever you listen to podcasts (search: Sports Seriously).

Kelly was asked earlier this month if he had any advice for Kiffin. Here's what he told USA TODAY Sports' John Brice:

“Lane doesn’t need advice,” Kelly said. "He’s seen it from the NFL to SC to building a program… I don’t think I’m telling him anything he doesn’t know. “The world we live in today, Michigan just won a basketball championship with five transfers. You can do it, but there are so many moving pieces. I don’t think he needs any advice. I think you just continue to be who you are. I think that's all you can be. People are going to judge you based upon what they think, anyways. So, just be Lane Kiffin."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brian Kelly says Lane Kiffin can win a national title at LSU football

Anthony Edwards admirably listed all the things he did wrong after heroic Game 1

If we're being frank, Anthony Edwards has already shown what it means to be a leader. By pushing and leading his Minnesota Timberwolves to a Game 1 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in their second-round series, despite suffering a serious knee injury just nine days prior, Edwards is setting the best possible example as a basketball player. He deserves so much credit for that resolve.

Still, even with his heroics in the account, the Timberwolves star did something remarkable right after Minnesota's opening win. Rather than make excuses related to his injury or talk himself up or his team, Edwards listed off all of his clutch-time mistakes that almost allowed the Spurs to steal victory out of the jaws of defeat. In other words, rather than resting on his laurels or projecting satisfaction from an 18-point performance in 25 minutes, Edwards took accountability in a way we see so few pro athletes truly do.

The interview below is an example of what makes the All-NBA-caliber guard just so darn special:

Anthony Edwards was disappointed with himself down the stretch despite the HUGE win vs the Wolves. pic.twitter.com/zsqnRCEp48

— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) May 5, 2026

How many stars of Edwards' ability would start rattling off their mistakes instead of their successes after a huge road playoff win? I'll give you a hint: The list isn't long.

Edwards has the right mindset here. He understands that if he's going to play while hampered, he has to play better if Minnesota is to topple the Spurs and reach its third straight Western Conference Finals. We, as observers, might marvel at his heroics for playing through injury, but no one on the court is giving him brownie points or taking it easy on him just because he isn't 100 percent healthy. If you're available, simply play better. Full stop.

The Timberwolves simply need Edwards (who wasn't even all that bad in Game 1) to be better to beat a 62-win regular season, and he knows it. That's the thing. No matter his health status, when Edwards starts taking responsibility like this while vowing he'll perform better moving forward, I believe him.

He doesn't seem like the kind of superstar to break a promise to himself or his Timberwolves teammates.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Anthony Edwards was disappointed with heroic Game 1 Timberwolves effort

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 live score, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

Tristan Stubbs Delhi Capitals DC IPL

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 live score, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY MATCH DETAILS:

  • Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
  • Captains: Axar Patel (DC), Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK)
  • Toss result: Delhi Capitals have won the toss and have opted to bat
  • Live Telecast: JioHotstar (India), TBD (Bangladesh), No Broadcast (Pakistan), CricLife Max, StarzPlay (UAE), Willow TV, Fubo, Willow TV app, Sling TV (USA & Canada)
  • Umpires & Match officials: Amit Sharma (Match referee), Kaushik Gandhi (On-field Umpire), Tanmay Srivastava (On-field Umpire), Nitin Menon (TV Umpire), Anish Sahasrabudhe (Fourth Umpire)
  • Match result: TBD.
  • Player of the Match: TBD.

IPL 2026 HUB:Latest IPL News | IPL Points Table | Team Stats | IPL 2026 Squads

Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings Live Scorecard from IPL 2026

Follow along with the latest live scorecard here as the match unfolds, or click here for key text commentary updates from the action.

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 Updates

Hello everyone and welcome to the live blog for the Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The two teams met earlier in the campaign at Chennai, where CSK won by 23 runs, courtesy of an unbeaten century from Sanju Samson.

With the two sides stranded in the bottom half of the points table, the result of this match could make or break each side's playoff chances. Who will prevail?

CSK batting updates

  • CSK have lost their skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, for just 6 runs. He was visibly struggling, and Ngidi removed him. 
  • Youngster Urvil Patel bites the dust. Axar foxes him and Rahul does not miss the opportunity to stump him. 
  • Samson and Kartik Sharma are the two batters at the crease. 

DC batting updates

  • After six overs, DC are 37/2. Both the openers, Pathum Nissanka and KL Rahul,  have been sent back, and the capital side are in trouble. 
  • Nitish Rana and Karun Nair have a job at their hands. 
  • There has been a mini collapse as Rana, Nair, and Patel have all departed. 
  • Noor Ahmad has taken two wickets, and Gurjapneet Singh took the wicket of Axar Patel. 
  • Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi have steadied the innings, and after 15 overs, DC are 97/5. 
  • A late surge from DC see them put up 155 on the board. A competitive score on a tricky wicket. 

Toss result: Delhi Capitals have won the toss and have opted to bat

    DC vs CSK: Win Probability

    TeamWin percentage
    DC30%
    CSK70%

    DC vs CSK IPL 2026: Playing XI

    DC playing XI: KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Karun Nair, Tristan Stubbs, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel(c), Ashutosh Sharma, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan

    Impact subs: Vipraj Nigam, Sameer Rizvi, Abishek Porel, Auqib Nabi Dar, David Miller

    CSK playing XI: Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh

    Impact Subs: Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Matthew Short, Akash Madhwal, Sarfaraz Khan

    MORE: What happens if an IPL match is cancelled due to rain? Rules and refund details

    Delhi weather update: Chances of rain interrupting play

    Let's take a look at the hourly temperatures and the probability of rainfall in Delhi on Wednesday.

    • 6:00 PM: 32°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 7:00 PM: 31°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 8:00 PM: 30°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 9:00 PM: 29°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 10:00 PM: 28°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 11:00 PM: 28°C (0% chance of rain)

    Key highlights and reactions: DC vs CSK IPL 2026

    IPL 2026 Points Table: Latest updated standings with live DC vs CSK result

    PosTeamPlayedWonLostNRNrrPoints
    1Punjab Kings9621+0.85513
    2Royal Challengers Bengaluru9630+1.42012
    3Sunrisers Hyderabad10640+0.64412
    4Rajasthan Royals10640+0.51012
    5Gujarat Titans10640-0.19212
    6Chennai Super Kings9450+0.0058
    7Delhi Capitals9450-0.8958
    8Kolkata Knight Riders9351-0.5397
    9Mumbai Indians10370-0.6496
    10Lucknow Super Giants9270-1.0764

    NOTE: Points table will be updated after the match.

    To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our FacebookInstagram and X (Twitter) pages.

    White Sox Look Like Legitimate Threat To Win AL Central

    Munetaka Murakami
    May 4, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) in the dugout after defeating the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

    The Chicago White Sox, despite signing Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, didn’t enter the 2026 MLB season with the most lofty of expectations. The Sox were looking to establish a culture and let young players develop in a season that would serve as a building block for the future.

    Through the first 45 games of the season, however, the White Sox are looking dangerous. Murakami has delivered since arriving in the Windy City, crushing 14 homers thus far, including another in Monday night’s win over the Los Angeles Angels on the West Coast.

    It was going to come sooner or later,” said Murakami of his first big league double, which also came on Monday night, through interpreter Kenzo Yagi. “So I’m really happy about the result.”

    It’s not just Murakami giving opposing pitchers headaches, either.

    “If you see that the whole lineup now, it’s so deep,” third baseman Miguel Vargas said, who hit his seventh home run on Monday “Any guy can give you a really good at-bat, a single, an extra base hit, a stolen base. That’s our identity right now. The hustle on the bases too has been unbelievable.”

    Chicago is now 7-3 over its last 10 games, and just 0.5 GB of first place in the always tightly contested AL Central.

    Most shocking of all during this stretch of success, however, might be the success the pitching rotation is seeing. The Sox have gotten arguably the best starting pitching in the MLB since early April.

    “You can look at the dugout and figure that out,” said starting pitcher Davis Martin, who notched his fifth win of the season on Monday. “We’re not hiding that we’re having the best time. This is a group that in Spring Training we knew we could do something cool and feel like we were building toward something.

    “Obviously we stumbled out of the gate, but I think we found our stride and found who we are as a team and the personality of our team. We just have a bunch of guys that want to play for each other, guys that are playing hard and wanting to win baseball games.”

    The post White Sox Look Like Legitimate Threat To Win AL Central appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.

    Former PSG defender Joane Gadou set to join Borussia Dortmund

    Former PSG defender Joane Gadou set to join Borussia Dortmund
    Former PSG defender Joane Gadou set to join Borussia Dortmund

    Former Paris Saint-Germain defender Joane Gadou (19) is set to join Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season, as per reports from L’Équipe and Le Parisien.

    Gadou left formative club PSG back in 2024 without having made a single appearance for the senior side. Despite not making the breakthrough, he was very highly rated. He convinced Red Bull Salzburg to spend €10m to acquire his services. 

    The centre-back has already made 33 appearances for RB Salzburg this season, including seven in the UEFA Europa League. But his time with the Austrian side is nearing an end, as per reports from L’Équipe and Le Parisien.

    They understand that an agreement in principle has been reached between RB Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund. The latter are currently second in the Bundesliga and guaranteed to participate in next season’s UEFA Champions League. 

    The deal, should it be completed, will be worth €20m, without bonuses. 

    GFFN | Luke Entwistle

    What draft experts said about Colts' DE Caden Curry in scouting reports

    In the sixth round of the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Ohio State defensive end Caden Curry. Let's take a closer look at Curry's game with what a few draft experts had to say in their final scouting reports.

    Curry saw a big jump in production last season, posting 46 pressures and 12 sacks, according to PFF. He was also one of PFF's highest graded run defenders at this position group.

    Curry also joins the Colts,with ample special teams experience at the college level, playing over 600 career snaps over four seasons.

    "He's a really good, hard-playing football player," said GM Chris Ballard about Curry.

    Here is what a few draft analysts think of Curry's game.

    Lance Zierlein, NFL.com

    "The tape doesn’t quite match the production, but with only one season as a starter, Curry’s play should continue to improve. He has good size and can play edge in even or odd fronts. He uses lower-body power to help access the pocket but his rush lacks explosiveness and a healthy set of go-to moves to open the protection up. He can rush from the interior, allowing teams to get more speed on the field. He’s built to hold up at the point but would benefit from an uptick in aggression to better command both his positioning and the block. Curry is athletic dropping into space and fits the mold of a stand-up edge with special-teams value."

    Pro Football Network

    "Curry will likely never be an NFL starter, but he has functionality as an alignment-versatile rotational presence with high-quality run defense, a reliable leverage profile, and motorized playmaking in pursuit."

    Dane Brugler, The Athletic

    "Curry is a sawed-off, face-up pass rusher with a basic approach, but he plays alert and physical, and affects the game with his white-hot motor (his best attribute). He projects as a versatile NFL backup who can be moved up and down the line of scrimmage — reminiscent of John Simon, another former Ohio State edge defender."

    This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Scouting reports for new Colts' DE Caden Curry

    ESPN highly critical of Clemson football’s 2026 offseason

    In a recent article ranking each Power Five team's offseason, ESPN did not have high praise for the Tigers, slotting them outside the top ten in the ACC. They cited Chris Johnson Jr., London Merritt, and Elliot Washington as key additions, and Cade Klubnik, Peter Woods, and Blake Miller as key departures.It’s important to note that this list is not simply about the talent brought in this offseason, but also about what a team is losing. A team (like Clemson) losing three players to the first round of the NFL draft, two more on day two, and their longtime starting QB early on day three is going to seriously affect how much they are perceived to have “improved.” Clemson had 11 starters either graduating or going pro, and three entering the transfer portal.

    ESPN cited a change at the coordinator position, with the addition of former Clemson OC Chad Morris. They mentioned the disastrous Luke Ferrelli fiasco and Dabo’s rant in response. On the positive end, Clemson was much more active in the portal and hauled in the 19th-ranked recruiting class in the nation. Overall, this Tigers offseason is the most ridiculed since 2008, when ESPN gave the Tigers' hiring of Dabo Swinney a D+. Let’s hope this season follows a similar path, and subverts the low expectations set by the media.

    Dabo Swinney reveals truth about Clemson football’s NIL struggles

    📸 Jacob Kupferman, Getty Images for ONIT https://t.co/259qgCgQpGpic.twitter.com/G4JucA0BHF

    — Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) May 5, 2026

    Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.

    This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN sets low expectations for Dabo, Clemson heading into 2026 season

    New Titleist mini driver, Bettinardi zero-torque putters

    Cameron Young won the 2026 Players Championship and on Sunday won a PGA Tour signature event, the Cadillac Championship, moving him to No. 3 on the Official World Golf Ranking. While his pause at the top of his swing gets a lot of attention, a recent change in his golf ball is harder to spot.

    Cameron Young's v golf balls.

    In 2024, Young was playing Titleist's Pro V1 Left Dot, a low-spin option designed to help him keep the ball down and counteract his high-spin shots that flew too high. However, he was still creating too much spin with his wedges, which resulted in distance control issues. That year, he tested the prototypes that would become the current Pro V1 and Pro V1x, and asked Titleist golf ball reps what they could do to help him because the new balls still weren't the ideal match. Eventually, while testing at Titleist's Manchester Lane facility in Massachusetts, Titleist fit Young into the Pro V1x Double Dot ball, a Custom Performance Option (CPO) that is only available to Tour pros and not the general public.

    After learning the Pro V1x Double Dot ball worked for his irons and wedges, Young worked with Titleist PGA Tour reps to make sure the ball worked off the tee. Not surprisingly, the ball created a lower flight off the tee. To counteract that off the tee, Young wound up adding about 0.75 degrees of loft to your driver to get the flight he wanted, which created a "spin floor" around 2,400 rpm of spin that gives him enough carry distance. Young now plays a Titleist GT3 with 11 degrees of loft, set in the D1 hosel position, which reduces the loft by 0.75 degrees, so the club has a 10.25-degree "playing" loft.

    Young added the ball at the 2025 Wyndham Championship, and he won his first PGA Tour event that week. Young went on to be a stud for the U.S. Ryder Cup team at Bethpage and has now won twice with it in 2026.

    So why aren't Titleist CPO balls like the Pro V1x Double Dot available to everyone? The vast majority of golfers, according to Titleist, get good performance from the Pro V1 and Pro V1x, while a few likely benefit from the Pro V1x Left Dash. You don't swing like Cameron Young, and only a handful of players in the world do. What he needs from a ball is different than what Justin Thomas needs, what Lydia Ko needs, from what your local pro needs and what you and your friends need.

    The real story here isn't that Young or other pros are playing equipment you can't get. It's that they are ideally fit with a ball that matches their game, while too many golfers play a golf ball at random. They use the same ball they've played for years, balls that were a gift or balls that have a color they like. Just like using a driver or set of irons that match your game is critical, finding and using the right golf ball can make a massive difference in your game.

    This article originally appeared on Golfweek: New Titleist mini driver, Bettinardi zero-torque putters

    Defense presenting its case at ex-Patriots player Stefon Diggs’ assault trial

    DEDHAM — The trial of former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is set to resume Tuesday morning with continued cross-examination of the woman who accused him of assaulting her last December.

    Diggs, 32, is charged with strangulation or suffocation, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of assault and battery. Judge Jeanmarie Carroll is overseeing the trial in district court here.

    Prosecutors say Diggs hit a woman working for him as a private chef across the face and wrapped his arm around her neck from behind, choking her, on Dec. 2. The woman reported the incident on Dec. 16. Diggs’ defense says the incident never happened.

    Assistant Norfolk District Attorney Drew Virtue is prosecuting the case, and attorneys Andrew Kettlewell and Sara Silva are representing Diggs. The jury comprises six women and one man.

    Follow live updates from the trial’s second day:

    12:28 p.m. - Hairstylist recalls chef saying she wanted to make Diggs ‘pay’

    Kettlewell called Xia Charles, a New York City-based hair stylist, to the stand. Charles said she met Diggs when he played for the Buffalo Bills and has regularly braided his hair.

    Charles went to Diggs’ Dedham home several times, and became friendly with the woman.

    On Dec. 2, Charles called the woman while out buying groceries. The woman was sitting in the kitchen in Diggs’ home at the time. Charles said she didn’t notice anything odd about her appearance.

    The pair connected again that day when Charles picked her up from the airport. Charles again confirmed she saw nothing out of the ordinary and didn’t notice any bruising.

    The next day, Charles saw the woman in a towel and again told Kettlewell she noticed no visible injuries. The woman made no mention of being attacked or assaulted.

    Charles went to Dedham on Dec. 12 or 13 to do Diggs’ hair for a game, she said.

    She recalled the woman yelling at Diggs, “Yo Stef, when am I gonna get my money?”

    Later that night, Charles said she spoke to the woman again, who said she was going to sue Diggs for money she believed she was owed.

    “Do you remember her saying she was going to make him pay?” Kettlewell asked. Charles said she did.

    On cross-examination, Virtue asked Charles about how much Diggs paid her and the nature of their relationship.

    Charles said she was paid up to $1,500 and had attended several football games with Diggs, but that their relationship was strictly professional.

    12 p.m. - Diggs business manager describes audit of chef’s expenses

    Diggs’ defense called Melissa Goddard, who oversaw both Diggs’ personal expenses and his business, in December 2025, as the next witness.

    Goddard initially handled only Diggs’ business expenses but took over the personal concierge expenses in the fall of 2025.

    When the woman submitted an invoice in early December 2025, Goddard said she “immediately knew it was incorrect,” because she had been paid for two of the weeks she claimed to have not been paid for.

    Goddard said she then reviewed all payments made to the woman and the receipts and reimbursements she submitted, trying to determine whether she had made a mistake or the woman had.

    That review determined the woman had been overpaid by roughly $2,500 and submitted receipts multiple times over the course of six months and asked to be reimbursed for packages sent by Diggs’ FedEx account.

    Goddard also found an additional $744 that “maybe was legitimate,” but she couldn’t substantiate. She said she reached out to the woman to clarify, but she never responded. When she reported the overpayments to Diggs on Dec. 5, 2025, he told her to prepare a report. 

    He “wanted to make sure she was paid,” Goddard said.

    Goddard also testified about asking the woman to fill out a non-disclosure agreement after determining she was missing paperwork that other employees working for Diggs had filled out.

    But Goddard said she didn’t follow up because Diggs told her “not to worry about it.”

    11:50 a.m. - Massage therapist says woman ‘seemed to be ok’ after alleged assault

    The next witness to testify for the defense was Stephanie Anastassi, a massage therapist at The Right Touch Day Spa in Attleboro. Anastassi explained that she also does work for private clients, including Diggs.

    She met Diggs through a physical therapist she knew from working for the Boston Celtics, she said.

    Anastassi said she arrived at the home between 5:45 p.m. and 6 p.m. and massaged Diggs in his bedroom.

    During the massage, the woman entered but left when she noticed Diggs was asleep. Anastassi said she returned later in the massage, waking up Diggs.

    The woman “seemed to be ok” and “looked the same as in the past,” Anastassi said. She didn’t see any marks on the woman’s face or neck.

    On a brief cross-examination, she confirmed that word of mouth is “very important” in her field.

    11:37 a.m. - Defense calls next witness

    The next witness for the defense was Julianna Stratoti, a registered nurse at Mass General Brigham who also does private work on the side.

    Stratoti explained that she often makes house calls and told Kettlewell that she arrived at Diggs’ home around 4:50 p.m. on Dec. 2, 2025. She said she didn’t have a specific memory of leaving, but her appointments were typically 45 minutes to an hour long.

    The treatment she did for Diggs was in the living room, she said, and she didn’t hear or see anything unusual in the house that day.

    Virtue conducted a brief cross-examination and Stratoti stepped down.

    11:18 a.m. - Testimony resumes

    Jeanelle Sales, Diggs’ chief of staff, resumed her testimony after the break. She confirmed to Kettlewell that she left the house around 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 2, and returned around 1 p.m. Diggs returned around 3:40 p.m., she said.

    Sales said she saw the woman, Diggs’ brother and his childhood best friend in the home that day.

    She saw “nothing out of the usual,” she testified.

    Sales said she spoke to the woman later that afternoon when she asked if Sales had purchased her a flight to Atlanta.

    Kettlewell asked her if she saw any redness or swelling on the woman’s face or neck. Sales said she didn’t.

    The woman was walking around the kitchen, looking for a note to write something to Diggs for his birthday, Sales said.

    She confirmed she didn’t hear anything out of the ordinary. When she spoke to the woman that day, she never reported the alleged assault.

    On cross-examination, Sales told Virtue that Diggs pays her between $90,000 and $100,000 each year.

    “Was there a time when both of them were out of your range to see and hear?” Virtue asked, referring to Diggs and the woman. Sales said there was.

    Virtue returned to the subject of finances, asking the woman if it was “fair to say” she had a “financial interest in Mr. Diggs doing well?”

    “I think we collectively do well,” she said, adding that Diggs was a “great” boss and she wanted to keep working for him.

    On re-direct from Kettlewell, Sales said she wouldn’t lie to keep her job.

    Her testimony ended there.

    10:59 a.m. - Morning recess

    Carroll called a break while Kettlewell questioned Sales.

    Sales explained that she coordinates most aspects of Diggs’ life, including travel and regular appointments. She was also involved in the hiring of Diggs’ accuser and other chefs.

    On Dec. 2, the day of the incident, Sales said she and Diggs were planning to go to Miami along with Diggs’ brother and two close friends. Diggs was planning to debut a luxury furniture line there at Art Basel, a contemporary art fair.

    Kettlewell showed Sales Ring camera footage of Diggs leaving for work that morning.

    10:41 a.m. - First defense witness concludes testimony

    The first witness to testify for Diggs’ defense was Michael Perry, a digital forensics expert at Stroz Friedberg. Perry extracted text messages from Diggs’ phone and prepared reports of his texts with the accuser.

    Perry said users can’t insert messages into conversations that haven’t been sent, and explained that on iPhones, deleted texts can be recovered after 30 days.

    On cross-examination, he conceded that he wouldn’t be able to tell if Diggs had deleted messages from his phone because he performed the extractions in April.

    10:23 a.m. - Commonwealth rests

    Prosecutors rested their case after calling Dedham police officer Kenneth Ellis to the stand.

    An 18-year veteran of the police force, Ellis was the officer who took the report from Diggs’ accuser and filed the application for a criminal complaint. He said the woman initially didn’t want to mention anyone involved, but eventually told him that Diggs attacked her.

    Ellis said he spoke to the woman two or three more times on the phone and exchanged emails with her before filing the complaint.

    On cross-examination from Kettlewell, Ellis acknowledged that while he attempted to contact Diggs, he never spoke to him or anyone else about the incident.

    Ellis confirmed that the woman told him she and Diggs had argued over money and that she left her job after the assault. He agreed with Kettlewell that it would be “important” for him to know if someone had deleted text messages they turned over to police.

    “I’d want the whole picture, correct,” Ellis said.

    Kettlewell concluded his questioning there. After Virtue announced the commonwealth was resting its case, the lawyers had a brief conversation with Carroll at sidebar.

    10:11 a.m. - Accuser’s testimony concludes

    On a brief re-direct, Virtue had the woman read more texts between her and Diggs leading up to the alleged assault.

    Diggs told her, “I won’t be paying you” and “tell them to come take the money.” The woman responded by calling him an expletive.

    She told Virtue it was “common practice” when private chefs are sent away for a week, they still get paid.

    He concluded by asking the woman if when she said she hadn’t sought money to settle the case, she was referring to the criminal case. She said that was true.

    Silva’s re-cross-examination focused mostly on the issue of payment, as she tried to get the woman to concede she wanted Diggs to give her money to open her own restaurant.

    “You wanted him to pay you to open your restaurant, right?” Silva asked. “I wanted him to pay me past wages,” the woman countered.

    10:02 a.m. - Cross-examination concludes

    With the woman back on the stand, Silva returned to the $5.5 million demand that the woman’s lawyer sent to Diggs.

    The woman said she couldn’t answer the question, then claimed that the subject was covered by attorney-client privilege. When Silva pushed further, the woman said she was pursuing a workers’ compensation claim — an answer Carroll struck from the record.

    Silva eventually concluded her questioning. Virtue’s re-direct examination was interrupted by several quick objections and a sidebar.

    9:58 a.m. - Judge warns accuser: ‘Your entire testimony may be stricken.’

    Without the jury in the room, Carroll again warned the woman that she must only answer the questions that are asked of her.

    “If you don’t understand, you can say that,” Carroll told her, explaining that trials function in a question-and-answer format. “This is not an opportunity for you to interject your own narrative.”

    “If you continue to do so your entire testimony may be stricken,” she said.

    When the jury returned, Carroll emphasized to them that any answers that are stricken by her can’t be considered evidence in the case.

    “When an answer is stricken, it does not exist,” she said. “You’re sworn to determine those facts solely and exclusively from the evidence presented.”

    9:28 a.m. - Woman questioned about demands for money

    Silva moved on to questions about requests for money the woman had made through a mediator, then through a lawyer.

    She suggested to the woman that a mediator made a money demand on Dec. 29 — the same day the criminal complaint was issued in Diggs’ case. The woman said she hadn’t seen the demand and then that she couldn’t answer the question.

    The woman did confirm the mediator asked for $19,000, a claim she said was for “wages owed.”

    Silva then turned to questions about the lawyer the woman hired to represent her.

    She asked if the lawyer helped prepare her to testify, but the woman replied, “I don’t know how to answer that question.”

    The woman followed up that she hired a lawyer because “I was injured on the job and I needed to file a workers’ comp case.”

    The questioning was frequently interrupted by Silva asking Carroll to strike the answer and sidebar conversations. Carroll also had to instruct the woman to let Silva finish her questions and to only answer the question she had been asked.

    Silva asked the woman whether her lawyer demanded $5.5 milion from Diggs. The woman replied that Diggs had offered her $100,000 to recant her statement, a response Carroll quickly told the jury to disregard.

    The lawyers then went to sidebar. After the conversation, jurors were ushered out of the courtroom and Carroll stepped off the bench.

    During the break, Diggs huddled with his lawyers at the defense table.

    9:18 a.m. - Cross-examination resumes

    Silva restarted her examination of the woman with questions about texts she exchanged with Diggs’ girlfriend on Jan. 1, 2026.

    That day, the woman texted Diggs’ girlfriend, “I didn’t say that,” which Silva suggested was a reference to the statements she gave to Dedham Police.

    The woman told Silva she couldn’t answer the question.

    “Did you or did you not write those words?” Silva pressed on. “I don’t understand the question without further explaining,” the woman replied.

    More stories about Stefon Diggs

    Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

    Athletics acquire catcher Jonah Heim from Braves for cash

    SEATTLE — The Athletics acquired switch-hitting catcher Jonah Heim from the Atlanta Braves for cash in a trade between first-place teams.

    Heim was designated for assignment by Atlanta following a big day at the plate to make room on the roster for catcher Sean Murphy, who came off the injured list.

    Murphy made his season debut against the Seattle Mariners, starting behind the plate and batting seventh. Murphy, an All-Star in 2023 with the Braves and a Gold Glove winner two years earlier with the A’s, had been rehabbing in the minors following right hip surgery.

    Atlanta also has 2025 NL Rookie of the Year Drake Baldwin at catcher. Baldwin began the day batting .315 with eight homers, 29 RBIs and a .909 OPS for the NL East-leading Braves, who had the best record in the majors (25-10).

    Signed in February to help fill in until Murphy was ready, Heim hit .231 with one homer, eight RBIs and a .721 OPS in 12 games with the Braves. He spent 2021-25 with Texas and was an All-Star and Gold Glove winner on the 2023 Rangers team that won the World Series.

    The 30-year-old Heim is a .225 career hitter with 69 homers and a .655 OPS. He broke into the big leagues with the Athletics in 2020 when they played in Oakland.

    The primary catcher for the A’s is Shea Langeliers, who is batting .336 with 10 homers, 18 RBIs and a 1.017 OPS — a big reason they lead the AL West at 18-16.

    New Mavericks team president Masai Ujiri’s complete history in the NBA, from 2003 to 2026

    New Mavericks team president Masai Ujiri’s complete history in the NBA, from 2003 to 2026

    Masai Ujiri has built a reputation on bold resets.

    He has torn down rosters when necessary to construct contenders and the Dallas Mavericks are betting that philosophy can stabilize a franchise at a crossroads.

    Like Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Ujiri has long been viewed as a risk-taker, willing to make aggressive, franchise-altering decisions in pursuit of a title.

    Dallas announced Monday that it has hired Ujiri as president of basketball operations and alternate governor, charging him with reshaping a team still dealing with the fallout from trading Luka Dončić.

    Ujiri’s resume is defined by decisive moves. In 2018, he traded franchise cornerstone DeMar DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs for Kawhi Leonard, a one-year acquisition widely expected to leave for Los Angeles in free agency. Weeks earlier, Ujiri had dismissed coach Dwane Casey — who would go on to win NBA Coach of the Year — and elevated assistant Nick Nurse.

    The gamble paid off. Before departing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Leonard led the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA championship.

    Ujiri is expected to be introduced at a news conference Tuesday. Below is a timeline of his NBA career:

    MASAI UJIRI | Career TimelineNew Dallas Mavericks president of basketball operations and alternate governor

    BY THE NUMBERS

    StatBefore Ujiri (18 seasons)Under Ujiri (12 seasons)
    Win percentage.407 (26th).565 (5th)
    Playoff berths58
    Playoff wins1146
    Championships01

    EARLY CAREER

    Pre-2003 — Played professionally in Europe before transitioning to the front office as an international scout with the Orlando Magic.

    2003 — Joined the Denver Nuggets as an international scout.

    2007–08 — Hired by the Toronto Raptors as director of international scouting. Promoted to assistant GM by 2008.

    2010 — Returned to Denver as GM and executive vice president of basketball operations, becoming the first African GM in major American professional sports. The Nuggets went 50-32 in his first full season.

    Feb 2011 — Orchestrated the blockbuster Carmelo Anthony trade.

    Knicks receive: Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Shelden Williams, Anthony Carter, Renaldo Balkman

    Nuggets receive: Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov, Raymond Felton, four draft picks (including the selection used on Jamal Murray), $3 million in cash

    May 2013 — Named NBA Executive of the Year after Denver won 57 games, tied for the franchise’s best since joining the league.

    TORONTO RAPTORS ERA (2013–2025)

    May 2013 — Rejoined the Raptors as executive vice president and GM on a five-year, $15 million deal.

    December 2013 — Traded Rudy Gay to Sacramento in a widely questioned move. Toronto responded by posting the NBA’s fourth-best record the rest of the way, kicking off a franchise-record seven consecutive playoff appearances.

    July 2018 — Made his boldest move, shipping fan favorite DeMar DeRozan to San Antonio for Kawhi Leonard — a one-year rental widely expected to leave for Los Angeles. Weeks earlier, fired Coach of the Year Dwane Casey, replacing him with assistant Nick Nurse.

    June 2019 — Toronto defeated Golden State in six games to win the franchise’s first NBA championship. Leonard’s buzzer-beater against Philadelphia and his Finals MVP performance validated every uncomfortable decision Ujiri had made.

    2021 — Signed a five-year extension with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. The Raptors also drafted Scottie Barnes fourth overall that summer.

    2023-24 — Traded O.G. Anunoby and Pascal Siakam in a retooling effort. Toronto missed the playoffs in three consecutive seasons — the longest drought of his tenure — and finished 30-52 in 2024-25.

    2025 — Parted ways with Toronto Raptors.

    Top 5 Florida high school football quarterbacks to watch for in 2026

    We’re smack dab in the middle of spring high school football in the states that participate around the country, but this is a critical time for many programs when it comes to preparation for the upcoming 2026 campaign. The most important position on the field, quarterback, is often the most heavily scrutinized and always under the microscope of those who cover high school football. Rivals begins taking a look state-by-state at each state’s top 5 returning signal callers and we start with Florida high school football as we work our way around the country. Take a look at our top 5 and let us know what you think and who we may have missed.

    [ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]

    Davin Davidson, Sarasota (FL) Cardinal Mooney

    Scouting Summary: “Davin Davidson is another physically-talented 2027 passer who has seen his profile rise coming out of his junior season, as he helped Sarasota (Fla.) Cardinal Mooney to a state title. Davidson pairs immense size at around 6-foot-6, 215 pounds with a very live arm. He’s more of a fastball thrower right now and will need to continue adding nuance as a passer. The size, arm, and movement skills are very projectable and his physical upside has created a considerable buzz.” – Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings, Charles Power

    Jayden Wade, Bradenton (FL) IMG Academy

    Scouting Summary: “Physically-gifted quarterback prospect with a high-end combination of arm strength and athleticism. Measured in at around 6-foot-3.5, 195 pounds with 10-inch hands prior to his junior season, having added good mass to his frame over the past year. A combine standout who has been timed in the 4.4-second range in the 40-yard dash. Started at quarterback at power IMG Academy as a sophomore after serving as a backup as a freshman. Has a tight, quick throwing motion and shows the ability to throw with palpable velocity. Primarily worked as a distributor for IMG’s talented receiving corps, throwing a high percentage of RPO’s as a sophomore. Completed 73 of 119 passes for 1,376 yards and 20 touchdowns against two interceptions as a sophomore. Shows flashes of his immense physical ability but needs more quality in-game reps as a passer, as he’s relatively less experienced than most of his highly-ranked peers at this stage. Older for the cycle and will turn 18 years-old in October of his junior season.” – Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings, Charles Power

    Champ Monds, Vero Beach (FL)

    Scouting Summary: “Rivals’ top quarterback early on in the 2028 cycle, after turning in a strong freshman season. Has a physically-developed build, checking in at 6-foot-2.5, 220 pounds with massive 10.5-inch hands. Flashed a live arm and the ability to make high-level throws while passing for 2,234 yards and 23 touchdowns against five interceptions as a freshman. A true dual threat with good combine speed that translates to Friday nights. Is already load to tackle and rushed for 502 yards and nine touchdowns as a freshman. Despite being the most physically developed 2028 quarterback, he is also one of the youngest and few who were not held back.” – Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings, Charles Power

    Neimann Lawrence, Plantation (FL) American Heritage

    The Skinny: The 2028 four-star phenom quarterback move to 2025 FHSAA Class 4A state champion American Heritage from Miami Northwestern really shook up South Florida and sets the Patriots up for a chance to three-peat as state champions this fall. Lawrence in his first couple of years has been as good as anyone in the Sunshine State and his transfer to American Heritage keeps them in contention for another state title this 2026 campaign. Lawrence last Florida high school football season completed 131 of 185 passes for 1,971 yards, 32 touchdowns and just one interception, making him easily one of the most efficient at the position from the Sunshine State.

    Brady Quinn, Hollywood (FL) Chaminade-Madonna

    The Skinny: Another 2028 signal caller that transferred schools this off-season was Quinn, who left Naples Lely for 9-time state champion Chaminade-Madonna Prep. Quinn was very effective playing out of Southwest Florida, but should see his statistics the next couple of years soar with the playmakers he’ll have around him with the Lions. This past 2025 campaign at Naples Lely, Quinn finished the Florida high school football season completing 198 of 328 passes for 2,960 yards and 37 touchdowns. There’s little doubt whatsoever that Quinn should be able to surpass those numbers as he will have receivers like 2027 four-star Ah’Mari Stevens and 2028 four-star Tromon Isaac to throw to, respectively.

    How to Follow Florida High School Football

    For Florida high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Sunshine State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the Florida high school football excitement across the state.

    Jorge Masvidal: Movsar Evloev on a ‘different level’ than Alexander Volkanovski

    Jorge Masvidal believes his American Top Team stablemate Movsar Evloev has a different kind of momentum.

    Evloev is currently considered the frontrunner for the next featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski. Masvidal recently predicted that Evloev will dethrone Volkanovski in a potential fight. Masvidal notes that he had also correctly predicted Evloev’s last win over fellow contender Lerone Murphy. According to “Gamebred,” Evloev will only become more dangerous soon as he peaks physically.

    “I’m saying it here right now. Movsar beats Volkanovski… I said he was going to beat Murphy,” Masvidal told UFC on Paramount. “I love Volk. But right now, Movsar is on a different level… That gear that Movsar has… And it’s only going to get tougher for people because he is coming more into his groove, more into his prime physically. I think he beats Volk right now.”

    Despite being widely considered the top featherweight contender for a long time, Evloev (20-0) has been deprived of a title shot so far. Even Volkanovski (28-4) has acknowledged Evloev as the No.1 contender. However, Diego Lopes, who lost to Evloev, has leapfrogged him to unsuccessfully challenge Volkanovski for the title twice. Meanwhile, the undefeated Evloev has the longest winning streak in the featherweight division at 10.

    "I will say it in here right now, Movsar beats Volkanovski."@GamebredFighter is calling it now 🔮 pic.twitter.com/cGueNQiCUo— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) May 4, 2026

    New Report Adds Fuel to Paolo Banchero Trade Buzz: 5 Landing Spots, Including Suns & Kings

    New Report Adds Fuel to Paolo Banchero Trade Buzz: 5 Landing Spots, Including Suns & Kings
    Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

    A new report makes a Paolo Banchero trade out of Orlando this summer seem a lot more likely.

    While the Orlando Magic star has not been the dominant force the team needs as a former No. 1 overall pick, the 23-year-old is still a very gifted player. He showed that with his 38 and 45-point performances in their playoff series against the Detroit Pistons. However, there is no denying he has been the face of a team ousted in the first round in three straight seasons.

    As of now, head coach Jamahl Mosley is taking the blame after being fired on Monday. However, an interesting report from ESPN NBA insiders Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst isn’t a good look for Banchero.

    “They’re kind of a mess. Their ceiling just isn’t very high with Paolo. Their roster construction is just off,” an East scout said. “… Having him lead your team is tough to pull off.”

    If scouts feel that way about Banchero, it’s possible Magic management feels the same, especially after they played well without him during the season. If Orlando did boldly trade the 2022 No. 1 pick, let’s look at five teams that could target a trade.

    Dallas Mavericks

    mavericks
    Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

    With Masai Ujiri now installed as the new president of the Dallas Mavericks, the team is sure to be aggressive in building a roster around last year’s No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. The Mavs have the contracts to make a deal work, but will need to throw in some future first-round picks to interest the Magic. If they do, the combo of Flagg and Banchero for the next five years will excite Dallas fans.

    Brooklyn Nets

    nets
    Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

    The Brooklyn Nets badly need a long-term face of the franchise. Their rebuild has gone poorly thus far, and they don’t seem keen on making Michael Porter Jr. the heart of their roster. The Nets certainly have the draft assets and intriguing young talent. The big question is, does Orlando see big upside in their multiple first-round prospects from last June?

    Sacramento Kings

    kings
    Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

    The Sacramento Kings will be aggressive to overhaul their roster this offseason after a disastrous campaign in 2025-26. They have two extra first-rounders in upcoming drafts, including two in 2027. What makes the Kings an intriguing trade partner is that Orlando’s return could be a future first-rounder and three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis.

    Despite his age (just turned 30) and injury woes this season, the forward and a first-rounder would be a good return for Orlando. While Sactown gets a new young star in the deal.

    Phoenix Suns

    suns
    Brett Davis-Imagn Images

    The Phoenix Suns made a lot of progress in 2025-26 after being one of the most disappointing teams in the NBA a season ago. New head coach Jordan Ott implemented a more defensive-minded system that would surely fit with Banchero, since he played in one for the Magic.

    He won’t come cheap and will cost them a couple of future first-round picks, but a combo of Banchero and Devin Booker for the next few years could make Phoenix a force in the West.

    Chicago Bulls

    bulls
    Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

    The Chicago Bulls are in the midst of a major overhaul. They have a new leader of the front office and are in search of a replacement for head coach Billy Donovan. Chicago also needs a proven star to be the face of this new era.

    They certainly don’t want to trade Josh Giddey or Matas Buzelis. But they can offer several first-round picks, including one of their two potential selects in a stacked draft next month. It may not be enough to persuade Orlando, but they can put together a very nice trade package.

    Related Headlines

    Tigers fire Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez for violation of club policy

    It's been a turbulent week for the Detroit Tigers.

    The franchise announced on Tuesday, May 5, it has fired Triple-A Toledo manager Gabe Alvarez, less than 24 hours after the team announced Tarik Skubal will need surgery on his left throwing elbow.

    The Tigers said Alvarez was fired "due to a violation of club policy," with no more specific details about why he was let go.

    MORE TIGERS: Doctor explains Tarik Skubal return to Detroit Tigers from surgery

    He will be replaced by Mike Hessman, who played 1,436 games at the Triple-A level and hundreds more at lower levels.

    Alvarez was named as the Tigers manager ahead of the 2025 season after three seasons as Double-A Erie's manager before that, where he had a 232-178 record and three division titles.

    "We will have no further comment," the Tigers said in a statement.

    Contact Andrew Birkle via email at abirkle@freepress.com.

    This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Tigers fire Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez for violation of club policy

    Jon Rahm resolves his dispute with European tour as LIV Golf faces loss of Saudi funding

    STERLING, Va. — Jon Rahm has resolved his financial dispute with the European tour, a move that potentially gives him a place to compete in 2027 and beyond with LIV Golf facing an uncertain future.

    Rahm and Tyrell Hatton took questions Tuesday at LIV Golf Virginia after LIV CEO Scott O’Neil spoke to reporters about his efforts to court investors for a league that is losing its chief financial backer, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, at the end of the season.

    Both players declined to speculate on their future and noted that they remain under contract with LIV for years to come.

    “As of right now I have several years on my contract left, and I’m pretty sure they did a pretty good job when they drafted that, so I don’t see many ways out,” Rahm said.

    Asked whether Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund had committed to honoring contracts beyond 2026, O’Neil said, “I don’t even know how to think about answering.”

    The Saudis have spent $5 billion on LIV Golf over five years without achieving profitability, including $1 billion on player contracts. Players compete for $30 million purses at each event on the LIV schedule, an amount that could be reduced next year without Saudi funding.

    The PGA Tour does not allow players to compete on both circuits. However, LIV players have been welcomed back to the European tour after paying fines for playing in conflicting events.

    Rahm refused to pay the fines and the resulting standoff put at risk his participation in next year’s Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Ireland.

    “There is no longer a standoff. We were able to reach an agreement. There were some concessions on both sides, and I offered some, they extended an olive branch,” Rahm said. “So that will not be a stress anymore.”

    Rahm said he plans to play European tour events this fall, including the Spanish Open, unless family considerations get in the way. He and wife Kelley are expecting their fourth child.

    The two-time major champion has played only six European tour events since joining LIV in late 2023. LIV has no events on its schedule between the U.S. Open and the British Open, and Rahm’s settlement would allow him to play the Scottish Open, which is co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour, the week before the year’s final major.

    Speaking in Spanish at the end of his availability, Rahm said he knew there was risk in coming to LIV and compared his situation to a soccer team knowing its coach was leaving at the end of the season.

    “You know you have to play, but there is ambiguity because maybe you are not going to follow the same system,” Rahm said before making a reference to PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan, known as “His Excellency,” who has stepped down as LIV’s chairman.

    “It was a surprise for everyone. We didn’t expect it, after the support that His Excellency has given us.”

    O’Neil makes a pitch for LIV’s value

    O’Neil took questions from a LIV media official for 28 minutes inside the tennis building at Trump National Golf Club outside Washington before answering reporters’ questions for 17 minutes.

    Behind him was a screen with the names of six sponsors, four of which are owned or backed by the PIF: Maaden, Riyadh Air, Roshn Group and Aramco.

    O’Neil mentioned sponsorships, ticket sales, television contracts and the league’s global footprint as reasons for optimism that it could secure funding. The league plans to take its 13 franchises to market, and O’Neil said those teams would be offered to potential buyers with players in place.

    “The way the process will typically work — I may be getting ahead of myself — is that we’re going to create a business plan, we’re going to lock arms with the players, we will go to market and raise money on a top level, and then we will get investors in teams in that order,” O’Neil said. “The players on the team should be locked in.”

    Rahm acknowledged that players might have to accept less money to keep the league going.

    “I do believe that for the business plan to change, whatever they’re coming up with, there will need to be some concessions on (players’) part, yeah,” he said.

    Comcast concerned about future of exclusive NFL Network games amid carriage dispute

    NFL Network broadcasters Daniel Jeremiah (left) and Rich Eisen (right)
    Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

    NFL Network has been dark on Comcast’s Xfinity cable systems for five days as the cable provider negotiates a fresh carriage agreement with Disney, the new owner of NFL Network.

    It appears there are two primary holdups stalling negotiations, according to a new report by Austin Karp in Sports Business Journal. First, Comcast wants assurances that the NFL Network will continue to carry seven exclusive NFL games throughout the entirety of its new carriage deal. And second, Disney is seeking to return NFL Network to a more basic tier of Xfinity offerings. NFL Network has been moved to higher, more expensive packages on Xfinity in recent years.

    As for the first issue, NFL Network has long guaranteed distributors like Comcast that it would carry at least seven exclusive NFL games each season. These games drive much of the value for the network when negotiating deals with distributors; without the seven-game package, NFL Network would simply be a supplemental channel filled with ancillary NFL programming rather than a must-have network with exclusive games during key portions of the NFL season.

    Assurances that the network would fulfill its seven-game minimum were never much of an issue under league ownership. But under Disney ownership, it’s possible these NFL Network games could shift to other Disney-owned networks like ESPN or ABC in the future.

    This won’t be an issue next season, per Karp, who reports NFL Network will be allocated a seven-game slate as normal. However, Disney has not given Comcast “a guarantee that NFL Network would continue to have a slate of seven exclusive games into the future of any longer-term carriage deal.”

    The second issue, tiering, has been a common refrain in sports-focused carriage disputes recently. Comcast would like to keep NFL Network in the higher tier, where it can pay fewer per-subscriber fees to Disney and avoid passing the channel’s costs onto consumers that may not watch the network. Disney, on the other hand, likely sees NFL Network as on-par with channels like ESPN or ESPN2, both of which are included in more basic tiers, and believes it should be compensated as such.

    Karp cites sources suggesting the cyclical nature of NFL Network content, particularly the fact that there is little worthwhile programming between the NFL Draft and the start of the season in September, as reason the channel should remain on the higher tier with other specialty sports channels.

    That very programming gap gives Comcast quite a bit of leverage in this negotiation. The company can reasonably hold out for a few months without its customers missing any important NFL Network programming, all the while Comcast doesn’t have to pay for NFL Network during the least-important months on the football calendar. Of course, there’s no guarantee Comcast could get a better deal from Disney in August than it can right now. In fact, the opposite is likely true.

    Regardless, these negotiations could well determine the future of the exclusive seven-game slate on NFL Network, which itself is important to how all NFL fans, not just Comcast customers, will consume games in the coming years.

    The post Comcast concerned about future of exclusive NFL Network games amid carriage dispute appeared first on Awful Announcing.

    SI grades the Atlanta Falcons' 2026 NFL Draft class

    The 2026 NFL Draft concluded nearly two weeks ago, but we still haven't finished examining grades from various media outlets. For the most part, the Atlanta Falcons' six-player draft class has not been well received around the NFL.

    Since the team did not have a first-round pick, Atlanta had to wait until Day 2 to select Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell with the 48th overall pick. Then in Round 3, the team added Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch. While the Falcons were praised for these Day 2 picks, their overall draft class failed to impress.

    SI released its 2026 NFL Draft grades and the Falcons were ranked 28th in the league with a "C" grade for their 2026 class.

    Falcons' draft class receives C grade from SI

    "Drafting Avieon Terrell and reuniting him with his brother A.J. Terrell is more than a good story," wrote SI's Justin Melo. "The Atlanta Falcons landed an instant contributor at cornerback. Third-round pick Zachariah Branch must prove he possesses the play strength required to be more than a gadget weapon. Harold Perkins Jr. was a value sixth-round selection, but the overall grade here suffers from not having a first-round pick."

    The Falcons did not earn many points with their four selections on Day 3. Atlanta took safety-turned-linebacker Kendal Daniels out of Oklahoma after trading down in the fourth round, followed by Washington defensive lineman Anterio Thompson, LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. and offensive lineman Ethan Onianwa in the seventh round.

    Heading into the draft, the Falcons were in a tough spot having just five total picks. Even after adding an additional sixth-round pick via trade, the team had no choice but to focus on adding depth in the first draft under general manager Ian Cunningham.

    Considering the Falcons were able to land two potential starters in Terrell and Branch, they have to be happy with how the draft unfolded.

    This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons draft grades: Atlanta receives 'C' grade from SI

    What Phil Mickelson once did at the Presidents Cup that left Kevin Kisner completely stunned

    Photo by Chris Condon/PGA TOUR
    Photo by Chris Condon/PGA TOUR

    Kevin Kisner has opened up on what the experience of being paired with Phil Mickelson at the Presidents Cup was like, as he revealed what the six-time major champion decided to do while Kisner prepared to hit the opening tee shot in their first match.

    Mickelson had played in every single edition of the Presidents Cup leading into the 2017 event at Liberty National. Meanwhile, Kisner was making his debut in a team event for USA.

    So it made some sense that Steve Stricker put the pair together for the opening session in New York. It fell to Kisner to hit the first tee shot of the match.

    Unfortunately, when Kisner needed some encouragement from his partner, he realised that Mickelson was nowhere to be seen.

    What Phil Mickelson was doing while Kevin Kisner prepared to hit the opening tee shot at the Presidents Cup

    Speaking on the We Need A Fourth podcast, Kisner revealed what the veteran was up to while he prepared to get their match with Jason Day and Marc Leishman underway.

    Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images
    Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images

    “The most nervous I ever was and I had to hit the shot was the first hole of the Presidents Cup. My first team event was in New York, at Liberty National, 2017. And they paired me with Phil Mickelson who obviously has played in every cup for 20 years. We get to the first hole and it’s 30 miles an hour, straight downhill, water left, out of bounds right. It’s alternate shot so I’m the one teeing off and I’m basically s——g my pants. I turn around to look for Phil for words of assurance. ‘Hey man, I need some help’. And I look up and he’s in the stands with Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush taking selfies. I told my caddie, ‘dude, we’re on two different wavelengths right here. I don’t know how I’m physically going to do this and he’s there partying with the Presidents’,” he said.

    “I swung and when I hit it, I still don’t even remember making contact. But I looked up and the ball’s going straight down the middle. And I said, ‘dear lord, how did I do that?’ And he doesn’t even catch up until 50 yards off the tee. He puts his arm around me and goes, ‘how did we do, partner?’ I go, ‘you weren’t even watching? I’m over here dying’. He’s like, ‘it doesn’t matter, we’ll get them. It doesn’t matter if we lose the first hole, we’ll beat them’. He’s the most positive guy I’ve ever met.”

    The incredible reaction Phil Mickelson had to one stunning approach shot at Liberty National

    Mickelson is certainly a divisive figure among fans. While at the peak of his powers however, he seemed to be one of the most popular players in the game.

    And it seems that Kisner could not speak high enough about his abilities on the golf course. They went unbeaten during their three matches together, winning twice. Neither man lost in the singles either as Team USA won 19-11.

    Kisner went on to tell an amazing story about how Mickelson reacted after hitting a shot that only he was probably capable of.

    “You wouldn’t want anybody else. It’s amazing. Him and I are so different on a human level. But to have him on your side is fascinating. I could go on for days with stories of what he said during that match,” he said.

    “The third hole is blowing 50 straight into the face, long par four. I hit a tee shot. He’s got 230 yards into this par four, the pin’s just over a bunker, it’s blowing 30 in our face. And he hits this iron shot, it looks like god hit it himself. It never leaves the flag, towering two-iron straight at the flag, lands a foot over the bunker and goes to three feet. And I don’t even think anything, I was just in awe of the shot. I just start walking. And he goes, ‘hey partner’, and I turn around and he goes, ‘I made that look a lot easier than it was’.”

    That would prove to be Mickelson’s final playing appearance in the Presidents Cup. He was a part of the team that travelled to France for the Ryder Cup the following year – though the less said about that, the better perhaps.

    There is now a huge question mark hanging over whether Mickelson will ever return to the Presidents Cup fold as a captain.

    Obviously, the event is run by the PGA Tour, so it looks considerably less likely than a Ryder Cup captaincy – which already seems extremely improbable.

    The 49ers did something in this draft for the first time in the Next Gen Stats era

    SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 03: Jordan Watkins #17 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) | Getty Images

    The San Francisco 49ers haven’t been shy about drafting players from the same school under the current regime.

    They’ve drafted a pair of Notre Dame offensive linemen in the top 50 in Aaron Banks and Mike McGlinchey. Deebo Samuel and Javon Kinlaw both came out of the University of South Carolina.

    There are examples of the Niners selecting the same prospects from the same school in consecutive years, like in 2021 and 2022, when Talanoa Hufanga and Drake Jackson were drafted.

    If you want to go pre-John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers drafted Curtis Taylor and Eric Reid, a pair of free safeties from LSU. Another example is Kentwan Balmer and Kentavius Street, both from North Carolina State. The most recent and closest example is this year with Enrique Cruz and Dominick Puni, both Kansas alumni. That’s as close to the same school and position in consecutive years as it gets, dating back to 2008.

    You see where we’re going with this. For the first time in the Next Gen Stats database, the 49ers drafted players from the same school at the same position in consecutive years. The 49ers drafted former Ole Miss wide receivers Jordan Watkins and De’Zhaun Stribling in 2025 and 2026. Both wideouts couldn’t be more different stylistically.

    Watkins is under 6′ and 200 pounds with an arm length of 29 3/8. Some of his height-weight-speed comps include KC Concepcion, Patriots receiver Kyle Williams, Makai Lemon, and Mecole Hardman.

    At 6’2 1/8, Stribling’s arm length is over two inches longer, and his hands are nearly an inch bigger. His comparisons are Sammy Watkins and Christian Watson.

    Both were in the 90th percentile for speed. Watkins and Stribling had the same 10-yard split of 1.53, with Stribling just edging out Watkins’ 40-time at 4.36 compared to 4.37. Their usage in college wasn’t all that different, either.

    Lane Kiffin used Watkins as an outside receiver on two-thirds of the snaps with the Rebels. He occasionally played in the slot, while sparingly lining up in the backfield (13) or tight end (17). Stribling played 591 of his 778 snaps out wide last year. He had more snaps in the backfield (20) and at tight end (27), while his uptick in the slot didn’t happen until the college football playoffs.

    It’s almost as if the 49ers took the receiver lining up in the same spot at the same school in consecutive seasons. There was no overlap between Watkins and Stribling, as the latter played at Oklahoma State during Watkins’ final season at Ole Miss, so they weren’t teammates.

    The path for Stribling in 2026 is clearer than Watkins’s. Stribling is a 1-for-1 swap with Jauan Jennings. Watkins will likely need to battle Ricky Pearsall for playing time. In limited action last year, Watkins played 16 of his 25 snaps out wide. There were even times when Watkins was the isolated receiver. Of course, that was before Mike Evans was on the roster. Watkins may need to earn his playing time as a special teamer or returner, barring injury.

    Revealed: Kone release clause as Inter, Milan & Juventus battle for Sassuolo star

    Revealed: Kone release clause as Inter, Milan & Juventus battle for Sassuolo star
    Revealed: Kone release clause as Inter, Milan & Juventus battle for Sassuolo star

    Ismael Kone has a €35 million release clause in his Sassuolo contract that is valid until the end of July, with Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus all understood to be among the clubs interested in signing one of Serie A’s standout performers this season.

    Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News & Content – Free Trial – Click Here

    According to Fabrizio Romano, via TuttoMercatoWeb, contacts between the parties are expected before the start of the World Cup, which Koné will feature in as a key member of the Canada squad.

    Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has also addressed the situation publicly. “I haven’t spoken with Inter or Milan about Koné, but it’s also true that we have had some requests from foreign clubs,” he said. “It’s possible that an Inter-Milan derby could emerge. We need to find the best situation for him, but at the same time for us too.”

    PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

    Sassuolo open to Kone sale as Serie A giants circle ahead of World Cup

    Milan sporting director Igli Tare has already publicly confirmed his club’s interest, and with the release clause set at a fixed figure, the race is likely to come down to the player’s preference rather than a negotiation over fee.

    Inter and Juventus have also been linked with the Sassuolo man, in what promises to be a difficult battle for his signature.

    As Carnevali noted, there is also interest from abroad in the Canadian, meaning Italian clubs will want to act fast to avoid missing out.

    Koné will head into the summer with considerable leverage, having established himself as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Serie A this season.

    Microsoft is finally axing Windows 11’s MSN feed from widgets

    Say goodbye to Windows 11’s unwanted MSN feed Microsoft has announced that it is finally getting rid of Windows 11’s MSN News widget feed. With new Windows Insider builds, the MSN News Widget is gone. Better still, the Widget feed will only open when clicked, preventing it from opening on mere mouse hover. Yes, accidental […]

    The post Microsoft is finally axing Windows 11’s MSN feed from widgets appeared first on OC3D.

    Apple Eyes Intel and Samsung Foundries for Chip Production in the U.S.

    5 May 2026 at 20:37
    Companies like Apple are always seeking top-tier manufacturing for their Apple Silicon products, which range from the A-Series chips in iPhones and low-power MacBooks to the more powerful M-Series SoCs that power iPads and higher-end Macs. Manufacturing these custom processors has traditionally been handled by TSMC, but Bloomberg now reports that Apple has been in talks with both Intel Foundry and Samsung Foundry to manufacture some of its chips in the coming months. It has been known for some time that Apple is exploring Intel's 18A-P process design kits (PDKs). Apple has used version 0.9.1 of the PDK designed for Intel's 18A-P node. With performance, density, power, and other metrics meeting expectations, Intel could become Apple's source for advanced node production by 2027.

    Additionally, Apple is reportedly waiting for Intel to release the 18A-P PDK version 1.0, which is on track to launch in the first half of 2026 or may have already been released to partners. Once available, Apple plans to start with the lowest-end M-series chip, used in MacBook Air and iPad Pro devices, as previously mentioned. This node is particularly interesting due to its performance characteristics, as the 18A-P can deliver a 9% performance increase at the same power level or achieve 18% power savings at the same performance level compared to the standard 18A. This is exactly what Apple is looking for. Coupled with better thermal conductivity, these designs should offer improved heat dissipation and performance compared to what Apple currently achieves with TSMC's 3 nm process in the M5 SoC.

    (PR) NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 Comes to Star Wars: Galactic Racer, 007 First Light; DLSS Added to Dead As Disco and Conan Exiles

    5 May 2026 at 20:22
    Each week, new games and apps integrating NVIDIA DLSS, NVIDIA Reflex, and advanced ray-traced effects are released or announced, delivering the definitive PC experience for GeForce RTX players. This week, Dead As Disco enters Early Access, and there are new looks at two highly anticipated, upcoming games: Star Wars: Galactic Racer, and 007 First Light.

    STAR WARS: Galactic Racer Launches Worldwide On October 6th, Featuring DLSS 4.5 On GeForce RTX PCs & Laptops
    Star Wars: Galactic Racer is a high-stakes reinvention of racing born in the lawless Outer Rim of the Star Wars galaxy. The Empire's grip on the galaxy has finally broken, and with its fall comes a new obsession: speed. As the New Republic struggles to rebuild, gambling, entertainment, and glory fuel a booming underground. Out of this chaos, the Galactic League is born: an unsanctioned racing circuit where syndicates sponsor pilots, fortunes are won and lost in seconds, and only the bold survive.

    How SHRMiner AI cloud mining is reshaping how to easily earn $9,997 in passive income in 2026

    5 May 2026 at 20:17
    AI cloud mining expands access as SHRMiner lowers barriers to crypto mining participation in 2026. As the global technological landscape continues to evolve in 2026, more and more people are exploring passive income opportunities in the digital economy. Technologies such…

    Bitcoin surges above $80,000 on $629m ETF inflows: AJC Mining offers free cloud mining, helping users boost their earnings potential

    5 May 2026 at 20:02
    AJC Mining’s free cloud mining service gives global users an easy way to join the crypto market and explore higher earning opportunities amid Bitcoin’s latest rally. The global cryptocurrency market is entering a new wave of momentum as Bitcoin recently…

    Galaxy and State Street launch Solana-based SWEEP tokenized cash fund

    5 May 2026 at 19:00
    U.S. stocks opened higher on Tuesday, with major indexes gaining and AI‑linked storage names outperforming, even as PayPal sank about 10% after disappointing profit guidance. According to CoinDesk, State Street and Galaxy have rolled out SWEEP, a “tokenized private liquidity fund”…

    Valve Scrambles to Restock Steam Controller After Launch Batch Vanishes in Minutes, Promises Timeline Update “Soon”

    5 May 2026 at 20:40

    A Steam Controller is displayed against a beige background with the text 'Steam Controller' above it.

    Yesterday, Valve launched its Steam Controller (2026), the follow-up to its 2015 predecessor and an improvement based on the years of learning Valve took from developing that first controller, to the Steam Deck, and now this latest gamepad. The launch went about as well as you would hope if you're Valve. The 'Buy Now' button went live on Steam, the gamepad shot up to the top of the best-selling charts, and it sold out within minutes. The unfortunate part of that last bit was that it seems Valve wasn't fully prepared for a complete sell-out of the device. In an […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/valve-steam-controllers-stock-update/

    Battlefield 6 Season 3 Lands Next Week With Two Revamped and Beloved Maps From Past Games Entering the Fray

    5 May 2026 at 20:13

    The promotional image for 'Battlefield 6 Season 3' depicts soldiers in combat gear against a mountainous warzone backdrop, with the text 'Battlefield 6 Redsec Season 3' prominently displayed.

    After Season 2 of the best-selling game in 2025 was delayed, causing a great deal of strife within the game's community, EA and Battlefield Studios aren't allowing for the same gap between Season 2 and Season 3 of Battlefield 6. The new season will arrive next week on May 12, 2026, and the studios just debuted our first look at the new season and a tease at what will be the largest map in the game when it arrives with the return of the Railway to Golmud. Season 2 arrived back on February 17, making it a more reasonable 12-week […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/battlefield-6-season-3-gameplay-trailer-debut/

    Arm and AMD Poised to Eat Intel’s Lunch in Agentic AI Era, Analyst Warns, as CPU Core Counts Could Jump 5x Per GPU

    5 May 2026 at 20:09

    An ARM chip displayed in close-up with a gradient lighting effect.

    The growth in agentic AI software will lead to high demand for CPUs in the AI era, believes investment bank UBS. In an investment note, the bank explains that agentic AI increases the workload for processors. It adds that this workload typically favors firms that offer chips with higher cores and are able to cater to power efficiency. As a result, UBS outlines that in the era of agentic AI workloads, chips from Arm and then AMD are slated to benefit the most, with Intel also benefiting as the total addressable market (TAM) grows. Agentic AI Workloads To Favor CPUs […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/arm-and-amd-poised-to-eat-intels-lunch-in-agentic-ai-era-analyst-warns-as-core-counts-could-jump-5x-per-gpu/

    PlayStation 6 Won’t Be Limited By Handheld In Xbox Series S Fashion, As RAM Difference Is Reportedly Less Than 30%

    5 May 2026 at 20:03

    A sleek, futuristic design of the Sony PlayStation 6 console is displayed next to the 'PS6' and 'PlayStation.6' logos, illuminated by blue lighting.

    Although an official announcement has yet to be made, leaks from multiple reliable sources have made it clear that the PlayStation 6 will launch alongside a handheld system that should be more than capable of running current and next-generation games. However, much like the Xbox Series S did with the Xbox Series X and possibly the entirety of the current console generation, there is the real possibility this portable system could hold back the home console, especially with mandatory support. According to known leaker Moore's Law is Dead, who first leaked the specs for Sony's next-generation systems, the chances of […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/playstation-6-wont-be-limited-by-handheld-xbox-series-s-fashion/

    NVIDIA Gives Devs More Tools To Integrate RTX & AI Features – TensorRT for Unreal Engine Delivers 50% Boost, ComfyUI Made Easy On Any RTX GPU

    5 May 2026 at 20:00

    The GeForce RTX graphics card is displayed between large letters 'RTX' and 'AI' with green light beams in the background.

    NVIDIA has expanded its RTX & AI feature set with more capabilities provided to developers for integration within their latest apps, including games. NVIDIA Bets Big on Its "AI PC" Ecosystem With RTX GPUs, Provides Devs With New & Improved Tool Sets The NVIDIA RTX and AI PC technologies are one of the industry's most advanced tool sets offered to developers. These tools make integration of the latest features and capabilities in apps & games easier than ever. Today, NVIDIA has announced more integrations that help developers create next-gen experiences. Last month, NVIDIA rolled out its DLSS 4.5 SDK, allowing […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/nvidia-gives-devs-more-tools-to-integrate-rtx-ai-features/

    Subnautica 2 and Forza Horizon 6 Headline the First Batch of Xbox Game Pass Games for May 2026

    5 May 2026 at 19:29

    A promotional image for 'Forza Horizon 6' featuring a red sports car drifting on a road with cherry blossoms and a mountain landscape in the background.

    Xbox has unveiled the first batch of Xbox Game Pass games that'll hit the service in May 2026, with two of 2026's biggest releases set to arrive on day one for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Those games are, of course,Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2, as one of the most anticipated first-party Xbox Game Studios' game releases and the most wishlisted game on Steam pair up on the same subscription service. They aren't the only two games entering the service in the first half of May, of course. An additional seven games are joining the service, with five out of […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/xbox-game-pass-games-may-2026-forza-horizon-6-subnautica-2/

    Micron’s New 245 TB SSD Crushes HDDs With 84x Better Energy Efficiency, Slashing Data Center Rack Counts by 82%

    5 May 2026 at 19:05

    Three Micron 6800 ION SSDs are displayed in different form factors, with capacities labeled as 122.88TB for the E3.S, 245.76TB for the E3.L, and 245.76TB for the U.2 model.

    Micron has just released the highest capacity and commercially available SSD to date, its 6600 ION, with a capacity of 245 TB. You Can Practically Fit Anything You Want on Micron's 245 TB "6600 ION" SSD, but These Still Aren't Enough For Data Centers Press Release: Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), today announced it is now shipping the 245TB capacity Micron 6600 ION SSD, the world’s highest capacity commercially available SSD. The drive marks a major step forward in rack-scale storage density for data centers and is designed to support AI, cloud, enterprise, and hyperscale workloads, including next-generation AI data lakes […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/micron-6600-ion-ssd-the-worlds-highest-storage-capacity-245-tb/

    Conan Exiles Enhanced Delivers a Massive UE5 Overhaul to the Popular Survival Game, Out Now for Free on Steam

    5 May 2026 at 19:00

    A warrior stands on a cliff overlooking a vast desert landscape and a fortified city beneath the title 'Conan Exiles Enhanced'.

    Funcom has released a massive free update for Conan Exiles players with Conan Exiles Enhanced, a new update that overhauls the game and brings it to Unreal Engine 5. Announced last month, the update introduces UE5's Lumen Global Illumination lighting system, nanite geometry, virtual shadow maps, and an improved terrain for a significant visual overhaul. It's an update that is meant to celebrate the popular survival game as it nears its eight-year anniversary on May 8, 2026, though it's not a celebration for all of the 15 million+ players who've stepped into the Exiled Lands and the Isle of Siptah […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/conan-exiles-enhanced-massive-ue5-overhaul-out-now-for-free-on-steam/

    007 First Light Won’t Pull A Borderlands 4 On Switch 2, as Game Already Runs On The System

    5 May 2026 at 18:57

    A character from the game 007 First Light standing in a tropical setting with lush greenery and potted plants in the background.

    007 First Light is launching on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S later this month, but Nintendo Switch 2 users will have to wait a little longer to experience James Bond's new gaming adventure. While the lack of a solid release window beyond a generic Summer has some worried the game has only been delayed to be canceled, IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak confirmed this won't be the case. “It’s running on the Switch 2. We just want to make sure it’s good as it can be. I don’t want to hear it wasn’t a good version,” Abrak said […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/007-first-light-won-t-pull-borderlands-4-switch-2/

    Intel Places Huge Order For Equipment Related To Advanced Packaging Production, Signaling Huge Interest in EMIB

    5 May 2026 at 18:55

    Intel has placed a massive order at Taiwanese manufacturers to secure advanced packaging equipment, which will be used for its EMIB plans. Intel Bets Big on EMIB, As The Company Has Placed A Huge Order To Secure Advanced Packaging Equipment From Taiwan EMIB, the advanced packaging solution and alternative to TSMC's CoWoS, has been making headlines for some time now. The packaging technology is gaining lots of momentum as potential customers line up to utilize the tech for their upcoming chips, mainly for AI purposes. This demand has now led Intel to go after Taiwanese manufacturers to secure the equipment […]

    Read full article at https://wccftech.com/intel-places-huge-advanced-packaging-equipment-order-signaling-huge-emib-interest/

    Qria – All your feedback and reviews in one place. Analysed and understood by AI.


    Qria is a customer feedback tool for small businesses. You can build a form in minutes and share a QR code at your counter, invoice, or anywhere your customers see it. Get responses in real time.

    You get a full dashboard with trends and graphs, an AI layer that reads across responses and surfaces plain-language summaries, and a robust filtering system to help you make sense of the noise. It also pulls in your public reviews from Google Maps, Trustpilot, and TripAdvisor. Built for cafes, hotels, tradespeople, retail, and more. 30-day free trial.

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    China-Linked UAT-8302 Targets Governments Using Shared APT Malware Across Regions

    A sophisticated China-nexus advanced persistent threat (APT) group has been attributed to attacks targeting government entities in South America since at least late 2024 and government agencies in southeastern Europe in 2025. The activity is being tracked by Cisco Talos under the moniker UAT-8302, with post-exploitation involving the deployment of custom-made malware families that have been put

    Royal Caribbean Targets Texas Market Dominance

    3 May 2026 at 20:13

    Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/royal-caribbean-targets-texas-market-dominance/

    Royal Caribbean Targets Texas Market DominanceExperience the best of the Gulf! Royal Caribbean targets Texas market dominance with Perfect Day...

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    Source: Travel And Tour World

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    Solo Travelers Can Now Cruise Europe Without Extra Costs with Riviera Travel’s New Offerings

    3 May 2026 at 20:12

    Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/solo-travelers-can-now-cruise-europe-without-extra-costs-with-riviera-travels-new-offerings/

    Solo Travelers Can Now Cruise Europe Without Extra Costs with Riviera Travel’s New OfferingsSolo travelers can now book no single...

    Read More

    Source: Travel And Tour World

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    TTW-1690312-20260503214254

    Kaspersky suspects Chinese hackers planted a backdoor into Daemon Tools in ‘widespread’ attack

    5 May 2026 at 19:20
    The cybersecurity company says it's seen thousands of infection attempts, and at least a dozen successful hacks after users installed malicious versions of the popular Windows software.

    Vivo releases new camera update for Vivo X300 Ultra and other high-end smartphone

    Vivo has announced that a new camera-heavy update is headed the way of two new Vivo X series smartphones. Available on the Vivo X300 Ultra and the Vivo X300s, the new update aims to improve the camera experience in multiple areas, including adding Log video support to the Vivo X300 Ultra.

    Xperia 1 VIII listed on Amazon: Release date, specs, colors, sky-high price revealed; WH1000XM6 headphones with pre-orders

    A massive leak on Amazon UK and Germany has revealed the Sony Xperia 1 VIII ahead of schedule. The listings detail a June 26 release date, new colors, 6.5-inch 120Hz OLED display, a new telephoto lens, and a launch bundle. With prices starting at £1,728, Sony's next flagship faces scrutiny over a significant price hike compared to the Xperia 1 VII.

    Xiaomi 18 Ultra: Never-before-seen flagship SoC to debut alongside Xiaomi's camera monster, says leak

    Xiaomi will disrupt the flagship market with the Xiaomi 18 Ultra next December, and the camera monster might be featuring the new in-house Xring O3 chipset. Codenamed "Lhasa," this SoC features a redesigned three-tier CPU architecture with clock speeds exceeding 4GHz and a 25% GPU performance boost. Xiaomi's custom silicon aims to compete with Apple and Qualcomm's flagships chips.

    Samsung’s upcoming foldables leak inside One UI 9

    5 May 2026 at 19:21

    Previews of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Wide Fold appeared inside a One UI 9 build. The images, which were discovered by Android Authority, showcase the design of the two devices. Galaxy Wide Fold (codenamed H8) appears just as in previously leaked renders with a short and horizontally spacious cover screen sporting a punch hole cutout, which is rumored to be smaller than previous Samsung foldables. We can also see its dual cameras housed inside a vertical camera island. Samsung Galaxy Wide Fold According to a recent report, Galaxy Wide will measure 123.9 x 164.4...

    Motorola Razr Fold India launch officially confirmed

    5 May 2026 at 18:16

    The Motorola Razr Fold was first announced at CES earlier this year and only recently went on sale in select global markets, including the UK and Europe. Now, Motorola has confirmed that the Razr Fold will also be coming to India. In a recent social media post, Motorola India teased an upcoming launch, hinting at the Razr Fold. While the post itself stops short of naming the device and simply reads “Something flawless is coming soon,” the teaser image clearly reveals a book-style foldable. However, a Flipkart landing page for the product confirms that it is indeed the Razr Fold and also...

    How to watch Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid in USA: 2025/26 Champions League, Live Stream, TV & Preview

    5 May 2026 at 19:00
    Arsenal are scheduled to meet Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League semifinals. Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff times and how to watch the match live on TV or through streaming platforms in the USA.
    Here are all of the details of where you can watch Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid on US television and via legal streaming:
    WHO Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid
    WHAT UEFA Champions League
    WHEN 3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT • Tuesday, May 5, 2026
    WHERE Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Paramount+, Hulu + Live TV, CBS, Univision, TUDN and ViX
    STREAM WATCH NOW

    Match Overview

    With a spot in the Champions League final on the line, Arsenal hosts Atlético Madrid in a tie that is perfectly balanced at 1-1. The Gunners, who remain the only unbeaten team in the competition this season, carry the pressure of being the home favorite. After a dominant 4-0 victory over the Spanish side in the group stage at the Emirates, expectations are high, but recent struggles for goals have added a layer of tension to this high-stakes encounter.

    For Atlético Madrid, this is familiar territory. Diego Simeone’s squad are seasoned veterans in the latter stages of European competition and thrive in the underdog role. Despite a dreadful record on English soil, including three losses this season alone, Atleti proved in the first leg they can disrupt Arsenal‘s rhythm. Their tactical discipline and experience make them a dangerous opponent, ready to capitalize on any nervousness from the home side.

    Tactical Analysis & Match Context

    Arsenal‘s season has been defined by a relentless two-front battle for both the Premier League and Champions League titles. This demanding schedule has led to visible fatigue, with the team winning just two of their last eight matches across all competitions. Their defensive solidity has kept them afloat, but a lack of clinical finishing in knockout games remains a concern. In contrast, Atlético is not in a domestic title race, allowing them to rest key players and focus entirely on this European clash.

    The tactical battle will likely pit Arsenal‘s possession-based attack against Atlético’s disciplined, counter-attacking setup. At home, Mikel Arteta’s side will be expected to control the ball and dictate the tempo. However, Atlético is comfortable ceding possession, a strategy they used to successfully eliminate Barcelona. Set-pieces could be decisive, as Arsenal leads the Premier League in goals from dead-ball situations, while Atlético has scored the most set-piece goals in this season’s Champions League.

    The motivations are clear: Arsenal is driven to cap a phenomenal season with a trip to the final, while Atlético aims to leverage their vast experience to orchestrate an upset. Fatigue will be a critical factor, as this will be Arsenal‘s 58th match of the season. Atlético‘s ability to manage high-pressure moments gives them a mental edge, turning this into a classic clash of attacking ambition versus defensive resilience.

    Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

    History shows a tightly contested rivalry between these two clubs. In their four official meetings, the record is perfectly even, with one win for each side and two draws. A significant trend has emerged in these encounters: the home team has never lost, and neither side has ever managed to secure a victory on the road.

    This season, the teams have met twice. Arsenal delivered a commanding 4-0 victory at the Emirates during the group stage, but the first leg of this semifinal was a much cagier 1-1 draw in Madrid. Looking further back, the clubs met in the 2017/18 Europa League semifinal, where Atlético Madrid advanced 2-1 on aggregate, demonstrating their ability to navigate two-legged knockout ties successfully against the Gunners.

    While the goal average across their four meetings is a modest 2.2 per game, Atlético’s Champions League campaign has been filled with goals, averaging 4.29 per match. Conversely, Arsenal‘s knockout stage games have been extremely low-scoring, with only six total goals in their last five fixtures. This suggests a tense, strategic affair is likely, though Atlético’s 12-game scoring streak in the competition proves they can find the net against anyone.

    Squad News & Projected Lineups

    Both managers face significant selection headaches due to key injuries ahead of this decisive second leg.

    For Arsenal, concerns linger over the fitness of Kai Havertz, while Jurriën Timber remains sidelined. However, the Gunners receive a major boost with Bukayo Saka expected to be fully fit and ready to start. His return provides a much-needed spark to an attack that has struggled for consistency in recent weeks, allowing Mikel Arteta to field a formidable front line.

    Atlético Madrid‘s injury situation is far more critical, particularly in attack. Strikers Julián Álvarez and Giuliano Simeone are both doubtful after picking up injuries in the first leg, and Nicolás González is also unavailable. This severely limits Diego Simeone‘s offensive options and forces him to rely on Alexander Sorloth to lead the line, supported by the creative genius of Antoine Griezmann.

    Arsenal Projected XI (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Martinelli, Saka, Gyokeres.
    This lineup represents Arsenal‘s strongest available team. The midfield trio of Odegaard, Zubimendi, and Rice will be crucial for controlling possession, while the return of Saka alongside Martinelli and Gyokeres gives the attack the firepower it needs to break down Atlético‘s stubborn defense.

    Atletico Madrid Projected XI (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Almada, Koke, Cardoso, Lookman; Griezmann, Sorloth.
    Shaped by injuries, this formation prioritizes defensive solidity and midfield control. Griezmann will likely drop deep to connect play, leaving Sorloth as the main target up front. The emphasis will be on maintaining a compact shape and exploiting opportunities on the counter-attack.

    More details on how to watch

    You can watch the Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid live stream on Fubo. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

    In addition to the Champions League, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to other top soccer competitions from around the world. This includes leagues like La Liga, Premeir League, and major tournaments featuring the best clubs and national teams.

    A subscription to the platform costs $14.99 per month, offering a comprehensive package for soccer fans who want to follow multiple competitions in one place.

    The service also provides a diverse library of non-soccer content. Subscribers can enjoy thousands of movies, TV series, and original programming, making it a complete entertainment solution.

    SEE MORE: For more Champions League schedules, check out our Champions League TV schedule page.

    How to watch anywhere with VPN

    If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

    Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid

    Kylian Mbappé addresses criticism over Italy trip with Real Madrid’s Álvaro Arbeloa tensions looming

    5 May 2026 at 18:54
    Despite his strong performances this season, Kylian Mbappé has been heavily criticized for his trip to Italy and his alleged tense situation with Álvaro Arbeloa. In response, the Frenchman has decided to release a statement to clarify the situation.

    Kylian Mbappé has managed to remain Real Madrid’s standout player, serving as the team’s top scorer. Despite this, the Frenchman has been heavily criticized by fans, as his trip to Italy during the competition, while recovering from an injury, did not sit well. In response, the 27-year-old striker has decided to release a strong statement amid rumors of tensions with Álvaro Arbeloa due to a reported problem during a training session.

    According to Mario Cortegana and Guillermo Rai, via The Athletic, Kylian Mbappé was involved in an altercation during a Real Madrid training session, where he ended up strongly insulting an assistant coach acting as the referee in the exercise. Following this, people within the club are reportedly unhappy with the lack of action taken by the front office. In addition, the Frenchman’s trip to Italy did not sit well with the squad.

    While recovering from a hamstring injury, Mbappé had been granted a few days off to focus consistently on his recovery process. However, he was seen in Italy while his teammates were playing and training in Madrid, which has sparked strong criticism from key figures within the club, according to The Athletic. As a result, the Frenchman’s commitment and behavior are now being widely questioned.

    In the face of widespread criticism from fans, Kylian Mbappé has issued a statement through AFP to clarify the situation: A portion of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, and does not reflect the reality of Kylian’s commitment and daily work for the team… I’ve reached a point where you’re going to get criticised whatever you do.”

    Kylian Mbappe
    Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid

    Coupled with this release, head coach Árbeloa tried to defuse the intense criticism directed at Kylian and his trip to Italy in the middle of the season: “In their free time, each player does what they see fit, and I don’t get involved in that… All planning regarding injured players is supervised and managed by Madrid’s medical staff, who are the ones who decide when they need to go to Valdebebas (the club’s training centre) and when they don’t.”

    Report: Kylian Mbappé races to recover for El Clásico vs Barcelona

    After suffering a hamstring injury just months before the 2026 World Cup, Kylian Mbappé seemed set to remain sidelined for the rest of the season with Real Madrid. In fact, Pablo Gallego reported via Le Journal Du Real that the Frenchman is quite frustrated with Los Blancos, and he will not push to play against Barcelona. However, a new report contradicts this information, making it clear that the 27-year-old striker has already accelerated his recovery.

    According to Manuel de Juan via Diario AS, Kylian Mbappé decided to go to Valdebebas despite the team having a day off, in order to work closely with the physiotherapists and fitness coaches of the staff. He also did the same last week, making his priority clear: To be in full shape for El Clásico against Barcelona, aiming to lead another big win and silence doubts about his lack of commitment.

    Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid reacts during the LaLiga EA Sports match.

    World title fight announced for event aiming to break boxing attendance record of over 135,000

    5 May 2026 at 19:48

    The main card has been officially announced for the iVB boxing event that is set to take place in San Francisco this summer, featuring a world title bout in the headline attraction. It was announced earlier this year that Ed Pereira was set to stage an event at San Francisco’s Civic Center Plaza on July […]

    The post World title fight announced for event aiming to break boxing attendance record of over 135,000 appeared first on Boxing News.

    Tim Bradley doubles down on David Benavidez vs Jai Opetaia prediction: “He’s not going anywhere”

    5 May 2026 at 19:27

    After ran through Gilberto ‘Zurdo Ramirez’ with ease, two-division world champion can only see one winner in a potential fight with . Despite moving up 25lbs, Benavidez needed only six rounds to dispatch of Ramirez, becoming a three-division ruler and rising up the pound-for-pound rankings. Although, his future in the division is unknown, due to […]

    The post Tim Bradley doubles down on David Benavidez vs Jai Opetaia prediction: “He’s not going anywhere” appeared first on Boxing News.

    The five times Manchester has hosted a heavyweight world title fight ahead of Wardley vs Dubois

    5 May 2026 at 18:00

    On Saturday, Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois collide at the Co-op Live Arena with the WBO heavyweight world title at stake, as Wardley seeks to prove that he is a valid and worthy ruler after being elevated to the throne. All-British clashes for the heavyweight title have become more common over the last few decades […]

    The post The five times Manchester has hosted a heavyweight world title fight ahead of Wardley vs Dubois appeared first on Boxing News.

    Galatasaray'a bir değil iki kötü haber: Zeki Çelik ve Dybala

    Şampiyonluk için son iki maçına odaklanan Galatasaray bir yandan da gelecek sezonun kadro çalışmalarına başladı. Sarı-kırmızılıların adı Roma forması giyen Zeki Çelik ve Paulo Dybala ile anılıyordu. Ancak, sarı-kırmızılılara iki transfer için de kötü haber geldi.

    Galatasaray, Samsunspor karşısında yara alsa da hala şampiyonluğun en büyük favorisi konumunda. Önündeki iki maçı kazanıp bu sezonu da şampiyon olarak kapatmak isteyen sarı-kırmızılılar gelecek sezon için de kadro çalışmalarına start verdi. Gitmesi muhtemel olan oyuncuların da yerlerini doldurmak isteyen Galatasaray rotasını Roma'ya kırmıştı.

    Galatasaray

    ZEKİ ÇELİK VE DYBALA

    Galatasaray'ın sezon sonunda sözleşmesi sona erecek olan milli futbolcu Zeki Çelik ile ilgileniyordu. Öte yandan sarı-kırmızılılar geçtiğimiz yaz transfer sezonunda da Paulo Dybala için hamlede bulunmuştu.

    Galatasaray

    Sky'da yer alan habere göre ise, Roma Teknik Direktörü Gian Piero Gasperini, sözleşmesi bitecek 4 oyuncunun takımda tutulmasını istiyor.

    4 oyuncu şöyle sıralandı:

    -Zeki Çelik

    -Paulo Dybala

    -Lorenzo Pellegrini

    -Stephan El Shaarawy

    Galatasaray'a Zaniolo'dan güzel haber: Kalmaya hazırım

    Galatasaray'dan Udinese'ye satın alma opsiyonuyla kiralanan Nicolo Zaniolo, geleceğine dair İtalyan basınına açıklamalarda bulundu.

    Galatasaray'da teknik direktör Okan Buruk'un kadroda yer vermediği Nicolo Zaniolo sezon başında Udinese'ye satın alma opsiyonuyla kiralanmıştı. Nicolo Zaniolo, İtalyan basınına açıklamalarda bulundu.

    Zaniolo'nun açıklamaları şöyle:

    Udinese'yi seçme kararının sebebi nedir?

    -Geri dönüşü olmayan bir noktaya geldiğimi inkar etmiyorum. Fırsatlar azalıyordu. Aston Villa'daki dönemim iyi başlamıştı ancak kötü bitti. Atalanta'da sakatlığım dezavantaj oldu ve yüzden Gasperini gibi büyük bir teknik direktörün benden istediği şeyleri yapamadım. Sonra Fiorentina'da da kendimi gösteremedim. Bu, üst düzeyde kalmak için son şanstı ve ben de hemen yakaladım. Udinese'nin oyuncuları yeniden canlandırma ve geliştirme konusunda başarılı olduğunu biliyordum. Mükemmel bir uyum oldu. Ben de bu fırsatı en iyi şekilde değerlendirdim.

    Galatasaray

    Gökhan İnler iletişim halinde mi?

    -Evet, onunla ve teknik direktörle görüştüm. Birkaç video görüşmesi yaptık. Galatasaray beni bırakmak için başka bir oyuncu almak istiyordu. Kararsız kaldım, sonra Galatasaray İlkay Gündoğan'ı transfer etti ve bana izin verdi. Transfer döneminin son 5-6 dakikasında olan bir şeydi.

    -Milli takım, bence her çocuğun futbol oynamaya başladığında kurduğu bir rüya ve bir oyuncunun ulaşmayı hedefleyebileceği en üst seviye. Her zaman Dünya Kupası'nda oynamayı hayal ettim. 2006'da İtalya'nın kazandığı zamanı hatırlıyorum. Milli takım, tüm taraftarları bir araya getirmenin tek yolu. En büyük hedeflerimden birisi o kadarda yer almak. Tabii ki kararları verenler var ve bu kararlara saygı duyulmalı. Milli takım için zor bir dönem ama hepimiz bir arada kalmalıyız. Milli takıma çok önem verdiğim için elbette üzüldüm ama kadroda olmak için hala zamanım var.

    Galatasaray

    GELECEĞİ

    -Her zaman söyledim ve geçen günler bu fikrimi pekiştirdi, Udinese'ye yaptıklarından dolayı inanılmaz bir minnettarlık duyuyorum. Kulüple konuşacağız. Kalmaya hazırım hatta uzun yıllar kalmaya hazırım. Hala konuşmamız gerekiyor ancak Udinese'nin bana yapacağı her türlü teklifi değerlendireceğim. Bu kulübe karşı büyük bir minnettarlık duyuyorum.

    Gençlerbirliği şaşırtmıyor: Bir kez daha Metin Diyadin

    Gençlerbirliği'nde teknik direktörlük görevine bir kez daha Metin Diyadin getirildi.

    Trendyol Süper Lig ekiplerinden Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği, Volkan Demirel'den boşalan teknik direktörlük görevine Metin Diyadin'i getirdi.

    Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük maçı sonrası Volkan Demirel ile yollarını ayıran başkent temsilcisi, Metin Diyadin ile anlaşmaya vardığını duyurdu.

    Genclerbırlıgı

    Kırmızı-siyahlı kulüpten yapılan açıklamada, "Evine hoş geldin Metin Diyadin. Kulübümüz, profesyonel futbol A takım teknik direktörlük görevi için camiamızın öz evladı Metin Diyadin ile yeniden anlaşmaya vardı. Kırmızı-kara formamızı yıllarca gururla terleten, sahadaki duruşu ve karakteriyle camiamızın unutulmazları arasına giren Metin Diyadin, birikimi ve aidiyet duygusuyla yeniden ait olduğu yerde, evinde. Teknik direktörümüz Metin Diyadin ve ekibine 'Evine hoş geldin' diyor, bu birlikteliğin hem hocamız hem de asırlık çınarımız için başarılarla dolu yeni bir dönemin başlangıcı olmasını temenni ediyoruz." denildi.

    Bu sezon 6. kez teknik adam değişikliğine giden Gençlerbirliği, ikinci kez Metin Diyadin ile anlaştı.

    Kırmızı-siyahlıları daha önce 1 Temmuz-20 Ekim 2013, 1 Temmuz 2021-11 Eylül 2022 ile bu sezon 16 Aralık 2025-14 Şubat 2026 tarihlerinde çalıştıran Diyadin, futbolculuk kariyerinde de kırmızı-siyahlı formayı uzun süre giydi.

    Sezona Hüseyin Eroğlu ile başlayan ve 2 galibiyet, 2 beraberlik, 6 mağlubiyet alan Ankara ekibi, Volkan Demirel'in birinci döneminde 2 galibiyet, 3 mağlubiyet, Metin Diyadin ile ilk döneminde ise 2 galibiyet, 2 beraberlik ve 2 mağlubiyet yaşadı. Levent Şahin dönemini 1'er mağlubiyet ve beraberlikle kapatan Gençlerbirliği, Demirel'in ikinci dönemindeki 1 galibiyet, 1 beraberlik ve 6 mağlubiyetlik performansının ardından sezonun bitimine iki hafta kala takımı Metin Diyadin'e emanet etti.

    Gençlerbirliği, ligde 32 hafta sonunda topladığı 28 puanla 16. sırada yer aldı.

    Mauro Icardi Amedspor'a gidiyor: Bunu kimse beklemiyordu

    Sezon sonunda sözleşmesi sona erecek ve ayrılmasına kesin gözle bakılan Mauro Icardi için Fotospor, Amedspor'un devrede olduğunu yazmıştı. Fotospor'un bu haberlerini dış basın da onayladı.

    Fotospor daha önce Süper Lig'in yeni takımı Amedspor'un Mauro Icardi ile ilgilendiğini yazmıştı.

    Amedspor'u heyecanlandıran haber: Icardi eşyalarını topladı

    Galatasaray ile sözleşmesi bitecek Mauro Icardi için TYC Sports'ta aynı iddiayı gündeme getirdi. Habere göre, Süper Lig'e yükselen Amedspor, Galatasaray ile sözleşmesi bitecek Arjantinli yıldız ile ilgileniyor.

    Icardı

    Yine aynı habere göre, Galatasaray ve Icardi arasında yeni sözleşme için yapılan görüşmeler durdu. Galatasaray, 33 yaşındaki golcüye mevcut maaşının yarısı kadar yeni bir maaş teklifinde bulundu. Icardi'nin ise maaşında indirim yapmadan sözleşme uzatmak istediği ve görüşmelerin durduğu belirtildi.

    Icardı

    TALİBİ ÇOK

    Öte yandan Amedspor ile birlikte Juventus, Milan, Napoli, Elche, Oviedo, Club America'nın da deneyimli yıldızın durumunu takip ettiği ve Icardi için River Plate haberlerinin de gündeme geldiği hatırlatıldı.

    Amedspor'un 'müthiş havalı' transfer listesi sızdı! Icardi'yle beraber bakın kimler var?

    Beşiktaş-Konyaspor maçı ne zaman, saat kaçta ve hangi kanalda canlı yayınlanacak?

    Beşiktaş, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde sahasında TÜMOSAN Konyaspor ile karşı karşıya gelecek. Beşiktaş-Konyaspor maçı ne zaman, saat kaçta ve hangi kanalda canlı yayınlanacak? Detaylar haberimizde...

    Beşiktaş, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası yarı finalinde sahasında TÜMOSAN Konyaspor ile karşı karşıya gelecek. Süper Lig'de bu sezon iki kez karşılaştığı rakibini 2-0 ve 2-1'lik skorlarla geçen siyah-beyazlılar, yarı finaldeki randevuyu da kazanıp finale çıkmayı hedefliyor.

    Ligde hafta sonu oynanan Gaziantep FK maçında rotasyonlu bir kadroyla sahaya çıkan teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın'ın öğrencileri kupayı kazanarak taraftarlarını mutlu etmek istiyor.

    Besıktas

    BEŞİKTAŞ-KONYASPOR MAÇI NE ZAMAN, SAAT KAÇTA VE HANGİ KANALDA CANLI YAYINLANACAK?

    Tüpraş Stadı'nda oynanacak müsabaka, saat 20.30'da başlayacak. Mücadelede 90 dakikayı Adnan Deniz Kayatepe yönetecek. Kayatepe'nin yardımcılıklarını Mehmet Kısal ve Kerem Ersoy yapacak. Müsabakanın dördüncü hakemi ise Reşat Onur Coşkunses olacak. VAR koltuğunda ise Cihan Aydın oturacak.

    İLK 11'LER

    Beşiktaş: Ersin, Murillo, Agbadou, Emirhan, Rıdvan, Ndidi, Asllani, Orkun, Olaitan, El Bilal, Oh.

    Konyaspor: Bahadır, Uğurcan, Nagalo, Adil, Berkan, Melih, Jevtovic, Gonçalves, Deniz, Bardhi, Muleka.

    KUPA YOLU

    Kupada C Grubu'nda yer alan Beşiktaş; Fenerbahçe, Erzurumspor FK, Gaziantep FK, Kocaelispor, Çaykur Rizespor, Beyoğlu Yeni Çarşı ve Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü'nün yer aldığı grubu 10 puanla ilk sırada bitirdi.

    Siyah-beyazlı ekip, grupta Fenerbahçe, Ankara Keçiörengücü ve Çaykur Rizespor'u yenerken, Kocaelispor ile de berabere kaldı.

    Beşiktaş, direkt çıktığı çeyrek finalde Alanyaspor'u 3-0'lık skorla eledi ve yarı finalde TÜMOSAN Konyaspor ile eşleşti.

    EKSİKLER

    Beşiktaş'ta Konyaspor maçı öncesinde iki eksik bulunuyor.

    Sakatlığı nedeniyle sezonu kapatan Kartal Kayra Yılmaz, Konyaspor maçında sahadaki yerini alamayacak.

    Öte yandan Gaziantep FK maçından önce dizindeki ağrıdan dolayı kadrodan çıkarılan Milot Rashica'nın durumu ise belirsizliğini koruyor.

    KUPADA 9. RANDEVU

    Beşiktaş ile Konyaspor, Türkiye Kupası'nda 9. kez karşılaşacak.

    İki takım da kupadaki eşleşmelerde 3'er galibiyet alırken 2 müsabaka berabere bitti.

    Siyah-beyazlılar, 2020-2021 sezonunda çeyrek finalde karşılaştığı rakibini normal süresi ve uzatma dakikaları 1-1 biten maçta penaltılarda geçmeyi başarmıştı.

    Beşiktaş'ın 11 golüne yeşil-beyazlı takım, 10 golle yanıt verdi.

    Yarı finalde karşılaşacak taraflar, finale yükselmek için mücadele edecek.

    ZachXBT Helps Freeze $41.5 Million After $150 Million Crypto Ponzi Scheme Collapses

    Blockchain sleuth ZachXBT exposed Canadian Haby, who stole $2M from Coinbase users via social engineering, earning RCMP calls.

    The post ZachXBT Helps Freeze $41.5 Million After $150 Million Crypto Ponzi Scheme Collapses appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    A crypto Ponzi scheme operating under the names DSJ Exchange and BG Wealth Sharing collapsed last week, with on-chain investigator ZachXBT estimating total losses exceed $150 million. The scheme had been running since 2025 and accumulated thousands of victims before falling apart.

    Between April 27 and May 3, operators moved more than $92 million in illicit funds across multiple blockchain networks in an apparent attempt to obscure the trail. Approximately $63 million of those funds flowed to custody provider Cobo across four identified wallet addresses on the Tron network.

    How the Money Was Traced

    ZachXBT said the case came to his attention while he was reviewing USDD contract flows for an unrelated investigation. After identifying the consolidation pattern, he traced outflows across Solana and Tron, matched deposit addresses to Binance accounts through timing analysis, and provided the findings to exchanges, law enforcement, and stablecoin issuers.

    The coordination moved quickly. On May 4, Tether froze $38.4 million in funds connected to the scheme. A further $3.1 million was frozen across other platforms, bringing the total amount immobilised to more than $41.5 million. ZachXBT said he worked directly with Tether, Binance’s security team, OKX, and US law enforcement throughout the process.

    Who Was Targeted

    ZachXBT described the scheme as a Chinese investment fraud deliberately designed to target unsophisticated retail investors through social media channels. The mechanics were straightforward enough that experienced crypto users would likely have identified it quickly, but the operators relied on reaching people with limited familiarity with how these schemes work.

    Reading through victim accounts on Reddit after publishing his findings, ZachXBT said many affected users were still in denial about having been defrauded. He urged anyone affected to file a police report in their local jurisdiction, directing US victims specifically to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

    The $150 million figure, he added, is likely a significant underestimate. The scheme operated for well over a year and thousands of victim exchange withdrawals have been identified, suggesting the actual losses may be considerably higher once the full picture emerges.

    A Note on the Investigation

    ZachXBT said that Ponzi scheme investigations are not cases he typically pursues, describing them as lacking the complexity of the hacks and exploits he more commonly analyses. The repetitive nature of the work means he rarely takes them on. This one was an exception, caught by chance while he was working on something else entirely.

    Telegram-Based P2E Tokens CATI, HMSTR, and NOT On Fire as TON Fees Collapses

    5 May 2026 at 18:29
    p2e ton hmstr cati not

    The post Telegram-Based P2E Tokens CATI, HMSTR, and NOT On Fire as TON Fees Collapses appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    Just when Telegram-based Play-to-Earn (P2E) tokens looked completely written off, they’re suddenly back from the dead and moved fast. The trigger today? A sharp 6x drop in TON blockchain fees, now sitting near zero, per Pavel Durov CEO and founder of Telegram. That single shift flipped sentiment overnight, dragging the entire ecosystem along for the ride.

    TON Fee Cuts Spark Sudden Ecosystem Revival

    Well, on its ecosystem, lower fees didn’t just improve usability but even they reignited speculation. TON token price itself surged roughly 40% intraday, instantly pulling attention back to a chain many had quietly ignored or acted to forgot.

    Now, this move shows that cheap transactions will mean more activity. More activity means more hype. And in crypto, that’s often enough.

    P2E Tokens Ride TON’s Explosive Momentum Wave

    But, the real fireworks was not only in TON today but showed up in the mini-app tokens running on its blockchain. Catizen (CATI) jumped 27%, Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) climbed 24%, and Notcoin (NOT) ripped 35% higher.

    Telegram-based Play-to-Earn (P2E) tokens surge as TON fees drop 6x, driving a sharp ecosystem rally.

    These Telegram-based Play-to-Earn (P2E) tokens thrive on simplicity that’s tap, earn, repeat. Massive user bases were already there, but high friction and fading interest had nearly killed its growth. Now, with near-zero fees, that friction is basically gone. It’s not innovation driving this, it’s accessibility but now will demand follow that’s a question for future which has high odds at this point.

    Can TON Break Resistance And Sustain Rally

    So, what’s next in TON price action? That’s where things get tricky. TON is now hovering around $1.84, pushing toward a key $2.0 resistance level. Break that cleanly, and momentum could extend.

    But fail? And it could unwind just as quickly. For now, Telegram-based Play-to-Earn (P2E) tokens are riding the wave which are proving once again that in this market, one update can turn a graveyard into a gold rush overnight.

    a16z Crypto Raises $2.2B

    5 May 2026 at 17:35
    a16z Crypto raises $2.2B fifth fund, bringing total to $9.8B, as crypto matures with real world adoption and stronger infrastructure growth.

    The post a16z Crypto Raises $2.2B appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto arm has raised $2.2 billion for its fifth fund, bringing total commitments across all funds to $9.8 billion. The firm said crypto is moving into a more mature phase driven by real-world use cases like stablecoins, on-chain lending, and blockchain-based capital markets. Partners highlighted long-term infrastructure growth supported by evolving regulation, including the 2025 GENIUS Act. The fund signals continued strong venture confidence in practical crypto applications despite weak market prices.

    Bitcoin Price Prediction: CEO Maps the Road to $92,000 Next

    Crypto Rally Returns Bitcoin Price Near $72K What’s Driving the Move

    The post Bitcoin Price Prediction: CEO Maps the Road to $92,000 Next appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    Bitcoin crossed back above $81,000 Monday, reclaiming a level it had not seen in four months and extending a recovery that has added nearly $500 billion to the total crypto market capitalisation since the US-Iran war began. 

    The move was accompanied by liquidation of short positions, with bearish traders caught offside as price pushed through the $80,000 psychological barrier. The forced short covering accelerated the rally, adding fuel to a move that was already building on improving macro sentiment.

    What the Numbers Show

    Avinash Shekhar, Co-Founder and CEO of crypto derivatives platform Pi42, told Coinpedia that the $80,000 level is now the line that separates a confirmed breakout from continued sideways trading.

    “Bitcoin is trading above the $80,000 level, testing a key psychological resistance after recently reclaiming it for the first time in three months,” Shekhar said. “The move higher has been supported by strong momentum and a sharp liquidation of bearish positions, reflecting aggressive short covering as price pushed upward.”

    The technical picture, he said, is constructive but not yet confirmed. A sustained close above $80,000 would open the path toward $85,000 to $92,000 in the near term. Failure to hold the level would likely push Bitcoin back into consolidation as traders hedge and wait for a clearer directional signal.

    Iran Is Still in the Background

    The geopolitical backdrop continues to add noise to what would otherwise be a clean technical setup. US-Iran tensions have contributed to intermittent volatility throughout the recovery, creating moments of uncertainty that have tested Bitcoin’s ability to hold gains.

    Shekhar said that market participants remain watchful of these external triggers and that geopolitical developments may continue to influence short-term sentiment and positioning even as Bitcoin holds firm near highs.

    What Comes Next

    The immediate focus is on whether Bitcoin can hold and close convincingly above $80,000 rather than simply wick through it. A strong weekly close above the level would represent the kind of structural confirmation that institutional participants typically require before adding exposure.

    The $85,000 to $92,000 range identified by Shekhar sits just above the 200-day moving average near $83,000, a technical level that has acted as resistance throughout the recent recovery. A clean break through that zone would reset the narrative from recovery to breakout and bring the $100,000 conversation back into serious focus for the first time since October 2025.

    Algorand Price Climbs 7% as Accumulation Strengthens: What Comes Next?

    Algorand CTO Steps Down as Foundation Relocates to the US and Cuts Workforce by 25%

    The post Algorand Price Climbs 7% as Accumulation Strengthens: What Comes Next? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    Algorand price has climbed 7% in the last 24 hours, extending its recovery as ALGO price holds firm within an accumulation range formed after its earlier downtrend break. The move signals growing buyer interest, with structure tightening beneath resistance. With ALGO price now approaching the $0.1200 breakout level, the key question is: Can this momentum trigger the next leg higher?

    Derivatives Activity Rises as Market Participation Expands

    Recent derivatives data highlights a clear increase in market activity. Trading volume has surged by over 76% to around $148 million, while open interest has climbed approximately 9.5% to $57 million. This parallel rise in volume and open interest suggests new capital entering the market, rather than just short-term covering. 

    Algorand derivatives data

    It reflects growing conviction among traders as ALGO stabilizes within its current range. Such conditions often precede directional moves, particularly when price compresses beneath resistance while participation expands.

    Algorand Price Analysis: Accumulation Structure Holds as $0.1200 Breakout Level Nears

    Algorand price is trading within a defined accumulation zone between $0.10 and $0.12, which has acted as a strong base following its earlier breakout from a falling channel. ALGO price action is forming higher lows, indicating that buyers are stepping in at progressively higher levels, a key signal of strengthening demand. At the same time, ALGO token is compressing just below resistance, reflecting a tightening range structure.

    Algorand price analysis

    The immediate breakout level lies near $0.1200–$0.13, which has capped recent upside attempts. A decisive move above this zone, supported by sustained momentum, could trigger continuation toward $0.16, followed by a broader resistance zone near $0.18. On the downside, holding above $0.10 remains critical to maintain the current structure. As long as this base holds, the setup remains constructive.

    Momentum Builds Within Consolidation Phase

    The current structure reflects a transition from trend reversal into accumulation, where selling pressure has faded and demand is gradually strengthening. The recent 7% move, combined with rising derivatives activity, suggests that momentum is beginning to build within the range, rather than fading. This phase typically precedes expansion moves, as liquidity accumulates near key levels. With volatility compressing and participation increasing, the setup points toward a market preparing for its next directional move.

    What’s Next for ALGO?

    Algorand is now approaching a critical level where structure and participation are beginning to align. With ALGO price holding firmly above its accumulation base and buyers steadily stepping in, the setup appears to be building pressure beneath resistance.

    The focus remains on $0.1200. A confirmed breakout above this level could unlock momentum toward $0.16–$0.18, signaling continuation of the recovery phase. Until then, ALGO may remain range-bound, but the current setup suggests that the next move is building rather than fading.

    Kraken Partners With MoneyGram for Global Crypto Cashouts

    5 May 2026 at 17:04
    Kraken Partners With MoneyGram for Global Crypto Cashouts

    The post Kraken Partners With MoneyGram for Global Crypto Cashouts appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    Kraken has teamed up with MoneyGram to let users cash out crypto at nearly 500,000 locations in over 100 countries. Co CEO Arjun Sethi said it targets users in volatile markets who use crypto for savings and payments. The partnership strengthens Kraken’s global off-ramp system and improves access to local fiat. It also supports the company’s wider expansion strategy, following recent acquisitions and its ongoing preparations for a possible public listing.

    Crypto Layoffs: Why Coinbase & Other Crypto Firms Cutting Jobs In 2026?

    5 May 2026 at 17:01
    Coinbase CEO Questions France’s Central Bank on Bitcoin

    The post Crypto Layoffs: Why Coinbase & Other Crypto Firms Cutting Jobs In 2026? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    The crypto layoffs wave isn’t slowing down it’s accelerating in 2026, and this time it’s not just about market cycles. It’s about survival in an AI-driven world. In early May 2026, major firms are cutting deep, trimming teams, and quietly admitting that fewer humans can now do a lot more work and Coinbase joined the list.

    Coinbase Leads Crypto Layoffs With Major Workforce Cut

    Let’s start with the headline move. Coinbase just slashed roughly about 14% of its workforce today. The message? Pretty blunt. The company wants to be “leaner, faster, and more efficient.”

    But here’s the kicker: this isn’t just cost-cutting. Per Brian Armstrong it’s a structural rewrite. The company is flattening management layers, pushing leaders to act as individual contributors, and building “AI-native pods” where smaller teams that handle what used to require entire departments. In simple terms, AI isn’t assisting anymore. It’s replacing.

    AI Shift Forces Industry-Wide Workforce Restructuring

    Coinbase isn’t alone here, in simple not the only villain. Even not long back, Gemini also reportedly cut around 30% of its staff after posting a $582 million loss in 2025. Crypto.com followed with a 12% workforce reduction, explicitly pointing to AI-driven efficiency, as well.

    Then there’s Algorand, which announced trimming 25% of its team while citing macro uncertainty. Messari platform posted to have downsized significantly, now sitting near 140 employees approx, far below its earlier ambitions.

    Well, here’s the scary pattern: fewer people, more automation, tighter margins. Even firms like Block, OP Labs, and PIP Labs have were also on the list. 

    Market Pressure And Volatility Add Fuel

    But let’s be real and practical, though the situation is concluded towards AI efficiency over humans hands. But supporting this trend is the declining overall crypto market conditions, which still matter. Weak token prices and inconsistent trading volumes are forcing companies to rethink spending. 

    Even Coinbase admitted its revenue remains volatile quarter to quarter. That’s a polite way of saying: when markets dip, things break.

    This is an email I sent earlier today to all employees at Coinbase:

    Team,

    Today I’ve made the difficult decision to reduce the size of Coinbase by ~14%. I want to walk you through why we're doing this now, what it means for those affected, and how this positions us for the…

    — Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) May 5, 2026

    Meanwhile, restructuring itself isn’t cheap. Severance packages, equity vesting, and transition support all add up in the short term so even as firms chase long-term efficiency.

    So, what’s next? More of the same. The crypto layoffs trend isn’t a phase but a clear shift. And right now, the industry is choosing machines over headcount.

    RippleX Engineering Head Says XRP Ledger Must Be Quantum Ready Before 2030

    Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and the Quantum Future Which Network Can Adapt

    The post RippleX Engineering Head Says XRP Ledger Must Be Quantum Ready Before 2030 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    The crypto industry has long treated 2030 as the planning horizon for quantum readiness. Ayo Akinyele, Head of Engineering at RippleX, says that the window may no longer be wide enough.

    Speaking in a recent interview, Akinyele acknowledged that the standard guidance has been to prepare for 2030 as the point by which blockchain networks should be migrated to quantum-safe cryptography. 

    But recent research findings, particularly work coming out of Google around improvements to Shor’s algorithm, the mathematical tool most associated with breaking classical public key cryptography, have pushed that timeline forward.

    “We can’t necessarily wait until 2030,” Akinyele said. “We have to be ready in the next couple of years so that in the event technology outpaces the rate at which we’re able to migrate, we have contingency plans in place.”

    Why This Is Harder Than a Software Update

    Akinyele was direct about the scale of what quantum readiness actually requires. This is not a patch or a routine upgrade. “It’s not like a software update in the traditional sense,” he said. “It’s a massive impact to how we operate infrastructure in general.”

    If quantum hardware capable of breaking classical cryptography is ever realised, Akinyele noted it will most likely operate silently. There will be no public announcement that the encryption underpinning digital assets has been compromised. 

    Where XRP Ledger Stands

    RippleX has published a roadmap reflecting the intention to be quantum ready and is actively engaging with development teams working on quantum-safe signature schemes for different use cases. Several teams have already approached RippleX to explore how their work might be integrated into the XRPL’s migration path.

    Akinyele confirmed that RippleX has been in contact with the Ethereum Foundation, which expressed confidence that ETH will be ready. RippleX is now in active conversations with Ripple to ensure the same can be said for the XRP Ledger.

    “This year is all about addressing the foundation,” Akinyele said. “People are seeing 23-year-old bugs in Linux kernels right now. This is the moment to use these tools to find all of the cracks in the XRPL foundation and evolve the architecture.”

    Institutional DeFi Raises the Stakes

    The urgency around quantum readiness is amplified by the direction the XRP Ledger is heading. RippleX is actively building infrastructure for institutional DeFi, including token issuance, collateral management, repo transactions, and yield generation, all using RLUSD as a foundational layer.

    Institutions operating on-chain have an expectation of reliability, security, and deterministic settlement that consumer-facing applications do not require to the same degree. Meeting that standard means the quantum readiness question is not abstract. It is a prerequisite for the institutional use cases the XRP Ledger is being built to serve.

    Clarity Act News: May Markup Confirmed as Stablecoin Compromise Clears the Last Major Hurdle

    CLARITY Act Moves Closer to Senate Vote

    The post Clarity Act News: May Markup Confirmed as Stablecoin Compromise Clears the Last Major Hurdle appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    After months of stalling, the Clarity Act is finally moving. Senators Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks released a stablecoin yield compromise late last week that effectively clears the path for a Senate Banking Committee markup. Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott confirmed the markup is happening in May. 

    What the Banks Got and What They Did Not

    The stablecoin yield language has been the central battleground for months. Banks pushed hard for broad restrictions on crypto exchanges paying rewards on stablecoin holdings. On the surface, the compromise extends those restrictions beyond issuers to cover third-party platforms including crypto exchanges, which looks like a win for the banking lobby.

    But the detail in the language is where things get interesting. Coinbase chief legal officer Paul Grewal suggested the rewards language was either a complete capitulation to banks or had nothing whatsoever in it, implying it struck a balance that gives both sides something to claim. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong then posted two words: “Mark it up.” 

    Who Holds the Real Power

    Perhaps the most significant structural element in the released language is a referral mechanism that sends potential violations to the Secretary of the Treasury rather than leaving enforcement solely with the SEC or CFTC. In practical terms, that means Bessant holds meaningful interpretive authority over how the yield restrictions are applied. A pro-crypto Treasury Secretary effectively becomes a safeguard built directly into the legislation.

    The New Name to Watch

    One fresh obstacle has appeared. Senator Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is expected to weigh in on provisions around Section 1960, the statute that governs criminal liability for money transmission. The section could affect DeFi developers and software builders depending on how it is interpreted. Grassley has not been part of the conversation until now and represents a new variable as the bill approaches markup.

    The Calendar Is Clear

    The week of May 11 is when most observers expect the markup to happen. After that, June and July are the realistic windows for a final Senate vote, a return to the House for what is expected to be a straightforward approval, and a signing at the White House. If the bill does not clear the Senate before August, the midterm election calendar takes over and the window narrows considerably.

    LINK Price Set to Shine Beyond $10? How the AWS Deal Acts as a Key Stepping Stone

    5 May 2026 at 16:28
    The Chainlink (LINK) logo flanked by the AWS and Coinbase logos over a blue digital network background.

    The post LINK Price Set to Shine Beyond $10? How the AWS Deal Acts as a Key Stepping Stone appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

    LINK price rose nearly 6% after AWScloud partnership announcement, as this time it was an actual substance. The LINK price reacted quickly after AWScloud officials posted about this team up with Chainlink. Was it a hype, many curious? Sure it is one. But unlike most headlines, this one comes with real infrastructure behind it.

    AWScloud Partnership Brings Real Utility To Blockchain

    AWScloud is integrating Chainlink’s CRE by utilizing this effectively will be giving its massive developer base tools to connect cloud systems with smart contracts.

    Not just theory but this have practical actual use cases. Think custom price feeds, stablecoin reserve verification, and off-chain computation running inside secure environments. It’s enterprise-grade stuff, the kind that institutions usually demand before even pretending to care about blockchain.

    Well, Chainlink isn’t just chasing headlines but clearly it’s chasing developers and by locking this deal its after millions of them.

    LINK Price Eyes Key Resistance After Recent Push

    But, in crypto markets most investors eyes are still glued to charts. The LINK price bump comes alongside a broader tailwind from BTC and ETH, helping it grind higher since February.

    LINK Price Set to Shine Beyond $10? How the AWS Deal Acts as a Key Stepping Stone

    Now, it’s staring directly at the $10 resistance level. Crack that, and the next logical target sits near the 200-day EMA around $11.52. Momentum’s improving too and because of that the 30-day MVRV just flipped above zero, meaning short-term holders are finally seeing profits. Not euphoric. But definitely less painful.

    Institutional Demand Builds While Holders Stay Patient

    Meanwhile, the long-term crowd isn’t exactly celebrating. The 365-day MVRV still shows holders sitting in the red, even as recovery slowly creeps in.

    On the institutional side, though, it’s oddly stable. US spot LINK ETF assets are holding at $107.86 million which is roughly 1.59% of market cap per sosovalues’s data and most importantly with no outflows reported since December 2025. That’s not explosive demand, but it’s consistent.

    LINK Price Set to Shine Beyond $10? How the AWS Deal Acts as a Key Stepping Stone

    Add to that reserve activity climbing to 3.44 million LINK by April 30, and you start seeing the bigger picture. Infrastructure is being built. Slowly, deliberately.

    So yeah, the LINK price might still be dragging its feet but the groundwork underneath? That’s moving a lot faster than it looks.

    “Karvan” – “Neftçi” 0:3 – Video

    5 May 2026 at 19:30

    Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 30-cu turunun “Karvan” – “Neftçi” matçı meydan sahiblərinin 0:3 hesablı məğlubiyyəti ilə başa çatdı.

    Arena.az Yevlaxda baş tutmuş bu matçın yekun protokolunu və icmalını təqdim edir.

    Azərbaycan Premyer Liqası
    30-cu tur
    5 may

    “Karvan” – “Neftçi” 0:3
    Qollar: İmad Faraj, 31. Emin Mahmudov, 49-pen. Freddi Varqas, 56.
    Sarı vərəqələr: Eltun Turabov, 78 (qeyri-idman hərəkəti) – Luis Ortis, 4 (qeyri-idman hərəkəti). İmad Faraj, 81 (qeyri-idman hərəkəti).
    Artırılan vaxt: Birinci hissədə 1 dəqiqə, ikinci hissədə 2 dəqiqə.
    Saat 16:00. Yevlax şəhər stadionu, 2200 tamaşaçı.

    Baş hakim: Rauf Cabbarov.
    Baş hakimin köməkçiləri: Kamran Bayramov, Kərim Zeynalov.
    Dördüncü hakim: Ruslan Quliyev.
    VAR: Kamranbəy Rəhimov.
    AVAR: Zeynal Zeynalov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Munis Abdullayev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Məmmədəli Məmmədov.

    Karvan: 99. Pedro Mateus, 6. Vadim Abdullayev (k) (42. İbrahim Qədirzadə, 80), 33. Eltun Turabov, 13. Vüsal Məsimov, 16. Rauf Rüstəmli, 5. Emin Rüstəmov, 20. Coy Sleyd Mikels (17. Samir Abdullayev, 72), 2. Şakil Sno, 11. Kayl Spens (10. Samuel Durrant, 72), 8. Peter Kinqs (14. Uğur Cahangirov, 55), 21. İmani Barker (37. Mois Nqvisani, 55).
    Ehtiyat oyunçular: 1. Kamran İbrahimov, 25. Əmrah Bulud, 18. Süleyman Əhmədov, 77. Əli Abdullayev, 4. Olavale Doyeni.
    Baş məşqçi: Füzuli Məmmədov.

    Neftçi: 1. Emil Balayev, 8. Emin Mahmudov (k) (19. Ağadadaş Salyanski, 80), 15. Elvin Bədəlov (17. Murad Xaçayev, 69), 7. Emil Səfərov (23. Cordan Rezabala, 69), 77. Falaye Sako, 5. İqor Ribeyro, 18. İfeanyi Metyu (4. Elvin Camalov, 64), 33. Breno Almeyda, 11. İmad Faraj, 10. Freddi Varqas (9. Bassala Sambu, 64), 22. Luis Ortis.
    Ehtiyat oyunçular: 13. Kenan Piriç, 91. Nurəziz Əzizov, 47. Murad Məmmədov, 14. Edvin Kuç, 24. Mustafa Sek, 70. Andrey Ştoqrin, 28. Alessio Kurçi.
    Baş məşqçi: Yuri Vernidub.

    İkinci Liqa: “Xankəndi” 3, “Qaradağ” 5 qola sevindi

    5 May 2026 at 19:00

    Bu gün futbol üzrə Azərbaycan İkinci Liqasında 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 25-ci turunun oyunlarına yekun vurulub.

    Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu oyun günündə 3 qarşılaşma baş tutub.

    “Quba” doğma meydanda “Xankəndi” ilə qarşılaşıb və 3 cavabsız qola üzülüb. “Qaradağ Lökbatan” isə doğma meydanda “Dinamo”ya böyük hesabla qalib gəlib. “Şirvan” – “Şəmkir” görüşü də meydan sahiblərinin xeyrinə yekunlaşıb.

    İkinci Liqa
    25-ci tur
    3 may

    “Göygöl” – “Ağstafa Gəncləri” 1:1
    Qollar: Ziyabil Məmmədov, 66 – Elgün Namazov, 35.
    Hakimlər: Niyaz Əhmədov, Elvin Mədətov, Ağadur Mahmudov, Samir Hüseynov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Ramil Diniyev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Yavər Rəhimov.
    Göygöl Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 16:30.

    4 may

    “Kür-Araz” – “Şəki” 5:1
    Qollar: Elxan Məmmədov, 6. Bayram Əliyev, 19; 34; 78. Əli İbrahimli, 84 – Nihat Fərəci, 37-pen.
    Hakimlər: Nəriman Ağayev, Rəşad Quliyev, Sadiq Əliyev, İrşad Aydınov.
    Hakim-inspektor: İmanxan Sultani.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Eldar Məmmədov.
    Heydər Əliyev adına İmişli şəhər stadionu, 16:00.

    “Ağdaş” – “Araz Saatlı” 0:2
    Qollar: Elariz Xəlilli, 13; 86.
    Hakimlər: Sənan Bayramzadə, Vüqar Bayramov, Hüseyn Vəliyev, Rövşən Rəcəbov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Əmrah İbrahimov.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Mübariz Hüseynov.
    Ağdaş şəhər stadionu, 16:30.

    5 may

    “Quba” – “Xankəndi” 0:3
    Qollar: Tural Qurbatov, 16; 51. Bəhruz Teymurov, 70.
    Hakimlər: Ceyhun Hüseynov, Sevda Nuriyeva, Əhməd Əhmədsoy, Nahid Xasıyev.
    Hakim-inspektor: Orxan Məmmədov.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Anar Şıxəliyev.
    Quba Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 16:00.

    “Qaradağ Lökbatan” – “Dinamo” 5:2
    Qollar: Ramil Orucov, 28-pen. İsa Zeynallı, 56. Ayaz Mikayılov, 65. İlham Hüseynov, 82; 86 – Rəsul Məmmədli, 41. Əlibala Ağayev, 90+2.
    Hakimlər: Nazim Abdullayev, Ruslan Babayev, Rizvan Süleymanov, Xəlil Xəlilov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Ceyhun Haşımov.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Novruz Əzimov.
    Lökbatan Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 16:00.

    “Şirvan” – “Şəmkir” 3:2
    Qollar: Comərd Baxşəliyev, 55-pen. Ramiz Məmmədov, 57. Qərib İbrahimov, 78 – Tural Məmmədzadə, 14. Sehran Abbasov, 44.
    Hakimlər: Maqsud Şamıyev, Orxan İbişov, Sənan Atayev, Rəsul Babayev.
    Hakim-inspektor: Zöhrab Qədiyev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Namiq Əliyev.
    Şirvan Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 16:30.

    Birinci Liqa: “Mingəçevir” “Şahdağ”a da uduzdu

    5 May 2026 at 18:30

    Bu gün futbol üzrə Azərbaycan Birinci Liqasında 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 25-ci turunun oyunlarına start verilib.

    Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma baş tutub.

    Turun açılış oyununda “Şahdağ Qusar” “Mingəçevir”i qəbul edib. Şamaxıda baş tutmuş oyun Qusar təmsilçisinin inamlı qələbəsi ilə yekunlaşıb.

    25-ci turun qalan görüşləri mayın 6-da və 7-də keçiriləcək. Bütün görüşlərə saat 16:00-da start veriləcək.

    Birinci Liqa
    25-ci tur
    5 may

    “Şahdağ Qusar” – “Mingəçevir” 2:0
    Qollar: Kvaku Adjey, 10. Aqostinyo Çipesse, 72.
    Hakimlər: Vüqar Həsənli, Asif Abdullayev, Safalı Ağayev, Niyaz Əhmədov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Anar Salmanov.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Azər Əsgərov.
    Şamaxı Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu. 16:00.

    6 may

    “Şimal” – MOİK
    Hakimlər: Mahmud Bağırzadə, Zakir Şükürzadə, Məmmədəli Kərimov, Səbuhi Bayramov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Feyzulla Feyzullayev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Eldəniz Musayev.
    Şamaxı Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu. 16:00.

    “Difai” – “Şəfa”
    Hakimlər: İslam Məmmədov, Rəşad Quliyev, Elman Kərimov, Rövşən Rəcəbov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Munis Abdullayev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Erkin Hüseynov.
    Buzovna qəsəbə stadionu. 16:00.

    “Zaqatala” – “Səbail”
    Hakimlər: Kamran Əliyev, Mirnihad Seyidov, Anar Bədəlov, Namiq Bəkirov.
    Hakim-inspektor: Rövşən Əhmədov.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Elçin Mehtiyev.
    Zaqatala Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu. 16:00.

    7 may

    “Cəbrayıl” – “Baku Sportinq”
    Hakimlər: Ruslan Quliyev, Səbuhi Əmrahov, Səbuhi Soltanov, Elçin Abdullayev.
    Hakim-inspektor: Babək Quliyev.
    AFFA nümayəndəsi: Rüfət Əmirov.
    Şamaxı Olimpiya İdman Kompleksinin stadionu. 16:00.

    ChatGPT ads show strong early CTRs — but scale is still the question

    5 May 2026 at 19:24
    ChatGPT growth

    Initial reports from SimilarWeb indicate ChatGPT ads are outperforming traditional benchmarks on engagement — but with limited inventory and small-scale tests, it’s too early to call this a long-term trend.

    What’s happening. According to early analysis, ads appearing in ChatGPT conversations are generating strong click-through rates vs Display and Podcast channels, likely driven by high-intent user queries and the native way ads are integrated into responses.

    Unlike traditional search ads, these placements appear directly within conversational answers, making them feel more contextual and less disruptive.

    Why we care . If these early CTRs hold at scale, ChatGPT could become a serious performance channel — especially for advertisers looking to reach users at the moment of intent.

    But there’s a catch: inventory is still limited, and early performance often looks better before wider rollout introduces more competition and variability.

    Between the lines. High CTRs don’t necessarily mean high performance. Conversion quality, cost efficiency and scalability will ultimately determine whether ChatGPT ads can compete with established platforms like Google Ads.

    There’s also the novelty factor — users may be more likely to engage simply because the format is new.

    Zoom in. Some categories are already showing stronger signals than others.

    Mother’s Day-related prompts are far more likely to trigger ads—about three times more than average—because they signal strong purchase intent, with brands like Etsy, Nordstrom and flower retailers already showing strong visibility.

    What to watch:

    • Whether CTRs hold as inventory expands
    • How conversion rates compare to search and social
    • If pricing models evolve beyond early testing phases

    Bottom line. ChatGPT ads are off to a strong start on engagement — but until scale, cost and conversion data catch up, advertisers should treat this as a promising test channel, not a proven one.

    Dig deeper. Advertising in AI: Insights from Real User Behavior

    The 10-gate AI search pipeline: Find where your content fails

    5 May 2026 at 18:37
    The 10-gate AI search pipeline- Find where your content fails

    The AI engine pipeline has 10 gates between your content and a recommendation: 

    • Discovered. 
    • Selected. 
    • Crawled. 
    • Rendered. 
    • Indexed. 
    • Annotated. 
    • Recruited. 
    • Grounded. 
    • Displayed.
    • Won. 

    Confidence at each gate multiplies, which means your worst gate sets your ceiling, and a single near-zero anywhere in the chain drags the whole result down with it.

    That dynamic leads to a simple rule. The “Straight C” principle: in any multiplicative system, the weakest stage sets the ceiling for the entire system, and the highest-leverage fix is always the near-zero, not the near-perfect.

    Brent D. Payne nailed it in Sydney in 2019: “better to be a straight C student than three As and an F.” Gary Illyes had been sketching out Google’s multiplicative ranking model, and I scribbled the lot from memory on split beer mats while everyone else went to the bar for another round. The principle stuck with me even though the beer mats didn’t.

    Applied to the 10-gate pipeline, the principle makes the work order obvious: find your F grades, fix them first, then find your D grades, and only then worry about pushing your other gates from C to B to A. Below, I’ll walk you through how to identify the weak gates and prioritize them by scope.

    The pipeline runs in two phases with different logic

    Phase 1 (discovered through indexed) is infrastructure- and bot-centric. It’s mostly pass or fail: either the system has your content, or it doesn’t. The fixes are technical and well-documented: sitemaps, structured data, rendering, and quality signals.

    Phase 2 (annotated through won) is competitive and algorithm-centric. Your content is measured against every alternative the system has for the user’s needs.

    Passing all five gates in Phase 1 means the system has your content in stock. Winning Phase 2 end to end means the system chooses you over your competition.

    Each stall pattern points to its fix

    Fix what’s weak. In DSCRI, the fixes are mechanical, and success is relatively easy to measure. 

    In ARGDW, the fixes are less obvious, more indirect, and the cause-and-effect relationship is harder to demonstrate. That’s why so many brands and practitioners focus too much on mechanical fixes and not enough on competitive ones.

    Each of the 10 gates is a place where the pipeline can stall. These are some suggestions, absolutely not exhaustive: use the strategies you already know, too.

    No.Gate nameStallFirst-party (Entity Home Website)Second-party (semi-controlled)Third-party (independent)
    1DiscoveredBots never find the contentSitemaps, IndexNow, internal linking, and inbound linksLink from your Entity Home Website with clear anchor textOutbound links from owned properties and second-party content
    2SelectedFound but ignoredInternal links, inbound links, anchor text, content around links, and Publisher and Author N-E-E-A-T-TAnchor text, content around the link, and link back to your Entity Home for contextOutbound links from owned properties and second-party content, anchor text, and content around the link
    3CrawledRetrieval failsServer performance, redirect chains, pruning, and canonicalsChoose reliable platforms; keep URLs clean and stablePrioritize coverage on sites with strong crawl reputation
    4RenderedRetrieved, but the system can’t process itServer-side rendering, reduce external resources, and JavaScript disciplineUse platform-native formatting; avoid embeds that block renderPrioritize coverage on properly rendered sites
    5IndexedRendered, but not storedSite structure, content quality, pruning, and canonicalizationContent quality and original perspectivesPrioritize coverage on fully indexed sites
    6AnnotatedInaccurate, low-confidence annotationsHTML5, structured data, schema markup, site structure, content quality, and unambiguous entity signalsUnambiguous entity signals, and link to your Entity Home for disambiguationOutreach to clarify entity references, clear anchor text from your owned properties and second-party content
    7RecruitedMissing from one or more layers of the Algorithmic TrinityProvide what each layer wants: recency, originality, clarity, information gaps, helpful framing, etc.Fresh perspectives, original content, and regular updatesOutreach for coverage and updates from news, trade, and industry sites
    8GroundedNot selected as a reference for the topic (not Top of Algorithmic Mind)Entity identity optimization, Publisher and Author N-E-E-A-T-T, and explicitly connect claims to proofConsistency of identity, credibility signals, and link claims to proofOutreach for citations from authoritative sources, and build N-E-E-A-T-T through coverage
    9DisplayedNot chosen as part of relevant answers in the funnelClose the Framing Gap at each UCD layer, improve brand N-E-E-A-T-TFrame content to match each UCD layerOutreach for coverage that closes the Framing Gap, improve N-E-E-A-T-T through external corroboration
    10WonThe page was the recommendation, but didn’t get the click, the citation, or the actionWrite copy, titles, and descriptions that are easy for the algorithm to extract intact; frame claims so the algorithm can respect the brand narrative without rewriting it; educate the algorithm on the brand narrative so it doesn’t distort itUse platform fields the algorithm will lift verbatim (titles, summaries, intros), and keep brand narrative consistent across every propertyBrief publishers and partners on your brand narrative so coverage frames claims the way you’d frame them yourself, and correct distorted coverage at source

    Reading the table: Across the rows, infrastructure fixes (Gates 1 to 5) are specific, technical, and often binary, while competitive fixes (Gates 6 to 9) point at larger bodies of work (graph presence, proof connection, and framing gap closure) that are strategic rather than technical. 

    Down the columns, your direct leverage drops as ownership drops:

    • On first-party, you can fix anything.
    • On second-party, you control content but not infrastructure.
    • On third-party, your only real moves are outreach and the links you point at the property. 

    The further into the pipeline the stall sits, and the further from the entity home website it sits, the more the fix becomes about positioning rather than engineering. 

    You can buy your way through DSCRI. You have to earn your way through ARGD. Won is its own case. By the time the algorithm reaches won, it has either understood your brand narrative or it hasn’t. 

    If it has, it respects your titles, your descriptions, and your framing, and the click or citation lands the way you wanted. If it hasn’t understood you fully, it rewrites you, and the rewrite won’t be your framing. Assuming your copywriting is top-notch, that’ll lose clients you should have won.

    Educating the algorithm on the brand narrative is the work that decides which of those two outcomes you get, and the work happens across your digital footprint, over time (ongoing), and at every gate.

    Work outside-in, because most of what you need already exists

    The pipeline runs at three scopes simultaneously — per item, sitewide, and web wide. Every gate operates at all three. You can’t work on them simultaneously, which means the order you pick is the single biggest decision in the project, and most brands pick the wrong one because they’re watching their competitors instead of the structure.

    Here’s a simple fact most brands miss: most of what you need is already in place. 

    • You already have claims (you own a website, you’ve published positioning, you’ve explained who you are and what you do). 
    • You already have proof (clients have written testimonials, journalists have covered you, partners have referenced you, conferences have programmed you). 

    The two layers exist, they’re just not connected. Joining the dots between existing claims and existing proof is the biggest single piece of leverage available to almost any brand. 

    Almost nobody is doing it systematically because they’re too busy creating new content from scratch. When I say “join the dots,” that means both bi-directional linking and framing (which I covered in “The framing gap: Why AI can’t position your brand”).

    That insight reorders the work. The right sequence is outside-in, and it lines up with claim, prove, and frame at the scope level.

    Sitewide first

    Get your claims structurally consistent at scale. Templates make it easy for bots to digest your site only if they’re consistent. Get the templates right, and the content taken as a whole reads clearly. 

    Make sure the categorization is logical, the schema is uniform, the internal linking pattern is predictable, and the HTML5 is built to help bots perform chunking that produces high-confidence, well-bounded representations of every part of every page. 

    Get the templates wrong, and the algorithms annotate everything with low confidence because the chunking was bad, the categorization was illogical, and the structural signals contradicted each other. That’s a sitewide weakness that the content carries through. This is cascading confidence at scope level.

    Content is the input, context is what the templates supply, and confidence is what the system produces when context is consistent enough to make sense of the content. Start at the site level because that’s where the cascade either begins clean or collapses before it starts.

    Dig deeper: The funnel flip: Why AI forces a bottom-up acquisition strategy

    Web-wide second

    Connect the dots to the existing proof. Once your owned property is making consistent, machine-legible claims, the second- and third-party footprint is where those claims get corroborated. 

    The work here is mostly auditing, not creating: independent journalists who’ve already covered you, client testimonials sitting on client domains, conference programs that name you, partner mentions, and third-party reviews that already exist. 

    This is the prove layer, and the leverage is enormous because your competitors are mostly not doing it. They’re watching each other’s websites while the independent layer that actually decides who AI recommends sits unattended on the open web. So, update what you can, and insert bi-directional links strategically to “connect the dots physically.”

    Per item last

    Frame the connection between claim and proof. Once sitewide claims are clean and web-wide proof is surfaced, it’s time to bring it all together in individual items. 

    Per-item work builds the relational bridge between specific claims and the evidence. It’s up to you to provide the interpretive frame that tells the algorithms how to read the connection and closes the framing gap one page at a time. 

    Framing only earns its full return once the two layers underneath are solid, because the frame is the connection between things that already exist, and there’s nothing to connect if the claim is incoherent or the proof hasn’t been surfaced.

    Fix the earliest broken gate first, or the fix downstream does nothing

    The pipeline is sequential. Each gate’s output is the next gate’s input. 

    First job: get content flowing through every gate without an absolute fail at any point. If discovery is broken, improving your annotation does nothing because your content never reaches annotation. 

    The rule is simple: find your earliest failing gate, fix it, then re-measure everything downstream on the improved signal. Fixing gates out of order wastes budget because the bottleneck hasn’t moved. I filed a patent for the technical implementation of this principle, but the principle itself doesn’t need the patent — it’s how any sequential system works.

    Once nothing is absolutely failing, start fixing the weakest gates one by one, from weakest to strongest, to maximize the effect of each fix on the signal that flows through everything downstream. 

    If rendering drops 50% of your useful content, every downstream gate inherits the damage, no matter how strong your competitive positioning is. Push that up to 100%, and you’ve doubled the signal for everything that follows.

    Below are potential stalls at each gate (single page) with examples of fixes.

    No.StallProblemPossible fix
    1Not DiscoveredOrphaned article about your brand on Poodle Parlours in Paris MonthlyCreate a dedicated page on poodleparlour.paris with a TL;DR of the article (use the opportunity to close the Framing Gap), add the publication name, author, date, and an outbound link to the article
    2Not SelectedThe 600th episode of your podcast on your website is ignored by bots despite a link from the paginationLink to it from the homepage, make the anchor text explicit (not “listen here”), and add the link to the YouTube version description
    3Not CrawledPage load time is slow at peak timesUpgrade hosting and use a CDN
    4Not RenderedSchema isn’t being ingested by the LLM botsMove schema inline, or, if that isn’t possible, add the same data to an HTML table on the page
    5Not IndexedRendered, but not storedSite structure, content quality, HTML5, and schema markup
    6Badly AnnotatedInaccurate, low-confidence annotationsHTML5, structured data, schema markup, site structure, content quality, and unambiguous entity signals
    7Not RecruitedMissing from one or more layers of the Algorithmic TrinityProvide what each layer wants: recency, originality, clarity, information gaps, helpful framing, etc.
    8Not GroundedNot selected as a reference for the topics (not Top of Algorithmic Mind)Entity identity optimization, Publisher and Author N-E-E-A-T-T, and explicitly connect claims to proof
    9Not DisplayedNot chosen as part of relevant answers in the funnelClose the Framing Gap at each funnel layer (Understandability, Credibility, Deliverability), and improve brand N-E-E-A-T-T
    10Not WonThe page was the recommendation, but the algorithm rewrote your title and descriptionImprove brand Understandability of the brand narrative and framing, tighten the title, description, and intro so the algorithm extracts your version intact rather than rewriting it; these remain the most visible elements at the zero-sum moment in AI

    Reading the table: gate-by-gate example issues at item level. I provide some suggested solutions for each. You’ll see that many of the fixes are actions you’d take at sitewide or web-wide scope, which is the point. 

    Scope determines whether the fix touches one URL or thousands, but the underlying mechanism at each gate is identical. Per-item work is where the fixes get specific, but the patterns repeat.

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    The authoritative entity advantage compounds across the competitive gates

    One strategy will improve your grade at almost every gate in the AI engine pipeline: entity optimization. 

    When your brand entity is fuzzy across the three graphs (document, concept, and entity), actively optimizing the entity identity improves clarity, focus, and confidence at almost every gate.

    But the advantage you’ll gain isn’t uniform: at the infrastructure gates it does little, but from annotation onward, it will make a huge competitive difference.

    Here’s the authoritative entity advantage at each pipeline gate.

    No.StallThe authoritative entity advantage
    1Not discoveredMarginal. A recognized entity in an outbound link from a third party is slightly easier to identify and trace, but discovery itself is infrastructure-driven.
    2Not selectedSignificant. A recognized, trusted entity in anchor text (or near the link) increases the probability of selection.
    3Not crawledNone. Crawling is purely server, redirect, and rate-limit mechanics.
    4Not renderedNone. Rendering is purely technical processing.
    5Not indexedModerate. Entity clarity helps the system make canonicalization and deduplication calls with confidence; fuzzy entities produce fuzzy storage decisions.
    6Badly annotatedMajor. Entity confidence is the foundation of accurate annotation. A fuzzy entity produces low-confidence, often inaccurate annotations across every dimension. A clear entity produces clean, high-confidence annotations.
    7Not recruitedMajor. Recruitment into the entity graph, document graph, and concept graph is entity-driven. Clear entities get recruited — fuzzy ones get passed over for clearer alternatives.
    8Not groundedMajor. Top of algorithmic mind is entity-driven: topical ownership, N-E-E-A-T-T, knowledge graph presence, and more. The system grounds in references it trusts.
    9Not displayedSignificant. Entity recognition reduces hedging at display. The system speaks confidently about entities it understands well and hedges on the ones it doesn’t.
    10Not wonMajor. Entity confidence decides whether the algorithm respects your brand narrative or rewrites it. High confidence means titles, descriptions, and framings get extracted intact. Low confidence means the algorithm fills in the gaps from training data, and that won’t be the narrative you carefully crafted.

    Reading the table: entity advantage is zero or marginal at Gates 1 to 5 (infrastructure), then carries the heaviest load through Gates 6 to 9 (the competitive phase). At won, it’s the mechanism that decides whether the algorithm respects your brand narrative or rewrites it.

    This is the most underrated insight in the whole diagnostic. Optimizing any single gate gives you one gate’s worth of improvement. Optimizing the entity gives you compounding improvement across all five gates from annotated through won, which is why entity-led optimization outperforms page-led or keyword-led optimization in AI search.

    The authoritative entity advantage names that compounding effect, and it’s the structural reason brands whose entities remain fuzzy pay a confidence tax at every competitive gate.

    Before you create anything new, audit what you already have

    Once you know which gate is failing, the first question to ask yourself isn’t “what do I need to create?” It’s “what do I already have that would fix this?” 

    The content on your website already makes most of the claims you need, but they are not presented clearly and consistently. Then, all brands have more existing proof than they’re fully leveraging.

    Look at things like conference programs, client case studies, trade publications, podcasts, social media, reviews, and third-party mentions. There might be a lot that you have never explicitly connected back to your brand.

    Audit-first beats create-first on every metric that matters. Audit-first is cheap and fast. Create-first is expensive and slow.

    The diagnostic tells you which gate needs the work, the audit tells you what you already own that could do the work, and the audit also tells you where the genuine gaps are, so when you do create something new, you’re filling a gap the diagnostic identified rather than guessing.

    That principle drives the temporal triad: ROPI, ROI, ROFI.

    The temporal triad turns the diagnostic into a working plan: ROPI, ROI, and ROFI

    • Return on past investment (ROPI) is the audit-first work itself: linking existing claims on your website to existing proof scattered across your digital footprint so the assets you’ve already paid for start paying you back. It’s the cheapest, fastest, and almost always the highest-leverage move available, because the asset has already been built and you’re paying only for the connection.
    • Return on investment (ROI) is the present-tense work: expanding on content that’s already live, filling the gaps the audit reveals, and creating new pieces in the short term to support what you’re doing today. This is the layer most brands jump to first, and it’s the most expensive of the three when run in isolation, because new creation without ROPI underneath means you’re paying full price to build assets that are already partially in place.
    • Return on future investment (ROFI) is the planning layer, and it’s where brand strategy and pipeline strategy converge. If you have a clear sense of where the business is going (which categories you’ll own in three years, which positioning you’ll claim, which framings you’ll need supporting evidence for), you can plant seeds today that won’t serve you this quarter but will be load-bearing in 12 or 24 months.

    At my company, we plant seeds constantly: claims and framings published now that aren’t doing visible work today but will be the corroborated proof we’ll need when the next phase of our long-term strategy rolls out. The brand that runs ROFI consistently is shaping the frame against which competitors will be measured in the future.

    Because you’re educating and training the algorithms, ROFI actually influences the criteria by which the market will judge you in your favor.

    Three time horizons for your content (wherever it lives online): ROPI extracts value from what you’ve already built, ROI improves the present, and ROFI engineers the future.

    The same diagnostic works across every AI engine

    The 10 gates describe what search engines, assistive engines, and assistive agents actually do, in order, every time they decide whether to recommend you. 

    Crawl, index, rank was the right model for a 1998 search engine. It hasn’t been the right model for a long time. The brands that are still optimizing for three steps when the systems run on 10 are optimizing for a model that the engines don’t use.

    This isn’t my framework. It’s the engines’ framework.

    The engines don’t care what you find easy to measure, fun to do, or impressive at the next conference. They care whether your content survives all 10 gates with high confidence at each, and they reward the brands that build for the gates with citations, recommendations, and the actions that follow.

    So treat and run it like a system. Fix your F grades first and your D grades next. Work outside-in because that’s where the leverage already lives, and watch the rest compound on top of work you’ve barely had to pay for. 

    Follow the system, and AI search pays you back, year on year, engine after engine, long past the lifespan of any acronym fashion.

    Azərbaycan yığması “Millətlər Liqası” turnirinin qalibi olub

    5 May 2026 at 19:12

    Minifutbol üzrə Azərbaycan millisi Monteneqroda keçirilən “Millətlər Liqası” turnirini uğurla başa vurub.

    Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, yığma Qazaxıstan və Monteneqro millilərinin iştirakı ilə keçirilən yarışın qalibi olub.

    Komandanın üzvlərindən Vəli Qafarov turnirin ən yaxşı qapıçısı, İsa Atayev isə ən məhsuldar futbolçusu seçilib.

    Məmmədov: “Məğlub olmaq istəmirdik”

    5 May 2026 at 18:55

    Misli Premyer Liqasının XXX turunun “Karvan-Yevlax” – “Neftçi” oyunundan (0:3) sonra meydan sahibi komandanın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırıb.

    Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb:

    – Danışılası çox şey yoxdur. Matça ciddi hazırlaşmışdıq, düşünürdük ki, yaxşı oynayacağıq. Qola qədər komanda pis təsir bağışlamadı. Lakin xırda səhvdən rəqib fərqləndi və oyun pozuldu. İkinci qol epizodu isə bizə çox təsir etdi. Qarşıda üç oyunumuz qaldı. Nə şansımız varsa, sona qədər mübarizə aparacağıq. Çalışacağıq, komandamız bu durumdan qurtulsun.

    – Qoldan sonra komanda çox zəif çıxış etdi. Bu, nə ilə bağlıdır?
    – Birinci qol bizi sındırmadı. İlk hissənin sonları idi və belə rahat qol vuracaqlarınl düşünmürdük. İkinci qoldan sonra eniş hiss olundu və bu da normaldır. Məğlub olmaq istəmirdik. Rəqibin fərqlənməsindən sonra futbolçularda ruh düşkünlüyü yarandı və bilirdik ki, geridönüş çox çətin olacaq.

    – Təqvimlərə baxanda, şanslarınızı necə dəyərləndirirsiniz?
    – Həm “Qəbələ”nin, həm də bizim çətin oyunlarımız var. Xal fərqi 6-dır və qarşıda “Qəbələ” ilə matçımız var. Hər görüşə ciddi hazırlaşacağıq.

    – Digər ölkələrdə belədir ki, mövsümün sonunda liqada qalmaq uğrunda oynayan komandaların oyunları eyni gündə olur. Bizdə isə fərqlidir…
    – Təqvimə uyğun planımızı quracağıq. Artıq nəsə edə bilmərik. Maksimum çalışacağıq ki, komanda növbəti oyuna hazır olsun.

    Şahin Cəfərov

    “Mingəçevir” səfərdə uduzdu

    5 May 2026 at 18:30

    Azərbaycan I Liqasında XXV tura start verilib.

    Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, ilk gündə bir qarşılaşma keçirilib. “Mingəçevir” Şamaxıda “Şahdağ Qusar”a uduzub.

    Turun digər oyunları 6 və 7 mayda olacaq.

    Azərbaycan I Liqası
    XXV tur

    5 may

    Şahdağ Qusar – Mingəçevir 2:0
    Qollar: K.Adjey, 10, A.Çipesse, 72

    Vernidub: “Neftçi” kimi tarixi olan komandada işləmək şərəfdir”

    5 May 2026 at 18:18

    Misli Premyer Liqasının XXX turunun “Karvan-Yevlax” – “Neftçi” oyunundan (0:3) sonra qonaq komandanın baş məşqçisi Yuri Vernidub jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırıb.

    Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb:

    – “Qarabağ”la ikinci oyundan sonra uşaqlarda böyük emosiyalar ortaya çıxdı. Bu oyun üçün çox həyəcan keçirdim. Məşqçilər heyəti olaraq bunun öhdəsindən gələ bildik. Futbolçulara da minnətdaram.

    – “Neftçi”nin avrokuboklara vəsiqə məsələsi məhz sizin ev oyunlarınızı keçirdiyiniz arenada müəyyənləşəcək. Həmin oyundan – kubokun finalından gözləntiləriniz nədir?
    – Qarşıda üç oyun var və bunlar bizim üçün finaldır. Bütün futbolçular başa düşür ki, hər matçda maksimum nəticə göstərməliyik. Kubokun finalından da çox şey asılı olacaq. Titulu kim qazanacaq? Zaman göstərəcək. Öz oyunlarımız da vacibdir. Sona qədər mübarizəmizi davam etdirəcəyik.

    – Falaye Sakoya nə vermişdiniz ki, mövsümün ən yaxşı oyunlarından birini keçirdi?
    – Ona təşəkkür edirəm, peşəkar futbolçudur. Bir oyunda yox, bütün matçlarda səviyyəsini ortaya qoymalıdır. Fransa çempionatında da oynayıb və yaxşı təcrübəsi var. Ona nə deyim? Afərin!

    – Məşqçi kimi böyük yol keçmisiniz. Müharibə vaxtı ölümlə üzbəüz olmusunuz. Amma ötən oyundan sonra çox həyəcanlı olduğunuzu demişdiniz. Bu, matça görə idi, ya başqa səbəbi oldu?
    – Başqa səbəb yox idi. Sadəcə 1:5 hesablı məğlubiyyət mənim üçün sarsıdıcı idi. Bundan sonra söz tapa bilmirdim. Ona görə də, ikinci oyunda fərqli çıxış etdik. Qələbədən sonra emosiyalar fərqli idi və buna görə də suallara cavab vermək istəmədim. “Neftçi” kimi tarixi olan komandada işləmək isə  şərəfdir. Klubda çalışaraq futbolçulara, azarkeşlərə və rəhbərliyə böyük hörmətim var. Oyunçular da “Neftçi”də olmağın üstünlüyünü dərk etməlidir. Hər zaman peşəkar oynamalıdırlar ki, bu kluba layiq olsunlar.

    – Transfer məsələlərində planlarınız hazırdır? 
    – Transferlər barədə danışmamışam. Kim hansı oyunçunun adını çəkirsə, özü də danışsın. Vaxtı gələndə hər şeyi özüm deyəcəyəm. Yazırlar ki, hansısa futbolçu ilə münaqişə etmişəm, amma bu, doğru deyil. Transfer işlərində çox diqqətli olacağıq.

    – “Neftçi”nin “üçlük”dən kənarda qalmasının səbəbi mövsümün əvvəlində itirilən xallardır, yoxsa hakim qərarları?
    – Bu barədə şərh vermək istəmirəm. Komanda məndən əvvəl də çoxlu xallar itirmişdi. “Turan Tovuz”, “Zirə”, “Şamaxı”, “Sumqayıt”la oyundakı heç-heçələr mənim də vaxtımda olub. Çalışırıq ki, hər oyunda maksimum nəticə qazanaq. Komandada müsbət dəyişikliklərə nail olmuşuq. Ən böyük arzum “Neftçi”nin layiq olduğu yerlərdə görməkdir.

    – Kubokun finalını stadiondan izləyib, “Sabah”a azarkeşlik edəcəksiniz?
    – Dəqiq bilmirəm. “Sabah”a və ya “Zirə”yə azarkeşlik etməyim doğru sayılmaz. Güclü olan qalib gəlsin. Düzdür, “Sabah”ın qələbəsi bizə daha uyğundur, amma hansısa rəqibimizə pis bir şey arzu edə bilmərəm. Həyat bumeranqdır.

    Şahin Cəfərov

    Hürzeler ilə davam

    5 May 2026 at 17:30

    “Brayton” baş məşqçisi Fabian Hürzeler ilə müqaviləni uzadıb.

    Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə insayder Fabrizio Romano məlumat yayıb. Tərəflər arasında müddəti 2029-cu ilin yayına kimi olan anlaşma imzalanıb.

    “Brayton” Premyer Liqada 35 turdan sonra 50 xalla 8-ci sıradadır.

    Agent: Lukaku ‘back’ to Napoli, will meet Conte today

    5 May 2026 at 18:50

    Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, confirms the Belgian striker will resume training with his Napoli teammates today, meeting with Antonio Conte: ‘The coach will decide what to do.’

    Lukaku returns to Napoli to meet Conte

    Belgium international Lukaku has returned to Naples after spending over one month in Antwerp, Belgium, for individual training sessions to regain full fitness.

    Lukaku refused to return to Naples during the international break in March, remaining in Belgium without the club’s consent.

    VERONA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
    VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

    He was, therefore, fined and frozen out of the team. He did return to Naples for just one day towards the end of April to meet club directors with his agent, Pastorello.

    Lukaku and his representative did not sit down with Conte at the time, prompting the coach to publicly express his dissatisfaction.

    “I know both [Lukaku and Conte] really well, and they both live football with great passion,” Pastorello told DAZN Belgium via TMW.

    NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
    NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

    “That was not the right moment for a meeting, but they’ll do it today.”

    Lukaku has now returned to Napoli’s training centre, his agent confirmed.

    “Lukaku is back to Napoli, as expected, and he’ll resume training with the team now that he’s in better shape. Then the coach will decide what to do with Romelu,” Pastorello said.

    Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury at the beginning of the season, which forced him to the sidelines in the first part of the campaign.

    The Belgian international, 32, has played only 64 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal.

    His contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027.

    Milan have Modric hope as Croatian star returns to training centre after surgery

    5 May 2026 at 18:32

    Reports in Italy claim that Luka Modric returned to the Milan training centre this morning. Hence, the Rossoneri hope to see the Croat return to action for the last game of the season despite a recent cheekbone surgery.

    Modric’s season with Milan might not be over as Italian sources, including Sky Sport Italia and MilanNews, report that the 40-year-old returned to Milanello on Tuesday morning for the first time since suffering a cheekbone injury that required surgery two weeks ago.

    Modric returns to Milanello for first time after surgery

    It was expected that Modric would not play for Milan again this season, focusing his recovery on the World Cup with the Croatia national team.

    However, according to MilanNews, his return to Milanello this morning suggests that the Real Madrid legend will push to be available for the season’s final game.

    PISA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 13: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
    PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

    Milan have won only one of their last five league games and are still not certain to qualify for the Champions League, as their advantage over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to three points.

    Milan host Atalanta next weekend, then visit Genoa in Round 37 and play at home against Cagliari in the final round.

     

    Roma coach Gasperini makes Dybala, Celik & Pellegrini decisions amid Inter & Liverpool links

    5 May 2026 at 18:22

    Gian Piero Gasperini is pushing Roma to secure contract renewals for four out-of-contract players this summer, including Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini, both of whom have been linked with Inter Milan, while Zeki Celik has also attracted interest from Liverpool.

    Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News & Content – Free Trial – Click Here

    According to Sky Sport, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the recent departures of Claudio Ranieri and sporting director Frederic Massara have actually brought the squad closer together, with Gasperini using that unity to press the club for a clean sweep of renewals.

    Alongside Dybala, Pellegrini and Celik, winger Stephan El Shaarawy is also out of contract, with all four previously considered likely to leave at the end of the season.

    BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
    BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)

    Gasperini pushes Roma board to retain key quartet despite summer uncertainty

    The situation has shifted, however, with Gasperini now understood to want all four players kept at the club.

    His desire to retain them comes amid significant external interest, especially at zero cost.

    Celik has been linked with both Inter and Liverpool, while Pellegrini has also been mentioned in connection with the Nerazzurri.

    Dybala, meanwhile, has been repeatedly linked with a return to Argentina to join Boca Juniors.

    Keeping hold of these players would be a significant mark of strength from Roma, especially as fans feel many still have something to give to the club.

    Losing any of them, especially to a division rival like Inter, would be a huge blow, especially as

    Growing reports that Sarri is Napoli’s top candidate to replace Conte

    5 May 2026 at 18:10

    Growing reports in Italy suggest that Maurizio Sarri is Napoli’s top candidate to replace Antonio Conte in 2026-27.

    Will Sarri replace Conte at Napoli in 2026-27?

    Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà reports that Lazio coach Sarri is the leading candidate for the Napoli job next season if Conte leaves.

    The Partenopei boss is under contract at the Stadio Maradona, but his future at the club will be determined in the coming weeks, with a meeting expected between the Italian tactician and the Napoli management, including President Aurelio De Laurentiis.

    NAPLES, ITALY - APRIL 18: Maurizio Sarri SS Lazio head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and SS Lazio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 18, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
    NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 18: Maurizio Sarri SS Lazio head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and SS Lazio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 18, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

    Pedullà writes on X that “confirmations are coming from all sides” that Sarri is Napoli’s “top name” for next season if the club and Conte decide to part ways.

    Sarri returned to Lazio last summer but has had a troubled season at the Stadio Olimpico, mostly due to a summer transfer embargo that prevented the Biancocelesti from making new signings for the first part of the campaign.

    Sarri, 67, already spent three seasons at Napoli, from 2015 to 2018.

    He won 98 of 148 games in charge of the Partenopei, failing to win the Scudetto in his final season at the club despite collecting 91 points.

    Bergomi taunts Inter’s rivals, warns Barcelona over Bastoni’s price

    5 May 2026 at 17:42

    Inter legend Beppe Bergomi insists Milan, Juventus and Napoli can’t settle for a mere top-four finish next season and warns Barcelona about Alessandro Bastoni’s price tag: ‘He has great value…’

    Inter and Italy legend Bergomi examined the Nerazzurri’s title-winning campaign in an interview with Repubblica, where he also discussed the improvements that Cristian Chivu’s team will need for 2026-27.

    Chivu has won the Scudetto in his first full Serie A season as a coach, and Bergomi had no doubts about the former defender’s quality in the dugout.

    “I knew he’d do well. Roberto Samaden, who had long been in charge of the youth sector, told me that Cristian could win his players’ hearts, and he did,” he said.

    Bergomi went on to name the key Inter player this term.

    “Lautaro. He’s the top scorer despite playing fewer games than in the past,” he said.

    MILAN, ITALY - MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
    MILAN, ITALY – MAY 03: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates after being confirmed as Serie A champions following victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

    “He has amazing quality and leadership skills. Zielinski and Dimarco are just one step behind.”

    Bergomi feels the Nerazzurri’s target for next season is already set, but he also sent a warning to the other contenders.

    “Win the league again, and it is not only true for Inter,” he claimed.

    “Milan, Napoli and Juve can’t just say ‘we aim for a Champions League spot.’ It’s not fair towards the fans. The Champions League is an opportunity, but it is complex. With the new formula, if you don’t finish [the league phase] in the top eight, it gets very tough.”

    According to recent reports, the Nerazzurri will have a minimum budget of €40-50m to strengthen the team, a sum that could be increased through some sales.

    “I’d like a physically strong central midfielder, like Koné, Rabiot or Khephren Thuram, and a dribbler, like Nico Paz,” Bergomi said.

    CAGLIARI, ITALY - MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
    CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 01: Beppe Bergomi looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and FC Internazionale at Sardegna Arena on March 1, 2019 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

    “It will be hard to sign him from Real Madrid, but that’s the type of player [Inter need].

    “Inter have been without Calhanoglu, Dumfries, and Lautaro for many games,” continued the ex-defender.

    “Bastoni too. In addition to injuries, he was subjected to unjustified public shaming. He made a mistake, but he took responsibility for it.”

    Inter President Marotta has already confirmed Barcelona’s interest in Bastoni. Should the Serie A champions really sell the Italian centre-back?

    “It depends on the offers,” concluded Bergomi.

    “He has great value; you can’t just sell him off cheaply. I see him doing well in Spain and in the Premier League.”

     

     

    Bayern Munich vs PSG Bet Builder Tips – 13/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions

    With all eyes falling on the Allianz on Wednesday night, a spot in the final of this season’s Champions League hangs in the balance as Bayern Munich welcome PSG to Germany for their second-leg showdown. Eventually dragging themselves to an early advantage last week as they secured what was a remarkable 5-4 victory in Paris, […]

    The post Bayern Munich vs PSG Bet Builder Tips – 13/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

    The post Bayern Munich vs PSG Bet Builder Tips – 13/1 Champions League Special, Analysis & Predictions appeared first on Soccer News.

    Prediction: Sunderland vs Manchester United

    Prediction: Manchester United to win 2-0 Best Odds: 8/1 Bookmaker: Zetbet Sunderland and Manchester United will lock horns with each other in the Premier League this weekend. The match between the Black Cats and the Red Devils will be held at the Stadium of Light and is scheduled to kick off at 3pm UK time […]

    The post Prediction: Sunderland vs Manchester United appeared first on Soccer News.

    The post Prediction: Sunderland vs Manchester United appeared first on Soccer News.

    Prediction: Burnley vs Aston Villa

    Prediction: Aston Villa to win 3-0 Best Odds: 10/1 Bookmaker: Zetbet Burnley and Aston Villa will lock horns with each other in the Premier League this weekend. The match between the Clarets and the Villans will be held at Turf Moor and is scheduled to kick off at 2pm UK time on Sunday. Burnley Burnley […]

    The post Prediction: Burnley vs Aston Villa appeared first on Soccer News.

    The post Prediction: Burnley vs Aston Villa appeared first on Soccer News.

    Champions League: the craziest semi-final records! 🤯

    Champions League: the craziest semi-final records!
    Champions League: the craziest semi-final records! 🤯

    The Champions League final four is often the stage for unbelievable scenarios.

    From spectacular comebacks and historic thrashings to longevity records, the semi-finals have helped forge the legend of the Champions League.

    Here’s a look back at the numbers and performances that have marked the competition’s history.


    The biggest comeback in a Champions League semi-final

    Liverpool 4-0 Barça in the second leg (0-3 in the first leg, 2018/19)

    The biggest aggregate score (home and away)

    Bayern Munich 7-0 Barça (4-0, 3-0) 2012/13

    The biggest wins in a Champions League semi-final

    Real Madrid 6-0 Zurich (07/05/1964)

    Bayern Munich 4-0 Barcelona (23/04/2013)

    Real Madrid 4-0 Bayern Munich (29/04/2014)

    Liverpool 4-0 Barça (07/05/2019)

    Manchester City 4-0 Real Madrid (17/05/2023)

    Most goals scored in a Champions League semi-final

    4 goals - Robert Lewandowski (Dortmund vs Real Madrid, 24/04/2013)

    The oldest player in a Champions League semi-final 🦁

    41 years and 206 days, Mark Schwarzer (Chelsea 1-3 Atlético), 30/04/2014

    The youngest player in a Champions League semi-final

    17 years and 2 days, Rayan Cherki (Lyon 0-3 Bayern, 19/08/2020)

    The youngest goalscorer in a Champions League semi-final

    17 years and 291 days, Lamine Yamal (Barcelona 3-3 Inter, 30/04/2025)

    The oldest goalscorer in a Champions League semi-final

    37 years and 148 days, Ryan Giggs (Schalke 0-2 Man United), 26/04/2011

    The youngest player to score a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final

    23 years and 143 days, Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus 4-1 Monaco, 01/04/1998) 

    The oldest player to score a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final

    32 years and 86 days, Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid 3-0 Atlético, 02/05/2017)

    Top scorer in Champions League semi-finals

    Cristiano Ronaldo - 13 goals 


    Stats: UEFA

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

    Agent: Lukaku ‘back’ to Napoli, will meet Conte today

    Agent: Lukaku ‘back’ to Napoli, will meet Conte today
    Agent: Lukaku ‘back’ to Napoli, will meet Conte today

    Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, confirms the Belgian striker will resume training with his Napoli teammates today, meeting with Antonio Conte: ‘The coach will decide what to do.’

    Lukaku returns to Napoli to meet Conte

    Belgium international Lukaku has returned to Naples after spending over one month in Antwerp, Belgium, for individual training sessions to regain full fitness.

    Lukaku refused to return to Naples during the international break in March, remaining in Belgium without the club’s consent.

    VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

    He was, therefore, fined and frozen out of the team. He did return to Naples for just one day towards the end of April to meet club directors with his agent, Pastorello.

    Lukaku and his representative did not sit down with Conte at the time, prompting the coach to publicly express his dissatisfaction.

    “I know both [Lukaku and Conte] really well, and they both live football with great passion,” Pastorello told DAZN Belgium via TMW.

    NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

    “That was not the right moment for a meeting, but they’ll do it today.”

    Lukaku has now returned to Napoli’s training centre, his agent confirmed.

    “Lukaku is back to Napoli, as expected, and he’ll resume training with the team now that he’s in better shape. Then the coach will decide what to do with Romelu,” Pastorello said.

    Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury at the beginning of the season, which forced him to the sidelines in the first part of the campaign.

    The Belgian international, 32, has played only 64 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal.

    His contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027.

    Jon Rahm reaches deal with DP World Tour to remain eligible for Ryder Cup amid uncertain LIV future

    Jon Rahm has reached a deal with the DP World Tour (Getty)

    Jon Rahm has reached a deal with the DP World Tour that will allow him to retain membership and be eligible for selection for next year’s Ryder Cup with the future of LIV Golf uncertain.

    Rahm and the tour had appeared at an impasse after the two-time major champion turned down an offer taken by eight of his LIV colleagues to remain a member.

    The 2023 Masters winner had declined to pay fines and accept a settlement that would have involved him playing a minimum of six events on the European tour, though now has reached agreement after further negotiations. It has not been confirmed how many events he will be expected to play.

    A key part of the European teams that have won the last two editions of the Ryder Cup, Rahm now appears set to be available to Luke Donald again at Adare Manor next year.

    “The DP World Tour and Jon Rahm have come to an agreement on conditional releases to play in conflicting tournaments on LIV Golf during the remainder of its 2026 season,” the DP World Tour confirmed in a statement.

    “This involves payment of all outstanding fines accrued from 2024 to date, along with participation in agreed DP World Tour tournaments (outside the Majors) in the remainder of the 2026 season.”

    News of the deal comes a week after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) confirmed that it would be ceasing its funding of LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season. The breakaway league is now searching for alternative investors as it resumes the campaign at Trump National Golf Club near Washington DC this weekend.

    Rahm joined LIV in December 2023 with a reported signing-on fee of $350m (£258m). He topped the individual standings on the series last year, and already has two victories this season.tThe 31-year-old finished in a tie for 38th at the Masters last month and is set to compete at the PGA Championship at Aronimink next weekend.

    Seahawks add veteran pass rusher on $5 million deal

    PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 16:Dallas Cowboys Defensive End Dante Fowler (56) and Dallas Cowboys Defensive End DeMarcus Lawrence (90) prior to the National Football League game between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles on October 16,2022, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

    Good morning everyone, the Seattle Seahawks have woken up!

    After an excruciatingly quiet stretch of offseason, the Seahawks have signed one of the most accomplished players of this free agency, bringing former first-round pick Dante Fowler in to play opposite DeMarcus Lawrence and make quarterbacks sad.

    Veteran edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. is signing with the Seahawks on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, per sources.

    The No. 3 overall pick in the 2015 draft, Fowler is now entering his 12th NFL season. Deal negotiated by Sean Kiernan and Tom Povinelli of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/IOyRrcoWAJ

    — Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 5, 2026

    By the way, for the comp pick watchers, we’re past the deadline for any FA signings counting toward or against the formula, so this affects nothing but a roster spot and the salary cap.

    This has felt like a strong possibility for a while, for a few reasons. Things became even more clear when Seattle entered and subsequently exited the 2026 draft without any drafted edge help. Additionally, Fowler overlapped with Lawrence in Dallas and Aden Durde in 2022 and 2023, and Seattle brought Fowler in for a visit. Finally, reviving 30-year old pass rushers seems to be one of the many specialties of head coach Mike Macdonald.

    Fowler is not quite at the same tier as Lawrence – and the $5 million contract supports that, but he completely fits the bill for what has become the Seahawks defensive line engine.

    • Versatility across the line
    • Known for his high motor and nasty, disruptive playstyle
    • Power rusher with high pressure rate. His 2025 was higher than any Seahawks player.
    • Skilled and accomplished run defender

    It’s not a pure Boye Mafe replacement in terms of skillset. He’s closer to Derick Hall, Lawrence, or even Leonard Williams in that regard.

    Fowler’s career production has been a bit up and down. He only has two 10+ sack seasons, but 15 forced fumbles over 10 years is nothing to sneeze at, neither is 74 tackles for loss. His two best seasons were with the Los Angeles Rams and Washington Commanders, so we’ll just assume that the Cowboys don’t know what they’re doing, that Durde and Macdonald do, and look forward to Fowler in a Seahawks jersey soon!

    ‘Rohit Sharma and MI will hurt playoff hopes of many teams’: Gavaskar warns IPL 2026 rivals

    NEW DELHI: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes a resurgent Rohit Sharma could dramatically alter the playoff race in IPL 2026, warning that Mumbai Indians now have the firepower to derail multiple teams’ qualification hopes.

    Rohit marked his return from injury in emphatic fashion, smashing 84 off 44 balls to lead MI to a stunning six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in a record chase of 229 at the Wankhede Stadium. His 143-run opening stand with Ryan Rickelton set the tone for only Mumbai’s third win of the season, but one that could have far-reaching consequences.

    Gavaskar, who has tracked Rohit’s evolution closely, pointed to a noticeable shift in the batter’s mindset since stepping away from leadership duties. “I have been watching Rohit Sharma closely over the last year. Ever since he was removed as captain in white-ball cricket and the IPL, he has focused more on his batting,” Gavaskar said on JioStar.

    Highlighting Rohit’s consistency, he added, “In the IPL, he usually scores 400 to 500 runs a season, but his knocks are often impactful. He may not have many 80-plus innings, but his 40 to 50-run starts give his team early momentum.”

    However, Gavaskar emphasised that Rohit is now aiming for something bigger. “The change in his game is clear: he now wants to bat deeper and leave a bigger impact,” he said, pointing to the authority and range on display during the knock against LSG. “We saw all the typical Rohit Sharma shots — the pull, the drives, the loft over long-off. Against left-arm spinner M Siddharth, he played down the ground, hitting against the turn. We saw a focused Rohit.”

    The veteran’s biggest takeaway, though, was the larger impact Rohit could have on the tournament. “If he continues this form, Mumbai Indians will hurt the playoff hopes of many teams in the remaining matches,” he warned.

    With MI still outside the top four but building momentum, their late surge could prove decisive in a tightly packed table.
    130825952

    Jasprit Bumrah under the scanner



    While Rohit’s form has lifted MI, Gavaskar expressed concern over Jasprit Bumrah’s struggles this season. “Bumrah is giving his best, but he seems to be trying too many extra things,” he said, pointing to no-balls and a dip in rhythm.

    “He is overdoing things, and that’s hurting him. He should go back to basics,” Gavaskar added, while backing the premier pacer to bounce back quickly. “It will take just one or two games — once he starts picking wickets, he’ll be back on track.”

    Pre-Snap Reads 5/5: Seahawks make significant addition to D-line

    ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 30: Dante Fowler Jr. #56 of the Dallas Cowboys runs around the edge during an NFL football game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Seattle Seahawks at AT&T Stadium on November 30, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

    In Today’s Links: another breakdown of the Jadarian Price pick, photos from the next phase of Seattle Seahawks offseason practice, takeaways from Rookie Minicamp, a look at the Macdonald Regime, thus far; and much more! Thanks for being here with us at Field Gulls. You know the rest.

    #np Hold On by Alabama Shakes

    Seahawks News

    How many Seahawks have there been recently? – Seaside Joe
    And how many more will be added to the list next year?

    Brock sees similarities to RB legend in Seahawks’ Jadarian Price – Seattle Sports
    The Seattle Seahawks made it through their rookie minicamp over the weekend, which allowed for the first look at first-round running back Jadarian Price in the blue and Action Green.

    PHOTOS: Sam Darnold, Jaxon Smith-Njigba And The Seahawks Begin Phase Two Of Offseason Workouts – Seahawks.com
    The Seahawks kicked off phase two of the team’s offseason workout program on Monday, May 4, 2026 at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.

    How Russell Wilson might fare if he joins CBS’ NFL pregame show – The Seattle Times
    There are two schools of thought regarding how former Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson would fare if he joins “The NFL Today” on CBS next season.

    Five takeaways from Seahawks rookie camp, including Jadarian Price’s hands – The News Tribune
    From top draft choice Jadarian Price through a 5-foot-6 United States Air Force lieutenant, the Seahawks brought in more guys for a rookie minicamp than they’ll have players on their roster next season.

    Stock Watch: Examining Seahawks Post-Draft Winners, Losers – Emerald City Spectrum
    Now more than a week removed from the 2026 NFL Draft, the Seattle Seahawks have gotten a first look at their newest draft class via rookie minicamp, and the offseason program will soon kick into full overdrive with Phase 2 opening next week.

    Lessons to learn from the Seahawks 2026 draft – Seahawks Draft Blog
    Brady Henderson has published a typically excellent breakdown of the Seahawks draft, with a few very interesting nuggets included. I wanted to touch on a few things we should remember for next year.

    Why the Seahawks Signing of Dante Fowler Jr. Is Perfect – si.com
    Dante Fowler Jr. won’t be the best pass rusher for the Seattle Seahawks, but the team isn’t asking him to be.

    Inside the Macdonald Era: Why This Isn’t an Accident – The Hawks Eye w/ Bryce Coutts
    The Mike Macdonald era in Seattle didn’t happen by chance… it was built with intent.

    NFC West News

    NFL Supplemental draft offers a quarterback the Cardinals may consider – Revenge of the Birds
    The Arizona Cardinals appear to be pretty good with their quarterback situation.

    Which Day 3 pick from the 49ers’ draft will play the biggest role in 2026? – Niners Nation
    Is the answer too obvious?

    Ty Simpson’s opponents ranked him below Jalen Milroe – Turf Show Times
    ESPN asked SEC coaches why they were surprised by Simpson pick

    Nebraska rewards men's basketball assistants for its best season in history with contract extensions

    LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg announced Tuesday that assistants Nate Loenser, Ernie Zeigler and Pat Monaghan and general manager Luca Virgilio have signed contract extensions following the best season in program history.

    Hoiberg, the Associated Press national coach of the year, also named Loenser associate head coach. Contract terms were not immediately announced.

    The Cornhuskers finished 28-7 overall, tied for second in the Big Ten at 15-5 and beat Troy for their first-ever NCAA Tournament win and then Vanderbilt to reach the Sweet 16. They were No. 14 in the final AP Top 25.

    “The success our program had this year is really a testament to the efforts of our entire staff, and it is important to reward them for all of their work,” Hoiberg said. “The work they pour into our players is evident in their development in our program. Nate, Ernie and Luca have been vital over the last four years in helping us build a winning culture and enjoy sustained success that Nebraska basketball has not seen in a long time."

    Loenser, who coordinates the defense, just completed his fifth season on the staff. Zeigler, who works with the offense and plays a major role in game planning, has been at Nebraska four seasons. Monaghan, who joined the staff in April 2025, assists in player development, game planning and recruiting.

    Virgilio, who has been with Hoiberg all seven seasons at Nebraska, is in charge of roster management and retention.

    ___

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

    Is Tarkowski the Dependable losing his touch at the heart of Everton's defence?

    Is Tarkowski the Dependable losing his touch at the heart of Everton's defence?
    Is Tarkowski the Dependable losing his touch at the heart of Everton's defence?

    James Tarkowski comes off second best against towering Newcastle defenders

    (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

    For two seasons, James Tarkowski has been the bedrock of the Everton defence— the "Mr Dependable" who simply doesn't miss a minute of football.

    But as we dissect the fallout from last night’s chaotic 3-3 draw against Manchester City at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, a growing number of Blues are asking a difficult question: is our vice-captain becoming a liability?

    The Manchester City Meltdown

    Last night was a microcosm of Tarkowski's season. While the headlines will rightly praise Thierno Barry’s double and the spirit shown to come from 0-1 to lead 3-1, the defensive lapses that allowed City to escape with a point were criminal.

    The most egregious moment came in the 83rd minute. Having just taken a 3-1 lead, Everton’s defence — led by the veteran duo of Tarkowski and Michael Keane — completely switched off. Erling Haaland was allowed to race onto a Mateo Kovacic pass with embarrassing ease. Tarkowski’s lack of recovery pace and positioning were exposed as Haaland lifted the ball over Pickford. To concede within seconds of our third goal suggests a leadership vacuum at the heart of the backline.

    Furthermore, Tarkowski's discipline was again called into question. His 53rd-minute yellow card for a cynical foul on Jeremy Doku was his 7th of the season (depending on the source, some data suggests 6, but his disciplinary record remains a concern). It forced him to play on a tightrope for the remainder of the match, limiting his ability to be aggressive against City's late onslaught.

    The Statistical Decline

    While Tarkowski still dominates the air — ranking in the 96th percentile for aerial duels won — other metrics paint a more worrying picture of his 2025-26 campaign:

    • Goals Conceded: Everton have conceded 39 goals with Tarkowski on the pitch this season across 33 starts.
    • Errors and Penalties: He has already conceded a penalty for handball this season (against Leeds) and was cited for an error leading to a goal in the 1-2 loss at Fulham in February.
    • Indirect Responsibility: Beyond "official" errors, he has been part of a defensive unit that has struggled for consistency. In recent weeks, he has recorded low match ratings in losses to West Ham (1-2) and Liverpool (1-2), with critics pointing to a decline in his mobility following previous injury layoffs.
    • The Pace Deficit: With only 4 successful dribbles all season and a 41% long-pass completion rate, Tarkowski is increasingly looking like a "box-defender" in a league that demands more mobility and technical security.

    Time for the O’Brien-Branthwaite Axis?

    The irony of last night was that Jake O'Brien, the man many want to see partner Jarrad Branthwaite long-term, was the one who scored the towering header from an excellent James Garner corner to put us 2-1 up. O'Brien showed the dynamism and goal threat that Tarkowski has struggled to provide this term (Tarkowski has just 1 goal from 16 shots inside the box this season).

    The "squad audit" is becoming clear: while Tarkowski’s experience is valuable, his high wages and declining physical stats suggest he may no longer be an automatic starter if David Moyes wants to implement a more modern, mobile defensive line next season.

    Of course, Branthwaite is out for what remains of this roller-coaster season, but worryingly, Tarkowski has already been granted a 2-year contract extension running through to June 2028. So his role going forward as one of Moyes's ageing favourites seems assured for the time being.

    We love "Tarky" for his heart, but in a 3-3 thriller where the Everton defence "let themselves down" (Moyes's own words), the leadership we expect from our vice-captain was nowhere to be found when the game and the full 3 points from a precious win were on the line.

    Fabian Hurzeler: United interest sparks strong Brighton response

    Fabian Hurzeler: United interest sparks strong Brighton response
    Fabian Hurzeler: United interest sparks strong Brighton response

    Manchester United have been on a roll under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, who remains an option for the full-time position at Old Trafford. However, that has not stopped the Red Devils from being linked to several managerial candidates ahead of the summer.

    INEOS have had some poor luck with their managerial appointments and will be hoping to get third time lucky this year. Former head coach Ruben Amorim was appointed by United’s minority owners after a lot of background work, but his tenure turned out to be a disappointment.

    The Portuguese head coach had an underwhelming 14-month spell at the Theatre of Dreams, and left in January with the club’s top-four hopes uncertain. Amorim’s future was also subject to speculation last summer after a 15th-placed finish in the Premier League last season.

    The Portuguese survived the summer but had an underwhelming start to the new campaign, prompting speculation about his future. It was during that time that Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler was named as a possible replacement for the former Sporting manager.

    Hurzeler’s rise at the Amex

    Hurzeler arrived at the Amex in the summer of 2024, becoming the youngest permanent coach in Premier League history. The German soon added to his reputation as one of the most exciting young coaches in the world, and transformed Brighton into a well-drilled attacking unit.

    Hurzeler has already displayed tactical flexibility, with his team playing intense attacking football and working extremely hard on the pitch. United had no answer to his tactics earlier this year in the FA Cup third round, losing the game 2-1 and exiting the tournament.

    Darren Fletcher was in charge for that game in mid-January as interim manager following United’s decision to sack Amorim. The English giants were looking for some stability and appointed Carrick as the Portuguese’s temporary replacement a couple of days later.

    Carrick, meanwhile, has already confirmed participation in next season’s Champions League by registering 10 wins and two draws in his 14 games in charge. United are third in the league table with three games remaining, and the focus has now shifted to the managerial selection process.

    Michael Carrick Managerial Career Stats

    Source: Wikipedia.

    Several Premier League candidates have been named as options for the role, and it now appears that Hurzeler was also in the mix.

    United considered Fabian Hurzeler

    According to TEAMtalk, United briefly considered Hurzeler for the permanent position, but the German is now expected to sign a new deal at the Amex. The report states: “Brighton have moved decisively to secure the long-term future of head coach Fabian Hurzeler, with TEAMtalk able to confirm that the highly-rated German has agreed a new deal with the club.”

    “We can also reveal that Manchester United had also done some work on him as part of their ongoing managerial hunt, though the Red Devils’ co-owners, INEOS, have long been convinced by Michael Carrick and were simply doing due diligence on alternatives should their first choice fail.”

    A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person also states that United now consider Carrick as the frontrunner for the permanent position.

    Final Thoughts

    Hurzeler has been a revelation for the Seagulls, but as things stand, Carrick appears to be the best candidate for the position. With Champions League qualification secure, it is hard to look beyond the Englishman at the moment.

    Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images

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

    Barcelona, Manchester City forward target not for sale this summer – report

    Barcelona, Manchester City forward target not for sale this summer – report
    Barcelona, Manchester City forward target not for sale this summer – report

    As reported earlier this week, FC Barcelona are keeping tabs on AFC Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi heading into the summer transfer window.

    The Blaugrana are in the market for a new centre-forward as Robert Lewandowski appears set to move on at the end of the season.

    While Julian Alvarez is the priority target, his finances make the operation difficult, prompting Barça to keep an eye on alternatives, with Kroupi, 19, emerging as an option.

    Eli Junior Kroupi not for sale

    However, according to Lyall Thomas of Sky Sports, Bournemouth are not looking to sell Kroupi in the upcoming transfer window.

    The teenage Frenchman joined the Cherries only last year, arriving from Lorient, and has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign – bagging 12 goals from 30 matches in the English top-flight.

    His performances have alerted not only Barcelona, but also Manchester City and a number of other Premier League clubs.

    Not for sale. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

    As per the report, the Blaugrana have been tracking the France U21 international extensively this season and see him as a prospect for the long-term.

    It must be remembered that the Catalans had already been monitoring Kroupi back in 2024 as well, before he had moved to Bournemouth.

    Despite the interest that the young forward is attracting, Bournemouth are currently not looking to sell the player, who is tied down to a long-term contract until 2030.

    So, unless the club come up with a significant offer, Barcelona’s chances of signing Kroupi in the upcoming transfer window appear to be very slim.

    The teenager is not the only Premier League attacker that Deco & co. are tracking, with names like Joao Pedro of Chelsea and Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon also on the club’s radars.

    Stefon Diggs trial Day 2 (live video): Prosecution rests after accuser’s testimony

    The personal chef who accused former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs of assault and attempted strangulation returned to the witness stand Tuesday before the prosecution rested its case on the second day of trial in Dedham District Court.

    Watch Live: Trial of former Patriots star Stefon Diggs continues

    Jamila Adams, Diggs’ former personal chef, was the first witness called by prosecutors on Monday. She remained under cross-examination by the defense on Tuesday morning, which continued challenging her credibility and version of events.

    The defense called its first witnesses to the stand after Adams was dismissed.

    Diggs is accused of assaulting and attempting to strangle Adams inside his Dedham home in December. He has pleaded not guilty.

    On the first day of testimony, Diggs walked quickly into court without speaking to reporters.

    Under questioning from prosecutors, Adams became emotional as she described the alleged assault, saying Diggs began choking her. She testified that the incident at his Dedham home on Dec. 2, 2025, followed a heated exchange of text messages between the two over payments she said she was owed.

    Defense attorneys have pushed back on Adams’ account, arguing the assault never happened. They pointed out that Adams did not take photos of any alleged bruising or marks and failed to disclose to police that she and Diggs were involved in what they described as an intimate relationship.

    The defense also noted Adams was upset about being excluded from a trip to Miami and suggested that anger may have played a role in her allegations.

    Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs arrives at Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs leaves Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Stefon Diggs' former personal chef, Jamila Adams, is questioned by Assistant District Attorney Drew Virtue in Dedham District Court in Dedham, Mass., Monday May 4, 2026. (Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)Stefon Diggs' former personal chef Jamila Adams is sworn in before giving testimony in Dedham District Court in Dedham, Mass., Monday May 4, 2026. (Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs returns to Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs arrives at Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs arrives at Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs arrives at Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Judge Jeanmarie Carroll questions potential jurors as the assault trial of Stefon Diggs begins in Dedham, Mass., Monday May 4, 2026. (Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool)Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs arrives at Norfolk County District Court, Monday, May 4, 2026, in Dedham, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

    Boston attorney Elyse Hershon, a legal analyst, said the defense aggressively highlighted inconsistencies in Adams’ testimony.

    “We have to look at why she would lie about this, and the defense is bringing out information,” Hershon said. “She deleted text messages before she went to the police and showed an angry exchange between her and Diggs. That doesn’t look good. So something that doesn’t look good is something the defense will use in their closing — to really say you can’t believe her, you can’t trust her, she lied, she just wanted money.”

    The trial is expected to last another one to two days. Adams is scheduled to resume testimony first thing Tuesday morning as cross-examination continues.

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    Captain Victor Hedman shares message about mental health after Lightning playoff exit

    The Tampa Bay Lightning competed for the majority of the 2025-26 NHL season without their veteran captain.

    Defenseman Victor Hedman played in 33 games, the lowest total of his 17-year career. A pair of injuries, including a procedure on his elbow, kept him out early in the season.

    Then, on March 25, the team announced the 35-year-old Hedman was taking a leave of absence for personal reasons. He missed Tampa Bay’s final 15 games of the regular season and the seven-game postseason series against the Montreal Canadiens.

    MORE: Jon Cooper blames ‘hockey gods’ as Canadiens shock Lightning in Game 7

    The Canadiens eliminated the Lightning with a 2-1 victory in Game 7 on Sunday, May 3, in Tampa.

    On Tuesday, Hedman released a statement through the team on X addressing his absence to “focus on my mental health.”

    “I’ve always believed that being a leader means doing what’s best for the team,” the statement read. “In this case, it also meant doing what was necessary to take care of myself, so I can be the best player, teammate, husband and father I expect to be.”

    ‘Much better place today’

    Though he didn’t address the details of his mental health struggle, Hedman shared that he is doing well now.

    “I’ve been fortunate to have strong support from my family, my teammates and the organization, my therapist and I’m in a much better place today,” Hedman said in the statement.

    Lightning head coach Jon Cooper indicated before Game 6 that Tampa Bay may have gotten Hedman back into the lineup if the postseason had lasted longer. Hedman skated with the team during several practices during the playoffs.

    Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) takes the puck away from Toronto Maple Leafs forward Calle Jarnkrok (19). | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

    The 6-foot-7, 244-pound Hedman owns a rare combination of size and skill. The Lightning selected the Swede with the No. 2 pick in the 2008 NHL Draft, and he leads the franchise in games (1,164), goals (172), assists (639) and points (811) by a defenseman.

    Hedman won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the MVP of the 2020 postseason, leading the Lightning to the first of two consecutive Stanley Cups. He earned the Norris Trophy for the NHL’s top defenseman in 2017-18.

    Hedman closed his statement with the hope that his decision helps others address mental health concerns.

    “This is something that exists in our game more than people see,” Hedman wrote. “If this moment helps make it easier for others to take care of themselves when they need to, that matters.”

    Lightning's Victor Hedman says mental health focus led to NHL hiatus

    UPI
    Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (L) said he received "tremendous support" amid his mental health-related hiatus from hockey. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

    May 5 (UPI) -- Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman missed the final 15 games of the regular season and playoffs to focus on mental health, he said Tuesday.

    Hedman issued a statement on the hiatus through the Lightning, who lost to the Montreal Canadiens in seven games in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. He also spoke Tuesday at a news conference in Tampa, Fla.

    "I spent most of my life in this game, and nearly all of my career with this organization," Hedman said in a statement. "Wearing this jersey -- and serving as captain -- is the greatest responsibility of my professional life.

    "That responsibility doesn't only apply on the ice. Over the past couple of months, I made the decision to step away and focus on my mental health. It was not an easy decision, but it was the right one.

    "I've always believed that being a leader means doing what's best for the team," Hedman said. "In this case, it also meant doing what was necessary to take care of myself, so I can be the best player, teammate, husband and father I expect to be."

    Hedman, 35, joined the Lightning as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2009 NHL Draft. The two-time Stanley Cup winner appeared in 1,164 regular season games over the last 17 years for the franchise, including 33 in 2025-26.

    "I've been fortunate to have strong support from my family, my teammates and the organization, my therapist and I'm in a much better place today," the 6-foot-7 defenseman said.

    "This is something that exists in our game more than people see. If this moment helps make it easier for others to take care of themselves when they need to, that matters.

    "I'm proud of this team, and I look forward to what's ahead."

    Hedman totaled a goal and 16 assists this season. He underwent elbow surgery in December and missed six weeks of action. Hedman returned before the 2026 Winter Olympics and played his final game of the campaign on March 19. He practiced with the team during the first-round series with Montreal.

    Hedman said it was "tough timing" and he is excited for next year.

    The veteran defenseman logged 172 scores and 639 assists over his first 1,164 appearances for the Lightning. He is under contract through 2028-29.

    "It's obviously a thing that's been going on for a long time and I [was] trying to work through it and find ways to get around it," Hedman said Tuesday. "I wasn't able to do that. That's where the decision came that I needed to take some time and find myself again."

    Hedman advised others dealing with mental health issues to "reach out for help."

    "Don't sit with your thoughts," Hedman said. "There are a lot of people out there that can help you. That's what I found out. Like I said, it's never too late, either."

    2026 NFL Dynasty Rookie Rankings: De'Zhaun Stribling and KC Concepcion rise up the board

    That’s a wrap for my rookie positional rankings. I’ll have links to all of them below. These are my top-50 rookies for normal dynasty formats. Below that, I’ve included my Superflex + TE Premium rankings. Happy drafting.

    QuarterbackRunning BackWide ReceiverTight End

    ▶ 2026 Dynasty Rookie Top 50

    RankPlayerPositionCollegeDraft PickTeam
    1Jeremiyah LoveRBNotre Dame3Arizona Cardinals
    2Carnell TateWROhio State4Tennessee Titans
    3Jordyn TysonWRArizona State8New Orleans Saints
    4Makai LemonWRUSC20Philadelphia Eagles
    5Jadarian PriceRBNotre Dame32Seattle Seahawks
    6KC ConcepcionWRTexas A&M24Cleveland Browns
    7Omar CooperWRIndiana30New York Jets
    8Denzel BostonWRWashington39Cleveland Browns
    9Kenyon SadiqTEOregon16New York Jets
    10Jonah ColemanRBWashington108Denver Broncos
    11Eli StowersTEVanderbilt54Philadelphia Eages
    12De'Zhaun StriblingWROle Miss33San Francisco 49ers
    13Antonio WilliamsWRClemson71Washington Commanders
    14Kayton AllenWRPenn State187Washington Commanders
    15Nick SingletonRBPenn State165Tennessee Titans
    16Germie BernardWRAlabama47Pittsburgh Steelers
    17Max KlareTEOhio State61Los Angeles Rams
    18Fernando MendozaQBIndiana1Las Vegas Raiders
    19Skyler BellWRUConn125Buffalo Bills
    20Chris BrazzellWRTennessee83Carolina Panthers
    21Chris BellWRLouisville94Miami Dolphins
    22Kaelon BlackRBIndiana90San Francisco 49ers
    23Malachi FieldsWRNotre Dame74New York Giants
    24Elijah SarrattWRIndiana115Baltimore Ravens
    25Zacharia BranchWRGeorgia79Atlanta Falcons
    26Demond ClaiborneWRWake Forest198Minnesota Vikings
    27Eli RaridonTENotre Dame95New England Patriots
    28Emmet JohnsonRBNebraska161Kansas City Chiefs
    29Justin JolyTENC State152Denver Broncos
    30Caleb DouglasWRTexas Tech75Miami Dolphins
    31Ja'Kobi LaneWRUSC80Baltimore Ravens
    32Bryce LanceWRNorth Dakota State136New Orleans Saints
    33Tedd HurstWRGeorgia State84Tampa Bay Buccaneers
    34Mike Washington Jr.RBArkansas122Las Vegas Raiders
    35Adam RandallRBClemson174Baltimore Ravens
    36Ty SimpsonQBAlabama13Los Angeles Rams
    37Brenen ThompsonWRMississippi State105Los Angeles Chargers
    38Eli HeidenreichRBNavy230Pittsburgh Steelers
    39Zavion ThomasWRLSU89Chicago Bears
    40Kevin Coleman Jr.WRMissouri177Miami Dolphins
    41Tanner KoziolTEHouston164Jacksonville Jaguars
    42Oscar DelpTEGeorgia73New Orleans Saints
    43Seth McGowanRBKentucky237Indianapolis Colts
    44Drew AllarQBPenn State76Pittsburgh Steekers
    45J'Mari TaylorRBVirginiaUDFAJacksonville Jaguars
    46Carson BeckQBMiami65Arizona Cardinals
    47Malik BensonWROregon195Las Vegas Raiders
    48Le'Veon MossRBTexas A&MUDFAMiami Dolphins
    49Cole PaytonQBNorth Dakota State178Philadelphia Eagles
    50Marlin KleinTEMichigan59Houston Texans

    ▶ Rookie Superflex and Tight End Premium Top 50

    RankPlayerPositionCollegeDraft PickTeam
    1Jeremiyah LoveRBNotre Dame3Arizona Cardinals
    2Carnell TateWROhio State4Tennessee Titans
    3Jordyn TysonWRArizona State8New Orleans Saints
    4Fernando MendozaQBIndiana1Las Vegas Raiders
    5Makai LemonWRUSC20Philadelphia Eagles
    6Jadarian PriceRBNotre Dame32Seattle Seahawks
    7Kenyon SadiqTEOregon16New York Jets
    8KC ConcepcionWRTexas A&M24Cleveland Browns
    9Omar CooperWRIndiana30New York Jets
    10Eli StowersTEVanderbilt54Philadelphia Eages
    11Denzel BostonWRWashington39Cleveland Browns
    12Ty SimpsonQBAlabama13Los Angeles Rams
    13Max KlareTEOhio State61Los Angeles Rams
    14Jonah ColemanRBWashington108Denver Broncos
    15De'Zhaun StriblingWROle Miss33San Francisco 49ers
    16Antonio WilliamsWRClemson71Washington Commanders
    17Kayton AllenWRPenn State187Washington Commanders
    18Nick SingletonRBPenn State165Tennessee Titans
    19Germie BernardWRAlabama47Pittsburgh Steelers
    20Skyler BellWRUConn125Buffalo Bills
    21Chris BrazzellWRTennessee83Carolina Panthers
    22Chris BellWRLouisville94Miami Dolphins
    23Eli RaridonTENotre Dame95New England Patriots
    24Kaelon BlackRBIndiana90San Francisco 49ers
    25Justin JolyTENC State152Denver Broncos
    26Malachi FieldsWRNotre Dame74New York Giants
    27Elijah SarrattWRIndiana115Baltimore Ravens
    28Carson BeckQBMiami65Arizona Cardinals
    29Zacharia BranchWRGeorgia79Atlanta Falcons
    30Demond ClaiborneWRWake Forest198Minnesota Vikings
    31Drew AllarQBPenn State76Pittsburgh Steekers
    32Emmet JohnsonRBNebraska161Kansas City Chiefs
    33Caleb DouglasWRTexas Tech75Miami Dolphins
    34Ja'Kobi LaneWRUSC80Baltimore Ravens
    35Bryce LanceWRNorth Dakota State136New Orleans Saints
    36Tedd HurstWRGeorgia State84Tampa Bay Buccaneers
    37Cole PaytonQBNorth Dakota State178Philadelphia Eagles
    38Tanner KoziolTEHouston164Jacksonville Jaguars
    39Mike Washington Jr.RBArkansas122Las Vegas Raiders
    40Oscar DelpTEGeorgia73New Orleans Saints
    41Adam RandallRBClemson174Baltimore Ravens
    42Brenen ThompsonWRMississippi State105Los Angeles Chargers
    43Eli HeidenreichRBNavy230Pittsburgh Steelers
    44Marlin KleinTEMichigan59Houston Texans
    45Zavion ThomasWRLSU89Chicago Bears
    46Kevin Coleman Jr.WRMissouri177Miami Dolphins
    47Seth McGowanRBKentucky237Indianapolis Colts
    48J'Mari TaylorRBVirginiaUDFAJacksonville Jaguars
    49Malik BensonWROregon195Las Vegas Raiders
    50Le'Veon MossRBTexas A&MUDFAMiami Dolphins

    Why wasn't Silva penalised?

    Football issues correspondent Dale Johnson byline banner
    [BBC]

    "If that doesn't get given as a penalty, then it's an absolute free-for-all from now on," David Moyes said after the game.

    The Everton manager wanted a spot-kick after Merlin Rohl was pulled to the ground by Bernardo Silva at an 85th-minute corner.

    "I might have to start coaching my defenders how to defend differently completely," Moyes added. "It looks like now you're able to sort of grapple and wrestle on the ground if you want.

    "I'm absolutely amazed."

    It was checked by Paul Howard, the video assistant referee, but he ultimately decided that the foul took place before the ball was in play.

    And you cannot give a free-kick or a penalty if the ball is out.

    The referee can take disciplinary action, but the restart has to remain the same.

    Last season, Southampton's Jack Stephens was sent off via a VAR review for pulling the hair of Chelsea's Marc Cucurella when the ball was out. The game still got under way again with a corner.

    It is often why you see a lot of the pushing and shoving taking place just before a corner taker delivers the ball into the box.

    There is no doubt that most of the holding was before the ball was kicked. But Everton fans argue it was still happening when James Garner kicked the ball, and that VAR should have intervened.

    The VAR stats show why Everton feel so frustrated.

    With three rounds to go, they are the only team in the Premier League yet to have an overturn go in their favour. In fact, no other team has fewer than two.

    At the other end of the scale, Chelsea have had 11 VAR interventions go their way.

    The last time the Toffees gained from a review was in January 2025, for a penalty at Brighton.

    But stats from the Premier League's key match incidents panel indicate Everton have not generally been hard done by.

    Everton have suffered only one error this season, when they should have been awarded a penalty on VAR review at home to Arsenal.

    The Toffees have, however, benefited from four refereeing mistakes.

    There was a missed VAR intervention to award a penalty to Wolves in August.

    A spot-kick should have been given to the Gunners in the reverse game at Emirates Stadium, and to Chelsea in March - but neither reached the threshold for VAR.

    Garner, meanwhile, should have received a second caution against Aston Villa in January.

    Falcons insider estimates terms of new deal for Drake London

    Now that the 2026 NFL Draft is over, the next order of business for the Atlanta Falcons front office will be locking up some of their top assets with long-term deals.

    At the top of the list is star wide receiver Drake London, who's currently scheduled to play out the 2026 season under his fifth-year option, which will cost the team just under $17 million.

    The Falcons can cut into that number and create some cap space by signing London to a new contract, though. According to Over the Cap, Atlanta can save up to $12.5 million by extending him.

    So, how much will a London extension cost the Falcons? According to Josh Kendall at The Athletic, London's deal will likely echo that of New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson, which came in at four years and $130 million. The devil is of course in the details, though - especially guaranteed money.

    "Wilson signed a four-year, $130 million deal last summer. If I were to guess at London’s new deal, I’d guess four years for $135 million, but the real number to watch will be the fully guaranteed money. Wilson’s total of $38.3 million fully guaranteed ranks just 15th among wide receivers in the league, according to Overthecap.com."

    So far London has lived up to expectations since Atlanta picked him in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In 62 career games he's totaled 309 catches, 3,961 yards and 22 touchdowns. He missed five games with a PCL strain last season but has had no major injuries so far. London still managed to post 919 yards and seven touchdowns.

    London is the best receiver the Falcons have had on their roster since Julio Jones' prime, and it's a no-brainer to give him a lucrative long-term deal with the intention of him leading their receiving game for the foreseeable future.

    This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Drake London estimated contract terms

    Alex Bowman making up ground on Chase bubble with 15 races remaining

    Alex Bowman is making up ground with 15 races left in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series regular season. Bowman sits 127 points behind the Chase bubble in the driver's standings with over half of the regular season remaining. Meanwhile, the No. 48 car is only 83 points back in the owner's standings.

    The Hendrick Motorsports driver appeared to be out of the mix and while it is still a long shot, he is making up the needed ground. Bowman is on the pace to accomplish his points goal set before returning from his vertigo symptoms. The No. 48 team has a better chance at making the Chase, but Bowman can't be ruled out yet.

    If Bowman can gain 8.5 points per race on the Chase bubble, he will reach the 16-driver field. It may require at least one win before September, but Bowman's two straight top-3 finishes certainly helps his case. It seemed nearly impossible two weeks ago; however, Bowman is giving himself an opportunity after two strong runs.

    More: Kyle Busch could face NASCAR penalty after wreck at Texas in 2026

    This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: Alex Bowman making up ground on Chase bubble with 15 races remaining

    Kylian Mbappe camp emits statement after report of argument with Real Madrid staff

    Kylian Mbappe camp emits statement after report of argument with Real Madrid staff
    Kylian Mbappe camp emits statement after report of argument with Real Madrid staff

    Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has called reports of tension with a member of the coaching staff ‘exaggerated’, as talk of malcontent with the Frenchman at the Santiago Bernabeu continues to grow. Mbappe was heavily criticised for leaving Spain during his recovery period, as he faces a race against time to be fit for El Clasico on Sunday night.

    Mbappe seemed to be the target of several indirect messages sent by Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa following their 2-0 win over Espanyol, while President Florentino Perez is also frustrated with his behaviour.  It is not the only incident that has resulted in disappointment with Mbappe, The Athletic report.

    Mbappe involved in tense incident with staff member

    Their information is that Mbappe was involved in a ‘flare-up’ with a member of the coaching staff before Los Blancos’ 1-1 draw with Real Betis two weeks ago. It follows on from reports that Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro Carreras had an altercation of their own. During a training game, Mbappe reportedly spoke angrily to the staff member, and used insulting language after being called offside.

    Mbappe camp responds to reports

    The same outlet includes comment from Mbappe’s representatives on the poor atmosphere at the Real Madrid training ground, and Mbappe’s loss of temper. They said there had been some exaggeration over the reaction to Mbappe’s handling of his recovery from a hamstring injury.

    “A portion of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, and does not reflect the reality of Kylian’s commitment and daily work for the team.”

    The fact that Mbappe’s representatives did not feel the need to deny the moment of tension with a staff member, or the poor atmosphere at Valdebebas, will certainly raise eyebrows in the Spanish capital. Mbappe is increasingly under pressure to become the leader of this Real Madrid side, and so far, those on the ground are yet to see satisfactory evidence that it is happening.

    Lakers announce Luka Doncic’s injury status for Game 1 vs. Thunder

    Luka Doncic IMAGN 04032026

    Lakers announce Luka Doncic’s injury status for Game 1 vs. Thunder originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

    LeBron James practically carried the Los Angeles Lakers into the second round of the NBA Playoffs.

    Coach JJ Redick did see massive performances from Luke Kennard, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton, but the Oklahoma City Thunder are going to be a bigger challenge. This is why many want to see Shai Gilgeous-Alexander face Luka Doncic in this series.

    However, it looks like an injury will prevent that from happening.

    MORE: LeBron James has never faced longer odds in his career than against the Thunder

    Lakers reveal Doncic's Game 1 injury status vs. Thunder

    Luka Doncic will not play in Game 1 against the Thunder.

    The Lakers listed their star guard as out in the most recent status report. This means that either Jarred Vanderbilt, LeBron James, Marcus Smart or Austin Reaves will be assigned a match-up against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

    Doncic is dealing with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. Poetically, the last game he played with the Lakers was against the Thunder back on April 2. The Lakers sent him to Europe to treat the injury, and he has since returned to the U.S. and saw LeBron James lead his team to a 4-2 series win against the Houston Rockets.

    Before Game 1 against the Thunder, Brian Windhorst said that Lakers fans should not be expecting Doncic anytime soon.

    "He is not close," Windhorst said. "There is a whole ramp up that is required when you are coming back from a hamstring, and he has not started that contact ramp up yet.

    "I don't know where they'll be in 10 days, but do not expect to see Luka the first few games of this series."

    Redick will have to rely on the same squad to either extend this NBA Playoffs series against the Thunder for Doncic's return or just get the whole thing done without any expectations of their star coming back.

    More Lakers news:

    Are Arsenal About to Save Spurs from Relegation?

    Are Arsenal About to Save Spurs from Relegation?
    Are Arsenal About to Save Spurs from Relegation?

    Time to help our next door neighbours?

    Sometimes your next door neighbour might ask for a favour. Can they borrow some sugar?

    Do they need anything from the shop?

    Will you be in to sign for a delivery?

    On Sunday, Arsenal’s neighbours will be asking for a massive favour.

    Sometimes you cannot control how fate falls, yet it is ironic that the club destiny has asked to help save Spurs from relegation is the one who would love to see it happen the most.

    A twist of fate in the title race

    A couple of months ago, the league leaders were in a position where it was possible to have the title won by this weekend. I am not saying the Gunners would have gone to the London Stadium going through the motions, but there would have been Gooners who would not have minded if that was the case.

    Some would argue Tottenham fans would deserve that after how some acted two seasons ago when we needed them to get a result against Man City. Their own manager questioned the mentality of a fanbase cheering for their own side to lose, even when they still had a chance of qualifying for the Champions League. In terms of their domestic form, that would prove to be the turning point for Big Ange.

    If we win at West Ham, our North London rivals kick off the next day with a chance to go four points clear of safety.

    There would only then be six points left for both Spurs and the Hammers to play for. Considering their goal difference, that would be a long way back for the Irons.

    (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

    Karma knocking at the door

    Spurs will not be grateful for our help. They will be the first to laugh if we surrender our lead at the top of the table.

    Yet there is something amusing about them being embarrassed to knock on the door and admit they need us. To see them humble themselves and rely on us to bail them out.

    It is not quite as fun as watching them play in the Championship.

    Yet the idea of them cheering goals this weekend that could send us closer to being champions, that comforts me.

    That is karma.

    Dan Smith _____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENT

    So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

    You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

    CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…

    More Stories / Latest News

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    From Emery to Arteta, Could Chelsea Follow Arsenal’s Rebuild Path?

    5 May 2026, 14:30

    Arsenal v Atletico Madrid: Predicted Line up and Score Prediction

    5 May 2026, 13:30

    Best World Cup betting sites 2026

     (The Independent)

    The 2026 Fifa World Cup will be the biggest World Cup ever in terms of size and scale, with this year’s edition set to be the single most bet-on football event in the world.

    The tournament will be hosted across the USA, Canada and Mexico from June 2026, and is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and 104 matches.

    Football bookmakers are preparing themselves for one of the biggest betting events of all time, so we’ve put together a list of the best World Cup betting sites on the UK market.

    These sites will offer a range of pre-match and in-play markets, live streaming availability and ongoing promotions running before and throughout the six-week tournament.

    Bookies will also prepare a raft of welcome offers, with updated UKGC guidelines now imposing a ban on mixed sportsbook and casino bonuses.

    Read on to find our recommendations for the best sites for World Cup betting.

    The best World Cup betting sites and offers for 2026

    We consider a range of criteria when evaluating the best World Cup betting sites on the market.

    Factors we look at include market depth for tournament betting, quality of World Cup-specific promotions, the competitiveness of the betting sign up offers and the overall mobile experience.

    The table below provides a brief look at our recommendations for the best World Cup betting sites on the market:

    Bookmaker

    Welcome offer

    Key features

    Bet365

    Bet £10 Get £30 in bet credits

    Live streaming of World Cup warm-up matches; largest range of in-play markets

    Betfred

    Bet £10 Get £50 in free bets

    Highest value standard welcome offer; will have ongoing World Cup football promotions

    Sky Bet

    Bet £0.05 Get £30 in free bets (3x£10)

    Lowest qualifying bet on the market; BuildABet for World Cup match betting

    talkSPORT BET

    Bet up to £40 Get up to £40 (min £20, football bets via app)

    talkSPORT media brand integration; football-focused World Cup promotions

    Coral

    Bet £5 Get £30 in free bets

    Low qualifying bet; free football prediction game with cash prizes

    Ladbrokes

    Bet £5 Get £30 in free bets (6x£5)

    Low qualifying bet; free bets split as 6x£5 for flexibility

    Bet365 - best for in-play and live betting

    Bet365 is our pick as the best option for in-play and live betting thanks to an unmatched range of in-play markets and live streaming of international football, including many World Cup warm-up matches and friendlies.

    The brand offers great World Cup odds on a huge breadth of pre-match football markets including outright winner, top goalscorer, group winners, team to qualify, match result, both teams to score and player-specific markets.

    As for other live betting features, the cash out option is particularly valuable during knockout rounds, allowing customers to lock in profit or cut losses before a match ends.

    In terms of the Bet365 welcome offer, the promo is around the industry standard for value, offering £30 in free bet credits when users deposit and wager £10.

    Betfred - best World Cup welcome offer value

    Betfred is one of the most established bookmakers on the UK market, with a long history of World Cup coverage and customer service during major sporting events.

    Betfred's Bet £10 Get £50 welcome offer is the highest value standard welcome offer among the bookmakers featured here, making it an obvious starting point for new customers signing up ahead of the tournament.

    In addition to the welcome offer, Betfred run various ongoing football promotions, which extend well beyond the sign-up offer and run throughout major international tournaments, making it a great choice for World Cup betting.

    The bookie also provides a wide range of World Cup markets, including group stage betting, team to qualify, golden boot, and match betting across all fixtures.

    Sky Bet - best for World Cup bet builders

    The first thing that makes Sky Bet catch the eye is their market-leading qualifying bet requirement, allowing users to bet as little as £0.05 to trigger the ‘Bet £0.05 Get £30 welcome offer’.

    This is the most accessible threshold of any offer featured here, with users receiving 3x£10 free bets that can be used on World Cup betting across multiple group stage fixtures.

    While the potential value on the offer stands out, Sky Bet is our World Cup betting site pick for bet builders thanks to the BuildABet feature, which allows customers to combine multiple selections within a single World Cup match (e.g. first goalscorer, number of cards, match result) into one bet with a combined return.

    In addition to good availability on bet builders, it is likely that Sky Bet will offer World Cup price boosts on major matches throughout the tournament, making it a solid overall choice for anyone looking to bet on the World Cup.

    talkSPORT BET - best for World Cup coverage

    TalkSPORT BET has a unique position as the betting brand of the talkSPORT radio network. As the UK's biggest commercial sports radio station, they will carry extensive World Cup 2026 coverage throughout the tournament.

    As an extension of the talkSPORT network, the World Cup betting site is a good choice for football fans already engaged with talkSPORT's media content around the sport.

    The brand’s welcome offer allows new users to bet up to £40 and get up to £40 in free bets, with a minimum £20 stake and football bets placed only via the app.

    While talkSPORT BET will provide a solid range of markets and competitive World Cup betting odds, the bookie also stands out for a range of football-focused ongoing promotions tied to talkSPORT's live World Cup commentary and coverage.

    Coral - best for World Cup prediction games

    Coral's low £5 qualifying bet makes the Bet £5 Get £30 welcome offer one of the most accessible for new customers during the tournament.

    Once signed up, users will find that Coral is a great bookie for free-to-play football prediction games with cash prizes and free bets up for grabs.

    Their long-running Football Super Series prediction game will likley be rebranded and repackaged for the World Cup, with rewards given for accurate predictions.

    Coral will also have wide market coverage across all 104 World Cup fixtures, with competitive World Cup odds across the group and knockout stages.

    And for fans of in-person betting, Coral Connect links the customer's online account to in-shop betting, which is useful for anyone who wants to follow World Cup matches in any of their high-street betting shops.

    Ladbrokes - best for World Cup free bet flexibility

    Ladbrokes is one of the UK's most established and recognisable bookmakers, with a reliable mobile app well-suited to live match betting.

    The brand’s welcome offer offers great value as a ‘Bet £5 Get £30’ promo, and the rewards are structured as 6x £5 free bets.

    This is the most granular split of any offer featured here, giving new customers maximum flexibility to spread bets across multiple World Cup group stage fixtures rather than committing to fewer, larger stakes.

    In addition, Ladbrokes offer excellent international football coverage – with extensive pre-match and in-play markets across all 104 World Cup matches – as well as a great range of ongoing football promotions running throughout the tournament.

    How to claim a World Cup free bet

    Below, we’ve provided a step-by-step guide on how to sign up for your typical World Cup betting site:

    • Step 1: Choose a bookmaker from our recommended list and click through to their website.
    • Step 2: Complete the online registration form, including name, date of birth, address, email address and payment details.
    • Step 3: Opt in to the welcome offer if prompted during registration, or find it in the promotions section of your account once registered.
    • Step 4: Make a qualifying deposit at the minimum required amount. This varies by bookmaker, so check the T&Cs for your chosen site.
    • Step 5: Place a qualifying bet on World Cup markets at the minimum required odds (typically evens (1/1) or greater, though requirements vary).
    • Step 6: Once your qualifying bet has settled, free bets or bet credits will be credited to your account, usually within 24 hours.
    • Step 7: Use your free bets on World Cup match betting, outright markets, or specials of your choice before the expiry date.

    How we rank and review World Cup betting sites

    Here are some of the key elements we look for when updating our rankings and reviews of the best World Cup betting sites:

    Regulation

    All the best World Cup betting sites on our list are regulated and licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).

    Responsible gambling

    Safe betting operators which follow responsible gambling practices and offer several responsible gambling tools.

    Customer experience

    We look into the customer experience across various platforms, judging football bookies for their layout, usability, loading speed and customer service.

    Payment options

    Football punters require a diverse range of payment options beyond debit cards and those bookies that feature on the list of Apple Pay bookmakers among others, are given preference.

    Promotions

    A valuable sign up offer is one thing but we want to see operators that take care of existing customers with free bets, price boosts, money back promotions and free to play games.

    Responsible gambling

    When having a bet on World Cup markets, it’s vital to practice responsible gambling.

    Gambling can be addictive and it’s important to stay in control of your football World Cup betting.

    Never treat betting as a way to make money, never wager more than you can afford and when the fun stops, stop.

    Gambling sites offer punters tools, like deposit limits, profit and loss trackers and self-exclusion options, to help them stay in control.

    But if you ever feel like you need help or advice on gambling addiction, don’t hesitate to contact one of the charities or organisations below.

    FAQs on World Cup betting sites

    What are the best World Cup betting odds for 2026?

    All bookmakers listed in this piece carry competitive markets across all 104 fixtures. World Cup odds vary by bookmaker and will fluctuate throughout the tournament in response to team news, group draw results, and match outcomes. Outright winner markets are the most popular starting point for bettors, but punters should use odds comparison tools to find the best value on World Cup betting odds.

    Can I bet on World Cup 2026 warm-up friendlies?

    Most UK-licensed bookmakers offer betting on World Cup warm-up matches. Market depth is strongest for games involving major nations, and coverage of smaller nations will vary by bookmaker. All bookmakers listed here carry international friendly markets, though again the markets on games between smaller nations may be more limited.

    What World Cup betting specials are available?

    World Cup specials typically include top goalscorer (or golden boot winner), number of goals in the tournament, first nation eliminated, team to win each group and player-of-the-tournament markets. The range of specials expands significantly as the tournament progresses into knockout rounds.

    Do World Cup free bets have wagering requirements?

    Free bets from UK-licensed bookmakers do not typically require the original stake to be wagered. Only winnings from World Cup free bets are withdrawable. Under UKGC rules updated in January 2026, any wagering requirements on bonuses are capped at 10x maximum. Remember to always check individual T&Cs before claiming offers.

    Is World Cup betting legal in the UK?

    World Cup betting is fully legal in the UK for adults aged 18 and over using operators licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. All bookmakers recommended in this article are UKGC-licensed. When betting on any event, remember to gamble responsibly and visit BeGambleAware.org if you need additional information or support.

    What are the top World Cup betting markets?

    This is subjective, but generally the most popular betting markets on the World Cup are top scorer, outright winner and accumulators picking the group winners.

    What are the odds for England to win the World Cup 2026?

    England's World Cup winner odds are currently 13/2 second favourites behind Spain (5/1). Check the current ante-post prices directly with any of the bookmakers listed on this page, as they change regularly. All of the operators recommended here offer World Cup outright markets.

    We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

    Latest UFC Baku fight card, Paramount+ start time, date and location | Fiziev vs. Torres

    Event: UFC Baku: “Fiziev vs. Torres”
    Date: Sat., June 27, 2026
    Location: Baku Crystal Hall in Baku, Azerbaijan
    Start times: Paramount+ Prelims at 12 p.m. ET | Paramount+ Main Card at 3 p.m. ET

    UFC Baku Main Event on Paramount+:

    155 lbs.: Rafael Fiziev vs. Manuel Torres

    UFC Baku Main Card on Paramount+ (3 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Shara Magomedov vs. Michel Pereira
    185 lbs.: Marvin Vettori vs. Ismail Naurdiev
    185 lbs.: Brunno Ferreira vs. Ikram Aliskerov
    125 lbs.: Asu Almabayev vs. Charles Johnson
    185 lbs.: Michal Oleksiejczuk vs. Abusupiyan Magomedov

    UFC Baku Preliminary Card on Paramount+ (12 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Rizvan Kuniev vs. Tyrell Fortune
    185 lbs.: Nursulton Ruziboev vs. Andrey Pulyaev
    205 lbs.: Julius Walker vs. Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev
    135 lbs.: Bekzat Almakhan vs. Jean Matsumoto
    170 lbs.: Daniil Donchenko vs. Andreas Gustafsson
    155 lbs.: Nazim Sadykhov vs. Matheus Camilo

    *Fight card, bout order and number of fights subject to change.*

    For the current UFC schedule of events click HERE.

    Giants vs Padres Prediction: Odds, recent stats, trends, and best bets for May 5

    The Giants won the series opener, 3-2, versus the Padres on Monday. The three-game set continues with Logan Webb and Walker Buehler on the mound Tuesday night.

    San Francisco's six game losing streak was snapped with the 3-2 win yesterday. The Giants have been outscored 29-12 over that seven game stretch. In the last week (six games), the Giants have a 3.10 ERA (8th) and a 1.17 WHIP (7th).

    San Diego is now 1-5 over the last six games and have been outscored 31-14 in that six-game stretch. In the past week, the Padres are hitting an MLB-worst .176 with 27 hits.

    Let’s dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

    We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

    Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

    Game details & how to watch Padres at Giants

    • Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
    • Time: 9:45 PM EST
    • Site: Oracle Park 
    • City: San Francisco, CA
    • Network/Streaming: MLB TV

    Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

    Odds for the Padres at the Giants

    The latest odds as of Tuesday:

    • Moneyline: San Diego Padres (+109), San Francisco Giants (-131)
    • Spread: Giants +1.5 (+159), Padres +1.5 (-194)
    • Total: 7.5

    Probable starting pitchers for Padres at Giants

    • Tuesday's pitching matchup (May 5): Walker Buehler vs. Logan Webb
    • Padres: Walker Buehler 

    2026 stats: 25.0 IP, 1-2, 5.40 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 24 Ks, 12 BB

    • Giants: Logan Webb

    2026 Stats: 44.0 IP, 2-2, 4.30 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, 38 Ks, 15 BB

    Who’s Hot? Who’s Not!

    • The Giants’ Luis Arraez is hitting .316 with 42 hits and 53 total bases over 133 at-bats
    • The Giants’ Patrick Bailey is hitting .152 with 12 hits and 20 strikeouts over 79 at-bats
    • The Padres’ Xander Bogaerts is hitting .262 with 32 hits and 49 total bases over 122 at-bats
    • The Padres’ Jake Croneworth is hitting .144 with 14 hits and 23 strikeouts over 97 at-bats

    Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

    Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Padres at Giants

    • The Giants are 15-20 ATS this season
    • The Padres are 19-15 ATS this season
    • The Giants are 14-18-3 to the Over this season
    • The Padres are 15-18-1 to the Over this season

    If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

    Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Padres and the Giants

    Rotoworld Bet Best Bet

    Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

    Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

    Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

    Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Tuesday's game two between the Giants and the Padres:

    • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Giants on the Moneyline.
    • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Giants at +1.5.
    • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Over on the Game Total of 8.0

    Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

    • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
    • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
    • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
    • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)

    Demond Claiborne rookie fantasy outlook and impact on RB teammates

    The Vikings selected Demond Claiborne in the sixth round of the NFL draft. What is his realistic 2026 fantasy outlook, and how might his presence impact Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason, and Zavier Scott?

    An ideal landing spot for a late-round pick? Quite possibly. On paper, this backfield looks pretty packed. But in reality, a lot could go wrong in a hurry, which could propel the rookie to fantasy legitimacy.

    Jones will turn 32 in December, will be a free agent after this season, and is fully post-prime. While Minnesota will still lean on him when possible, his durability is now a major question mark. Jones’s over/under on games played is probably around 12 or 13. Fantasy managers should be prepared to snag at least one of his backups.

    Mason, of course, is the most obvious backup. At this stage of his and Jones’s careers, Mason almost certainly will be the better bargain, and his over/under on games played is closer to 15. He can manage a fairly full workload when healthy, though his modest usage in the passing game limits his ceiling.

    Scott is a prototypical #3 or #4 RB, or at least his usage makes him seem that way. A former college wideout, Scott’s realistic ceiling is capped at around the top 55-60, and that assumes he gets 35+ targets.

    Claiborne, Minnesota, has a college bell cow with long-term NFL appeal if he can add a little more to his frame (his listed weight is between 188 and 195 pounds). If he can leapfrog Scott on the depth chart, he should be in line for at least a few games as Mason’s handcuff (assuming Jones misses time), and that would make him a decent deep-league add after fantasy drafts.

    This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Demond Claiborne rookie fantasy outlook and impact on RB teammates

    PGA Tour winter schedule for 2027 looks like this year. The mystery is Florida

    The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is the latest PGA Tour event to announce its dates for a 2027 season that is looking to be similar to this year, minus Hawaii.

    The American Express in La Quinta, California, is set for the third full week in January again. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (Feb. 4-7) and WM Phoenix Open (Feb. 11-14, the week of the Super Bowl) already have announced dates on their websites.

    The Masters, around which the early season revolves, is April 8-11, and again will be followed by the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town and the Zurich Classic.

    The mystery remains Florida, except for The Players Championship set for March 11-14. Adding to the intrigue was the return of Doral to the schedule, which looked nothing like the Doral of old except for all the water on the course and airliners descending on nearby Miami International Airport.

    Five of the top 15 players in the world were missing from the Cadillac Championship, as were the fans that used to pack the Blue Monster even when Tiger Woods wasn't winning. The PGA Tour was last at Doral in 2016. LIV Golf was there the last four years and had better crowds.

    It didn't help the Cadillac Championship that Formula 1 was in Miami last weekend and attracted some 275,000 spectators over three days. The weather was dodgy on Sunday, and Cameron Young eliminated any suspense with his six-shot win.

    It's looking more likely that big changes to the PGA Tour won't be ready until 2028. Still to be determined is how soon the PGA Tour will act to move the Cadillac Championship back to the Florida swing that leads to the Masters.

    Florida currently has four tournaments — the Cognizant Classic at PGA National, the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, The Players and the Valspar Championship, which gets a good field despite a bad date because Innisbrook is such a proper test.

    Is there room for Doral? That's more moving parts for the PGA Tour to figure out.

    CEO Brian Rolapp didn't have answers last August when he announced a schedule of two majors and three signature events in a six-week span. He said of Doral, “I think we’re looking forward to bringing that back as a PGA Tour tradition.”

    It clearly doesn't have much tradition the first weekend in May.

    Nelly Korda and Coca-Cola

    Fresh off back-to-back wins and a return to No. 1 in the world, Nelly Korda raised her profile even more with a playful appearance Monday on “The Pat McAfee Show.” That's when she revealed how Coca-Cola helped her develop that sweet golf swing.

    McAfee asked how often she made changes, and Korda gave credit to longtime coach David Whelan for building her swing. She also said her father, Grand Slam tennis champion Petr Korda, played an important role.

    “My parents spent so many hours with me, just working on tempo. That is the one thing they ingrained in my brain,” Korda said. “And my dad always referred to Coca-Cola.”

    She moved her arms back for “Coca” and forward for “Cola.”

    “It was super simple, but it was the key to have a very fluid swing,” Korda said.

    She also allowed one more secret on the turnaround this year when she said, “I have higher shoes.”

    “I’m trying to actually get closer to the ground with my chest,” Korda said. “I actually get a little bit steeper in my swing and I can hinge a little faster. So it’s just literally the smallest of things. But yeah, golfers are crazy. I’m crazy, just to let you know.”

    Rose and Poulter going with McLaren irons

    Justin Rose made a big switch and then set himself up for an easy punch line. He became the first global ambassador for McLaren Golf, the company best known for its Formula 1 race cars. He used McLaren irons at the Cadillac Championship and then got off to quite the slow start.

    He was 21 shots behind after three rounds, closed with a 68 and beat two players in the 72-man field. One tournament is no measure, of course. But it's a bold move for Rose and McLaren, which has promised to “push the boundaries of equipment design and manufacturing.”

    Rose says the clubs were performing well on the range, though he expects a refinement period.

    He has been down this road before. Rose was No. 1 in the world when he left for Honma, winning within weeks at Torrey Pines but then falling out of the top 10 just over a year later. He left Honma 16 months into the deal.

    Rose isn't the only player switching to McLaren. Ian Poulter, himself a lover of fast cars, had the McLaren irons in his bag at LIV Golf Virginia.

    US Open spot up for grabs at LIV Golf

    LIV Golf’s first tournament on U.S. soil this week also comes with a spot available in the U.S. Open.

    Joaquin Niemann already secured one spot from LIV by finishing among the top three in last year’s points race. Another spot is available for the leading player from the top three in points on May 18, and LIV Golf Virginia is the last event before that cutoff.

    Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau are set as U.S. Open champions in the last 10 years. The final spot is a close race with Thomas Detry holding down third place by 0.86 points over Elvis Smylie. Lurking and very much in range is Anthony Kim at No. 5, who is just over 14 points behind. Finishing 10th is worth 21 points, as an example.

    The British Open offers one spot to the leading player not already in the field from the standings through LIV Golf Andalucia on June 7. The cutoff originally was Louisiana at the end of June, but that event has been postponed for now.

    Koepka and Srixon end relationship

    Brooks Koepka is back to being a free agent in the equipment market.

    Koepka didn't have an equipment deal when Nike got out of the business of clubs and golf balls until he signed with Dunlop-owned Srixon in late 2021. He joined LIV Golf the next year, but then won the PGA Championship in 2023 at Oak Hill.

    Dunlop Sports announced last week they had mutually agreed to end their contract.

    “Over the course of their relationship, Brooks served as an exceptional ambassador for the Srixon and Cleveland Golf brands,” said a statement on the company’s website. “His commitment to competing at the highest level of the game, including a major championship victory with Srixon and Cleveland Golf equipment in play, exemplifies the performance standard both brands stand for."

    The first sign of the deal ending came in late February when Koepka began using the Titleist Pro V1x golf ball. Koepka is playing the Myrtle Beach Classic this week.

    Women’s TGL gets 6 more players and a logo

    Three-time major champion Minjee Lee is among six women who have joined the indoor WTGL that starts later this year. The tech-infused league playing in SoFi Center also revealed Tuesday a logo — a red “

    The logo was unveiled Monday for WTGL players in the field for the Mizuho Americas Open in New Jersey. The other players to join are Celine Boutier, Andrea Lee, Megan Khang, Danielle Kang and Albane Valenzuela.

    WTGL now has 14 commitments from players, which includes five of the top 10 in the world, along with Michelle Wie West. Still not included for the inaugural season is top-ranked Nelly Korda.

    Stat of the week

    Scottie Scheffler has earned $6.75 million in his last three tournaments without winning. He was runner-up in the Masters, the RBC Heritage and the Cadillac Championship.

    Final word

    “Yes, I am living my best life, for sure. But golf also humbles you, so I know that I need to enjoy these moments.” — Nelly Korda after winning her second straight tournament at the Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba.

    ___

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

    Stockdale and McCloskey doubts for European final

    Ireland internationals Jacob Stockdale and Stuart McCloskey have emerged as injury doubts for Ulster's European Challenge Cup final against Montpellier later this month.

    Outside back Stockdale must visit a maxillo-facial surgeon for a facial fracture sustained in a collision with Immanuel Fey-Waboso in Ulster's semi-final win over Exeter Chiefs last weekend.

    In-form centre McCloskey will have an MRI scan to determine the extent of the hamstring problem he picked up in the Chiefs game.

    Back row David McCann also requires an MRI scan after sustaining a knee injury in the 29-12 win over the Prem side.

    Ulster face Montpellier in Bilbao on 22 May as the Irish province chase their first piece of silverware in 20 years.

    In more positive news, Ulster boss Richie Murphy's front-row options have been boosted with props Angus Bell and Scott Wilson and hooker Rob Herring returning to training this week before Friday's United Rugby Championship game against the table-topping Stormers at Affidea Stadium (19:45 BST).

    Ulster sit eighth in the URC table following back-to-back defeats by inter-provincial rivals Leinster and Munster.

    Murphy's side will secure Champions Cup rugby for next season with a top-eight URC finish or by winning the Challenge Cup.

    Aryna Sabalenka warns Grand Slam boycotts could be next step in pay dispute

    Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images
    Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images

    Many players believe the prize money at Grand Slams isn’t enough, and there’s even talk of a possible boycott in response.

    Sam Querrey, who once reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, says players would be better off boycotting Grand Slams instead of just complaining about how much they get paid.

    But where does Aryna Sabalenka, the current world number one, stand on all this?

    Aryna Sabalenka says Grand Slam boycotts are likely

    Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images
    Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images

    Sabalenka was asked about the ongoing dispute over Grand Slam prize money during her press conference at the Italian Open.

    “I feel like the show is on us. I feel like without us, there wouldn’t be a tournament, and there wouldn’t be that entertainment. I feel like definitely we deserve to be paid more percentage.”

    When pressed on whether she thinks players might eventually boycott Grand Slams, Sabalenka didn’t hesitate.

    “I think at some point we will boycott it, yeah,” she replied.

    “I feel like that’s going to be the only way to kind of fight for our rights.”

    The issue isn’t just about prize money but also about how much of the total revenue players are getting.

    The top players from both men’s and women’s tennis responded by releasing a joint statement after learning that French Open prize money would rise by only 9.5% from 2025 to 2026.

    What exactly did players say about the Grand Slam prize money?

    “Roland Garros generated €395m in revenue in 2025, a 14% year-on-year increase, yet prize money rose by only 5.4%, reducing players’ share of revenue to 14.3%,” they said.

    “With estimated revenues of more than €400m for this year’s tournament, prize money as a percentage of revenue will likely still be less than 15%, far short of the 22% that players have requested to bring the grand slams into line with the ATP and WTA tours.

    “As Roland Garros looks to post record revenues, players are therefore receiving a declining share of the value they help create.

    “More critically, the announcement does nothing to address the structural issues that players have consistently and reasonably raised over the past year.

    “There has been no engagement on player welfare and no progress towards establishing a formal mechanism for player consultation within Grand-Slam decision making.

    “The Grand Slams remain resistant to change.

    “The absence of player consultation and the continued lack of investment in player welfare reflect a system that does not adequately represent the interests of those who are central to the sport’s success.”

    If boycotts happen, would it even impact Grand Slams?

    If Aryna Sabalenka was joined by Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff or others when threatening to skip Roland Garros, then tournament organisers may be forced into action.

    The negative publicity is also something it can’t afford either. But there must be widespread support across both tours from top stars if this was ever considered an option.

    Read more:

    UCLA’s Bob Chesney Compared to Former USC Coach Pete Carroll

    UCLA is entering a new era under head coach Bob Chesney this season.

    Chesney is in his first season as UCLA’s head coach after leading James Madison to its first ever College Football Playoff appearance last season. The Bruins’ concluded their spring practices with their annual Spring Game at the Rose Bowl on Saturday, and Chesney is earning praise for what he has done with UCLA so far.

    Former USC wide receiver Travon Patterson attended two of UCLA’s spring practices and said Chesney reminds him of former USC head coach Pete Carroll.

    Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll observes warm ups before the start of a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium.
    Jan 4, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll observes warm ups before the start of a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

    “I talked to Travon Patterson yesterday on my drive home from a tournament I was at in San Diego,” Biggins said. “He played at USC under Pete Carroll. He’s been to two UCLA practices and he said ‘Dude, this guy reminds me of Pete Carroll. The way that UCLA practices are set up with the energy, and the vibe, and the radio, the music pumping.’ He goes ‘It’s like our old USC practices.’”

    "Bob Chesney reminds me so much of Pete Carroll"@GregBiggins explains why UCLA has surged into the Top-10 in the Rivals Recruiting Rankings 📈

    MORE: https://t.co/nQJ1Zxm5PMpic.twitter.com/mH5D8JRcdv

    — Josh Newberg (@josh_newberg) May 4, 2026

    Carroll led the Trojans to a 97-19 overall record, two national championships and seven consecutive Pac-10 championships from 2001-09. He held a 34-game winning streak between 2003-05 and is considered one of the best coaches in USC history.

    Carroll ultimately left USC to become the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks in 2010. With the Seahawks, he won five NFC West titles, made two Super Bowl appearances and won Super Bowl XLVIII.

    After one season as the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025, the franchise fired Carroll in January. Although his stint with the Raiders did not last long, his success with USC and the Seahawks is undeniable.

    Chesney’s Young Staff is Helping With Recruiting Process

    Chesney brought multiple former James Madison staff members with him to Westwood, like offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy and defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler.

    Chesney and his young coaching staff have helped UCLA dominate in the recruiting process this offseason. The Bruins boast the No. 4 Class of 2027 in the nation and the No. 2 class in the Big Ten.

    “I think Chesney also hired a really good, young staff that gets after it from a recruiting standpoint,” Biggins said. “They have to be doing a good job with NIL.”

    Since taking on the role as head coach in December, Chesney has shown he has what it takes to lead UCLA towards a national championship.

    Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

    The post UCLA’s Bob Chesney Compared to Former USC Coach Pete Carroll appeared first on LA Sports Report.

    New Packers DC Jonathan Gannon says he will adjust his scheme to suit players' strengths

    GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — New Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon says he doesn’t consider himself a “huge rah-rah guy,” but there’s one point the former Arizona Cardinals coach is trying to make sure he gets across.

    This is his message: You are under no obligation to be the person you were five minutes ago.

    “I said it for the players, but it’s for us, too,” Gannon said Monday during his first media session since taking this job three months ago. “And what that’s basically saying is grow and adapt and get better. And if we all have that mindset and can continually stick to the process, we’ll get better.”

    That adaptability is apparent from Gannon’s schematic approach.

    The Packers had run a 4-3 defense during Jeff Hafley’s two years as coordinator before the Miami Dolphins hired him as their coach. Green Bay previously had utilized a 3-4 alignment under Joe Barry, the Packers’ defensive coordinator from 2021-23.

    Gannon says he wants to adjust his scheme to reflect the strengths of his personnel.

    “I don’t really get caught up in 4-3, 3-4,” Gannon said. “We’re an NFL-style defense hopefully, right? I just believe that you’ve got to be, you’ve got to continually every year try to adapt and solve problems and really with your guys in mind.”

    Gannon has some specific principles he likes to utilize, but he said he’s not going to force a defense to do something that doesn’t suit its players’ talents.

    “We’ve got to put them in the best positions possible, that they feel comfortable that they can go out and play the game,” Gannon said. “Before scheme, I truly believe it’s not what you play, it’s how you play.”

    Gannon comes to Green Bay after an unsuccessful head coaching stint. He went 15-36 at Arizona before getting fired late in his third season.

    Before going to Arizona, Gannon had a productive two seasons as the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive coordinator. The Eagles reached the Super Bowl, ranked second in the league in total defense and had a franchise-record 70 sacks — 15 more than any other NFL team — in Gannon’s final season with them.

    Gannon described the interview process with Packers coach Matt LaFleur and how it made him eager to join his Green Bay staff.

    “I think Matt’s a savant, so he can go from topic to topic to topic, and you’ve got to be pretty wired up or you’ll fall behind pretty quick,” Gannon said. “It was intense. I was sweating. I was in a coat and tie, and I think I was sweating a little bit. It was fun. It was fun. I got home off the plane and I told my wife, Gina, I said, ‘This is where I want to go.’"

    Gannon takes over a defense that ranked 12th in yards allowed per game (311.8), ninth in yards allowed per play (5.0) and 11th in points allowed per game (21.2) last season. That defense wasn’t the same after All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons tore his anterior cruciate ligament, an injury that occurred during the first of Green Bay’s five straight losses to end the season.

    Parsons has said he hopes to be back for the start of the 2026 season, but has indicated a Week 3 or Week 4 return is more likely. Gannon believes Green Bay’s defense has plenty of other productive players to go along with Parsons.

    “It’s a good mix of some younger players, (and) we’ve got some vets that are some really good players — that sweet spot,” Gannon said. “(Safety Xavier) McKinney, you think he’s been playing forever because he’s such a high performing vet, but he’s still pretty young. And then you got some guys that are younger and in their first contract that have played really good football.”

    Green Bay’s defense has some new faces who are familiar with Gannon. Linebacker Zaire Franklin began his NFL career in Indianapolis when Gannon was coaching the Colts’ defensive backs. Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave had a career-high 11 sacks as part of Gannon’s Philadelphia defense in 2022.

    Gannon knows the type of defense he wants to see. He believes the Packers have the pieces in place to play that style, no matter how they line up.

    “I think that’s what a good defense looks like — a fast, violent, physical team that takes the ball away,” Gannon said.

    ___

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

    Eddie Hearn claims Conor Benn turned down three title fights before joining Zuffa

    Eddie Hearn has claimed that Conor Benn turned down three world-title fights against different opponents before leaving Matchroom earlier this year.

    In February, Benn was involved in a shock split from Hearn’s promotional company Matchroom, signing with rivals Zuffa Boxing – despite Hearn’s apparent loyalty to the British star during a two-year saga that began with Benn failing two drug tests.

    Benn has since fought once, outpointing Regis Prograis in a catchweight bout in April, though he is expected to drop back down to his natural division of welterweight next, having traded middleweight wins with rival Chris Eubank Jr in 2025.

    Eddie Hearn (left) and Conor Benn in April 2025 (Getty)
    Eddie Hearn (left) and Conor Benn in April 2025 (Getty)

    It is unclear whom the 29-year-old will face, although he has repeatedly targeted big names from the US. And now, Hearn has offered a potential explanation for that approach.

    Speaking to various outlets, including Boxing News, Hearn said: “When Lewis Crocker won the world [IBF welterweight] title, I was like: ‘Oh, my God. Crocker vs Benn at the O2 [Arena] for the world title!’

    “I went to Conor and he was like: ‘Nah, I don’t want that fight’. Then he eventually started talking about the [IBF’s 10lb] rehydration [policy] and all that kind of stuff.

    “So, then I was like ‘Rolly Romero’. We had that fight done with [Romero’s manager] Luis DeCubas. Benn was like: ‘It’s not a very big fight.’ I’m like: ‘Mate, you’re getting a [WBA] world-title fight in London. I think you can beat Rolly Romero.’

    “‘What about [IBF super-welterweight champion] Josh Kelly at the Stadium of Light?’ [Benn said:] ‘I ain’t fighting f***ing Josh Kelly.’

    “I think he knows his limitations, so why would you get beat for small money when you can get beat for bigger money?”

    The Independent has approached Benn for comment.

    Benn hurt Regis Prograis badly on one occasion but could not find a finish (Getty)
    Benn hurt Regis Prograis badly on one occasion but could not find a finish (Getty)

    Prior to a points loss to Eubank Jr last April, Benn was unbeaten as a professional. He avenged that loss in November, as the pair returned to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, dropping Eubank Jr en route to a decision win.

    Following Benn’s shock move to Zuffa, he was expected to be paired with a big-name opponent, given reports of Zuffa paying him $15m for one fight.

    And while Prograis is a former world champion, he did not bring the profile that some fans expected, nor was he fighting at his natural weight or in his prime.

    Furthermore, the American – who ventured up in weight to box Benn – carried an injury into his fight with the Briton, who outpointed the 37-year-old in Tottenham. Prograis then retired in the aftermath.

    Best World Cup free bets UK: Top betting offers for the 2026 tournament

     (The Independent)

    The 2026 Fifa World Cup takes place across the USA, Canada and Mexico this summer, with a record 48 countries fighting for the biggest prize in football in June and July.

    And UK betting sites are already competing hard for new customers with sign-up offers, enhanced odds, tournament-specific promotions and World Cup 2026 free bets.

    This page covers the best World Cup free bet offers on the UK market, with a focus on evaluating value, flexibility and accessibility to make sure users can benefit from generous free bet amounts, flexibility across World Cup markets and straightforward T&Cs.

    Only UKGC-licensed bookmakers are included in our recommendations, and the guide below provides more detail on each betting site, their respective welcome offers and any World Cup free bets.

    What are World Cup free bets?

    World Cup free bets are sign-up bonuses offered by UK bookmakers to new customers registering ahead of or during the tournament.

    These World Cup sign up offers are triggered by depositing and placing a qualifying bet of a set minimum amount. Once it settles, free bet tokens are credited to use on World Cup markets or across the wider sportsbook.

    Free bet stakes are not returned if the bet wins. For example, a £10 free bet at 3/1 pays £30 profit, not £40. This is standard industry practice.

    Therefore, comparing value relative to qualifying stake is what matters, not just the main free bet figure.

    Types of World Cup free bet offers

    • Bet & Get: The most common type – deposit and bet a minimum amount, meet the T&Cs and receive free bet tokens. Most bookmakers' standard welcome offers fall into this category.
    • Enhanced World Cup odds: Bookmakers offer significantly inflated prices on popular markets ahead of major matches, e.g. England to score first at 10/1 rather than the standard price. Winnings are typically paid as free bets.
    • Prediction games: Several bookmakers run free-to-play World Cup prediction games (for e.g. Sky Bet's Super 6, BetMGM's Golden Goals) with cash prizes. No stake required.
    • Acca boosts: Profit boosts on World Cup accumulators, rewarding punters who build multi-match combination bets across the group stage and knockout rounds.
    • Money-back specials: If a specific event occurs - such as a match ending 0-0 or a team losing only on penalties - your stake is refunded as a free bet.

    Choose your favourite World Cup free bet offer

    Betting site

    Offer type

    Min. Bet

    Free bet value

    Best for

    Betfred

    Bet & Get

    £10

    £50

    Best overall World Cup value

    Coral

    Bet & Get

    £5

    £30

    Lowest qualifying stake

    Bet365

    Bet & Get

    £10

    £30

    In-play free bet tokens

    Paddy Power

    Bet & Get

    £5

    £30

    World Cup novelty offers

    BetMGM

    Bet & Get

    £10

    £40

    Football acca free bets

    Best World Cup betting offers

    Below, we have provided all the detail you need on the best World Cup betting promos on the UK market, including information on each offer’s qualifying terms, free bet tokens and additional promos for existing users.

    Betfred – Best overall World Cup free bet offer

    The Betfred World Cup free bet offer is one of the most valuable World Cup sign up offers. New customers can bet £10 to unlock £50 in free bets, which is the highest-value standard welcome offer available for the World Cup.

    Free bets are split across the general sportsbook and accumulator-only bets, with 2x £10 acca tokens and 3x £10 tokens for any sports market. This makes the offer ideal for multi-match tournament bets.

    In terms of offers for existing customers, Betfred typically has 20 promotions available at any given time, which is more than most rivals.

    As an example, Double Delight and Hat-Trick Heaven promos mean that if your first goalscorer nets twice or three times in a World Cup match, winnings are doubled or trebled.

    Overall, Betfred is a great option for betting on the World Cup too, with strong market depth expected across all tournament fixtures this summer.

    Coral – Lowest qualifying stake for a World Cup free bet

    The Coral promo is among the best World Cup betting offers on the market as it combines a low qualifying threshold with easy terms and an accessible site to make it one of the easiest World Cup free bet to claim.

    New users can place just a £5 qualifying bet to unlock £30 in free bets, which makes it one of the lowest qualifying threshold of any major UK bookmaker. There is just a £5 deposit required to unlock the offer with no promo code needed.

    World Cup free bets are credited as 6 x £5 tokens, five of which are valid on football betting markets with the remaining £5 free bet reserved for horse racing.

    In terms of promos for existing users, Coral usually runs plenty of boosts and specials during tournaments, while the Football Super Series prediction game is free to enter and offers up to £100 accurate guesses on football outcomes – a perfect companion for the World Cup.

    Bet365 – Best for in-play World Cup betting

    Bet365 is the world's most used bookmaker with 80 million+ customers, and their World Cup free bet offer allows customers to bet £10 to get £30 in bet credits.

    Once user qualify, they can use their £30 in bet credits as they please – from 10p accumulators to £1 in-play bets or a lump sum £30 bet, the choice is all yours.

    Once signed up, users will also find a site and app that provides the best in-play World Cup betting experience, with 100+ live in-play markets expected on major fixtures and odds updating in real time.

    In addition, Bet365 has an excellent bet builder, including Bet Builder+ for combining markets across different games.

    This all ties in to the app’s 4.7/5 rating on the App Stores, making it the best online betting app for following the tournament on the move and betting in-play.

    Paddy Power – Best for World Cup novelty offers

    Paddy Power is the best betting site for novelty offers during the World Cup, with special promos including ‘Justice Payouts’ – which refunds bets affected by controversial VAR decisions or poor refereeing calls – and a Multi-Match Bet Builder that lets users combine selections from different World Cup fixtures into a single bet.

    The brand’s Request-A-Bet service allows punters to propose custom World Cup markets via social media, while Paddy's Rewards Club provides ongoing free bets and odds boosts to keep the value coming throughout the tournament.

    In terms of the welcome offer, the Paddy Power welcome offer lets users land £30 in free bets with just £5 as an initial stake, making it one of the lowest qualifying stakes on the UK market.

    BetMGM – Best for World Cup acca free bets

    BetMGM is the best choice for punters who want to put acca bets on during the World Cup, with the popular betting site providing competitive football odds that regularly match or beat rivals across Premier League and international markets.

    Football Profit Boosts are applied to major tournament matches throughout the competition, and these can also be applied to accas in some cases, while the 2UP Early Payout feature means bets are settled as a winner if your team goes two goals ahead in a World Cup match.

    For new users, BetMGM’s World Cup free bets offer lets users bet £10 to unlock £40 in free bets, which come in the form of 2x £10 general sportsbook tokens and 2x £10 Bet Builder tokens (for bet builders with minimum odds of 3/1).

    Once signed up, customers will find a range of promos for existing users too, including the Golden Goals free-to-play game, which lets users predict six correct scores to win up to £1,000,000.

    How to claim World Cup 2026 free bets

    Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to claim free World Cup bets:

    Step 1: Choose a bookmaker from the list above and click through to their sign-up page.

    Step 2: Complete the registration form with your personal details.

    Step 3: Make a qualifying deposit using an accepted payment method (debit card recommended – e-wallets are often excluded from welcome offers).

    Step 4: Place your qualifying bet on any eligible market at the minimum required odds.

    Step 5: Wait for the bet to settle – free bet tokens are typically credited within minutes of settlement.

    Step 6: Navigate to your bonus balance or bet slip and select the free bet option when placing your next bet.

    Step 7: Use your free bet on any eligible World Cup market – check T&Cs for market restrictions before placing.

    What to look for in World Cup 2026 betting offers

    There are several factors to consider when evaluating whether to claim World Cup betting offers. Before signing up, consider the following:

    Qualifying stake and odds: The lower the better. Sky Bet's £0.05 threshold is exceptional compared to most bookmakers' £5-10 minimum.

    Free bet expiry: The World Cup runs for approximately five weeks. A 7-day expiry is tight – look for offers with 30-day windows or use tokens promptly after qualifying.

    Market restrictions: Some free bets are limited to accumulators or bet builders. Confirm the free bet can be used on standard World Cup match odds if that is your preference.

    Stake not returned: Free bet stakes are never included in winnings. Factor this in when assessing the true value of any offer,

    Ongoing promotions: The welcome offer is just the start. Consider what each bookmaker offers existing customers during the tournament – prediction games, enhanced odds and acca boosts all add significant value over five weeks of football.

    UK gambling rules for World Cup betting offers

    New betting regulations were introduced on 19 January 2026, and now wagering requirements on betting promotions are capped at 10x, though they remain rare on standard sportsbook free bets.

    Mixed sportsbook and casino bonuses are now banned too. Punters will not see offers such as "Bet £10, Get £30 + £10 Casino Bonus" on any of the bookmakers listed above, or indeed on any licensed UK bookie.

    These regulations were introduced to improve transparency in promotional offers and to better protect consumers, though bettors should always remember to check full T&Cs before betting.

    How we review best World Cup betting offers

    When evaluating free bet offers, our writers will only recommend UKGC-licensed operators.

    We test offers first-hand, assessing them based on factors including value, the fairness of their terms, qualifying accessibility, usability and the overall user experience on the site or app.

    Additionally, our writers enjoy full editorial independence when reviewing any offers, keeping our reviews fair and balanced and ensuring that we only recommend the best offers.

    World Cup betting odds

    Most World Cup betting sites have already released their outright markets for the 2026 World Cup, with Spain, France and England heading up the winners’ market.

    Below, you’ll find the latest odds on who will win the World Cup, but if you’re interested in the sub-markets - such as top scorer, golden ball, group winners - you may want to visit our dedicated World Cup odds page.

    World Cup 2026 free bet tips

    1. Read the T&Cs of every free bet offer to avoid getting duped by unfavourable terms.
    2. Don’t waste your free bet on a short-priced bet, remember your free bet stake will not be returned with the winnings.
    3. Check the potential winnings of your stake vs any maximum cap on free bet winnings - don’t make the bet if you can’t win the full amount.

    Why trust us?

    Chris Wilson is a betting content producer and sports reporter who has been working at The Independent since 2023.

    He writes betting tips across a range of sporting events as well as reviewing dozens of new betting sites and new casino sites across the UK.

    Chris has extensively tested and reviewed offers from established operators and new bookies to find the best free bet offers for readers of The Independent.

    Responsible gambling is always at the forefront of his research, ensuring customers have a fair and secure experience claiming and using World Cup betting offers online.

    Please gamble responsibly

    If you’re having a bet on the World Cup, it’s vital to practice responsible gambling, as even the best world cup betting offers still involve real financial risk.

    The excitement of a major international tournament can increase gambling urges, and betting can be addictive, so it’s important to stay in control of your gambling whether you’re using online bookmakers, casino sites, slot sites, bingo sites or any other gambling platform.

    Never treat gambling as a way to make money, never bet more than you can afford and when the fun stops, stop.

    If possible, try and set deposit limits and time-outs before the tournament even begins.

    Gambling sites offer punters tools like deposit limits, profit and loss trackers and self-exclusion options, to help you stay in control.

    Try not to get carried away by World Cup betting offers or casino bonuses, which are widely available on gambling apps.

    But if you ever feel like you need help or advice on gambling addiction, don’t hesitate to contact one of the charities or organisations below.

    World Cup free bets FAQs

    Can I use a World Cup free bet on any match?

    This depends on the bookmaker. Many standard welcome offer free bets can be used on any sportsbook market, including all World Cup fixtures. However, some offers restrict free bets to specific bet types such as accumulators or bet builders. Always check the T&Cs of your specific offer before placing your qualifying stake.

    Which bookmaker has the best World Cup free bet offer?

    Betfred's Bet £10 Get £50 offer represents the best headline value, while Sky Bet's Bet £0.05 Get £30 is the most accessible thanks to its minimal qualifying stake. Bet365 is the strongest all-round option for punters who want to combine a solid welcome offer with the best in-play betting experience on World Cup matches.

    Do World Cup free bets expire?

    Yes. Most free bets expire between seven and 30 days after being credited to your account. Sky Bet's free bets last 30 days, giving the most flexibility to use them across the full tournament. Always check when your free bets were credited so that you do not accidentally let them expire.

    What happens if a World Cup match is abandoned?

    If a match is abandoned before a result is determined, bets are typically voided and stakes returned. Free bets used on abandoned matches may also be returned to your account, though this varies by bookmaker, so check the relevant T&Cs.

    Can I claim more than one World Cup free bet?

    Yes. Each sign-up offer is available once per customer per bookmaker, but there is nothing to prevent you opening accounts with multiple UKGC-licensed operators to claim several free bets World Cup offers simultaneously. This is a perfectly legitimate way to maximise value during the tournament.

    What are the odds for England to win the World Cup 2026?

    England's World Cup odds will fluctuate as the tournament progresses, but they are currently 13/2 second favourites behind Spain (5/1). Check the current ante-post prices directly with any of the bookmakers listed above, as they update in real time. All of the operators featured above offer World Cup outright markets.

    We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

    Kompany on PSG rematch: "I think the fans believe we can do it"

    Kompany on PSG rematch:
    Kompany on PSG rematch: "I think the fans believe we can do it"

    Ahead of tomorrow night's semi-final second-leg clash with PSG, Bayern Munich's Vincent Kompany senses the fans are behind his team ahead of this pressurised encounter. 

    “There's a good relationship between this team and the fans. At the start of the season, maybe not many believed we'd still have a chance to reach the final.

    “Now we're here, we've experienced many special moments. And I think the fans believe we can do it. We want to make it a memorable moment,” he said in his press conference today.

    When asked about the first-leg which ended in a 5-4 defeat, the Bavarians' head coach adopted a calm tone – conceding goals doesn't bother him provided they win and advance to the final. 

    “The mission is to win games. We have ideas that we think help us to do that. It's just about that. We've shown that we can win many games, PSG have shown that too.

    "In the end you have to score one more goal than your opponent to win a game. If you can do it without conceding, that's the best thing that could happen”

    “It always depends on the teams. If one decides to take a step back and defend more, then there could be some calmer phases in the game. Otherwise there won't.

    “It's difficult to imagine that either team will change what brought them here in the first place. We're playing at home, we want to win and will do everything for that,” he added. 

    On the personnel front, the Belgian explained “Serge [Gnabry] is out. All others are there and available. That's important and a big difference to last season, where we were very unlucky with injuries".  

    What To Do About Saudi Arabia's Sports Takeover? Nothing, Apparently.

    Golfer Richard T. Lee crouches over a fairly short putt, with a floating banner behind him that says "LONG LIV GOLF."
    Jayne Russell/ZUMAPRESS/Newscom

    Hello and welcome to another edition of Free Agent! Hurry up and enjoy your Taco Tuesday Cinco de Mayo today.

    We'll start with thoughts on Saudi Arabia's sports takeover that's been stopped in its tracks. After that it's time to dive into the implications of the Dianna Russini–Mike Vrabel affair for league policies. We'll close with a slightly bonkers idea: Did the Sixers beat the Celtics with a little help from the war on drugs?

    Locker Room Links

    The Saudi Sports Takeover That Wasn't

    Sometimes, the right thing to do is nothing at all.

    Just a few years after it seemed like Saudi Arabia was going to take over the sports world, backed by its unlimited oil money, the takeover has been stopped in its tracks. LIV Golf is losing its Saudi funding after years of $500 million annual losses. The Saudi Pro League is no longer trying to lure in the biggest stars in soccer with eye-popping sums. Other plans to host or bid for global sporting events are scaled back or scrapped altogether. This isn't just a coincidence of timing, or solely because of the chaos caused by the Iran war: The Saudi Public Investment Fund is making a strategic, long-term shift away from sports (at least for the rest of the decade).

    That "unlimited" oil money isn't so unlimited after all.

    This wasn't because of any direct government action. Sports fans just never bought into what the Saudis were selling. Ignoring Saudi sports products has always been relatively easy.

    As much as Americans were against a Saudi sports takeover, it never rose to a threat level high enough to justify government action, even from those who aren't libertarian-minded. LIV Golf struggled under both a skeptical Biden administration and an accommodating Trump administration. Legislation to tax LIV Golf and the Saudi wealth fund went nowhere in Congress. A Justice Department investigation and congressional hearing over the proposed LIV Golf merger with the PGA Tour yielded no results went anywhere. The biggest government action was probably an antitrust investigation into PGA Tour punishments against LIV players—had that investigation led to prosecution, it would have helped LIV and hurt the PGA Tour.

    There was no need for a heavy-handed ban or sanctions. Other than some generally negative vibes, politics didn't bring down the Saudi sports plan, capitalism did.

    The investments still had an impact, to be sure. Competition was always going to produce changes. PGA Tour players are enjoying more prize money than they used to. Soccer clubs had to make marginally higher offers to stars who were tempted by Saudi money. But the Saudi-backed competition wasn't enough to take down the biggest establishments in sports.

    Saudi investment in sports isn't going away forever. The country will still host the 2034 World Cup, and the wealth fund still owns Newcastle United of the Premier League. Other oil-rich countries have their own sports investments, too. But the failure of Saudi Arabia's sports investments will be a cautionary tale that these efforts will not yield the intended economic or political results. It should always be remembered that Middle East oil investments, especially in sports, are still largely made and governed by the politicians of those countries, not innovators and entrepreneurs who can actually be competitive in a capitalist system.

    The Vrabel Problem the NFL Can't Legislate Away

    The (alleged) Dianna Russini–Mike Vrabel affair has raised some questions for the NFL, like whether it needs an official policy change that could stop conduct like a coach having an affair with an NFL reporter.

    In theory, the Patriots (or any other employer) could fire someone for marital infidelity. Given some infamous actions in team owner Robert Kraft's past, that might look like a bit of a double standard. Plus, marital infidelity is probably, unfortunately, too common and messy for the league and teams to investigate every occurrence or to try to maintain a useful set of standards on.

    The NFL could, though, adopt a policy on conduct between league personnel (players, coaches, administrators, etc.) and the press. They could set a strict rule against contact with the press outside of official team events and venues to avoid any appearance of impropriety—but this would make everyone worse off. Any kind of journalism outside of buttoned-down game reports and superficial quotes would be difficult to do. Reporters and subjects spending time together outside of official venues is a common form of source-building for journalists. Plus, the league thrives on the insider culture of constant updates coming from Adam Schefter, Ian Rapoport, etc. Insiders always have news to share because someone in the league is giving them updates outside of official channels. The NFL insiders are cozier with the league than I'd like, but all involved benefit from the league news they constantly churn out.

    The league could specifically ban sexual relationships between journalists and personnel. But then it would need to define which journalists fall under that rule. All of them? What about a local TV news anchor whose channel covers the team but isn't specifically a sports journalist? Also, if any of this is going to affect the players, it would have to be spelled out in the collective bargaining agreement.

    The league is better off regarding the Russini-Vrabel affair as a shocking yet rare event. It's a distraction the league wants to avoid in the future, but the downsides of all the possible one-size-fits-all solutions are too large.

    If it were up to me, given the particulars of this specific situation, I'd fire Vrabel anyway. The evidence of the relationship is fairly overwhelming. The nature of a romantic coach-reporter relationship creates a complicated power dynamic—the coach can threaten to cut off the reporter's access and scoops at any time if he doesn't get what he wants, putting the reporter's job in jeopardy, or at least making it more difficult. It's unbecoming and below the standard of judgment that the league should have for itself.

    Did Ketamine Knock Out the Celtics?

    Should Sixers fans thank the war on drugs for their upset of the Celtics? Maybe!

    In January, Paul George was suspended for 25 games for taking "an improper medication" relating to his mental health. There's no confirmation or even solid reporting to back this up, but there are rumorsthatsay ketamine is the banned substance that George was caught taking. (In theory, it could have been anything else on the NBA's long list of prohibited substances—this take would still apply to any other illegal drugs on that list.)

    Ketamine is a drug that dulls pain and has hallucinogenic effects. It's sometimes used to treat depression, and some users will take microdoses instead of full-fledged doses. It's shown to be effective for therapeutic uses, sometimes rapidly so. For athletic purposes, it would have no performance-enhancing effects—that's partially why the World Anti-Doping Agency does not explicitly ban it. The case could be made that ketamine is safer than alcohol and nicotine, but the federal government lists it as a Schedule III drug that's only legal for prescribed medical use.

    Whether it was ketamine or not, George had to sit out for February and most of March—making him well-rested and ready to roll just in time for the playoffs. Now 36-years-old, George averaged 18.2 points in the series. In Saturday night's huge game-seven win, he played 42 minutes, his second-highest in the series. Fans are hoping he gets suspended every year just for the downtime before the playoffs.

    I'm sorry Paul George you can do ketamine to get fresh legs for the playoffs every year

    — Drunk Sixers Fan (@DrunkSixersFan) May 1, 2026

    Maybe it was luck that helped the Sixers in game seven, maybe it was Joel Embiid or the lack of Jayson Tatum, or maybe it was defense. Maybe George's absence actually hurt in the big picture because he was away from the team for so long. Or maybe, just maybe, getting suspended for (allegedly) taking a Schedule III drug is why George played well and why the Sixers upset the Celtics.

    But before other players start getting any ideas, the suspension cost George $11.7 million in salary.

    Replay of the Week

    I was watching in a bar and couldn't hear anything, I just remember thinking "The pack is really tight! Wait, where'd that guy come from?" Unbelievable finish.

    FROM LAST PLACE TO KENTUCKY DERBY GLORY, WHAT A RACE FOR GOLDEN TEMPO!

    The 152nd Kentucky Derby on NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/yUIczKx4SX

    — NBC Sports (@NBCSports) May 2, 2026

    That's all for this week. Enjoy watching the real game of the weekend, Hannover 96 battling for promotion in Bundesliga 2.

    The post What To Do About Saudi Arabia's Sports Takeover? Nothing, Apparently. appeared first on Reason.com.

    Jon Rahm settles dispute with DP World Tour after months-long stalemate

    The standoff between Jon Rahm and the DP World Tour is over.

    Rahm told reporters Tuesday ahead of LIV Golf Virginia that he and the DP World Tour had come to an agreement, ending a stalemate between the two sides that threatened Rahm's Ryder Cup eligibility. Details of their truce weren't immediately available, but Rahm said he and the DP World Tour both made concessions to reach a deal. It's likely Rahm will be able to play in LIV events without needing a release and garnering more fines.

    With the two sides coming to an agreement, Rahm's status on the DP World Tour is no longer in question.

    In March, Rahm withdrew the appeal of sanctions against him but had not settled with the DP World Tour. The appeal is how Rahm remained eligible to compete in DP World Tour events and participate in the Ryder Cup. Players can maintain their DP World Tour membership while competing on different tours so long as they play in a minimum of four non-major DPWT events. For those competing on LIV, however, it's six events, two of which are chosen by the Tour itself.

    Rahm stated he didn't agree with those terms. He was the only one of nine European LIV members who didn't agree to terms for a conditional release, which stated players would compete in six-to-eight non-major DP World Tour events — as well as pay any outstanding fines and withdraw any active appeals — in order to keep their status as members.

    At the Masters, Rahm was confident he would be on the 2027 Ryder Cup team at Adare Manor, answering, "Yes" when asked whether he would be on the team. He was also asked at Augusta National whether he could play in a DP World Tour event right then, and he did not know the answer.

    Rahm has two wins this season on LIV Golf, and, thanks to receiving OWGR points this year, has risen to No. 21 in the Official World Golf Ranking. He has three runner-up finishes in addition to his two victories in 2026.

    This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Jon Rahm, DP World Tour reach agreement to end stalemate

    Sky Sports journo ‘staggered’ by Xabi Alonso news on Tuesday afternoon

    Sky Sports journo ‘staggered’ by Xabi Alonso news on Tuesday afternoon
    Sky Sports journo ‘staggered’ by Xabi Alonso news on Tuesday afternoon

    Xabi Alonso could hold fire on accepting a new head coach position this summer.


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


    Sky Sports Dougie Critchley suggested that the Spaniard was highly unlikely to take on the Chelsea job amid links with the position vacated by Liam Rosenior in April.

    The former Real Madrid boss has also been heavily linked with Arne Slot’s job at Liverpool.

    Xabi Alonso won’t take the Chelsea head coach role

    Critchely hopped onto X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday afternoon to cast some doubt over suggestions that Alonso could be the next Chelsea head coach.

    And we’d have to wholeheartedly agree with the reputable journalist that such a move would seem… well… a little bit daft to say the least.

    Want more Empire of the Kop coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

    Here we’re talking about a club that seems to relish in leaving managers next to no time to establish themselves in the position and build a culture.

    Mind, we don’t think Rosenior was particularly well-equipped to meet the challenge of restoring Chelsea back within the elite class of Premier League clubs.

    While you’d back Alonso to get more of a tune out of the Blues by comparison, it’s an environment that would prove to be even more toxic than the one he experienced in Madrid.

    Liverpool or Bayern remain Alonso’s ideal next moves

    There are a lot of ifs, buts and maybes involved, but it’s hard to imagine Alonso accepting a step down below what his talents deserve.

    Yes, perhaps there’s an argument for taking a relatively “safe” role – perhaps at a club comparable to Bayer Leverkusen’s level.

    But that would be assuming the Bundesliga winner feels his time in Real Madrid was such a failure it necessitates a decision designed to restore his reputation. And as far as we’re concerned, no such effort is required; we agree with Critchley’s view that his dismissal at Real Madrid was indeed unfair.

    As such, Xabi Alonso should be aiming for the kind of next step that guided his decision to leave Leverkusen.

    Having ticked Madrid off his list, that really only leaves jobs of the calibre of Liverpool and Bayern Munich. Vincent Kompany remains extremely settled in Bavaria, but there’s an ongoing question mark over the future of Arne Slot at L4.

    In that case, it may very well be ideal to wait and see how this situation develops.

    More Stories / Latest News

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    Judge in Stefon Diggs case warned alleged victim that her full testimony may be stricken

    The first day of the Stefon Diggs trial ended with the alleged victim, Mila Adams, on the witness stand. The second day began with the continuation of her cross-examination.

    After another string of answers that were not responsive to the question asked, Judge Jeanmarie Carroll called for a break. After the break, and before the jury returned to the courtroom, Judge Carroll delivered a clear message to Adams about the importance of answering the questions she has been asked — and only those questions.

    "You're responsible for answering questions that are put to you," Judge Carroll said. "If you don't understand the question, you can say that. And I'm sure counsel will rephrase it. If you can't hear a question, tell them that as well. But courtrooms function in, and especially trials unfold, in a question and answer format. This is not an opportunity for you to interject your own narrative and evade responding to questions the court deems appropriate. And if you continue to do so, your entire testimony may be stricken. Am I clear?"

    When questioning resumed, Adams was asked about a $5.5 million settlement demand her lawyer had made to Diggs. Adams was again evasive, initially trying to cite the attorney-client privilege (which clearly does not apply). It felt as if Diggs's lawyer had Adams on the ropes, and potentially on the verge of providing the basis for a motion to strike her entire testimony.

    Instead of continuing to give her more opportunities to run afoul of the judge's instructions, the lawyer ended the cross-examination. Adams completed redirect and re-cross without further incident, and her testimony was not stricken.

    If Adams's testimony had been stricken, the entire case would have collapsed. Without her testimony regarding the alleged assault, it would be impossible to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Diggs had assaulted and/or strangled her.

    Despite the issues that arose regarding a slew of questions to Adams unrelated to the key events in the case, the overriding question continues to be whether the jury will believe her explanation as to the alleged assault. That will depend the rest of the evidence introduced, the closing arguments, and the jury's deliberations.

    Skubal’s Elbow Surgery Puts Free Agent Record in Doubt

    The path for Tigers ace Tarik Skubal to reach a record-setting contract in free agency this offseason hit a major speedbump with the disclosure that he’ll need surgery on his pitching elbow.

    Skubal, the two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner, will have arthroscopic surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow. A specific timetable for his return has not been disclosed, but other pitchers who have had similar procedures have been out of action for two to three months. As a result, Skubal will likely be out until at least after the All-Star Game break in mid-July, and perhaps until around the Aug. 3 trade deadline.

    “I think the length of the rehab is probably just getting your spring training buildup again, getting your volume up,” Skubal said. “But the procedure itself I think is pretty simple as far as what I’ve been explained.”

    The financial implications of the current situation could be significant. After another dominant season in 2025, Skubal won an arbitration decision in February that awarded him a $32 million salary for this year—breaking all prior records for MLB players in the arbitration system.

    With that decision in place, Skubal, 29, had been widely seen as a strong candidate to set a free-agent record this fall for a pitcher. The current contract milestone for a free-agent pitcher is the Dodgers’ 12-year, $325 million deal with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, signed in late 2023, and prior projections of a Skubal deal had hovered around $400 million. 

    The latest injury, however, complicates that outlook, and any suitor team will be closely watching Skubal’s health and effectiveness on the mound when he returns before tendering anything close to an unprecedented contract offer. Skubal, meanwhile, is represented by super agent Scott Boras, who undoubtedly will be pushing hard to preserve the pitcher’s market value.

    “The fans in Detroit want the Tigers to build the Tarik barrack,” Boras said last fall in one of his trademark puns. 

    Skubal was also part of the U.S. team in the wildly successful World Baseball Classic, but his workload was carefully managed and he threw in just one game before returning to spring training. In the current MLB season, Skubal has a 3–2 record with a 2.70 earned run average. 

    Hanging On?

    The Tigers, meanwhile, will need to continue competitively with their best player on the injured list. The team is 18–18 entering Tuesday’s game, tied with the archrival Guardians atop the AL Central division. The Tigers’ .500 record is happening despite having the second-best run differential in the AL. 

    Beyond the threat from Cleveland, Detroit is also grappling with a resurgent White Sox club that is just a half-game behind in the standings, thanks in part to the exploits of first-year slugger Munetaka Murakami, who is tied with Yankees superstar Aaron Judge for the MLB home-run lead.

    “It’s a big test,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said of Skubal’s absence. “You can’t deny it’s a big blow, but we’re not canceling the season. We’re going to play the games.”

    The post Skubal’s Elbow Surgery Puts Free Agent Record in Doubt appeared first on Front Office Sports.

    Tuesday Cheese Curds: Jonathan Gannon speaks!

    GLENDALE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 19: Head coach Jonathan Gannon of the Arizona Cardinals and head coach Matt Lafleur of the Green Bay Packers talk before a game at State Farm Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) | Getty Images

    We finally got to hear from Jonathan Gannon!

    The Packers hired their new defensive coordinator in late January after the departure of Jeff Hafley, but, for some reason, it took more than four months for the Packers to let him talk to the media.

    Why? Who knows, and in the grand scheme of things it doesn’t really matter. It’s not like he was going to say anything particularly meaningful or insightful. In fact, you probably could have guessed pretty much the exact things he ended up saying.

    “We want to be fast and physical.” Yeah, every defense does. “We want to take the ball away.” I’ve yet to see an NFL defense that didn’t. “We’re going to have a multiple front.” That’s life in the NFL in 2026; everyone plays that way.

    This is not to take anything away from Gannon, and if you were excited to hear him speak, more power to you. Shoot, I was interested! I enjoyed listening to his thoughts, if only because this is the guy that’s going to be shaping what we hope is going to be a Super Bowl-caliber defense for the next few years, and hopefully longer. It pays to get to know that guy a bit.

    But what were we really missing out on for the last four months? Not much. It’s just weird we had to wait this long.

    Jonathan Gannon knew quickly he wanted to be Packers defensive coordinator | Packers News

    Of course he did. The choice was between “receive millions of dollars to coach Micah Parsons” and…not doing that.

    5 things to know about new Packers QB Tyrod Taylor | Packers.com

    The Packers’ backup QB shuffle continues.

    Trainer of Top Kickers on Trey Smack’s Leg Strength, Ability to Handle Cold | Sports Illustrated

    It looks more and more likely that the Packers’ new kicker is about to Smack veteran Brandon McManus right off the roster.

    Packers OC says Jordan Morgan ‘ready’ for left tackle, clarifies roles

    Jordan Morgan finally gets a crack at playing the position he was drafted to play.

    NFL Power Rankings 2026: Which teams improved this offseason? | ESPN

    The Packers’ offseason work has them ranked in the top quarter of the NFL according to ESPN’s rankings.

    A real WKRP radio comes to Cincinnati, decades after the sitcom about a fictional station | Associated Press

    If the phrase “God as my witness, I thought turkeys could fly” means anything to you, you’ll enjoy this news.

    Former Florida Gator Dante Fowler Jr. signs with Super Bowl Champs

    The Seattle Seahawks have inked former Florida Gators edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. to a one-year contract with a max value of $5 million. The Super Bowl LX champions add the 2015 third overall draft pick to an elite defensive unit that was a driving force in their title run last season.

    The Seahawks opted to address this need in free agency rather than expending any of their 2026 NFL Draft selections on a pass rusher. Defensive coordinator Aden Durde and Seattle viewed Fowler as a priority target to fill this void, hosting the 6-foot-3-inch, 261-pound Lakewood, Florida native for a pre-draft visit. Durde coaches Fowler in both Atlanta and Dallas and called the 31-year-old a "top option."

    Over his 10 seasons in the NFL, Fowler has recorded 58.5 sacks and 15 forced fumbles — his 11.5 sacks in 2019 were a career-high. A three-year starter at Florida, Fowler totaled 140 tackles and 14.5 sacks; his breakout season came in 2013, when he led the Gators' defensive line in tackles, earned All-SEC Second Team honors and tallied 10.5 tackles for loss.

    For the defending champions, Fowler offers a veteran presence on the edge with a proven track record of production. His ability to set the edge against the run, disrupt plays early in the backfield and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks makes him a potentially valuable piece to go alongside Leonard Williams and Bryon Murphy II.

    Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

    This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Former Gator Dante Fowler Jr. signs with Super Bowl Champion Seahawks

    The seven games which exposed the crucial difference between Man City and Arsenal

    Marc Guehi looked glum as he headed for the Manchester City bus outside Hill Dickinson Stadium. Understandably, too. His ability to pick the right pass had helped him settle smoothly into the City defence. Until he picked the wrong pass, supplied Thierno Barry with a goal and a 3-3 draw altered the title race.

    This had seemed a sequel to 2014 and 2023, a night when City chalked up crucial wins at Everton in the run-in. Instead, there were flashbacks to a couple of other games which, indirectly, led to City becoming champions. City conceded three times in 12 minutes on Monday; in 2014, in “Crystanbul”, Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool let in three in the last 11 minutes away at Crystal Palace. That also finished 3-3. Go back to 2012, and City’s first league title since 1968 was aided by David Moyes’ Everton, mounting an extraordinary comeback to draw 4-4 with Manchester United. In each case, two points were dropped in dramatic fashion.

    It may be of scant consolation to Guehi now but, if Arsenal hold on to their advantage at the Premier League summit, his uncharacteristic error will be far from the only reason. In the last couple of years, there has been the temptation to deem this team the City of old: the relentless, remorseless winning machine. They are not, though. City have finished a league season with 14 straight wins before. They needed to be perfect in this run-in, to win their last eight: but this is an imperfect side.

    Pep Guardiola’s side dropped points in a 3-3 draw at Everton to hand Arsenal the advantage in the title race (Getty)
    Pep Guardiola’s side dropped points in a 3-3 draw at Everton to hand Arsenal the advantage in the title race (Getty)

    They have spent the season playing catch-up after losing twice in August. City have reeled in Arsenal before, but it is not a failsafe formula. Especially when Guardiola’s City, who used to be frontrunners in title races, have had issues when in front in games. City are far above Arsenal in one table: for points lost from winning positions. Lost leads could be decisive. Their second defeat of the season, at Brighton, came when they led for half an hour.

    They have drawn eight times. There was a stalemate at Sunderland. In each of the other seven, City have lost a lead. Perhaps the most damaging was also the most forgivable: amid considerable pressure, Guardiola’s injury-hit side almost held out for victory at Arsenal in September before Gabriel Martinelli’s injury-time lob.

    It made for a three-point swing. Yet City should have more regrets about allowing managerless Chelsea an added-time leveller at the Etihad in January. Or failing to beat relegation-threatened West Ham and Nottingham Forest in back-to-back games in March. Or letting Thomas Frank take his last point as Tottenham manager after City went 2-0 up.

    Collectively, it points to a lack of ruthlessness. It also suggests that, defensively, City are not quite good enough. That is in spite of some spectacular saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Briefly on Monday night, it felt like a block from Iliman Ndiaye could be bracketed alongside a magnificent stop from Alexis Mac Allister at Anfield as a transformative moment in the season.

    City’s lost leads came with a host of different defences and centre-back partnerships. A mitigating factor in the draw with Chelsea was the loss of the injured Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol during the second half; when they were held by Brighton three days later, it was with the rookie Max Alleyne starting.

    Guehi and Abdukodir Khusanov had shown promise as a partnership but, even before Barry’s first goal on Monday, it was notable how isolated they looked. Guardiola’s latest revamp has given his team running machines as full-backs, but Matheus Nunes and Nico O’Reilly’s forward momentum is not always allied with defensive solidity.

    Arsenal’s style of play has been criticised this season but their caution could ultimately be rewarded if they win the league (AP)
    Arsenal’s style of play has been criticised this season but their caution could ultimately be rewarded if they win the league (AP)

    For the second successive season, City have had a reminder of the importance of Rodri in his absence. Their best form of the campaign, in the trio of wins over Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea in three different competitions, came with the Ballon d’Or winner partnered with Bernardo Silva in the middle of midfield. Maybe Rodri would have given them the calm and authority they lost at Everton.

    There were warning signs in a couple of other games he sat out, even if City ultimately emerged victorious. They lost control in the second half at home to Leeds and away at Fulham, eventually prevailing 3-2 and 5-4 respectively. The latter, in particular, is not a typical Guardiola scoreline.

    Neither is 3-3. It was Guardiola’s 376th Premier League game and just a second to end with an equal split of six goals. Everton finished with the third highest open play expected goals of any team against Guardiola’s City in the English top flight. Moyes nonetheless described City as the best team in the division. But, five months ago, his former midfielder Mikel Arteta brought Arsenal to the banks of the Mersey, ground out a forgettable 1-0 win and allowed his old club an xG of just 0.24 and one shot on target.

    There has long been a theory Arsenal’s defence could win them the league. And perhaps the difference between the top two will be City’s struggles to hold on to leads.

    Todd ruled out of North West 200

    Davey Todd has told BBC Sport NI that he is "gutted" to have been ruled out of this year's North West 200 international road race.

    The race meeting's chief medical officer's assessment was that he was not satisfied that the Yorkshire rider had recovered sufficiently enough from injuries sustained in a crash at the Daytona races in Florida in early March.

    The 30-year-old sustained multiple injuries in the incident, including a broken femur, tibia, foot and nose and surgery in the USA.

    Two weeks ago Todd's 8Ten Racing teammate and co-owner Peter Hickman had indicated that he was optimistic that the nine-time North West race winner would be fit to take his place on the grid for the races over the Triangle circuit.

    However hopes of his participation this year have now been dashed.

    "Following his injuries at Daytona in March, Davey Todd underwent a medical examination by the Chief Medical Officer at the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 today," a statement released by the organisers on Tuesday afternoon said.

    "Unfortunately, because of his injuries, Davey was found to be unfit to take part in the North West 200 this week.

    "We are very disappointed that Davey will not be on the grid this year," race director Mervyn Whyte, said.

    "He has enjoyed a lot of success at the North West and a huge following who will be equally disappointed. We would all have loved to have seen him out there racing but safety is paramount."

    "I'm gutted, I'm confused. I worked so hard over the last weeks to get fit and to come back and race in front of the fans here at the North West," Todd told BBC Sport NI.

    "I rode a bike on Thursday for the first time at Valencia and I surprised myself with how fast I was going and how good I felt on the bike.

    "Everything was slotting into place. I feel strong, feel healthier day by day and in a good place."

    "I've put absolutely everything I possibly could over the last eight weeks to be back on this grid and I was amazed a few days ago, really proud of myself, that I was able to get myself back in the position that I could come here and race again and be competitive, and to be told I'll not be given the opportunity of doing that means I'm gutted."

    Colorado High School Football: Regis Jesuit releases 2026 schedule

    Fossil Ridge's Michael Doyle (30) maneuvers around defenders during a Class 5A football playoff game vs. Regis Jesuit in Aurora, Colo. on Friday, Nov. 11, 2022.

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    High school football schedules for the 2026 season are rolling out rapidly across the country, and Colorado continues to stand out as a premier pipeline for college recruits. This upcoming fall is no different, with numerous programs nationwide now finalizing and releasing their complete 2026 schedules.

    [ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]

    Coming off a season where the Aurora (CO) Regis Jesuit Raiders were one of the top teams in the state of Colorado and now head into 2026 with one of the tougher schedules around. The Raiders return Class of 2028 four-star quarterback Luke Rubley, who last season threw for 2,084 yards and 20 touchdowns.

    The full Regis Jesuit 2026 football schedule can be seen below, with official game times to be announced at a later date.

    Regis Jesuit Football 2026 Schedule

    Aug. 28 – Aurora (CO) Eaglecrest
    Sep. 4 – at Spokane (WA) Gonzaga Prep School
    Sep. 11 – Denver (CO) Mullen
    Sep. 17 – at Parker (CO) Legend
    Sep. 25 – Littleton (CO) Heritage
    Oct. 1 – at Colorado Springs (CO) Pine Creek
    Oct. 9 – Castle Rock (CO) Castle View
    Oct. 22 – at Aurora (CO) Grandview
    Oct. 30 – Littleton (CO) Valor Christian

    #AMDGpic.twitter.com/mUVuV7LbcG

    — RJHS Raider Football (@RJHSRaiderFB) April 30, 2026

    In 2025, Regis Jesuit posted a 4-7 record and ranked as the No. 16 program in the state, according to the final Colorado High School Football Massey Rankings

    More about Regis Jesuit High School

    Regis Jesuit High School, located in Aurora, Colorado, is a premier Catholic college preparatory institution serving young men and women through single-gender education on the same campus. Rooted in Jesuit values, the school emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. RJHS offers a rigorous curriculum, a strong athletic program, and a vibrant student life dedicated to forming men and women with and for others.

    How to Follow Colorado High School Football

    For Colorado high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Centennial State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the Colorado high school football excitement across the state.

    Grêmio chase win to seal direct last-16 spot in the Sula

    Grêmio chase win to seal direct last-16 spot in the Sula
    Grêmio chase win to seal direct last-16 spot in the Sula

    Grêmio takes the field this Tuesday at 7 p.m. against Deportivo Riestra in a decisive Group F clash in the Copa Sudamericana.

    The team led by Luís Castro is trying to end an uncomfortable run of 13 matches without an away win to temporarily take the top spot in the group and avoid the strain of playing in the competition’s playoffs.


    The Qualification Scenarios

    Currently in second place with four points, the Tricolor would overtake Riestra with a win and move up to seven points.

    If they get a positive result in Argentina, Grêmio will depend only on themselves to advance directly to the round of 16.

    That is because the current leaders, Montevideo City Torque, face Palestino on Wednesday and will then have a direct showdown with the team from Rio Grande do Sul at the Arena in the final round of the group stage.

    A draw keeps the current positions, but it could allow Palestino to close the gap in the standings.

    A defeat, meanwhile, would drastically complicate the Brazilian side’s plans, leaving the opponents alone at the top and forcing Grêmio to rely on a combination of results to avoid an early elimination or being stuck with second place.

    The Playoff Ghost

    The urgency to finish top of the group comes from last season’s trauma. In 2025, Grêmio finished second in its group and was eliminated in the playoffs by Alianza Lima.

    Ten players from the current squad were part of that defeat and are now trying to avoid repeating the mistake, which would add two extra matches to an already overloaded schedule.

    Reinforcements and Absences

    Luís Castro will have forward Amuzu back after recovering from ankle pain. He traveled with the squad and is seen as an important option for the attack.

    On the other hand, the coach will be without Nardoni and Arthur, which will require changes to the midfield setup for the clash in Buenos Aires. In addition to the tactical challenge, the team will have to deal with outside pressure after being met by protesting fans upon arriving in the Argentine capital.

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

    Braden Amey wins state tennis title for West Boca Raton

    It was an All-Boca affair in the Class 4A state tennis finals at Sanlando Park in Sanford.

    West Boca vs. Boca Raton. Both schools had never had a boys FHSAA state singles champion, so something had to give.

    Give it up for West Boca as junior first singles Braden Amey completed an unbeaten season with a state-finals victory (7-5, 6-3) over Boca Raton High’s Enzo Carvalho on April 30.

    Amey, the top seed, became West Boca’s first boys state singles champion and did it against a longtime rival. Meanwhile, Carvalho made history, too, as the first Boca High state boys finalist.

    “It’s pretty cool,’’ Amey said. “I expected it coming into the tournament. It was pretty cool (playing him). I know his game pretty well and used to play with him years back. I knew it would be a great match. He’s playing really well now.’’

    Amey needed four wins at states to cop the FHSAA’s first prize. As a sophomore last season, Amey never got to the 4A state tournament, losing in the regionals. But Amey’s serve has gotten bigger and he ripped 120 mph missiles to Carvalho in the finals.

    West Boca Raton tennis player Brayden Amey

    More Tennis: Saint Andrew's teams win state titles in dramatic fashion

    “I’ve been going for bigger serves and it’s improved a lot," Amey said. “I usually grind it out from the baseline but I’ve been trying to come to the net when I can. I’ve been trying to finish it off much quicker."

    Amey and Carvalho have an interesting high-school history Last season, Amey triumphed in a regular season 8-game pro-set match that went to 9-8.

    But as freshmen, it was Carvalho pulling off the victory in a massive comeback. Amey led 7-1, 40-15 and had double-match point. Carvalho rallied to win 9-7. This was sweet revenge, especially since their regular-season match this year was rained out.

    “Both these juniors have been battling for supremacy in our county for years and met on the biggest tennis stage at states," West Boca coach Martha Whitaker said.

    Strategy played a role in Amey’s win as he noticed his Boca foe standing considerably wide when serving to the ad court, looking to kick his serve.

    “I was standing wide ready with my backhand grip," Amey said. “He’s done it recently, going to try to kick it to my backhand and I was jumping on my return early.’’

    West Boca Raton head coach Martha Whitaker (center) pictured with members of the 2026 boys tennis team.

    The day before, Amey won a tightly contested semifinal over Beau Gibson of Miami Palmetto after winning the first set. It came down to a match tiebreaker with Amey winning 6-1, 6-7, 10-7.

    Amey also made it to the state doubles finals with partner Markus Andersson and finished runner-up after losing in a third-set match tiebreaker 10-5 against Doral.

    Amey has another year of high-school tennis before he moves onto Division I. Amey is mulling a few schools with Naval Academy, Villanova and Boston College the front-runners.

    This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: West Boca's Braden Amey wins state tennis championship

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