WriteGood is an AI writing partner built into your editor that delivers inline suggestions as tracked changes, helping you sharpen clarity, tone, and structure without losing your voice. It keeps you in control so you can accept, reject, or tweak every edit. It reads full-document context, supports custom style guides and templates for PRDs, RFCs, and posts, and lets you choose AI models. You can collaborate in real time, maintain a consistent voice across teams, and ship confident drafts faster.
Sport fishing is shifting from a niche hobby into a major travel driver across Europe, attracting international visitors and generating billions of euros in tourism spending each year. The growing trend takes centre stage at […]
In a dating world ruled by endless swipes, algorithm fatigue and the pressure to “find the one” amongst a sea of lacklustre profiles, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is inviting singles to try something new and refreshingly human. […]
Saudi Arabia, alongside UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, is driving GCC tourism growth by strategically transforming airports into multi-country stopover destinations, boosting economic diversification and enhancing regional connectivity.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is transforming its airports from mere transit points into thriving tourism hubs, reshaping its economies and tourism industries. Historically seen as brief layover spots, airports in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Oman are now becoming essential drivers of non-oil growth, hospitality revenues, and job creation. Through a combination of streamlined visa regimes, targeted airline stopover programs, and state-of-the-art infrastructure investments, GCC nations are redefining the travel experience by turning transit passengers into full-fledged tourists.
A major push toward improving passenger experience is happening across the GCC, with airports investing heavily in advanced biometric systems, e-gates, and digital border controls. These innovations aim to expedite passenger processing times and enhance airport efficiency, making short stays more accessible and practical. These initiatives, often supported by public-private partnerships, are closing the gap between passengers’ arrival at airports and their exploration of the surrounding city.
Thanks to these upgrades, travelers can now transition from their flight to a city tour in a matter of hours, even if their layover is less than 48 hours. By improving the speed of entry and departure, these airports are not only facilitating smoother travel but also boosting the potential for short-term tourism, particularly in major transit hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh.
One of the most anticipated developments in the region is the unified GCC tourist visa, which is currently making its way through final coordination stages. This initiative, approved in principle in 2024, will allow travelers to visit multiple GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with a single visa. The visa promises to drive a significant increase in stopover tourism by simplifying the travel process for visitors looking to explore more than one country during their trip.
The unified visa is expected to especially benefit Saudi Arabia, which is poised to expand its tourism offerings through its vast historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Travelers can now visit iconic locations in Saudi Arabia while also enjoying quick trips to neighboring cities like Dubai and Doha, creating multi-destination travel experiences in the Gulf.
Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this aviation-driven tourism growth, having seen a dramatic increase in visitor numbers in recent years. In 2025, the Kingdom welcomed an estimated 122 million international visitors, nearing its ambitious target of 150 million annual visitors by 2030. With new international routes expanding the Kingdom’s aviation footprint, Saudi Arabia is not only attracting leisure tourists but also positioning itself as a major global hub for air travel.
A crucial component of Saudi Arabia’s strategy has been the introduction of a 96-hour digital stopover visa in 2023. This visa allows travelers on international flights to enter the Kingdom for up to four days, providing ample time for Umrah pilgrimages, visits to cultural sites, and exploration of Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes. This policy has enabled the Kingdom to maximize its airport traffic, converting layovers into significant economic activity across the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The success of the UAE, particularly Dubai, has set a precedent for other GCC countries to follow. Dubai’s airport, one of the busiest in the world, has become a key player in converting transit passengers into tourists. The city offers a range of curated stopover packages that include hotel stays, cultural experiences, and entertainment options, allowing visitors to explore the city’s landmarks even during a short layover.
Abu Dhabi and Doha have adopted similar strategies, with Qatar positioning itself as a leading stopover destination. Qatar Airways offers a variety of stopover packages that include accommodations, transportation, and city tours, making it easy for passengers to extend their stays and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. Saudi Arabia’s digital stopover visa further complements these efforts, giving travelers more opportunities to explore while in transit.
The key to success for all these destinations lies in the smooth and seamless transit experience. Fast-track entry processes, intuitive airport layouts, and efficient airport-to-city transport options are critical in ensuring that travelers can make the most of their time. The more frictionless the transition from flight to city exploration, the more likely passengers are to leave the airport and engage in tourism activities.
A successful destination is not just about tourism attractions but also about creating an integrated experience that spans the entire journey. From trip planning and booking to arrival and departure, every aspect of the traveler’s experience must be carefully coordinated. In the GCC, this means close collaboration between tourism authorities, airports, airlines, transport providers, and experience operators.
For developers like Red Sea Global, which is spearheading the creation of next-generation destinations in Saudi Arabia, the focus is on designing tourism environments that appeal to global travelers. This means crafting spaces that are not only accessible but also provide meaningful experiences that resonate with visitors, whether they’re here for a day or a week.
The shift from airports as mere transit hubs to integral parts of the destination brand is a fundamental change in how the GCC is approaching tourism. By positioning airports as key components of the visitor experience, countries in the region are building world-class travel gateways that draw travelers into their cities and cultures. Investments in cutting-edge airport facilities, such as digital wayfinding and streamlined services, help ensure that travelers have a smooth and pleasant transition from flight to exploration.
The unified GCC tourist visa, coupled with investments in sustainable infrastructure, walkable districts, and waterfront developments, will further strengthen the region’s tourism appeal. As a result, airports are transforming from simple points of departure into economic engines that drive tourism spending, create jobs, and contribute to the long-term diversification of the region’s economy.
The transformation of GCC airports into tourism gateways is a clear reflection of the region’s broader economic diversification strategy. By capitalizing on stopover tourism, GCC nations are not only turning airports into bustling hubs of economic activity but also enhancing their global appeal as travel destinations. With investments in seamless transit experiences, unified visa systems, and integrated tourism offerings, the Gulf is positioning itself as a key player in the future of international tourism. This approach will continue to drive economic growth, create jobs, and provide visitors with unique travel experiences that extend beyond the airport terminal.
The post Saudi Arabia Alongside UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait Lead GCC Tourism Growth by Turning Airports into Multi-Country Stopover Destinations appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, will be leading a conference on tourism resilience in Nairobi, Kenya, from February 16 to 18, 2026. This conference is a collaboration between the Government of Kenya, Kenyatta University, and the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) – Eastern Africa. The purpose of the conference is to gather major players from around the world in order to discuss the interconnected challenges currently facing the tourism industry.
The conference will address the rapid changes in the industry as a result of climate change, cyber-attacks, misinformation, and other pressures. The forum will discuss the recovery and ongoing competitiveness of tourism destinations and provide insight to the industry on how to make a tourism system more flexible to modern challenges.
The Importance of Resilience in the Tourism Sector
Tourism is a broad, ever-changing industry that impacts climate and sustainability on a global level, but several factors challenge its demand and sustainability. One of the most pressing issues is climate shocks, such as extreme weather and rising sea levels. In addition, the tourism industry is facing rising chances of cyber closures, industry misinformation, and systemic failures, all of which can take the tourism industry offline faster than damage assessments can be done. The global tourism industry must develop feedback mechanisms that allow the industry to weather shocks and recover quickly.
The organizers of this conference will assess and discuss the impacts of developed policies, investment plans, crises, and technology in the tourism industry in conjunction with predicting and assessing the readiness of the workforce in order to create frameworks of tourism resilience that will prepare the industry to withstand all obstacles. The conference will also focus on the growing public-private partnerships that are critical for the development of global tourism sustainability.
How Jamaica is Influencing Global Tourism Resilience
As the lead for the GTRCMC, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, believes the foundation of any successful, sustainable, and long-term global tourism strategy must include the concept of tourism resilience. As co-chair and founder of the Center, Bartlett believes that competitiveness is the new reality for tourism, and resilience is the new relevance. In the Center, Bartlett and his team have built the most sophisticated and comprehensive resilience, recovery, and sustainable growth frameworks for destinations and organizations.
Bartlett is an expert on the impact of resilience on tourism and the challenges within the global tourism ecosystem that the industry is currently facing, and he offers actionable pathways toward overcoming the challenges. The future of tourism resilience will be encapsulated in three definitional pillars: competitiveness, systems, and global. These pillars will provide a bottom-line orientation for the tourism industry that is centered on the continuous evolution of the industry.
The Role of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre
The GTRCMC has helped the world learn about resilience for the first time when it comes to the tourism sector. With the help of Professor Lloyd Waller, the center has created useful strategies and training materials for tourism stakeholders on the construction of resilient systems. The center has also initiated the establishment of regional centers and public-private partnerships to augment the global tourism ecosystem.
The GTRCMC has focused on the establishment of resilience as a new discipline for the tourism industry. It has helped equip destinations with the tools to withstand or lose everything and the help to recover from it. International stakeholders and experts will continue to focus on building resilience in tourism with the help of GTRCMC at the conference in Kenya.
Global Tourism Resilience Day: A Call for Action
The conference will culminate on February 17, 2026, with Global Tourism Resilience Day. This day will feature Bartlett’s keynote address under the theme “A Call for Resilience: Many Nations, One Africa – An African Tourism Vision.” In his address, Bartlett will stress the need for building systems of resilience that go beyond hope and preparedness, emphasizing the need for action to determine the future of tourism.
The keynote address will serve as a call for a collaborative effort among the nations to promote a more resilient tourism industry that can respond to the changes in the world. Bartlett will especially resonate with the African countries that are looking to advance and diversify their tourism offerings. The conference will address the specific challenges that Africa’s rich and diverse tourism offerings, from cultural heritage to natural resources, face.
Modern Challenges in Tourism
This conference will aim to address modern challenges associated with tourism. The challenges have many features that are fast-paced and interconnected. The traditional approach to damage assessment is insufficient for these rapid dangers. Therefore, the conference will look for new techniques to properly assess, respond to, and lessen the potential disruption from things like climate change, cybersecurity issues, and misinformation.
This conference is also aimed at fostering a new approach to working with governments, the private sector, and international organizations when it comes to tourism. This new approach will hopefully create a tourism system that is able to safeguard the credibility of tourism destinations and, in the event of a crisis, the system will allow destinations to recover quickly and provide travelers with excellent service.
Conclusion: A System for the Future of Tourism
The tourism resilience conference taking place in Kenya is an example of the challenges within the tourism and hospitality sector. Challenges such as the one mentioned above are what are influencing Hon. Edmund Bartlett of Jamaica to address these issues with focus, effort, and practicality. These challenges need to be dealt with urgency and, in a collaborative manner, for the tourism sector to be sustainable and competitive.
With the conference approaching, the tourism industry is ready to pick up useful information that will assist the industry in dealing with the modern challenges of the time. With the new currency being resilient in tourism, experts from all parts of the world will be able to create systems that will manage, survive, and grow in the changing global context.
The post How Jamaica Is Shaping The Future Of Travel Resilience At Kenya’s Major Tourism Conference appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The landscape of US aviation is currently being tested as a significant travel conundrum unfolds at one of Florida’s primary hubs. Operation efficiency has been noticeably hampered at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, where a high volume of flight disruptions has been recorded. According to the latest operational reports, a total of 25 cancellations and 158 delays have been documented today, leaving hundreds of passengers to navigate a complex and evolving situation within the terminal walls. This situation impacts several major carriers across the US aviation landscape. Spirit Airlines currently faces the heaviest burden. Meanwhile, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines are also managing multiple flight interruptions for their passengers. Despite the current backlog, airline staff continue to prioritize safety and rebooking efforts. Understanding these figures helps passengers prepare for the evolving conditions at the airport today.
The facility at Fort Lauderdale has been identified as the primary site of these operational hurdles. As a critical gateway for both domestic US transit and international Caribbean routes, the stability of this airport is vital for the seamless flow of the regional travel economy. Today, however, the departure boards remain illuminated with the cautionary colors of rescheduled and terminated flights.
The 25 total cancellations and 158 delays reported signify a substantial percentage of the daily schedule being hindered. For the US passenger, the environment inside the airport is defined by long queues at customer service kiosks and a heightened reliance on mobile notifications. The logistical pressure placed upon the infrastructure of Fort Lauderdale is evident as ground crews and gate agents manage the overflow of travelers whose original itineraries have been interrupted.
The burden of these disruptions is distributed across several major carriers, with some bearing a more significant portion of the operational weight than others.
Spirit Airlines has been noted as the most heavily affected entity in this report. The carrier has seen 18 of its flights cancelled and 44 of its scheduled services delayed. Given Spirit’s large footprint in the Fort Lauderdale region, these figures represent a considerable portion of the total airport-wide disruption.
Other major US carriers are also navigating these challenges. American Airlines has reported 3 cancellations and 6 delays, while Delta Air Lines is currently managing 2 cancellations and 6 delays. The impact is further felt by United Airlines, which has recorded 1 cancellation and 1 delay. Additionally, Southwest Airlines— a major player in domestic travel —has seen 1 cancellation and a significant 18 delays.
Beyond these specific figures, delays were being experienced by several other Airlines, like JetBlue, Bahamasair, Western Air, Allegiant Air, Air Canada, WestJet and more. While numbers vary by airline, the collective result is a fragmented schedule that affects a wide demographic of the flying public.
The ripple effects of these cancellations and delays might extend beyond the airport perimeter and into the local economy. Fort Lauderdale is a city whose heartbeat is synchronized with the arrival of tourists and business professionals. When travel is stalled at the airport level, the local hospitality sector often experiences immediate feedback. Hotel vacancies may be impacted by late arrivals and scheduled events or cruises departing from nearby Port Everglades may see a decrease in punctual attendees. The reputation of the region as a reliable destination for US vacationers is tied to the efficiency of its transport hubs. While the specific cause of these disruptions remains within the internal logs of the airlines, the visibility of 183 total affected flights creates a narrative of uncertainty for those currently visiting or planning to visit the area.
For the individuals currently caught in this travel conundrum at Fort Lauderdale, several professional recommendations are being highlighted. It is advised that all passengers maintain a constant connection with their respective airline’s mobile application to receive the most immediate updates on gate changes or new departure times.
In the event of a cancellation, passengers are encouraged to understand their rights under US Department of Transportation guidelines regarding rebooking and refunds. Specifically:
The focus for airport authorities and airline staff remains on clearing the backlog of the 158 delayed flights and ensuring that the passengers affected by the 25 cancellations are provided with the necessary support to reach their final destinations.
-The information provided is sourced from FlightAware.
The post Fort Lauderdale International Airport Amid Travel Conundrum as US Passengers Deals with 25 Flight Cancellations and 158 Delays by Spirit, American, Delta Air Lines and others, New Update appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Tianjin Oriental International Cruise has announced the delay in the maiden voyage of the company’s Vision from mid-February 2026 to March 3, 2026. The reason behind the delay in the maiden voyage is the additional refurbishments and technical upgrades that the ship is undergoing at the Qingdao Beihai Heavy Industry Shipyard. The ship has been undergoing these improvements since it arrived in China in late 2025. This move is a clever strategy to ensure that the ship will meet the expectations of the target market, which includes Chinese travelers, given the expansion of the cruise tourism industry in China.
Originally built in 2004 as Costa Magica for Costa Cruises, the 105,000-ton Vision was acquired by Tianjin Oriental International Cruise in November 2025. The extensive restoration includes upgrades to passenger areas and mechanical systems, alongside interior changes to better cater to Chinese passengers. With an emphasis on family-friendly spaces, the ship will also offer additional dining options to enhance the onboard experience. These updates are part of a broader strategy to elevate China’s cruise tourism sector, responding to the growing demand for accessible, high-quality cruises close to home.
The Vision will set sail from Tianjin, offering six-day, five-night itineraries to South Korea, including stops in Busan, Jeju, and Incheon. The focus on visa-free travel for Chinese passengers makes these cruises a convenient and attractive option for Chinese families. The Vision will provide an opportunity for first-time cruisers to experience the ease and luxury of cruise holidays, tapping into a growing domestic tourism market.
This shift towards shorter cruises is part of the broader growth of the cruise tourism market in China, where travelers are increasingly looking for short-haul options that offer a mix of convenience and luxury. The addition of multi-generational family spaces and all-inclusive packages further cements the Vision’s position as a key player in catering to a wide range of travelers seeking accessible vacation options.
The maiden voyage of the Vision is part of the larger trend in China’s cruise tourism growth. As Chinese cruise tourism continues to expand, the demand for short-haul sailings has surged, particularly for family-friendly and convenient options. With the growing number of middle-class families and first-time cruise passengers, the cruise industry is seeing a shift in preferences towards regional cruises that require less travel time and offer a mix of cultural exploration and leisure activities.
By offering three to seven-night itineraries in easily accessible regions like the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Mediterranean, the Vision is tapping into the growing demand for cruise tourism in China. This shift is particularly impactful for destinations like South Korea, which has seen an increase in Chinese tourists seeking convenient and enriching travel experiences. As cruise lines expand their offerings in the region, China is poised to become one of the world’s largest cruise tourism markets in the coming years.
The growing cruise market in China is expected to have a significant economic impact, with a rise in demand for not only cruise ships but also shore excursions, local services, and port infrastructure. The Vision’s deployment is expected to create new tourism-related job opportunities in Tianjin and the Gulf region, driving growth in hospitality, tourism services, and event management. Additionally, it will spur demand for high-quality amenities, including restaurants, spas, and local attractions, all of which will benefit from the influx of cruise tourists.
This growth in cruise tourism will also likely encourage further investment in China’s cruise infrastructure, including the development of new ports and the expansion of tourism facilities that cater to the specific needs of luxury cruise passengers. As the country continues to develop its cruise tourism offerings, it will become a central player in the global cruise tourism industry, attracting travelers from across the world.
The delay in the maiden voyage of the Vision reminds us of the dynamic growth in the Chinese market of cruise tourism. As the number of tourists increases in regional cruises with shorter travel durations and family-friendly facilities, the demand for luxury cruises in the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Mediterranean areas will continue to increase. By specializing in accessible luxury cruises, Tianjin Oriental International Cruise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the growth of the Chinese market of cruise tourism.
Tianjin Oriental International Cruise, in the process of expanding the Chinese market, the Vision will be at the forefront in the growth of the Chinese market of cruise tourism. The company will provide even more convenient, luxurious, and family-friendly cruises to the Chinese tourists who are eager to discover new destinations. The alliance between Int2Cruises and Aroya Cruises is a reflection of the dynamic growth in the Chinese market of cruise tourism.
The post Tianjin Oriental International Cruise Delays Vision’s Maiden Voyage to March 2026, Boosting Cruise Tourism with its New Itineraries in China appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
For over a decade, the United States has served as a sanctuary for those fleeing the unimaginable hardships of the conflict in Yemen. Today, that safety net has been officially retracted, leaving thousands of hardworking individuals and their families in a state of profound uncertainty and fear. As the sun rose over the capital this morning, the realization began to sink in for many that the lives they have meticulously built in America—their jobs, their homes, and their children’s schools—now come with a 60-day expiration date. There is a deep, human ache in the community as fathers and mothers look at their US-born children, wondering how they can return to a homeland that the very same government still labels as too dangerous for its own citizens to visit.
The Breaking Policy: A Swift End to a Decade of Protection On February 13, 2026, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the official termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen. This humanitarian program, which was first established in 2015 to protect civilians from the devastation of the Yemeni civil war, will officially wind down in just two months. According to official bulletins from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the protection will cease exactly 60 days after the notice hits the Federal Register, likely by mid-April 2026. This move follows a series of similar revocations for nations like Haiti and Ethiopia, signaling a resolute shift in the nation’s humanitarian stance.
The Rationale: Prioritizing National Security and “America First” In a statement that has sent shockwaves through immigration advocacy circles, Secretary Noem explained that after a comprehensive review of the current conditions on the ground and consultations with relevant federal agencies, it was determined that Yemen no longer meets the legal criteria required for TPS. She noted that allowing Yemeni beneficiaries to remain in the country temporarily is now considered contrary to the national interest. Noem emphasized that the administration is returning the program to its original temporary intent, prioritizing national security and placing the interests of the American public above all else. This “America First” approach marks a definitive break from the historical precedent of renewing such protections indefinitely.
Exit Bonuses and Self-Deportation: The “CBP Home” Strategy In a unique and controversial twist, the Department of Homeland Security is not just ordering a departure—it is incentivizing it. The government has introduced a “self-deportation” package for those who choose to leave voluntarily within the 60-day window. By using the newly updated CBP Home mobile application, departing nationals can report their exit and claim a series of benefits. These include a complimentary one-way plane ticket back to Yemen and a $2,600 “exit bonus” intended to help with reintegration. The administration has even suggested that choosing this path could lead to potential future opportunities for legal immigration, though critics remain skeptical of such promises.
Travel Conflict: Safety Warnings vs. Deportation Orders The decision has highlighted a glaring contradiction in US foreign policy. While the DHS claims that conditions in Yemen have improved sufficiently for its nationals to return, the U.S. State Department maintains a strict “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory for the country. This warning, last updated in late 2025, cites extreme risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the presence of landmines. Human rights groups point out that it is ethically inconsistent to force civilians back to a war zone that US government employees are strictly forbidden from entering. Despite these concerns, the DHS has warned that those who remain past the deadline without a valid legal status will be subject to arrest, detention, and formal deportation, which often carries a ten-year ban on returning to the US.
Legal Battles on the Horizon The approximately 4,000 Yemeni nationals currently protected by TPS are not without hope. Legal advocates have already begun filing challenges in federal courts, drawing parallels to recent judicial stays that protected Haitian migrants from similar orders. The Yemeni Embassy in Washington has confirmed that it is actively working with the community to provide legal guidance and support. However, with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals recently upholding other TPS terminations, the window for a legal “save” is narrowing quickly, leaving many to wonder if their American dream is truly coming to an end.
A Community Caught Between Two Worlds As we look at the empty chairs at dinner tables tonight, we must remember that behind every “termination notice” is a person whose world has just been turned upside down. The resilience of the Yemeni community in the United States has been a quiet but powerful force, contributing to local economies and enriching the cultural tapestry of our cities. To be told that your presence is “contrary to the national interest” after years of peaceful contribution is a heavy burden to carry. As the 60-day countdown begins, the hope remains that a middle ground can be found—one that honors the rule of law without sacrificing the basic human compassion that has always been the hallmark of a great nation. For now, the people of Yemen in America are left to navigate a path that leads back to a home they barely recognize, holding onto the hope that the doors of sanctuary haven’t been slammed shut forever.
The post Paradox in DC? US Ends Protection for Yemen While Keeping a “Do Not Travel” Warning! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
If you want to get a real taste of what Ireland is all about, Ambassador Cruise Line is planning a 3-night Irish Mini-Break cruise on the Ambition from April 12, 2026. The cruise is departing from Portsmouth, England, and stopping in Belfast and Dun Laoghaire (near Dublin). Enjoy the cruise if you want to travel back in time to experience the history and music of Ireland, especially the famous Irish band, The Dubliners.
Aboard the cruise, guests can experience the theater performance “Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners,” showcasing the band’s legacy with live singing, storytelling, and videos.
The Theatrical Production of the Mini-Break Cruise Irish Experience
An important part of this cruise experience is the performance of Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners. The show is based on O’Donoghue’s Pub, where The Dubliners began their music journey in 1962, and it features great live music, storytelling, and video displays that capture the legacy of The Dubliners.
An all-Irish band will perform some of the most well-known songs of the band, like “Whisky in the Jar” and “Rocky Road to Dublin”, and others. These songs and the story of The Dubliners 50 year career will tell the band’s story of their fandom and contribution to Irish Folk music and Ireland’s cultural story. \n\nThis show is intended for the audience to have an experience rather than just watch a show. The ups and downs throughout The Dubliners’ career will be showcased. The impact The Dubliners had on Irish music and their culture will be celebrated, along with the friendships that made them great. Being in the center of the ship for this show will enable the audience to connect with the band the most. The production and artistry in the show will also be a celebration of Ireland and the band\’s impact on the world.
Dining Experience on St. Patrick’s Day
Ambassador Cruise Line has created a themed cruise and is offering an Irish St. Patrick’s Day Dinner where guests can try traditional Irish food. Onboard the Ambition, guests can try some Irish-themed dishes such as Seared Fillet of Wild Irish Salmon with Dill Mousseline Sauce, Vegetable Stew with Guinness Stout, and an Irish dessert, Chocolate Cake with Baileys.
In offering this dinner, the aim is to provide Irish hospitality and represent an element of Irish culinary tradition that is in harmony with the cruise’s musical theme. The use of traditional dishes and locally sourced produce gives a reflection of Ireland’s rich culinary heritage as a menu focus.
While guests eat, they can enjoy the lovely Irish cheer and decor. The Irish food and ambiance on the Ambition will give guests the true Irish experience while cruising.
Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Tour
Along with the enjoyable cultural experience onboard, the Irish Mini-Break cruise allows guests to visit Dublin, the most historic and culturally significant city in Ireland. Walking through Dublin’s vibrant pubs and rich literary history is a joy for every traveler. Be it just visiting the historical landmarks like Dublin Castle and Trinity College, or grabbing a pint in one of Dublin’s legendary pubs, there’s an incredible amount of variety to experience while in Dublin.
Along with Dublin, the cruise also visits Dun Laoghaire, a beautiful little coastal town with wonderful views and incredible seafood. Dun Laoghaire is a much calmer destination than Dublin, so it is the perfect destination to simply sit and relax and enjoy the freshly caught seafood.
This short journey is an opportunity to experience a bit of the wonderful history, hospitality, and culture of these two great cities, making the trip feel much longer than it actually is.
Pricing and Availability for Cruises
The Irish Mini-Break cruise has several pricing options. Supplementing the cruise’s immersive Irish-themed experience with full board accommodation, the Saver Fare starts off at £249 per person. If you want to go with someone, Ambassador Fares are positioned higher at £423.99 per person. This price includes two people sharing an inside cabin and provides added services and amenities to make cruising better.
Every guest is guaranteed the amazing experience of live performances, authentic Irish cuisine, and leisure to go to Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. This cruise could be an excellent choice if you want to experience the full package of Ireland.
Conclusion: Embarking on the Amazing Irish Culture & Music
The Ambassador Cruise Line’s Irish Mini-Break cruise on the Ambition is a unique experience highlighting all of Ireland’s music, history, and food. Guests will enjoy the amazing sights and sounds of one of Ireland’s most famous folk bands while watching Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners. Each guest will also enjoy an Irish-themed St. Patrick’s Day dinner and have the chance to visit the beautiful, cultural cities of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. This cruise is exactly what someone needs to experience the amazing culture of Ireland.
With great entertainment, Tasty Irish dishes & the picturesque towns of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire, this cruise is the ideal option for travelers looking for a short and unforgettable experience. The cruise is inviting, and the price matches the value. The experience is enriching and is focused on the wonderful and lovely spirit of Ireland.
The post Ambassador Cruise Line Brings Irish Spirit Aboard With Dubliners Play And St. Patrick’s Day Dinner appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Spain joins Poland, Canada, China, South Korea, and Japan in propelling Vienna to an extraordinary tourism success in 2025, with the city reaching over 20 million overnight stays and achieving record-breaking revenue. These countries played a crucial role in driving the surge of international visitors, contributing significantly to Vienna’s impressive growth. With Spain emerging as one of the top source markets, alongside the consistent contributions of Poland, Canada, and others, Vienna has solidified its reputation as a premier European destination. This influx of global travelers has not only boosted the city’s tourism figures but also paved the way for sustained growth in the years ahead, establishing a new standard for the future of the city’s tourism industry.
Vienna’s hospitality sector is also on track to break revenue records, with accommodation earnings reaching €1.254 billion from January to November 2025. This represents a 4% year-on-year increase, with November alone contributing €131 million, reflecting a 10% growth compared to the same period in 2024. These strong figures suggest that Vienna will surpass the previous high of €1.4 billion set in 2024, marking another year of exceptional economic performance in tourism.
International visitors played a major role in this growth, accounting for 83% of overnight stays, up from 82% in the previous year. Germany remains the top source market, contributing 3.54 million nights, followed by Austria with 3.38 million nights. The United States secured the third spot, generating 1.26 million nights, and leading in revenue from five-star hotel bookings. Other countries showing robust growth include Spain, Poland, Canada, China, South Korea, and Japan. Although some Asian markets are still recovering from the pandemic’s effects, their continued rise reflects the city’s strong global appeal.
Vienna’s hotel landscape has expanded significantly to meet this growing demand. The city now boasts 450 hotels, offering around 84,600 beds. Roughly 60% of Vienna’s accommodation capacity is in the four- and five-star categories, reflecting the increasing preference for high-end options among visitors. The city also now features 26 luxury hotels, including the newly opened Mandarin Oriental, adding to the city’s upscale offerings.
Vienna’s tourism success isn’t just about numbers—it’s also about maintaining quality and sustainability. The city’s growing number of luxury accommodations is a direct result of its strategy to attract high-value tourists seeking unique, high-end experiences. This focus on quality is complemented by a growing emphasis on sustainability, as the city’s tourism sector adopts practices that minimize environmental impact and preserve its historical charm.
Looking ahead to 2026, Vienna’s tourism prospects remain strong, with a calendar packed with major events. Nearly 50 large congresses and corporate meetings are already planned, which will bring a significant influx of international delegates. The highly anticipated Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled for 2026, is also expected to draw considerable attention and further boost the city’s tourism numbers.
Vienna’s tourism growth is part of the broader ‘Optimum Tourism’ strategy, which prioritizes sustainable development and long-term growth. The strategy focuses on balancing economic growth with the preservation of the city’s cultural and environmental heritage, ensuring that Vienna remains a top-tier destination for future generations. By encouraging eco-friendly tourism practices and expanding public transport options, the city is setting an example of how modern tourism can coexist with sustainability.
This year’s record-breaking performance is a reflection of the city’s ability to adapt and innovate. Vienna’s hotel and hospitality industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of challenges, and the strong growth in international visitation is a testament to the city’s enduring appeal. Entrepreneurs and employees within the visitor economy have played a pivotal role in driving this success, ensuring that the city remains attractive to global travelers.
With Vienna’s increasing popularity, the tourism sector is becoming more integrated into the city’s overall economic growth. The expansion of the city’s tourism infrastructure, coupled with a diverse offering of events, accommodations, and services, ensures that Vienna will continue to attract visitors for years to come. By focusing on high-quality tourism and sustainability, Vienna is positioning itself for long-term growth while staying true to its identity as a cultural and historical hub.
As the city gears up for 2026, it remains focused on ensuring that tourism is not only profitable but also responsible. Vienna’s commitment to balancing growth with sustainability is crucial in maintaining its status as a world-class destination. With more events, a growing international market, and a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism, Vienna is well on its way to maintaining its leadership as one of Europe’s most beloved cities for tourists.
Spain joins Poland, Canada, China, South Korea, and Japan in driving Vienna’s record-breaking tourism success in 2025, with over 20 million overnight stays and historic revenue growth, solidifying the city’s position as a top European destination.
The tourism sector’s success in 2025 represents just the beginning of Vienna’s journey toward becoming an even more influential global destination. With its strategy in place and a focus on sustainability and quality, Vienna is prepared for a bright and prosperous future.
The post Spain Joins Poland, Canada, China, South Korea, and Japan in Propelling Vienna to Record-Breaking Tourism Success in 2025 : What You Need To know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport (DMM) has unveiled its newly redesigned Plaza Premium Lounge, a significant upgrade aimed at enhancing the travel experience. This newly refurbished space is set to meet the growing demands of modern travellers while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives. The redesign focuses on passenger comfort, service excellence, and a holistic premium lounge experience. It reflects the country’s wider efforts to elevate its tourism infrastructure as part of a broader economic diversification strategy.
This transformation goes beyond cosmetic changes. It is a comprehensive rebuild, designed to create a premium environment that caters to the needs of both business and leisure travellers. The lounge’s upgraded design and features align with the increasing expectations for high-quality airport services, especially as the country looks to attract more international tourists and business visitors.
The Plaza Premium Lounge now spans 1,067 sqm and offers 262 seats divided into thoughtfully curated areas for different traveller needs. These zones cater to relaxation, work, family time, and premium dining. The lounge’s design integrates contemporary aesthetics with traditional Saudi heritage, creating an inviting atmosphere that celebrates both modernity and local culture.
With the growing demand for seamless travel experiences, these improvements are expected to enhance tourism. As international visitors come to Saudi Arabia, they will experience top-tier services at King Fahd International Airport. The new lounge will provide a welcoming environment, where they can relax or get work done before their flights. This significant upgrade ensures that Dammam remains competitive in the global tourism and aviation markets.
The Plaza Premium Lounge is packed with high-end amenities that cater to the diverse needs of modern travellers:
Dining is another highlight of the new Plaza Premium Lounge. Passengers can expect a range of live cooking stations, offering fresh, high-quality meals prepared right in front of them. The lounge also features a coffee bar, specialty drinks, and buffet options that cater to different tastes. These food and beverage choices are designed to provide a relaxed pre-flight dining experience.
The lounge’s wellness spa-style amenities further enhance the overall experience. For tourists seeking relaxation before their flight, these wellness facilities are a welcome addition. Whether it’s a peaceful dining experience or a moment of quiet reflection, the Plaza Premium Lounge meets the diverse needs of travellers with style.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and boost the tourism sector by drawing millions of international visitors. With this new lounge design, King Fahd International Airport is positioning itself as a key hub for both business and leisure travel. The airport’s commitment to providing world-class services reflects the broader efforts to make Saudi Arabia a top destination for tourists.
The modernized Plaza Premium Lounge directly contributes to the goal of attracting more international tourists. By offering high-end services and a premium airport experience, the lounge will be a key touchpoint for visitors to Saudi Arabia. These improvements also reflect the country’s focus on creating seamless, comfortable travel experiences for passengers, which is critical for boosting tourism and supporting the local economy.
As global tourism continues to grow, the Plaza Premium Lounge at King Fahd International Airport is expected to play a major role in making Dammam a more attractive destination for international travellers. The lounge is not just a space for waiting; it’s part of the broader effort to enhance the visitor experience in Saudi Arabia.
The newly redesigned Plaza Premium Lounge is a sign of things to come at King Fahd International Airport. As the airport continues to expand and improve its facilities, passengers can expect even more innovative services designed to enhance their travel experience. These changes align with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism goals, positioning the country as a global leader in travel hospitality.
Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia will now have a taste of the country’s hospitality and service excellence as soon as they step off the plane. With the growth of international travel to Dammam, King Fahd International Airport is setting the stage for a new era in tourism in Saudi Arabia.
The post King Fahd International Airport Redesigned Plaza Premium Lounge Enhances Travel Experience for Tourists: All You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Star Cruises faced severe backlash on 14 February 2026 after its highly anticipated Star Voyager cruise from Hong Kong to Sanya, Hainan was abruptly cancelled due to a technical fault. Hundreds of excited passengers had gathered at Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal for the three-day, two-night voyage, only to be informed late Friday evening of the unforeseen technical issue. Passengers had waited for hours with limited communication, adding to their frustration.
The cruise cancellation left many passengers stranded, including frequent cruisers and first-timers, who were deeply dissatisfied with the lack of clarity and preparation. Some elderly travellers were forced to stand for long periods due to inadequate seating. A disappointed traveller, who had taken annual leave specifically for this trip, was forced to scramble for a last-minute hotel room at great expense. The cancellation cast a shadow over Hong Kong’s cruise tourism reputation as a destination.
In response to the chaos, Star Cruises immediately announced full refunds for all affected passengers. Additionally, the company offered an alternative: passengers could rebook a cruise of equal or greater value before 30 August 2026, with no additional fare to pay, even if the new cruise was more expensive.
Those opting for a rebooked cruise would also be upgraded to premium cabins at no extra cost. This generous move was seen as a way for Star Cruises to salvage its reputation and maintain customer loyalty despite the disruption. While this compensation is a step towards mending the situation, many customers felt the damage had already been done.
Despite the hiccup, Star Voyager resumed its scheduled itinerary the next day, set to depart on a three-day voyage to Sanya, Hainan. The technical issue was resolved after the necessary checks and tests, and the ship set sail as originally planned.
Reports from the scene suggested smoke emitting from the ship’s funnel, which a marine engineer attributed to engine testing and routine safety checks rather than a fault. This news might have provided some reassurance to passengers planning to travel on future cruises with Star Cruises. However, for those impacted by the earlier disruption, this may not have been enough to redeem the situation.
The cancellation of the Star Voyager’s Valentine’s Day sailing raises serious concerns about the reliability of Hong Kong as a key cruise hub. For a city that has long relied on its bustling port to attract international travellers, an incident like this casts doubt on the industry’s ability to deliver seamless and timely experiences for tourists. Passengers have shared their frustrations online, voicing their displeasure about the poor communication and lack of preparation on Star Cruises’ part. This could affect future cruise tourism, especially during the upcoming holiday seasons when demand peaks.
The Hong Kong tourism industry, already facing the pressure of post-pandemic recovery, cannot afford to lose confidence from international travellers. A single cancellation of a major cruise, especially one coinciding with Valentine’s Day, is a blow to the sector’s potential. This disruption may deter future visitors from booking cruises that are bound to Hong Kong, impacting both cruise operators and local tourism-related businesses, such as hotels and retail outlets.
While Star Cruises has made a commendable effort to offer refunds and upgrades, the long-term impact of this incident will likely resonate in Hong Kong’s tourism economy. With such cancellations, tourists may hesitate to invest in future bookings, concerned about possible disruptions and poor management of their travel experience.
Tourism experts argue that consistency and transparent communication are vital for Hong Kong to retain its position as a leading global cruise destination. If the cruise industry here fails to meet high expectations, travellers might look elsewhere for reliable and enjoyable experiences, which would be detrimental to Hong Kong’s tourism recovery.
The Star Voyager cancellation has not only disrupted the travel plans of many passengers but also raised questions about Hong Kong’s ability to handle such large-scale operations. The cruise company’s offering of refunds and free upgrades is a positive step, but it cannot fully erase the negative impact caused by the poorly handled communication. The travel industry in Hong Kong, especially the cruise sector, will need to work hard to rebuild trust and ensure such issues don’t affect tourism in the future.
The post Star Voyager Cruise Cancellation in Hong Kong Hits Passengers Hard Amid Technical Fault: All You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Narwar Lakefront Resort, a premium lakeside destination in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, has announced an exciting expansion. With the addition of 21 new rooms and lakefront cottages, the resort now boasts a total of 41 keys, effectively doubling its capacity. This expansion is set to transform the region’s tourism landscape, offering new opportunities for both luxury and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
The resort is located in a picturesque setting along the Sindh River, near the Madikheda Dam, providing guests with a serene view of nature. It’s also close to major attractions like the Madhav Tiger Reserve and the Madhav National Park, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. The resort’s location offers more than just beautiful scenery; it promises a blend of luxury and local culture that appeals to a wide variety of travelers.
The resort’s expansion involves the addition of 21 lakefront cottages and rooms, bringing the total accommodation to 41 keys. The expanded inventory includes a mix of premium rooms, villas, and cottages, each offering guests the ultimate comfort and relaxation.
The rooms have been designed with modern interiors and a focus on nature integration. Guests will enjoy features like private balconies with breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery. Additionally, the rooms come equipped with king-size beds, workspaces, and in-room amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both business and leisure travelers.
Narwar Lakefront Resort’s expansion is more than just about increasing the number of rooms. It reflects a strategic commitment to boosting tourism in Madhya Pradesh, a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The resort’s management has positioned it as a destination-driven hospitality experience. With the added capacity, it can now host larger groups, making it ideal for destination weddings, corporate retreats, and curated travel experiences.
Navneet Sharma, CEO and Managing Director of Lion Group, the parent company behind the resort, emphasized that the expansion aligns with the group’s vision of creating a meaningful hospitality experience that is rooted in nature. Sharma explained that the aim was to build a destination that not only attracts guests but also creates lasting memories for visitors.
The resort places a strong emphasis on providing personalized experiences. The expansion of the resort allows the staff to focus on delivering larger but still personal services. Whether it’s a luxurious weekend getaway or a corporate team-building retreat, Narwar Lakefront Resort ensures each guest enjoys an exceptional stay.
The addition of the new rooms and cottages will enable the resort to serve more guests while still maintaining a high level of service. The new accommodations are designed to provide comfort, peace, and a sense of privacy, all of which are important factors for visitors seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The resort’s expansion has the potential to make a significant impact on regional tourism. With the new rooms, it can now accommodate larger tourist groups, which will likely increase the number of bookings and overnight stays in the area. This boost in tourism will also support local businesses, increase job opportunities, and enhance the overall tourism ecosystem in Shivpuri and the broader Madhya Pradesh region.
As the resort is located near key tourist attractions, its expansion is expected to draw national and international visitors, helping to position Madhya Pradesh as a luxury eco-tourism destination.
The region, known for its natural reserves, lakes, and historical sites, will undoubtedly benefit from the resort’s expansion. As a result, local vendors, transport services, and tourism-related businesses are also expected to thrive, creating a win-win situation for the economy.
Looking ahead, Narwar Lakefront Resort plans to continue building on its success. With the addition of premium accommodations, the resort aims to appeal to high-end travelers while still offering a comfortable stay for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The resort’s expansion ensures that it remains a key player in the growing tourism sector of Madhya Pradesh. Whether you are planning a destination wedding, a corporate retreat, or simply want to relax and reconnect with nature, Narwar Lakefront Resort promises to provide an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, the expansion of Narwar Lakefront Resort is a significant step forward for luxury tourism in Madhya Pradesh. With its stunning lakeside location, modern accommodations, and strong focus on nature and personalization, the resort is well-positioned to boost the region’s tourism sector. As the resort continues to grow, it will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of tourism in central India.
The expansion is a perfect example of how strategic investments in hospitality can lead to sustainable growth, benefiting not only the business but also the community and the local economy. The resort’s future looks bright, and with its new facilities, it is sure to become one of the top luxury destinations in Madhya Pradesh.
The post Narwar Lakefront Resort in Shivpuri Expands to Boost Tourism and Regional Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
WhatsApp has pushed a new beta update for Android, version 2.26.6.9, through the Google Play Beta Program. This update doesn’t have big changes yet, but it looks at a new feature that will make it easier to see status updates.
The new feature under testing is showing status updates in the top app bar. Right now, if you want to see who posted a status, you have to tap the profile icon or scroll through all your chats.
With this new feature, status updates from people you chat with most will appear at the top of the screen in the Chats tab. This makes it quicker to see updates without leaving your chat list.
Image via WABetaInfo
In addition to the top bar, scrolling down in the Chats tab will show a row of all contacts’ status updates. You can scroll horizontally to view them, just like in the old Status tab. Any contacts you have hidden will not appear here.
The feature is currently under development, so WhatsApp may make changes before it’s officially released. At the moment, this feature is only available in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.6.9. Regular users will not see it yet.
Once testing is done, WhatsApp plans to gradually roll out the feature to all users. This will allow people to quickly check status updates right from the Chats tab without extra steps.
The post WhatsApp Beta previews status updates in the top app bar appeared first on Sammy Fans.
If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your smartphone, Amazon has a deal you don’t want to miss. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is now available at a special discounted price, but for a limited time.
The 256GB variant of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, in the stylish Titanium Silverblue color, is originally priced at $1299.99. Right now, you can grab it for just $1045. That’s a big saving on one of Samsung’s most advanced smartphones.
This offer is exclusive to the Titanium Silverblue 256GB variant, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants huge storage for apps, photos, videos, and more.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful phone. It has a powerful Snapdragon processor for fast performance, a high-quality camera for clear photos and videos, and a bright, colorful screen. Its Titanium Silverblue color looks stylish and modern.
This is a good chance to get a premium phone at a lower price. You can get this phone on Amazon. Don’t wait too long, because this offer may not last. Grab your Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB Titanium Silverblue today and enjoy a top-quality phone at a great price.
The post Huge $255 off Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB model appeared first on Sammy Fans.
This week we found some huge discounts on foldable phones that go up to $500 off. Don’t worry, though, there are plenty of bar phones to go around if you are not a fan of foldables. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is $300 off at the moment, which makes it cheaper than the Samsung foldable at equal storage levels. The Pixel is down on performance (Tensor G5 vs. Snapdragon 8 Elite), but it does have more RAM than most Z Fold7 configurations (only the 1TB model has 16GB of RAM). The main 48MP camera on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a disappointingly small 1/2.0” sensor, which looks insufficient...
Cristiano Ronaldo has built a career on rewriting history, but now another chapter of that legacy is quietly beginning to take shape. His eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., is stepping onto the international stage with the Portugal U-16 national team, carrying a surname that guarantees global attention long before he becomes a senior professional.
At just 15 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. represents the Al-Nassr youth academy and has already experienced elite development environments across Europe and the Middle East. With Portugal’s youth setup calling him up for the 2026 Algarve Tournament, the soccer world turned its attention to a familiar name in a new generation. The intrigue peaked when he was handed his first-ever start for Portugal U-16 against the Netherlands, sparking debate and curiosity: how did he handle the pressure on his first major international stage?
Portugal’s U-16 squad called the teenager for the Algarve Tournament between February 12 and February 17, facing Japan, the Netherlands, and Germany. The tournament marks his first youth international competition on Portuguese soil, increasing the emotional significance of the moment.
In the opening match against Japan, the Selecao won 3-0, and Ronaldo Jr. came off the bench due to an injury to Rafael Cabral. He made an immediate impression, forcing a goalkeeper save and bagging an assist. Observers noted his composure and tactical awareness, a contrast to his father’s explosive youth style, suggesting a more measured and team-oriented profile.
The major milestone arrived when Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. earned his first-ever start for Portugal U-16 against the Netherlands, playing 45 minutes on the left wing. His performance, closely monitored by scouts and analysts, revealed a promising but still developing young winger.
During the lone half that he featured in, he maintained width on the left flank, stretching the Dutch defense and making diagonal runs inside. He showed awareness of space rather than simply hugging the touchline, suggesting a developing tactical understanding.
Cristiano Ronaldo Junior vs Netherlands U16 [14/2/2026]
— Ramy (@Ramy_Stats) February 14, 2026
pic.twitter.com/Lcca2GHVtZ
What’s more, his first touch looked composed, and he attempted to take defenders on with body feints rather than relying solely on pace. Ronaldo Jr. carried the ball inside and released passes into the attacking third, participating in buildup rather than forcing individual moments.
The 15-year-old winger also displayed smooth movement and moderate acceleration, comfortable receiving under pressure, but still developing explosiveness and physical strength typical for his age.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr vs Netherlands U16
— NassrXtra (@NassrXtra1) February 14, 2026
46 minutes played. pic.twitter.com/HRJbeyrmBP
Lionel Messi’s fitness has become one of the most closely monitored storylines ahead of the 2026 MLS season, as the global icon races against time to recover from a worrying pre-season injury. With Inter Miami preparing for a high-stakes opener and a packed campaign across multiple competitions, every training session and medical update is being scrutinized.
The Argentine star’s influence on the club remains unparalleled, and even a short absence could reshape the early trajectory of the season. As questions swirl about his availability for the season opener, a clearer picture is beginning to emerge behind the scenes. Inter Miami’s preparations for the new campaign were disrupted when Lionel Messi picked up a hamstring injury during a friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
The issue forced the club to postpone a scheduled pre-season friendly against Independiente del Valle, originally planned for February 14. In an official statement, the club explained: “We know how much our fans look forward to every match involving our team. We hope to see you all very soon.” The match has since been rescheduled for February 26, a move designed to allow the Argentine forward time to recover while still delivering a major event for fans.
Medical examinations confirmed that Messi suffered a muscle strain in his left hamstring, raising immediate concerns just weeks before the MLS season opener. The club emphasized that his recovery will be closely monitored and handled cautiously. The Herons stated: “Messi did not participate in training this Wednesday, Feb. 11 due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring sustained during the match against Barcelona SC in Ecuador, which has persisted since then.”
Lionel Messi vs Barcelona SC
— Ramy (@Ramy_Stats) February 8, 2026
✅ Scored the first Goal ⚽️
✅ Assisted the second Goal pic.twitter.com/wzIKKIPm4c
Inter Miami faces a demanding calendar in 2026, competing in MLS, the Leagues Cup, and the Concacaf Champions Cup. The opening of Miami Freedom Park in April also adds symbolic importance, as the new stadium represents a new era for the club and a showcase for its global superstar, who is under contract until 2028. Last season, the 38-year-old recorded 48 goal contributions, including 29 goals and 19 assists, ranking among the most productive campaigns in MLS history. His presence remains the cornerstone of Inter Miami’s sporting and commercial identity.
The chatter coming from the club’s hallways indicates that Messi’s left hamstring injury would take at least two weeks to heal, ESPN Argentina claims. While the club initially avoided setting a timeline, reports now suggest a clearer window for the Argentine’s comeback. The report adds that the expectation is that Lionel Messi could return for the rescheduled friendly on February 26.
Thus, there is cautious optimism that he could be fit for the MLS opener against LAFC on February 21 if his recovery progresses smoothly. This timing places the Argentine star in a race against the calendar, with the club weighing whether to risk him in the opening match or prioritize his fitness for the long season ahead.
Miami’s season opener against LAFC represents one of the biggest fixtures of the opening weekend, featuring two title contenders and star-studded squads. The possibility of Messi missing that match would be a significant blow, but the coaching staff remains focused on the bigger picture.
Manager Javier Mascherano and the medical team are expected to take a conservative approach, understanding that having Messi available for most of the season is more important than rushing him back for a single game. Past injuries have shown that premature returns can lead to setbacks, something the club is eager to avoid.
Harry Kane reached the remarkable milestone of 500 career goals, placing him in an exclusive group of players to achieve that mark. The England forward did it in fewer matches than Cristiano Ronaldo, though he still cannot match the pace set by Lionel Messi.
On Saturday, Bayern Munich secured a convincing 3-0 road win over Werder Bremen, strengthening their position at the top of the Bundesliga standings with a six-point lead over Borussia Dortmund. Kane played a decisive role, scoring the team’s first two goals in the opening half.
With that performance, Harry Kane became the 27th player in soccer history to reach 500 career goals, according to the IFFHS. What makes the achievement stand out is the speed at which he got there: just 743 matches, an average of 0.67 goals per game.
Not even Cristiano Ronaldo reached the milestone that quickly. Although he is currently the all-time leading scorer in soccer history, the Portuguese forward needed more matches to score his first 500 goals. He reached that mark in September 2015 while playing for Real Madrid, doing so in 753 games.
Of course, Ronaldo maintained his scoring pace afterward, and over the past 10 years he has nearly doubled that tally. CR7 now has 962 career goals and is closing in on a feat no player has ever achieved: 1,000 official goals.
When discussing the greatest scorers in soccer history, it is impossible not to mention Lionel Messi. He has gone head-to-head with Cristiano Ronaldo throughout his career and continues to do so, as he currently ranks second on the all-time scoring list and remains the other active player with a realistic chance of reaching 1,000 goals.
Messi’s greatness is also reflected in how quickly he has reached those milestones. He is the fastest player ever to score 500 official goals, achieving the feat with Barcelona in April 2016 after just 632 matches. In other words, Messi needed 111 fewer games than Kane to hit the same number.
The vast majority of Harry Kane’s 500 career goals have come at the club level. Most of them were scored with Tottenham Hotspur, where he spent the bulk of his career, netting 280 goals between 2011 and 2023. Early in his career in England, he also had brief spells with clubs such as Leyton Orient, Millwall, Norwich City and Leicester City, totaling 16 goals combined.
However, Kane’s most efficient stretch has come in Germany. Since joining Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, he has scored 126 goals in 131 matches, averaging nearly one goal per game.
All told, Kane has scored 422 goals at the club level. The remaining goals that bring him to 500 have come with the England national team. He is The Three Lions’ all-time leading scorer, with 78 goals in 122 appearances between 2015 and 2025.
Most players want to play for Real Madrid at some point in their careers. It’s common to see huge names willing to change clubs even if they are at great institutions, just like Trent Alexander-Arnold or Kylian Mbappé. Apparently, there’s now another Liverpool star who could be thinking about the idea.
The protagonist of the story is Dominik Szoboszlai. What makes it more noteworthy is that it isn’t a traditional transfer rumor that always flies around. It was Marco Rossi, the Hungarian national team manager, who told this story in an interview with WinWin, as cited by Diario AS.
Rossi was clear about the bond he has with Szoboszlai and spoke about his true feelings regarding the Spanish club: “For the close and direct relationship I have with him since he started playing football as a kid, Real Madrid has always been his dream.”
Liverpool have had an inconsistent season so far. Their strong Champions League group-stage performance, which put them directly into the round of 16, helped offset some poor domestic results, but sitting sixth in the Premier League is concerning.
In the context of doubts over Arne Slot remaining in England, Szoboszlai has arguably been the brightest player in the team. That’s why Rossi believes a transfer to the Madrid club does not look very likely.
Rossi also said: “I don’t know if he can take that step. It’s his decision and his club’s too. I don’t absolutely rule out the possibility of him staying at Liverpool and renewing his contract there, especially because he’s highly valued by the club. He’s very important to them. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world.”
Szoboszlai will be unavailable for Liverpool in the Premier League for the next three matches after the incident that ended in the defeat to Manchester City. A foul on Erling Haaland with no goalkeeper in front led to a red card and his suspension.
The unfair part is that minutes earlier he had scored a phenomenal free kick to put his team ahead. It was a goal reminiscent of another important strike against Arsenal. His season totals 35 appearances with nine goals.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has confirmed whether , who faces unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez in May, will keep hold of his world title at 175lbs. The sanctioning body came under heavy criticism after it was announced that Shakur Stevenson would no longer be in possession of his WBC lightweight title. This news emerged shortly […]
The post WBC addresses David Benavidez’s world title status ahead of moving up in weight appeared first on Boxing News.
Mourinho'nun taktik disipliniyle Benfica karşısında alınan 0-0'lık direnç mi, yoksa Tedesco yönetimindeki Saran kadrosunun Trabzonspor deplasmanındaki 3-2'lik gövde gösterisi mi? İki farklı vizyon, iki dev kadro. Fotospor'un editörlerine göre Trabzonspor'u deviren kadro Benfica'yı da eleyebilirdi.
Fotospor olarak bir kez daha futbolun bitmek bilmeyen "ne olurdu?" soruşu bir kez daha aklımıza geldi... Mourinho'nun sezon başında Benfica ile 0-0 berabere kalan kadrosu ile Tedesco'nun Trabzonspor'u 3-2yenen kadrosu arasındaki hangisi daha iyiydi.
İki kadro aslında birbirinden oldukça farklı karakterlere sahip. Bir tarafta Mourinho’nun dengeli ama biraz daha kontrollü yapısı, diğer tarafta Tedesco döneminin daha "yıldızlar geçidi" kıvamındaki hücum hattı var.
Mourinho’nun kadrosu (Ali Koç dönemi), tipik bir "gol yeme, bir şekilde atarız" takımıydı.
Güçlü Yanı:
Amrabat ve Fred ikilisi merkezi çok sert tutar. Skriniar ve Oosterwolde gibi atletik stoperlerle savunma hattı oldukça güvenliydi. Duran ve En-Nesyri çift forveti, rakip stoperleri fiziksel olarak hırpalamak için idealdi.
Zayıf Yanı: Yaratıcılık sadece Szymanski ve İrfan Can’ın omuzlarındaydı. Eğer Benfica gibi kompakt takımlar bu ikiliyi kilitlerse (ki 0-0'lık maçta öyle oldu), takım pozisyon üretmekte zorlanırdı.
Saran döneminde Tedesco'ya verilen kadro tam bir "All-Star" karması gibi duruyor.
Güçlü Yanı: Orta saha (Kante - İsmail - Guendouzi) tam bir makine. Hem top kaparlar hem de oyunu domine ederler. Hücum hattı ise (Talisca, Kerem, Asensio) her an her yerden gol çıkarabilecek kalitede. Ederson gibi bir kalecinin varlığı, savunmanın arkasına atılan toplarda ekstra bir süpürücü demek.
Zayıf Yanı: Bu kadar çok hücumcuyla oynamak, Avrupa maçlarında geçiş savunmasında (kontrataklarda) risk yaratabilir.
Bu akşamki kadro "Benfica'yı Yenebilir miydi?" sorusunun cevabı "evet, yenebilirdi." Mourinho’nun takımı Benfica’ya karşı "oyunu tuttu" ama "kilidi açamadı". Tedesco’nun bu akşamki kadrosu ise kilidi açmak için çok daha fazla anahtara sahip. Benfica gibi kapalı savunmaları açmak için ceza sahası dışı şutlar veya duran toplar kritiktir. Talisca bu konuda Mourinho'nun elindeki oyunculardan bir gömlek üstün.
Portekiz takımları orta sahada teknik kapasiteyle üstünlük kurmayı sever. Guendouzi ve Kante’nin olduğu bir orta sahada Benfica nefes alamazdı. Kerem Aktürkoğlu’nun deliciliği, Benfica savunmasının dengesini Mourinho’nun daha ağır forvetlerine göre daha çok bozardı.
Mourinho'nun takımı daha "yenilmesi zor" bir takımdı, ancak Tedesco'nun kadrosu "kazanmaya daha yakın" bir takım. 3-2'lik Trabzonspor galibiyeti gösteriyor ki bu takım gol yese bile reaksiyon verecek kaliteye sahip. Benfica karşısında 0-0 yerine galibiyet alması çok daha olasıydı.
Fenerbahçe Başkanı Sadettin Saran, 3-2 kazanılan Trabzonspor maçından sonra ev sahibi camiaya teşekkürlerini sundu.
Sadettin Saran maçtan sonra Trabzonspor cephesine teşekkürlerini sundu.
- Ben, ekibim ve takımımız Trabzon'a indiğimiz andan itibaren, başta Trabzon halkı, Sayın Valimiz, Emniyet Güçlerimiz, Ertuğrul Bey bizi çok güzel ağırladı.
- Umudumuz deplasman maçlarına taraftarların da gelmesi ve aramızda olan bu gerginliğin inşallah bitmesi. Yönetim olarak en büyük umudumuz. Kendilerine teşekkür ediyoruz.
- Mutluyuz, 12 maçımız var. Önümüzde bakıyoruz.
Trabzonspor mağlup olsa da orta sahanın hakimi Tim Jabol-Folcarelli oldu! Rakip tanımayan Fransız yıldız, tek başına Kante, Guendouzi ve İsmail Yüksek'in toplam mücadelesine eş değer bir direnç sergiledi. Kazandığı 11 ikili mücadeleyle başkaldırının işe yaramayan mimarı oldu.
Trabzonspor, Fenerbahçe karşısında sahadan istediği sonuçla ayrılamasa da yeni transferi Tim Jabol-Folcarelli, sergilediği performansla geceye damga vurdu.
Onuachu ile birlikte sahanın en iyilerinden biri olan Fransız orta saha, istatistikleriyle adeta parmak ısırttı.
Folcarelli, orta sahadaki direnciyle rakip tanımadı. Genç oyuncu tek başına, Fenerbahçe’nin üç önemli ismi Kante, Guendouzi ve İsmail'in toplam kazandığı ikili mücadele sayısını yakaladı.
Yıldızları yutan ikili! Folcarelli bey neler yapıyorsunuz?
Pas İsabeti (Rakip Yarı Saha): 19/20 (%95)
Topla Buluşma: 58
Kazanılan İkili Mücadele: 12 (11 başarılı)
Topla İlerleme: 10
Toplam Taşıma Mesafesi: 84.3 m
Maç sonunda üzüntüsü yüzünden okunan Folcarelli, taraftarlara seslenerek samimi açıklamalarda bulundu. Maçın hakkının mağlubiyet olmadığını vurgulayan yıldız oyuncu şunları söyledi:
- Taraftarlarımızdan özür diliyorum. Rakibimiz aslında çok fazla pozisyona girmedi. Ancak bu seviyelerde 1-2 hata yaptığınızda faturası gol oluyor. Sonucu belirleyen de bu küçük hatalar oldu. Aslında daha iyi oynayan, daha fazlasını hak eden taraf bizdik. Galip ayrılabilirdik ama savaşmaya devam edeceğiz.
Trabzonspor'un dev golcüsü, Fenerbahçe savunmasını tek başına hırpaladı. Skriniar ve Oosterwolde'yi sahadan silen Nijeryalı yıldız, kazandığı ikili mücadeleler ve hava topu hakimiyetiyle "savunma nasıl çaresiz bırakılır?" dersi verdi.
Süper Lig’de haftanın kritik mücadelesinde Trabzonspor’un Nijeryalı golcüsü Paul Onuachu, sergilediği fiziksel üstünlükle Fenerbahçe defansını yerden yere vurdu. 8.2 reytingle sahanın en iyileri arasında yer alan Nijeryalı (2.02) dev, rakip savunmanın bel kemikleri Skriniar ve Oosterwolde’yi yerle bir etti. Onuachu’nun 24 kez topla buluşup 15 ikili mücadelenin 10’unu kazanması, bir forvetin fiziksel gücüyle maçı nasıl tek başına domine edebileceğinin dersi niteliğindeydi.
Onuachu, sadece bir gol atmakla kalmadı, girdiği ikili mücadelelerdeki ezici üstünlüğüyle Skriniar ve Oosterwolde’ye kabus yaşattı. Özellikle hava toplarında kurduğu %87.5'lik (7/8) başarı oranı, savunmacıların çaresizliğini gözler önüne serdi.
Oosterwolde izledi! Onuachu affetmedi
Onuachu’nun Maç Karnesi:
Reyting: 8.2
Gol: 1
Toplam Şut: 6
Hava Topu Mücadelesi: 8 (7 Kazanılan)
Zeminde Mücadele: 4 (3 Kazanılan)
Kendisine Yapılan Faul: 3
Onuachu karşısında ayakta kalmakta zorlanan iki savunmacı, maçın en düşük notlarını alan isimler oldu.
Reyting İkili Mücadele (Kazanılan) Hava Topu (Kazanılan)
Skriniar 5.9 (En Kötü) 0 / 0 0 / 3
Oosterwolde 6.0 2 / 6 0 / 2
Skriniar, girdiği hiçbir hava topu mücadelesini kazanamayarak 5.9 puanla sahanın en kötü oyuncusu oldu. Oosterwolde ise Onuachu'nun fiziksel baskısı altında 6 kez top kaybı yaparak vasatın altında kaldı. Maçın son anlarında tansiyon yükselirken, Onuachu ile Oosterwolde arasındaki fiziksel temas zirve yaptı. Onuachu'nun Oosterwolde’yi sert bir şekilde ittiği pozisyonda hakem Halil Umut Meler, sadece faul düdüğü çalmakla yetindi.
Rakamlar Trabzonspor'u, tabela Fenerbahçe'yi gösterdi! Bordo-mavililer topla oynamadan şut sayısına kadar birçok alanda rakibini domine etse de, kalesine gelen 3 isabetli şutun gol olmasına engel olamadı. Fatih Tekke'nin Fenerbahçe şanssızlığı sürerken, sarı-lacivertliler deplasmanda tarihi bir seri yakaladı.
Süper Lig’in dev randevusunda Fenerbahçe, Trabzonspor deplasmanından 3-2’lik galibiyetle dönerek zirve takibini sürdürdü. Maçın ardından ortaya çıkan rakamlar, hem sarı-lacivertliler için tarihi bir başarıyı hem de bordo-mavililer için derinleşen bir krizi işaret ediyor.
Fenerbahçe, Trabzonspor karşısında son yılların en dominant performanslarından birine imza atıyor. Trabzonspor ile oynadığı son beş lig maçını kazanan sarı-lacivertliler, 2002-2005 yılları arasındaki serisinden bu yana ilk kez rakibine karşı bu denli bir üstünlük kurdu.
Bordo-mavili ekibe konuk olduğu son üç maçtan da zaferle ayrılan Fenerbahçe, 2006’dan bu yana ilk kez dış sahada bu kadar uzun bir galibiyet serisi yakaladı.
Karadeniz ekibi için "derbi" kelimesi son dönemde büyük bir puan kaybı anlamına gelmeye başladı. Trabzonspor, Beşiktaş, Galatasaray ve Fenerbahçe ile oynadığı son 16 derbi karşılaşmasında galibiyet yüzü göremedi. Son üç büyük maçından (GS 1-5, BJK 0-2, FB 2-3) puan çıkaramayan bordo-mavililerde savunma zafiyeti de dikkat çekiyor.
Trabzonspor kalesine gelen son 7 isabetli şutun 5’inin golle sonuçlanması, savunma ve Onana'nın performansındaki düşüşü gözler önüne seriyor.
Teknik direktörlük kariyerinde birçok başarıya imza atan Fatih Tekke için Fenerbahçe, aşılması imkansız bir engel olmaya devam ediyor. Tekke, Süper Lig kariyerinde en fazla karşılaştığı rakibi olan Fenerbahçe’ye karşı henüz galibiyet (3 beraberlik, 5 mağlubiyet) sevinci yaşayamadı.
Maç verileri incelendiğinde Trabzonspor’un birçok alanda üstün olduğu ancak skoru alamadığı görülüyor.
Topla Oynama %58 %42
Toplam Şut 17 9
İsabetli Şut 8 3
Büyük Şans 3 1
Hava Topu Kazanma %70 %30
Trabzonspor, 0.84 xG (Gol Beklentisi) üretip 17 şut atmasına rağmen, Fenerbahçe kalesine gelen 3 isabetli şutun tamamının gol olması maçın kaderini tayin eden en büyük etken oldu.
Fatih Tekke maçtan sonra açıklamalarında da şanssızlıktan yakındı:
- Vallahi üzücü bir gece oldu. Yani, kadrolara baktığınızda, oyuna baktığınızda bundan memnun olmam lazım. Bence oyunun ilk bölümüne golle başladık ama iyi oynamadık. Diğer bölümlerde, her şeyde üstün taraf bizdik.
- Birinci gol zaten karambol, ikinci gol pas hatası, üçüncü gol üç kez arka arkaya pas hatası. Geçişlerde çalıştığımız bazı oyuncular üzerinden, ikisi de gol attı. Hatamız oluyor ama 3 şut attılar, 3'ü de gol oldu.
- Beraberliğe bile üzülürdüm. Fenerbahçe'den çok çok daha iyi oynadık ama puan alamadık.
- Devamlı söylediğim şeyler var; hata yapmadan öğrenmeleri mümkün değil. Bugün çok iyi iş çıkardılar. Kornerlerde her topa biz dokunduk ama olmadı. Devam edeceğiz. Çok maç var. Oyun ve karşılığı olarak üzücü bir gece oldu.
Bu gün futbol üzrə Almaniya çempionatında (Bundesliqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 22-ci turunun növbəti oyunları keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ikinci oyun günündə 6 oyun baş tutub.
Beş qolun qeydə alındığı “Hamburq” – “Union Berlin” matçında meydan sahibləri çətin qələbəyə seviniblər. “Ştutqart” da “Köln”ü məğlub yola salıb.
“Bayer” evdə “Sankt Pauli”yə, “Ayntraxt” Mönhenqladbax “Borussiya”sına, “Hoffenhaym” da “Frayburq”a böyük hesabla qalib gəlib. Lider “Bayern” isə səfərdə “Verder”i 3 cavabsız qolla üstələyib.
22-ci turun qalan görüşləri fevralın 15-də keçiriləcək.
Almaniya, Bundesliqa
22-ci tur
13 fevral
Borussiya (Dortmund) – Maynts 4:0
Qollar: Jirassi, 10; 42. Bayer, 15. Köhr, 84-öz qapısına.
14 fevral
Bayer – Sankt Pauli 4:0
Qollar: Kuansa, 13. Şik, 14. Tapsoba, 52. Poku, 78.
Ayntraxt – Borussiya (Mönhenqladbax) 3:0
Qollar: Braun, 24. Amaimuni, 34. Knauff, 75.
Hamburq – Union Berlin 3:2
Qollar: Koniqsdorffer, 35; 82. Kapaldo, 45+2 – Kerfeld, 28-pen. İliç, 89.
Hoffenhaym – Frayburq 3:0
Qollar: Asllani, 46. O.Kabak, 51. Gendrey, 90+5.
Verder – Bayern 0:3
Qollar: H.Keyn, 22-pen; 25. Qoretska, 70.
Ştutqart – Köln 3:1
Qollar: Demiroviç, 15; 84. Undav, 90+2.
15 fevral
18:30. Auqsburq – Haydenhaym
20:30. Leypsiq – Volfsburq
Bu gün futbol üzrə Türkiyə çempionatında (Super Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 23-cü turunun növbəti oyunları keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ikinci oyun günündə üç qarşılaşma baş tutub.
Dörd qolun qeydə alındığı “Gənclərbirliyi” – “Rizəspor” matçında qalib müəyyənləşməyib. “Alanyaspor” doğma meydanda “Konyaspor”a məğlub olub.
Səfərdə “Trabzonspor”la qarşılaşmış “Fənərbağça” da turu qələbə ilə başa vurub.
22-ci turun qalan görüşləri fevralın 15-də və 16-da keçiriləcək.
Türkiyə, Super Liqa
22-ci tur
13 fevral
Antalyaspor – Samsunspor 3:1
Qollar: Ballet, 6; 22. Storm, 72 – Ntçam, 90+6-pen.
Qalatasaray – Eyüpspor 5:1
Qollar: Y.Akgün, 2. İkardi, 33; 48; 70. Onquene, 87-öz qapısına – M.Altunbaş, 71.
14 fevral
Gənclərbirliyi – Rizəspor 2:2
Qollar: Sou, 18-öz qapısına. Koita, 45 – Pala, 77; 87.
Alanyaspor – Konyaspor 2:1
Qollar: Ruan, 37. Haderqyonay, 80-pen – Bardi, 83.
Trabzonspor – Fənərbağça 2:3
Qollar: Muçi, 6. Onuaçu, 43 – Talişka, 15. K.Aktürkoğlu, 34. Asensio, 48.
15 fevral
15:30. Kocaelispor – Qaziantep
18:00. Göztəpə – Kayserispor
21:00. Başakşəhər – Beşiktaş
16 fevral
21:00. Kasımpaşa – Karagümrük
Refereeing experts Luca Marelli and Graziano Cesari both agree Pierre Kalulu’s red card was ‘a very serious error’ in Inter vs. Juventus, and Alessandro Bastoni could’ve been sent off instead, but VAR could not intervene.
Follow all the action as it happens on the Liveblog.
The incident transformed the Derby d’Italia at San Siro this evening, as just before half-time Kalulu was already on a yellow card when he cut across Alessandro Bastoni.
Referee Federico La Penna immediately pulled out the second yellow card and sent the Juventus defender off.
A controversial moment in the Serie A title race as Pierre Kalulu is sent off for Juventus for not a great deal
Inter Milan's players were celebrating the decision
@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Hoy3g0IWPp
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026
Kalulu was incredulous and made the ‘VAR’ gesture with his hands, but the protocol forbids technology being used in a yellow card situation.
Analysing the footage on television, Italy’s refereeing pundits were in agreement that La Penna was taken in by the Bastoni simulation.
“It is a very serious error from La Penna, but there’s nothing that can be done because VAR can’t intervene on second yellow cards,” said DAZN official Marelli.
“There was no contact between Kalulu and Bastoni.”
Juventus are down to ten men as Pierre Kalulu is sent off after picking up his second yellow card
pic.twitter.com/LYzerA9uRV
— CBS Sports Golazo
(@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026
On Sport Mediaset’s coverage, refereeing expert and former official Cesari was even more harsh on La Penna.
“It is a huge mistake. The second yellow card is non-existent. There is no contact between Bastoni and Kalulu, there is clear distance between the players.
“La Penna should have a clear view, but he gets it all wrong. It’s a total howler. In fact, the referee’s error also saves Bastoni from a second yellow card for simulation.”
Cristian Chivu seemed to realise this was a possibility and substituted the Italy international at half-time.
Bastoni’s unsporting behaviour went beyond the yellow card, as he was visibly celebrating behind the distraught Kalulu.
Italy international Sandro Tonali inspired Newcastle’s victory over Aston Villa in the FA Cup with his first two goals this season: ‘Yesterday I was telling him, ‘you never score goals,” said his teammate Nick Woltemade.
Italy star Tonali scored a brace in Newcastle’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, inspiring the Magpies’ qualification for the FA Cup fifth round.
As reported by Squawka on X social media, Tonali has now scored three of his nine Newcastle goals against Aston Villa.
“Yesterday I was telling him, ‘you never score goals’, and today he scored two,” Newcastle striker Woltemade, who scored the other goal for the Magpies, said at full-time.
“We are both happy, of course.”
Tonali went on to praise his teammate, too.
“He plays as a midfielder, like an experienced midfielder. He plays very well,” the Italian said.
As reported by Opta, Tonali is the first Newcastle player to score two goals from outside the box in a single game since Mohamed Diamé vs Preston in the League Cup back in October 2016.
“I was saying to Sandro ‘you never score goals’, and today he scored two!”
Nick Woltemade and Sandro Tonali are full of compliments for each other after Newcastle’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa
@Becky_Ives_ | @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/GpOwdCSUie
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026
Sublime from Sandro Tonali
Two quick goals from the midfielder surge @NUFC into the lead.
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) February 14, 2026
What a hit from Sandro Tonali!
His second strike completes Newcastle’s comeback from a goal down to taking the lead against Aston Villa
pic.twitter.com/cP0sROWt87
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) February 14, 2026
Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu received two yellow cards in the first half of an away game at Inter, and VAR could not intervene when he was given his marching orders.
Juventus visit Inter at San Siro on Saturday, but will have to play the second half down to ten men following a red card shown to Pierre Kalulu in the opening 45 minutes.
The French defender was given a second yellow card late in the first half, but replays indicated he made no contact with Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, who seemed to go down too easily in an attempt to draw the booking.
Kalulu and Juventus players vehemently protested and the Bianconeri defender even asked to review the incident on the pitchside monitor, but VAR could not intervene, given that technology can only be used in case of a straight red card and not when a second yellow card leads to a sending off.
The first half ended in a 1-1 draw with Juventus’ defender Andrea Cambiaso scoring a goal and an own goal.
Football Italia is among the accredited media at San Siro. You can follow live updates on the liveblog.
Il secondo giallo per #Kalulu è inesistente: il francese sfiora a malapena il braccio di #Bastoni, che crolla a terra, mentre le gambe restano ben distanti
Incredibile come non possa intervenire da regolamento il Var#InterJuventus #Inter #Juve pic.twitter.com/8EY5FfQieM
— calciomercato.it (@calciomercatoit) February 14, 2026
Juventus are down to ten men as Pierre Kalulu is sent off after picking up his second yellow card
— CBS Sports Golazo
Watch as Andrea Cambiaso makes Derby d’Italia history by scoring in both nets, as after a Michele Di Gregorio howler, he allowed Juventus to equalise against Inter.
You can follow all the action as it happens on the Liveblog.
The full-back certainly had a complicated start to the big match at San Siro this evening, with the Bianconeri trying out a 4-3-3 formation.
Cambiaso was in the wrong place at the wrong time when accidentally deflecting the Luis Henrique roll across from the right for Marcus Thuram, but still assumed Michele Di Gregorio would be able to kick it out of the near bottom corner.
An Andrea Cambiaso own goal gives Inter the lead in the Derby d'Italia
pic.twitter.com/seW5y25E6s
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 14, 2026
Unfortunately for him, the Juve goalkeeper decided to go with his trailing foot instead, and made a hash of it.
Just nine minutes later, Cambiaso managed to turn into the correct net at the other end, as Jonathan David failed to connect with a Weston McKennie cross, letting it come through for the full-back at the far post.
Nine minutes after scoring an own goal, Andrea Cambiaso equalises for Juventus against Inter!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026
Before this, no player had ever managed to score at both ends in an edition of the Derby d’Italia, so he has his somewhat unfortunate place in the history books.
Andrea Cambiaso has a goal at both ends of the pitch as he equalizes for Juventus
pic.twitter.com/7JKdDOyZAf
— CBS Sports Golazo
Raffaele Palladino confirms the Giacomo Raspadori injury issue against Lazio and wants Atalanta to ‘keep our foot on the gas,’ but admits to a future Premier League ambition too.
They emerged from the Stadio Olimpico with a 2-0 victory thanks to the Ederson penalty for a Danilo Cataldi handling offence, and Nicola Zalewski’s wonderful curler into the far bottom corner.
The woodwork came to their rescue twice on Kenneth Taylor and Petar Ratkov in the Eternal City.
La Dea are on a roll with 29 points in 14 rounds since he took over from sacked Ivan Juric, so does a whole new season begin this evening?
“Not tonight, it started three months ago,” assured Palladino in his press conference.
“I always said our objective was to climb the table and we will keep doing that. We’ve achieved some important results, those performances helped us to develop the right mentality and self-belief.
“We faced a Lazio side in good shape today, but we were clinical in an overall balanced encounter. Lazio did better in the first 20 minutes, then we improved and did well to pick up all three points.”
Raspadori was a second half substitute, but he limped off with five minutes to go and all the substitutions completed, leaving Atalanta down to 10 men.
“Raspadori hadn’t been playing regularly in Spain, so he needs consistency on the field and we are trying to give that to him,” noted Palladino.
“He is an important player for us, a young Italian, and a proven winner. He settled in very quickly, today unfortunately he sustained a slight muscular issue and we hope it is nothing serious.”
This result saw Atalanta surge past Como, who have a game in hand, into sixth place, so is their target Europe or a top four finish?
“We mustn’t look at the Champions League zone or anything else, we just have to focus on ourselves. The objective was to climb back up, to have this hunger and mentality, but we must never lose our humility either,” warned Palladino.
“There were many difficulties when I arrived, but we are now in three different competitions, in about 80 hours or so we’ll play in the Champions League, then again Serie A and the Coppa Italia. We’ve got to keep our foot on the gas.”
Curiously, Atalanta will face Lazio again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, with the first leg scheduled for March 4.
“I don’t know what kind of game that will be, but certainly a difficult one against a strong opponent. I was impressed by Lazio today, they have pace in attack and are well-drilled. The Coppa Italia is a very important objective for us.”
Former Juventus coach Igor Tudor has just been hired by Tottenham Hotspur, so does Palladino have ambitions of working in the Premier League too?
“For anyone in our line of work, it is an intriguing style of football. I would like to go there in future and I have been studying the English language lately,” confessed the coach.
“Right now, the objective is to concentrate on Atalanta.”
Dominik Szoboszlai has scored to make it 2-0 to Liverpool against Brighton, but Mohamed Salah deserves huge credit for a lovely touch to set it up.
The Reds now look in a strong position to get past the Seagulls and into the fifth round of the FA Cup, with this well-worked Szoboszlai goal following on from Curtis Jones’ opener in the first half.
Watch below for this absolutely delightful move by Liverpool, with Salah playing a perfect first-time pass into the path of Szoboszlai, exploiting the space and just slicing Brighton open with ease…
A perfectly executed goal from Liverpool and Dominik Szoboszlai ?
? @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/TQKtB4Xif2
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 14, 2026
Szoboszlai then did very well with the finish as well, but the firs-time touch from Salah was just genius.
More to follow…
The post Dominik Szoboszlai makes it 2-0 to Liverpool but it’s all about this sublime Mohamed Salah assist appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Liverpool reportedly still have hope of keeping Ibrahima Konate despite him also having transfer interest from Real Madrid, according to Fichajes.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The France international has been a hugely important player during his time at Anfield, but he’s now coming towards the end of his contract.
Real had cooled their interest in Konate, according to the Athletic, but it may be that the Spanish giants are once again considering him for this summer.
Fichajes claim that Los Blancos have rekindled their interest in Konate, though Liverpool still have some hope of being able to keep him.
Konate has rarely let Liverpool down since joining them from RB Leipzig back in 2021, and he could have a key role for their future as he’s still only 26 years of age.
That means he’s arguably yet to even reach his peak, and he could have a fair few years left ahead of him to replace Virgil van Dijk as the experienced head in this LFC side.
Van Dijk surely can’t play 90 minutes week in, week out for too much longer, so it would be a big help for Liverpool if Konate could stay.
As much as anything else, the Reds would be losing a valuable asset on a free, when Transfermarkt has his true market value at more like €50m.
It’s easy to see why a big club like Real Madrid would want Konate, and there’d surely be other suitors if he were to become a free agent.
Liverpool will likely do all they can to avoid this scenario after the heartache of losing Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid in a similar fashion last summer.
The post Report: Liverpool aware of club being keen to sign €50m-rated star but still hope he’ll choose LFC appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Liverpool have reportedly already had face-to-face talks with the representatives of Wolves wonderkid Mateus Mane over a potential £50m transfer.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Manchester United are also keen on Mane, but Liverpool want to ensure they move ahead of their competition for the talented 18-year-old, according to Fichajes.
The Reds are big fans of Mane and believe they need to get a deal done for him now or else his value will just continue to skyrocket.
The England youth international will surely earn a big move sooner or later, especially as Wolves’ likely relegation from the Premier League this season will surely put them under more pressure to sell their best players.
Mane is wanted by both LFC and MUFC, according to Fichajes, but it seems it’s Arne Slot and co. currently showing the strongest interest.
The report states that Man Utd also won’t rule out making a big move for Mane, but Liverpool are already working on this deal and view his £50m price tag as reasonable.
It will be interesting to see how this progresses, but it sounds positive for the Merseyside giants as they look to invest in a potentially world class talent.
This is not the first we’ve heard about Mane and Liverpool, with a recent report from DaveOCKop, claiming that the player’s representatives recently visited the AXA training centre for talks.
Still, United could also be a tempting project for Mane right now, and might also realistically afford Mane more of a chance of regular first-team football.
Mane made his debut for Wolves last season when he was still only 17, with former manager Vitor Pereira previously speaking very highly of him.
“Mane, I’m sure that he will be a surprise in England, in this league, because he’s a player with talent,” Pereira said, as quoted by Birmingham World.
“For sure, next season he’ll be in the first-team squad with us. He’s not only a talent, he’s a worker and for me, in that moment of the game, it was not just to give him the minutes. It was because I thought he could do something. He’s special.”
The post Face-to-face talks: Liverpool moving quickly to beat Man Utd to £50m star before his value skyrockets appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Alexander Isak exemplifies one of Europe’s most discussed strikers, a unique blend of subtlety
and efficiency. In a world dominated by throwers, he is the opposite, a unicorn forward combining the ball carrying skill with high conversion rates.
Headlines, however, have focused on injury concerns rather than his brilliance. While the headlines mostly concern injury, and his ability cannot be questioned given his 23% conversion rate, this is not a moment to argue with.
In order to discuss his injuries, we must start at the beginning, with Alexander Isak’s Origin Country (Sweden) and the Early Career that brought him to the Premier League.
To understand Isak’s journey, we must ask: where is Alexander Isak from? Born on September
21, 1999, he hails from Solna, Sweden, a municipality within the Stockholm metropolitan area,
foundational to his football identity. Although of Eritrean descent via his parents, the Alexander
Isak nationality and citizenship is Swedish. This dual heritage plays a minor role compared to
his comprehensive upbringing in the Swedish football system.
Raised in Solna, Isak’s development was rooted in the structured pathway at AIK, a 12-time
national championship club from his hometown. Enrolling in the academy at age six, he honed
his skills over a decade before debuting for the senior team. He quickly rose to prominence as a
prodigy, achieving feats like becoming the youngest-ever goal scorer in AIK’s history in February 2016 at 16 years old. He also set records as the youngest scorer in the Swedish Allsvenskan for AIK and netted his first international goal for Sweden as their youngest scorer. By January 2017, he had firmly established his elite pedigree.
The 2016 season at AIK propelled Isak into the European football limelight. At just 16 years old,
he dispelled notions of being a mere prospect, netting 10 goals across 24 Allsvenskan matches.
Throughout his tenure, he showcased positional specialization, predominantly operating as a
central striker, resisting tendencies to drift wide—a trait observed in anticipation of his move to
elite leagues.
Entering the upper echelons of European football requires bridging gaps between youth potential and Champions League realities. Isak’s time at Borussia Dortmund initially posed challenges with limited playing minutes, but he elevated his training intensity, cultivating resilience. A significant milestone came with his 2019 loan to Willem II in the Netherlands, where he became the first foreign player in Eredivisie history to score 12 goals within his initial 12 league appearances. This achievement helped consolidate his potential into tangible performance, facilitating a subsequent move to Real Sociedad where he evolved into a comprehensive striker.
Isak’s transfer to Newcastle United confirmed his Premier League ascent. On Tyneside, he
distinguished himself by remarkable efficiency, amassing the second most non-penalty goals in
the league over recent seasons, trailing only Erling Haaland. Surpassing Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s
record for the most Premier League goals by a Swede further cemented his status.
Tactically, Isak exhibited “gravity,” disrupting defensive frameworks and drawing defenders away, complementing wingers like Jacob Murphy. The partnership between Isak and Murphy registered the highest statistical combination of assists to goal scorers during their peak periods.
By 25 years old, pundits pointed to his technical qualities and footballing IQ as justifying a valuation in the £120-150m range. However, his tenure at St. James’ Park ended with controversy as Isak ultimately went on strike and issued a public statement to facilitate a transfer.
In September 2025, Alexander Isak finalized a move to Liverpool for a guaranteed fixed fee of
£125m, establishing a new British transfer record. He was immediately presented with the
prestigious Liverpool No 9 shirt, signing a six-year contract with wages approximating £300k per
week.
This signing drastically altered the contextual framing of the player. Where at Newcastle, Isak
was a high-potential prospect, arriving at Liverpool as a £125m investment meant he was
expected to be an immediate star. These expectations were amplified by a slow start, resulting
from a disrupted preparation period. Having trained in isolation while forcing the transfer, Isak
missed a proper preseason, leaving him underprepared physically for a title-contending squad.
The optimism around the record-breaking transfer was punctured on Saturday, December 20,
2025, during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. In the 60th minute, while scoring a
goal, Isak’s left ankle was trapped by a sliding defender, Micky van de Ven. Medical
examination confirmed a fibula fracture involving the ankle joint.
Subsequently, Isak underwent surgery on Monday, December 22, wherein a plate was inserted
for ankle stability and ligaments were repaired. Liverpool has ruled the striker out indefinitely,
with confirmed absence for at least 10 consecutive matches until February 11, 2026. The
overarching goal during rehab at the AXA Training Centre is preventing ankle joint instability.
The latest Arne Slot Alexander Isak injury update at Liverpool on the squad’s tactical adaptation
remains pertinent.
Isak’s absence has immediate and long-lasting tactical implications for both club and country.
The managerial strategy implemented by Arne Slot at Liverpool relies on Isak’s ability to disrupt
defensive lines for wingers like Florian Wirtz. Without the Isak effect, the system loses a key
component, reducing overall efficacy.
The impact on Sweden’s national team is equally significant, with head coach Graham Potter
compelled to adopt a managed-risk approach given the absence of their key offensive player.
Sweden’s World Cup qualification campaign is complicated by this absence, which impacts the
playoff route. Crucially, Potter has stated he will not play Isak for consecutive full matches as he
returns, placing long-term availability over immediate national team participation.
The contemporary landscape of football media ensures that injury updates for record-transferred players receive granularity and coverage that might appear excessive. For those interested in staying current with football developments and trends in the sport’s betting landscape, football betting sites provide insights into competitive dynamics and how injuries affect market odds. Fans are encouraged to distinguish between “Media Watch” content derived from social media, injury rumours, and random narratives versus actual club-issued medical statements. Additionally, the Injury-Rotation Trap should be observed, where injuries to key players increase rotation risk for healthy players. The League Adaptation Gap remains notable, as players still require physical prep periods even in top leagues.
The Alexander Isak story from his Origin Country in Sweden to Europe epitomizes elite efficiency. From his record-breaking youth accolades at AIK to his £125m transfer to Liverpool, Isak has proven himself a unique ‘unicorn’ striker. When fit, his importance is unquantifiable.
However, the forward-looking analysis is predominantly one of patience. Injury rehabs like fibula
fractures require consistent training loads and should not be rushed. If Liverpool can successfully manage his rehabilitation, Alexander Isak remains the central figure poised to define the club’s future.
The post Alexander Isak: Origin Country, Career Timeline, and Latest Injury Update appeared first on CaughtOffside.
An analysis of data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study found that religiosity may protect against depression and stress by fostering feelings of gratitude and social support. The research was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.
Religiosity refers to the extent to which individuals hold religious beliefs, engage in religious practices, and integrate religion into their daily lives. It encompasses beliefs, behaviors (such as prayer or worship attendance), personal commitment, and identification with a religious community.
A substantial body of research shows that religiosity is positively associated with psychological outcomes, such as higher life satisfaction and greater subjective well-being. Longitudinal and cross-cultural evidence indicates that these associations are modest but robust across different populations and cultural contexts.
In psychology and public health, religiosity tends to be viewed as a potential protective factor for mental health. One key reason for this is that religious involvement can help individuals cope with stressful life events and derive meaning from adversity. According to some models of stress and coping, religiosity may influence well-being by shaping how stressors are appraised and managed. Rather than exerting a direct effect, religiosity appears to provide psychological and social coping resources.
Study authors Ethan D. Lantz and Danielle K. Nadorff sought to explore the mechanisms through which religiosity affects psychological well-being. They hypothesized that higher levels of religiosity would be associated with higher levels of gratitude and social support. In turn, individuals experiencing stronger feelings of gratitude and better social support would tend to report better psychological well-being—defined as lower depressive symptoms and perceived stress, and higher life satisfaction.
The authors analyzed data from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. MIDUS is a large, long-running national research program that examines how psychological, social, behavioral, and biological factors influence health and well-being as people age.
Specifically, the researchers used data from 1,052 participants in the MIDUS 2 dataset, collected between 2004 and 2006, and 625 participants from the MIDUS Refresher dataset, collected between 2011 and 2014. The average age of participants was 55 years in the MIDUS 2 dataset and approximately 52 years in the MIDUS Refresher. Females made up 55% and 51% of the participants in the two datasets, respectively.
The authors utilized data on participants’ religiosity (collected using the MIDUS Religiosity Questionnaire), depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies – Depression Scale), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), life satisfaction (Satisfaction with Life Scale), gratitude (Gratitude Questionnaire), and social support (Support and Strain from Partners, Family, and Friends scale).
They tested a statistical model proposing that religiosity leads to higher feelings of gratitude and greater social support. In turn, the model proposed that these resources would lead to improved psychological well-being. The results confirmed a “full mediation” model across both datasets. This indicates that the relationship between religiosity and well-being was fully explained by the presence of gratitude and social support.
“Religiosity may confer protection against affective distress by fostering key psychological and social coping resources. These findings highlight the potential clinical utility of interventions designed to cultivate gratitude and strengthen social support networks as a strategy to improve well-being and reduce symptoms of affective disorders,” the study authors concluded.
The study contributes to the scientific understanding of the psychological correlates of religiosity. However, it should be noted that the cross-sectional design of this specific analysis does not allow for causal inferences to be derived from the results.
The paper, “An attitude of gratitude: How psychological and social resources mediate the protective effect of religiosity on depressive symptoms,” was authored by Ethan D. Lantz and Danielle K. Nadorff.
Declining birth rates present a demographic challenge for nations across the globe, particularly in East Asia. A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology suggests that playing life simulation video games may influence a player’s desire to have children in the real world. The research indicates that the emotional bonds formed with virtual characters can serve as a psychological pathway to shaping reproductive attitudes.
Societies such as China are currently experiencing a transition marked by persistently low fertility rates. Young adults aged 18 to 35 often report a reluctance to marry and bear children. This hesitation is frequently attributed to high economic costs associated with housing and education. It is also linked to a phenomenon researchers call “risk consciousness.” This mindset involves anxiety regarding the potential loss of personal freedom and the financial burdens of parenthood.
In this environment, digital entertainment has become a primary venue for social interaction and relaxation. Some scholars have argued that online activities might replace real-world relationships. This substitution could theoretically weaken the motivation to start a family. However, other researchers contend that specific types of games might offer a different outcome.
The researchers leading this study are Yuan Qi of Anhui Normal University and Gao Jie of Nanjing University. They collaborated with colleagues to investigate the psychological impact of life simulation games. They focused specifically on a popular game titled Chinese Parents. This game allows players to simulate the experience of raising a child from birth to adulthood. It incorporates culturally specific elements such as academic pressure and intergenerational expectations.
The team sought to understand if the virtual experience of raising a digital child could translate into a real-world desire for parenthood. To do this, they relied on two primary psychological concepts. The first is attachment theory, which typically describes the bonds between humans. The second is the concept of parasocial relationships.
Parasocial relationships refer to one-sided psychological connections that media users form with characters. While the user knows the character is fictional, the feelings of friendship, empathy, or affection feel real. The researchers hypothesized that these virtual bonds might act as a buffer against real-world anxieties. They proposed an “Emotional Compensation Hypothesis.” This hypothesis suggests that the safety of a virtual environment allows young people to experience the emotional rewards of parenting without the immediate financial or social risks.
To test their model, the researchers conducted a survey of 612 gamers who played Chinese Parents. The participants ranged in age from 18 to 35 years old. This age bracket represents the primary demographic for marriage and childbearing decisions. The group was recruited from online gaming communities and university campuses in China.
The survey utilized a statistical approach known as Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling. This method allows scientists to identify complex relationships between different variables. The researchers measured several specific psychological factors.
The first factor was game concentration. This refers to the depth of immersion a player feels. It is a state of flow where the player becomes absorbed in the virtual world. The second factor was identification friendship. This measures the degree to which a player views the virtual character as a friend or an extension of themselves.
The researchers then looked at parasocial relationships, which they divided into two distinct categories. The first category is parasocial cognition. This involves thinking about the character’s motivations and understanding their perspective intellectually. The second category is parasocial emotions. This involves feeling empathy, warmth, and affection toward the character. Finally, the researchers measured fertility desire, which is the self-reported intention to have children in the real world.
The analysis revealed a specific psychological pathway. The researchers found that game concentration did not directly change a player’s desire to have children. Simply being immersed in the game was not enough to alter real-world life planning.
Instead, the results showed that immersion acted as a catalyst for other feelings. High levels of concentration led players to develop a sense of identification friendship with their virtual characters. Players began to see these digital figures as distinct social entities worthy of care.
This sense of friendship then triggered the critical component of the model: parasocial emotions. Players reported feeling genuine empathy and support for their virtual children. The data showed that these emotional connections were the bridge to real-world attitudes. When players formed strong emotional attachments to their in-game characters, they reported a higher desire to have children in real life.
The researchers found that the emotional pathway was the only successful route to influencing fertility desire. The study examined a cognitive pathway, where players intellectually analyzed the character’s situation. The results for this path were not statistically significant regarding the final outcome. Understanding the logic of the character did not correlate with a desire for parenthood. Only the emotional experience of caring for the character had an association with real-world reproductive goals.
The findings support the researchers’ “Emotional Compensation Hypothesis.” In a high-pressure society, simulation games provide a low-stakes environment. Players can satisfy their innate need for caregiving and intimacy through the game. Rather than replacing the desire for real children, this virtual fulfillment appears to keep the positive idea of parenthood alive. The game functions as a “secure base.” It allows individuals to practice the emotions of parenting without the fear of real-world consequences.
There are several limitations to this study that contextualize the findings. The research used a cross-sectional design. This means the data represents a snapshot in time. It shows a correlation between playing the game and wanting children, but it cannot definitively prove that playing the game caused the desire. It is possible that people who already want children are more likely to play parenting simulation games.
The data relied on self-reported questionnaires. This method depends on the honesty and self-awareness of the participants. Additionally, the study focused on a specific game within a specific cultural context. Chinese Parents is deeply rooted in Chinese social norms. The results might not apply to gamers in other countries or players of different genres of simulation games.
The researchers suggest that future studies should employ longitudinal designs. Tracking players over a long period would help determine if these virtual desires translate into actual decisions to have children years later. They also recommend expanding the research to include different cultural backgrounds.
Future investigations could also explore the potential of using such games as psychological tools. If these simulations can provide a safe space for emotional expression, they might help individuals with anxiety regarding family planning. The study opens a conversation about how digital experiences in the modern age intersect with fundamental biological and social motivations.
The study, “From virtual attachments to real-world fertility desires: emotional pathways in game character attachment and parasocial relationships,” was authored by Yuan Qi, Gao Jie, Du Yun, and Ding Yi Zhuo.
DURHAM, N.C. — Star freshman Cameron Boozer had 18 points and No. 4 Duke held No. 20 Clemson to 35% shooting in a 67-54 win Saturday.
Isaiah Evans added 17 points for the Blue Devils (23-2, 12-1 Atlantic Coast Conference), who made 11 of 16 shots after halftime and pushed a 31-26 edge past a 20-point margin midway through the second half.
This marked Duke’s 29th straight home win and eighth victory against an AP Top 25 opponent this year. The Blue Devils entered the weekend tied with No. 2 Michigan for the national lead with 10 Quadrant 1 wins to top a postseason resume.
The 6-foot-9, 250-pound Boozer, who began the day ranked fifth nationally in scoring by averaging 23.0 points, made 7 of 14 shots with a pair of 3-pointers to go with eight rebounds, four assists and two steals.
Carter Welling scored 12 points for the Tigers (20-6, 10-3), who entered the week tied with Duke for the ACC lead. But Clemson lost at home Wednesday to a Virginia Tech team trying to shore up its NCAA Tournament chances, then struggled to make much of anything Saturday, with the Blue Devils holding the Tigers to long stretches of contested looks.
Notably, Clemson made just 5 of 15 layups in this one while the Tigers finished with a season-low scoring output — the previous low was 63 points in a Jan. 31 victory over Pittsburgh — despite finishing with just nine turnovers.
Clemson made just 6 of 24 3-pointers on the way to its 22nd straight loss at Cameron Indoor Stadium since a 75-70 win in January 1995.
Clemson: The Tigers play a second straight game in North Carolina, visiting Wake Forest on Wednesday.
Duke: The Blue Devils host Syracuse on Monday.
If you like offensive explosions, the first half was not for you. If you like Big Ten defensive slugfests, well this was your cup of tea. Northwestern started the game with 3 turnovers before attempting a field goal, but Nebraska was a meager 2-7 from the floor in the first 4 minutes. The turnover bug then decided to infect Nebraska, as they committed 7 turnovers in a 6 minute timespan.
Northwestern went on an 18-4 run in that timeframe, opening up an 8 point lead. The Huskers immediately countered with an 8-0 run, keyed by offensive rebounds and more Wildcat turnovers. For two teams who take care of the basketball, both are already above their season average in the first half. Jamarques Lawrence picked up his second foul late in the half, hopefully not causing issues with foul trouble.
Northwestern shot 12-27 for 44% from the floor. They went 2-8 for 25% from deep and 1-1 from the free-throw line. The Wildcats collected 12 rebounds, 3 of which were offensive. Northwestern had 8 turnovers to 7 assists. They had 14 points in the paint and 12 points off turnovers.
The Wildcats were led by Angelo Ciaravino, Jordan Clayton and Tre Singleton, who had 5 points each. Leading scorer Nick Martinelli only had 2. Ciaravino and Clayton had 3 rebounds each.
Nebraska shot 10-29 for 35% from the floor. They went 5-15 for 33% from deep and 3-5 for 60% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 23 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 10 turnovers to 6 assists. They had 10 points in the paint.
The Huskers were led by Pryce Sandfort, who had 11 points. Rienk Mast had 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the way in both categories. Sam Hoiberg had 8 points.
Nebraska continued to turn the ball over to start the second half, which kept the Wildcats right in this game. Pryce Sandfort kept Nebraska in this for a while, keeping Nebraska’s slim lead. Once the Huskers stopped turning the ball over and got some shot up, the door eventually blew open. Halfway through, Nebraska would go on a big run, giving themselves a double-digit lead, as Pryce Sandfort and Cale Jacobsen would lead the charge.
Jacobsen would hit back-to-back 3’s to give the Huskers a comfortable lead, and Northwestern went on a field goal drought of over 5 minutes. Sandfort and Jacobsen both finished one bucket shy of hitting career highs, but the Huskers shot almost 60% from the floor in the second half, including 6-10 from deep to give Nebraska a comfortable win.
Northwestern shot 20-50 for 40% from the floor. They went 3-15 for 20% from deep and 6-11 for 55% from the free-throw line. The Wildcats collected 24 rebounds, 6 of which were offensive. Northwestern had 16 turnovers and 13 assists. They had 26 points in the paint and 27 points off turnovers.
The Wildcats were led by Nick Martinelli, who had 11 points. 9 of those points were in the second half. No other Wildcat was in double figures. Angelo Ciaravino led the way with 4 rebounds. Jake West had 4 assists for Northwestern.
Nebraska shot 24-53 for 45% from the floor. They went 11-25 for 44% from deep and 9-12 for 75% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 40 rebounds, 13 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 18 turnovers to 16 assists. They had 26 points in the paint and 18 bench points.
The Huskers were led by Pryce Sandfort, who had 29 points. Rienk Mast led the way with 9 rebounds. Mast and Berke Buyuktuncel each had 4 assists. Sam Hoiberg, the all-around guy, had 14 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals.
Nebraska got off to another really horrendous first half, which has been a recurring problem as of late. This time, it wasn’t bad shooting, it was a multitude of turnovers. Nebraska only averages 9 turnovers a game, but they were already past that in the opening 20 minutes. Once the Huskers got settled down finally, they showed why they were the number 7 team in the country. Good shooting, tough defense and diving all over the floor made sure this game ended rather comfortably.
Nebraska has a much harder schedule on the road than at home from here on out, so getting off to slow starts will mean bad things coming up. It’s one thing to do it at home, but an entirely different beast when you are on the road. Nebraska plays Iowa on Tuesday night. Tip-off from Carver-Hawkeye Arena is scheduled for 8:00 pm and can be seen on Big Ten Network.
AMES, Iowa (AP) — Milan Momcilovic scored 18 points and No. 5 Iowa State shook off a slow start to defeat No. 9 Kansas 74-56 on Saturday, snapping the Jayhawks’ eight-game winning streak.
The Cyclones (22-3, 9-3 Big 12), coming off Tuesday’s 62-55 loss at TCU, began a five-game stretch in which they play four ranked teams by taking control of this game in the first half despite struggling to make shots in the opening minutes.
Iowa State led 37-27 at halftime, then went on a 20-7 run in the opening 5 1/2 minutes of the second half, a stretch in which the Cyclones made six consecutive 3-pointers.
Their defense held Kansas (19-6, 9-3) to 31.6% shooting from the field in the second half, including 1 of 8 in 3-pointers. The Jayhawks shot 37.3% for the game while committing 13 turnovers, 10 in the first half.
Tamin Lipsey, Joshua Jefferson, Blake Buchanan and Jamarion Bateman each had 11 points for Iowa State.
Melvin Council Jr. led the Jayhawks with 15 points. Flory Bidunga had 11.
Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson started after missing Monday’s 82-78 win over top-ranked Arizona. He had 10 points in 24 minutes.
Kansas’ winning streak started with an 84-63 victory over Iowa State on Jan. 13 and included wins over BYU, Texas Tech and Arizona.
The Cyclones made just one of their first 10 shots to open the game but because of their defense were down only 6-2 in that stretch. Once the offense got going, Iowa State went on a 20-2 run over a span of five minutes later in the first half to take a 36-22 lead with 1:37 to play.
Saturday’s game was the seventh top-10 game in the series between the Cyclones and Jayhawks, with the teams splitting the previous six.
Kansas: Visits Oklahoma State on Wednesday.
Iowa State: Hosts No. 3 Houston on Monday.
___
Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
The annual NBA Slam Dunk Contest brings together some of the most athletic players in the league for a slam dunk extravaganza.
Who won last year's edition of the Slam Dunk Contest?
Look no further than guard Mac McClung, who has won the contest for the last three years. McClung plays for the Chicago Bulls now, but he won last year's Slam Dunk Contest as a member of the Orlando Magic.
Who will win this year's Slam Dunk Contest? Well, it won't be McClung, who is not participating. We should get a great competition with the guys who are competing, however.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Who won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest last year?
Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the most recognisable former Manchester United players in world football, despite spending the latter stages of his career away from the Premier League.
The Portugal captain is currently plying his trade with Al-Nassr, but his profile continues to extend far beyond what happens on the pitch.
Ronaldo has also built a sizeable commercial portfolio under the CR7 banner, spanning multiple ventures alongside his playing commitments.
A fresh update suggests the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is now taking steps linked to what life could look like once he stops playing.
According to the Manchester Evening News, this planning includes groundwork for bringing his CR7-branded hospitality concept to the United Kingdom after his career ends.
The report says Ronaldo’s hospitality project is connected to his existing partnership with Portuguese group Pestana.
It claims a key element of the latest developments is pursuit of trademark protection in the UK, which would support any future rollout in this country.
MEN adds that the intended expansion would come after he retires, rather than during the closing phase of his current playing schedule.
The same piece references Ronaldo’s stance on timing, suggesting he does not view retirement as imminent and that soon could mean within one or two years.
While the story notes recent tension around Al-Nassr, it frames the wider picture as a long-term plan being put in place behind the scenes.
Ronaldo’s enduring connection to English football is obvious, given his two spells at Old Trafford and the impact he made in a United shirt.
Even from Saudi Arabia, he remains a constant talking point back in England, with MEN presenting the trademark step as another sign his brand is being actively managed.
For now, his immediate focus is still on Al-Nassr, but the report indicates that preparations for a post-playing chapter are already moving forward and that he is unsettled due to “a lack of transfer activity at the club, as well as the reduced influence of his allies, chief executive Jose Semedo and director of football Simão Coutinho.”
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
Newcastle United faced off against Aston Villa at Villa Park earlier this evening as they hoped to secure a good result on the road in the FA Cup. The Magpies made a slow start to the game and conceded the opener in the 14th minute when Tammy Abraham got his name on the scoresheet. Marco Bizot was given a red card in the final moments of the first half as the Tyneside club went into the half-time break 1-0 down on the scoreline.
Sandro Tonali equalised for Newcastle in the 63rd minute before going on to score again in the 76th minute. Nick Woltemade put the contest to bed in the 88th minute as the Magpies earned an impressive 3-1 away from home.
Let’s take a look at how each Newcastle United player fared during the clash against the Villans.
He made a few solid saves at the back and did enough to limit the opposition to just one goal.
RB: Kieran Trippier – 7/10
Trippier was a positive influence at both ends of the field.
CB: Malick Thiaw – 7/10
He dealt with the danger when he could and was good on the ball.
CB: Dan Burn – 7/10
Burn was a rock at the back and did well to secure an assist.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 14: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Anthony Elanga during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United at Villa Park on February 14, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
LB: Lewis Hall – 7/10
He caught the eye at times on both halves.
CM: William Osula – 6/10
Osula made a key chance in the final third and was replaced after the hour mark.
CM: Sandro Tonali – 8.5/10
He scored a brace in the second half to help Newcastle get the win.
CM: Jacob Ramsey – 6/10
Ramsey struggled to get a foothold in the game and was replaced in the 79th minute.
RW: Jacob Murphy – 6/10
He failed to impress during his time on the field.
ST: Nick Woltemade – 8/10
Woltemade made a few strong runs with the ball and managed to get his name on the scoresheet late in the game.
LW: Harvey Barnes – 6.5/10
He caught the eye at times in the final third, but there was no goal for him.
Substitutes:
RW: Anthony Elanga – 6.5/10
He made one good chance in the opponent’s half.
LW: Anthony Gordon – 6.5/10
Gordon added some pace to Howe’s attack.
Every offseason in the DeMeco Ryans era, the Houston Texans have made a trade to better the roster. In 2023, that move was for offensive lineman Shaq Mason.
A year later, Houston netted the duo of Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon and All-Pro wideout Stefon Diggs.
Last season, the Minnesota Vikings shipped off offensive lineman Ed Ingram, while the Jacksonville Jaguars gave up wideout Christian Kirk for a late Day 3 selection.
So, where do the Texans turn this offseason for another expiring-contract name? General manager Nick Caserio might be able to look at these three options should they become available on the market.
Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine created a list of potential trade targets for all 32 NFL teams. When asked for the Texans' options, the usual positions but the names were a new bunch that often haven't come up in discussions.
Offensive tackle, interior offensive line and defensive tackle have been priority moves for the Texans to target. Ballentine listed New Orleans Saints guard Ceser Ruiz, Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins and Minnesota Vikings Javon Hargrave as the top names to watch.
Dawkins feels the least likely to happen, especially given the value of a franchise tackle on a current deal. Dawkins also could be asked to move over to right tackle with the development of rookie Aireontae Ersery, thus making the deal more so a pipeline deam.
"Dawkins is still playing at an elite level, but the Bills could save a ton of money by trading him. The new team would have a $16.8 million cap hit," Ballentine wrote. "He would immediately upgrade C.J. Stroud's protection and improve the run game."
Ruiz, a former first-round pick out of Michigan, has been one of the league's more rocky interior linemen, mostly due to injuries and a changing coaching staff. He has two years left on his four-year extension and the $9 million salary might be rich, but given Engram's likihood of testing free agency, it would be a cheap optin for a stable run blocker.
"Cesar Ruiz makes sense for a lot of the same reasons on a smaller scale," Ballentine wrote. "He's not nearly as valuable as a franchise left tackle, but his experience at guard could help bolster a Texans offensive line that has to be better in 2026."
The Texans must decide what to do with several defensive linemen, including Sheldon Rankins and Tim Settle Jr. Both are free agents coming off one-year deals, but the former played in nearly every game while Settle missed over the last two months with a season-ending foot injury. Houston could bring back one of the duo while letting perhaps going after Hargrave, another low-center gravity lineman with bull-rushing upside in the pass defense.
"DeMeco Ryans system needs the front four to get to the quarterback," Ballentine wrote. "Finding interior defensive linemen who can help with that should be an objective this offseason. Javon Hargrave might be in the twilight of his career, but he's played in similar systems."
The Texans are expected to make several moves that should strengthen their cap space situation entering the offseason. Right now, Houston owns nine picks in the upcoming NFL draft.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans: Bleacher Report names 3 players as trade offseason options
Albert Riera was naturally pleased after celebrating his first win as Eintracht Frankfurt coach on Saturday, guiding his team to a 3-0 Bundesliga victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach.
“Of course, after scoring three goals, I have a lot of positive and nice things to say,” Riera told DAZN after the match.
“But I also look at it from another perspective, because my main focus is not the result or the 3-0 scoreline, but the progress made during the 90 minutes. We did many things well, but there are also many things we need to improve.”
The early injury to striker Arnaud Kalimuendo forced Eintracht to adjust their game plan.
“We’ve been unlucky with injuries. It’s not the same to play almost the entire game without Kali, with a false nine. Without the ball, he is also the first defender,” Riera explained.
As a result, Eintracht had to give Gladbach more space.
“And I don’t usually like giving the opponent space. I want to control the game more,” the Spaniard said.
He explained that in the coming weeks, the focus will be on developing positional play and creating the automatic movements he wants from his team.
“My dream is that this team can win a game with their eyes closed."
It became quite apparent that after James Franklin departed Happy Valley that the next head coach would have to build the Penn State Nittany Lions back up through whatever way possible. That is why Matt Campbell, upon his being hired, immediately went to the transfer portal to rebuild the roster. All in all, by raiding his former school, Campbell brought in one of the nation's best portal classes. While it is filled with star studded talent, one of the unsung heroes of the class could be someone who was unheralded beforehand.
According to an article from AtoZSports' Ryan Roberts, Penn State's most critical addition through the portal was not an offensive star like Rocco Becht or James Peoples. Not even a stellar linebacker like Caleb Bacon or Kooper Ebel. That honor goes to former Iowa State DB Jeremiah Cooper. Whole Cooper started out his career as three star recruit, ranked 257th overall in his portal class, he rose his level as Iowa State recruits generally do to become one of the most versatile defensive backs in the college game today.
Before even becoming such a versatile whom Campbell came to covet, he was one of the worst prospects at the corner position in his recruiting. He was ranked 857th nationally and 68th amongst safeties. While he had some decent offers, such as Texas Tech, Colorado, and SMU, deciding to go to Iowa State could have been the best decision he ever made.
Matt Campbell is know for getting the most out of his players and Cooper turned out to be no different. Despite the fact that Campbell had him playing everywhere from nickel to slot corner went to show he wasn't afraid to utilize Cooper in many different ways outside of his comfort zone. It paid off big time.
Over four seasons in Ames, Cooper compiled some incredible stats. He had 134 total tackles, eight interceptions, 22 pass breakups, and 4.5 tackles for loss, proving his mettle. Now with the Nittany Lions and reunited with coach Campbell, Cooper could look to continue his under-the-radar style of play.
This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Underrated portal addition could be Penn State's hidden gem
Cory Sandhagen is aiming for a fight against former champion Sean O'Malley, but also wonders why his name isn't mentioned with Petr Yan.
Sandhagen (18-6 MMA, 11-5 UFC) is currently ranked No. 5 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie bantamweight rankings. The names ahead of him, from No. 4 to No. 1, include Umar Nurmagomedov, O'Malley, Merab Dvalishvili, and the current UFC champion, Yan. O'Malley is the only one in the top 5 that Sandhagen has not faced yet, which seems like easy matchmaking for the promotion.
"O'Malley is definitely the guy that there is to fight," Sandhagen said on an ONX Sports podcast. "Everyone's talking about that fight. There's really, I mean, there's no reason not to do it. I'm coming off of a really close fight with Merab, where it was a super competitive fight. Still lost, but it was a very competitive fight. He's coming off of getting finished by Merab – got finished once, but lost to him twice. That's the fight that everyone's calling for."
At UFC 320, Sandhagen lost a unanimous decision to then-champion Dvalishvili, who went on to lose the title in a rematch against Yan. Sandhagen faced Yan at UFC 267, losing a unanimous decision in the Fight of the Night. Since there is uncertainty about who Yan's next opponent could end up being, Sandhagen can't help but wonder why his name isn't being brought up, considering their first fight was an entertaining bout.
"I try not to be a hater and a jealous person or whatever, but I'm like, 'Yo, why are we not talking about me and Yan fighting again when me and Yan had a killer fight?'" Sandhagen said. "It was a Performance of the Night, it was five rounds. We had a killer fight. Sean got finished by Merab, and then after that, barely beat Song (Yadong), and I finished Song, you know what I mean? I broke his orbital and cut his eye. I put Song in surgery the next time, you know what I mean? It's like, give me a little bit of freaking credit, goddamnit – but I can't let that stuff enter into my head or else I'll just be a jaded, jealous mean person all the time."
The most likely outcome is that Sandhagen does end up fighting O'Malley next. If that comes to fruition, Sandhagen would love for it to take place on the White House card this summer, given the attention the event will generate.
"Hell yeah, and I think Sean would bite at that too," Sandhagen said. "Because who wouldn't want to fight? That fight is gonna get so many views. Like the last one at Paramount+ got like 7 million viewers or whatever. Imagine what the White House card is gonna get. People are gonna tune in from other sports just because it's a once-in-a-lifetime event. I bet you it'll be around 14, 15 million people watching."
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Cory Sandhagen: Why are we not talking about Petr Yan rematch?
Y’all, this one isn’t going to be pretty.
Houston enters today’s game as the consensus #3 team in the nation and currently sits at 22-2 overall and 10-1 in Big 12 play. And yet, they are currently only 22.5-point favorites over the visiting TangCats, a team sitting at 10-14 overall, 1-10 in Big 12 play, and mired in a 5-game losing streak that might as well be 50. The Cougars are legit, the TangCats are awful. This should be a blowout.
Use this space to commiserate, offer lotto tips to help someone win enough money to pay for Tang’s buyout, and just try to find something positive in whatever we can at this point.
If you want to watch Houston beat this dead horse, we’ve got an expected 3:02pm CT tipoff from the Fertitta Center in Houston, and you can catch the action on NBC Sports Network/Peacock with James Westling (play-by-play) and Jordan Cornette (analyst) on the call.
If you don’t have NBC Sports Network, or can’t access the stream, the game can be heard across portions of the 28-station K-State Sports Network with Wyatt Thompson (play-by-play) and Stan Weber (analyst) calling the action. The game will also be available online at K-Statesports.com and via the Varsity Network app, as well as on satellite radio at Sirius/XM Ch. 380. Live stats are also available at k-statesports.com, and social media updates (@KStateMBB) will also be a part of the coverage.
Go Cats!
Since its creation in 2022, several different figures have taken on a prominent role in The Judgment Day, though the stable has not had an official leader since Edge was removed from the faction. Although a few different wrestlers have stepped forward to take charge in the group, Liv Morgan recently reiterated to TMZ that she isn't taking orders from anybody.
"There actually is no leader of The Judgment Day," Morgan said when asked if Dominik Mysterio led the group. "We are all equals, but 'Daddy' Dom is our double champion."
Though she's remained attached to Mysterio since her return from injury, as of late, Morgan has butted heads with another member of The Judgment Day: Finn Balor. The two seem to be on decent terms for now, but that could change if Balor loses his rematch against CM Punk at WWE Elimination Chamber.
As for potential new members of the faction, Morgan left the door open for possibilities while also making it clear that they aren't accepting auditions. Instead, Morgan described it as more of a "recruitment process," meaning The Judgment Day will contact you first.
"Finn recruited JD [McDonagh], I recruited Raquel [Rodriguez], Finn also recruited Roxanne [Perez]," Morgan stated. "So it's kind of just like – you see something special in someone, and we have a little pow wow to see if we bring them in or not, and then we decide."
Perez is the latest addition to The Judgment Day, having joined last summer around the time Morgan was injured. Despite Perez growing suspiciously close to Mysterio during Morgan's absence, Perez and Morgan formed a tag team upon her return and even won the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship together. Morgan also won the 2026 WWE Women's Royal Rumble, earning a singles title match at WrestleMania.
If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit TMZ and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
Read more: WWE Raw Stars: Meet Their Wives & Girlfriends
Don't miss any of the major wrestling headlines. Sign up to our free newsletter for the biggest stories, sent straight to your inbox. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.
Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.
Tensions flared at the Orange Vélodrome on Saturday evening as Olympique de Marseille were held to a 2-2 draw by Strasbourg, prompting angry scenes involving supporters both during and after the match.
Get French Football News understands that around 20–30 supporters attempted to force entry into the presidential hospitality areas via the Jean-Bouin forecourt following the final whistle. Objects were reportedly thrown and security doors were locked as stewards and police moved quickly to prevent any breach. Access points were subsequently sealed off and CRS officers deployed, with calm eventually restored later in the evening.The unrest followed another damaging result for OM, who surrendered a 2-0 lead at home. Amine Gouiri had appeared to put the hosts in control with a superbly taken strike to make it 2-0, but Strasbourg mounted a comeback, scoring a late penalty to secure a draw.
The match had already begun in a febrile atmosphere. Sections of the home support staged a 15-minute strike at kick-off and unveiled a series of banners directed at both the players and the club’s hierarchy. Boos rang around the stadium at various points, and a smoke bomb was thrown onto the pitch.
Frustration has intensified in recent days following the departure of head coach Roberto De Zerbi, with Jacques Abardonado taking charge on an interim basis. The dropped points – two more in a season marked by chronic inconsistency – further deepened the sense of drift around the club.GFFN | George Boxall– Reporting from Stade Vélodrome, Marseille
In its tightest game of the season from start to finish, UConn women’s basketball used a big fourth quarter to pull past the Marquette Golden Eagles 71-56 on Saturday at the Al McGuire Center.
The Huskies trailed for the first five minutes and found themselves tied at 20-20 midway through the second quarter. UConn used a 16-2 run to take a 12-point lead into the half, but Marquette cut the deficit back to single-digits with less than three minutes remaining in the third quarter. Finally, the Huskies opened the final period with an 8-0 run that pushed the gap past 20 and put the game away.
Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong each dominated a half. Fudd put up 17 of UConn’s 36 points in the first half behind a 5-8 start from three while Strong shook off a 1-9 start from the field to drop 19 points in the second half.
Fudd finished with a game-high 25 points while Strong totaled 22 points. Beyond the pair, KK Arnold set a career-high with nine assists to go with 10 points and six rebounds in her home state of Wisconsin. UConn’s six other players managed a combined 14 points.
The Huskies saw two different streaks snapped. They recorded just 17 assists, the first time they failed to surpass the 20-assist mark since the season opener versus Louisville — 25 games ago. UConn had also won their previous 21 games by at least 25 points.
As a team, the Huskies’ 71 points are their lowest output of the season while the 15-point margin of victory is their narrowest in Big East play.
UConn got off to another slow start, failing to score in the first 4:21 of the contest while falling into a 5-0 hole. Fudd finally got the Huskies on the board with a 3-pointer, which sparked an 8-0 run. At the end of the first quarter, UConn held a narrow three-point lead.
The Huskies built the advantage up to eight, only for Marquette to pull even with 5:12 left in the half. UConn answered with a 16-2 run and went into the locker room up 36-24.
After the break, the two teams battled back and forth. The Huskies jumped ahead by as many as 15 before the hosts ripped off seven straight points to narrow the gap to eight. Strong was unstoppable, scoring 15 of UConn’s 21 points in the quarter.
Entering the final frame, the Huskies delivered the kill shot. They scored the first eight points, extending their lead past 20 for the first time. The defense sparked the run, forcing a turnover on three straight possessions at one point. While Marquette scored 12 of the final 16 points, it didn’t matter as UConn came out with a hard-fought 16-point victory.
With the win, the Huskies improve to 27-0 overall and 16-0 in Big East play. Next, they’ll travel to face second-place Villanova on Wednesday, where they can clinch a share of the Big East regular season crown.
St. John's vs. Providence turned chippy early in the second half of their men's basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 14,.
The two teams got into a scuffle after St. John's forward Bryce Hopkins — a former Providence standout — received a pass during a fast-break opportunity with 14:26 remaining in the second half. When he went to the rim, he was met with a hard foul by Providence's Duncan Powell, who rammed into Hopkins while attempting the transition block.
Hopkins quickly hopped off the floor and got in Powell's face before multiple players started a scuffle, delaying play.
REQUIRED READING: NCAA tournament bracketology: Latest projection a month away from Selection Sunday
Six players were ejected, including Powell, who was called for a Flagrant 2 foul and later threw a punch at Dillon Mitchell. Two Providence players — Powell and Jaylin Sellers — and four St. John's players — Mitchell, Kelvin Odih, Ruben Prey and Lefteris Liotopoulos — were removed from the game.
The game marked Hopkins' first game against the Friars since transferring away from the program after last season. Hopkins is averaging 13.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season and was the subject of multiple chants from Providence's student section.
WE'VE GOT A BRAWL IN PROVIDENCEpic.twitter.com/U8C8MjznMM
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) February 14, 2026
Powell is in his first season with Providence after transferring from Georgia Tech. He started his career at North Carolina A&T and also spent a season at Sacramento State.
St. John's (19-5, 12-1 Big East) hasn't lost in over a month, last losing a game to Providence on Jan. 3. The Red Storm have won 10 straight games and are looking for their 11th in a row — and revenge against the Friars.
Providence (11-14, 4-10) is essentially eliminated from NCAA Tournament contention, barring an unlikely bid-stealing run with a Big East Conference Championship. Losing Sellers certainly won't help the cause, though, as he's averaging a team-high 17.4 points per game this season.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: St. John's, Providence basketball get into scuffle after hard foul
Free agency in the National Football League is rapidly approaching, and there are all sorts of rumors flying around concerning the Minnesota Vikings, specifically about their quarterback situation.
On the positive side, it sounds like there’s no shortage of potential signal-callers who want to come to Minnesota, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
Just now on NFL Live @JFowlerESPN reports: "All the top quarterbacks that will be or could be available" want to land with the Vikings.
— Minnesota Sports Fan (@realmnsportsfan) February 13, 2026
"My sense right now, from asking around, is that all the top quarterbacks that will be or could be available… [Minnesota] is the place they… pic.twitter.com/yOWa64vUxc
My sense right now, from asking around, is that all the top quarterbacks that will be or could be available — Kyler Murray, Geno Smith comes to mind — [Minnesota] is the place they want to go…because of what you have with Justin Jefferson, Kevin O’Connell, a lot of pieces in place.
Well, there are some interesting names floating around, so let’s examine a couple of them, shall we?
Kyler Murray was specifically mentioned by Fowler in the above video. The former #1 overall pick has a $19.5 million bonus that comes due on 16 March, which is the fifth day of the new league year. The Cardinals will make a decision on him before then, and while they’re reportedly looking for a trade partner for him, it seems as though the odds of anyone wanting to take him on under his current contract are slim. If he does get released, he would immediately become a very attractive potential option for the Vikings.
Fowler also mentioned Geno Smith. Yeah. He certainly did.
Moving on.
It certainly sounds like the Miami Dolphins are going to be moving on from Tua Tagovailoa this offseason, as a combination of injuries and general ineffectiveness saw him get benched for the final three games of the Dolphins season in 2025. Usually, a former top 5 overall pick might be an attractive option for the Vikings, but given Tua’s history of concussion issues and the fact that, at times, he’s just looked a whole lot worse than a guy who’s been in the league as long as he has been should look, that should be a hard pass for the Vikings.
A name that’s surfaced recently has been former Raiders and Saints quarterback Derek Carr. Carr retired before the start of last season, and the Saints still control his rights if he decides he wants to put the pads back on. Still, now that the Saints have a quarterback they seem to believe in with Tyler Shough, they’d likely be willing to let Carr go for a fairly reasonable price. Is it something the Vikings should entertain?
We’ve already briefly touched on the idea of a Kirk Cousins reunion, and there’s also the possibility that we’ll get Aaron Rodgers rumors. . .legitimate or not. . .for however long it takes Rodgers to make a decision about coming back.
So, I’m going to open it up to the floor here. Who do you think is the best potential (realistic) option for the Vikings to bring in at quarterback this offseason?
Austrian Janine Flock finally wrapped up Olympic women's skeleton gold aged 36 on Saturday, eight years after throwing away victory and four years after struggling badly.
"I can’t believe it, it doesn’t feel real right now. It’s a dream to do this," she told reporters.
Rivals may have thought she was past her prime, but Flock has dominated on the Cortina ice track from the first of four runs where she set a track record.
She won by 0.30 seconds from Germany's Susanne Kreher having had a 0.21 second advantage heading into the final run. Another German Jacqueline Pfeifer took bronze ahead of 2022 champion and compatriot Hannah Neise.
German association president Thomas Schwab was happy with his team's showing and was particularly delighted for Kreher, 27, in her first Games.
"I think she still needs to process it all. Of course, I'm absolutely thrilled for her. The team performed brilliantly. But Janine Flock is a deserving winner, she was the best four times over."
Flock led after three runs in 2018 but was overhauled by Britain's
Lizzy Yarnold in the finale and she finished fourth.
At Beijing 2022, the four-times European champion could only place 10th, but four years later she is Olympic gold medallist - despite never winning a world championship title in her long career.
The potential was also there though as a three-times World Cup overall champion.
"I couldn’t tell what my time was," Flock said of her reaction immediately after crossing the line on Saturday.
"I just knew I put down four really consistent runs and hoped that it was enough."
Dutch slider Kimberley Bos, the world champion and Beijing bronze medallist, could only finish 13th.
In Friday's men's skeleton, Matt Weston secured Britain’s first medal at the 2026 Games as he scooped gold.
Skeleton is like luge but athletes face forwards lying on their front. The mixed team event on Sunday concludes the Olympic programme.
49ers urged to address pass-catcher question to help Brock Purdy originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The San Francisco 49ers have to compete with the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, the NFC runner-up, and the 2026 Super Bowl favorites, the Los Angeles Rams, in the NFC West.
It's a brutal division, and to compete with those top teams, the 49ers have a lot of work to do. While the defensive line could use some help, there isn't a more pressing question for the 49ers to answer than with the offense this offseason.
Specifically, as Bradley Locker of PFF.com points out, the 49ers pass-catcher question is a major one that needs resolving. Brock Purdy needs more help, and that's the biggest question the 49ers must answer this offseason.
"For as much as Kyle Shanahan relied on Christian McCaffrey as a receiver in 2025," Lcoker writes, "he'll assuredly seek new weapons for Brock Purdy in both free agency and the draft."
The 49ers cannot go through this offseason without making major moves with the team's pass catchers. There are a few returning players, but they aren't enough.
Ricky Pearsall has been dealing with injuries his entire career, and while he's a solid option, the 49ers need more help than just Pearsall in the WR room.
George Kittle is a great tight end, but he's coming off an Achilles injury and might not be ready to begin the season. Other than Kittle and Pearsall, no other noteworthy pass catcher is returning.
More: Broncos, Bucs, 49ers listed as top landing spots for $66 million former Pro Bowl tight end
Jauan Jennings is a free agent, and Brandon Aiyuk is all but off the roster at this point. The 49ers desperately need at least one new wide receiver, whether it's Jennings re-signing or a free agent.
Tight end is a bit trickier, but better depth couldn't hurt even if Kittle does return. Jake Tonges is fine, but someone like David Njoku to back up Kittle, and give Shanahan the ability to run multiple TE sets with two good options, is appealing.
While the top wide receiver, George Pickens, isn't likely to be available, the 49ers could still use an early draft pick on one, or sign a different free agent to a contract this offseason.
Regardless of how the 49ers address the pass-catching room this offseason, there is no doubt that John Lynch and the 49ers front office need to invest heavily in it this offseason.
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Four years ago, in the spring leading up to his big-league debut with the Royals, MJ Melendez was considered one of the best left-handed-hitting prospects in all of baseball.
Melendez had just led all of minor league baseball with 41 home runs in 2021. Fans in Kansas City were buzzing about his potential with soon-to-be superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. also set to embark on his rookie season.
To say Melendez has fallen short of expectations since then would be an understatement. By the numbers, both in Melendez’s production and his big-league playing time, it’s been a steep decline in that span. He’s rattled off disappointing seasons in succession and dipped to a new low in 2025.
Melendez hasn’t stopped believing in himself, though. And according to the 27-year-old, the Mets feel the same way. That’s the main reason why he ended up at Mets camp this spring, signing off to compete for an Opening Day roster spot after agreeing to a one-year deal in free agency.
“I’ve had conversations with [the Mets] and saw that they definitely believe in me,” Melendez told NJ.com at Clover Park on Friday. “I definitely want somebody who has that same kind of thought process as me. I’m excited for a fresh start, excited for what’s to come and excited to get to learn here.”
Melendez spent most of last season in Triple-A with the Royals, batting .083 in his limited sample with the big-league club. He’s a career .215 hitter with 52 home runs and a sub-.700 OPS over 435 career games. The holes in his swing, the brutal defensive metrics and the inconsistent production cast an ominous cloud over the flashes of his potential in a Royals uniform.
“Obviously I would have liked to have been more consistent in the past,” Melendez said, “but everything happens for a reason. I feel like that’s led me here. I know I’m still very, very young in this game and can show the version of me that I feel like has yet to be unlocked.”
This is a classic change-of-scenery situation for a player trying to revive his career in a new uniform. The Mets like Melendez’s versatility — the fact that he can play outfield, first base and be an emergency catcher — plus his upside offensively. If he can swing the bat well this spring and show that he’s improving on defense, his chances to break camp will grow. Melendez said the Mets’ hitting staff has already made a great first impression, introductory conversations that have been “nothing short of amazing.”
“I think there’s more in the tank,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “He’s coming off a couple of down years, but I remember when he first came up to the league, he was a pretty good player. He’s gonna get an opportunity here and I’m excited to have him.”
While he does have a shot to prove himself, the chase for a roster spot is also largely out of Melendez’s control. Assuming Francisco Lindor is ready for Opening Day after his hamate bone surgery and Carson Benge ends up on the big-league roster, there’s only one spot available on the Mets’ bench. Fourth outfielder Tyrone Taylor and backup catcher Luis Torrens are locks with Mark Vientos profiling as a bench bat. If that’s the case, the Mets could opt for a utility infielder to occupy that final spot. Ronny Mauricio and Vidal Bruján would be the favorites there. Then again, having a left-handed bat with some pop on the bench, in Melendez, would also be valuable as Vientos, Taylor and Torrens are all righties.
None of that matters if Melendez fails to show the Mets that he’s capable of consistent production. To do that and show he’d help this team, Melendez isn’t trying to reinvent himself. He’s striving to tap into what was working when he was slugging in the minors and climbing prospect charts all those years ago. Between that mindset and the lessons he’s learned over those “frustrating” seasons in Kansas City, Melendez is oozing confidence.
“I’ve shown that I can have some positive production and definitely be an impact player,” he said. “It’s just about continuing to unlock that consistency, but not try to make me into somebody that I’m not. Let’s build off of the positive things I do, like even getting back to some past videos of what made me successful. I’m not trying to change that. I want to go and continue to better that.”
Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Real Madrid have been the form team in La Liga in 2026, and they are already on their way to another victory after taking the lead against Real Sociedad in their clash at the Bernabeu.
The big team news for the match has been Kylian Mbappe’s omission from the starting line-up, with Gonzalo Garcia and Vinicius Junior starting in attack instead. The former has justified his inclusion already as he has netted the opening goal inside five minutes, as he touched home an excellent cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Trent has been a big miss for Real Madrid over the last 6-8 weeks, which he missed after a second hamstring injury of the season. Alvaro Arbeloa opted to start him over Dani Carvajal, whose future at the Bernabeu is uncertain, and already, that decision has been fully merited.
As things stand, Real Madrid will go top of La Liga, with Barcelona not in action until Monday night. However, there is still a long way to go, and La Real will not make it easy.
Everton intend to launch a fresh offensive for Fulham winger Harry Wilson during the upcoming summer transfer window. This follows a failed approach in January. Journalist Pete O’Rourke revealed on the Transfer Insider podcast that the Merseyside club submitted a formal enquiry last month, but Fulham immediately dismissed the overture.
The Welsh international currently enters the final months of his contract at Craven Cottage, and this situation naturally puts several domestic and foreign teams on high alert. Because his deal expires in June, the Toffees see the situation as a great opportunity to secure a proven Premier League player without a massive transfer fee.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, he explained: “I think probably half the Premier League are looking at Harry Wilson.
“Everton made a cheeky enquiry in the January transfer window, which was quickly rebuffed by Fulham, but I’m sure they’ll be back at the table looking at him, and I’m sure there’ll be clubs from abroad looking at Wilson (too).
“He’s just been in red-hot form for Fulham in the last couple of months. It’s a wide-open race for Wilson right now.”
The 28-year-old Wales mainstay remains a vital part of the Fulham squad. However, his future looks increasingly uncertain in West London. While the club value his contributions, Wilson has not committed to a contract extension, which creates a tough scenario for the Cottagers.
He provides a specific left-footed balance on the right flank. This allows him to cut inside and unleash signature long-range efforts or deliver accurate crosses. Wilson’s technical delivery and set-piece skills rank among the best in the league. However, critics sometimes point to a lack of elite recovery speed as a potential drawback in high-pressing systems.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 11: Harry Wilson of Fulham warms up prior to the Premier League match between Manchester City and Fulham at Etihad Stadium on February 11, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Everton definitely need a player of his profile to bring genuine creativity and goal threat from wide areas. The current squad often lacks a consistent outlet who can transition play with the precision that the former Liverpool man has.
Plus, his eight goals and four assists so far this season show a high level of productivity that would really help the Toffees in their push for higher league standings next season. Signing a player with his maturity and international experience would be a sensible move for a team seeking immediate impact.
Ultimately, the Goodison Park club should put this signing first because he fits the tactical requirements of a modern winger perfectly. His ability to operate between the lines and find pockets of space would complement the physical presence of their central strikers. If Everton can convince Wilson to ignore interest from abroad, they will get a seasoned professional at the peak of his career. And all that for free makes all the sense in the world.
MILWAUKEE — Azzi Fudd scored 25 points, Sarah Strong had 19 of her 22 in the second half and No. 1 UConn remained unbeaten with a 71-56 victory over Marquette on Saturday.
UConn (27-0, 16-0 Big East) has won 43 straight games and hasn’t lost since an 80-76 decision at Tennessee over a year ago. The Huskies also have won 63 straight Big East games, counting regular-season and tournament matchups.
Marquette (16-10, 10-7) did manage to end one UConn streak.
UConn had won 21 straight games by at least 25 points before Saturday, which represented the longest such streak for any Division I program over at least the last 25 seasons. The last team to lose to UConn by fewer than 25 points was No. 7 Michigan, which fell 72-69 to the Huskies on Nov. 21 at Uncasville, Connecticut.
The Huskies built a 36-24 halftime lead thanks to Fudd, who scored 17 points and shot 5 of 8 on 3-point attempts in the first two periods.
Strong, who entered Saturday shooting 60% from the floor, went 1 of 9 and scored just three points in the first half. But she shot 6 of 7 during a 15-point third quarter.
UConn guard KK Arnold had 10 points and a career-high nine assists in her return home. Arnold was a three-time Associated Press Wisconsin state player of the year while starring at nearby Germantown High School.
Lee Volker scored 15 points, Skylar Forbes 14 and Jaidynn Mason 11 for Marquette, which has lost three straight games for the first time since December 2022.
After Marquette took an early 5-0 lead on a pair of Mason baskets, UConn scored eight straight points and never trailed again. A three-point play from Forbes tied the game at 20-all with 5:12 left in the second quarter, but UConn scored 11 consecutive points to pull ahead for good.
UConn is at Villanova on Wednesday.
Marquette has a long layoff before visiting Villanova on Feb. 22.
For the second World Rally Championship event in a row, Hyundai has struggled for outright pace in its battle against Toyota.
admitted he was running out of set up options to try as Hyundai explored radical changes to find answers to its lack of grip and speed at Rally Sweden.
The Korean marque had hoped to take the fight to Toyota in Sweden after a difficult season opener on asphalt in Monte Carlo, difficulties the team had been anticipating last month. This is different.
Now in Sweden, after 15 snowy stages, Toyota has again dominated with Elfyn Evans heading a 1-2-3-4 for the Japanese brand while Hyundai has struggled to extract pace out of its i20 N Rally1 car. All three of its drivers have reported a lack of traction on the snow and ice covered roads.
Heading into the final day, Esapekka Lappi is the best placed Hyundai in fourth, 1m09.5s from the lead with Adrien Fourmaux 8.2s further back, Thierry Neuville ended Saturday 2m10.0s shy, although the 2024 world champion lost a significant chunk of that deficit to a mistake in Friday’s stage three that required him to stop to clear his windscreen.
In order to find answers to its lack of pace, drivers have rolled through a myriad of unusual set up changes through Saturday’s stages that resulted in improvements across its cars.
Neuville ended the day by winning stage 15 by 1.1s from Toyota’s Takamoto Katsuta before opening up on the extent of Hyundai’s search to unlock speed from its cars.
“I have [gone radical with the changes],” said Neuville when asked if he had tried some radical set up changes.
“I was driving this afternoon partially without the rear roll bar and we tried without the front [roll bar]. I tried a lot of rake, less rake and different preloads. I did a lot. It was always tight to get to the start of the stage [on time] each time.”
When asked if he was running out of changes to try, he added: “Yeah definitely. I had a bit of pressure today as I promised my wife to make one fastest time, as I forgot the flowers [for Valentine’s Day]. She told me I needed to set a fastest time, I was trying.
Likewise, team-mate Adrien Fourmaux tried an experimental damper set up change that made the ride pretty hard going for him and co-driver Alex Coria inside the car. The change did yield more grip that has left the Frenchman with hope ahead of Sunday’s final three stages.
“I found this morning that something was not working on the dampers, so I decided and the team decided to compensate it with the spring and really open up the dampers, and it seems it was working much better this afternoon,” said Fourmaux.
“It is quite positive and encouraging for tomorrow, still it is going to be hard to fight against the Toyotas, but at least we are showing some pace with the three cars this afternoon,” said Fourmaux.
“It gave a lot more grip to the car but the car became more lazy. At the same time I lost some protection, but I just tightened my teeth and I went for it. It is a shame we have not found it earlier and we tried many things on the car like differential, springs and geometries and ride height and nothing was improving anything. It is the only big step that I found today.
“I think we can sort it for the rest of the season. I hope tomorrow it will be ok and we can fight for it.”
Read Also:
WRC Sweden: Elfyn Evans heads Toyota 1-2-3-4 into final day
WRC Sweden: Takamoto Katsuta snatches lead from Elfyn Evans
Thierry Neuville labels WRC struggles the “hardest time of my career”
To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.
STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — David Punch had 19 points, Xavier Edmonds posted a double-double and TCU never trailed but had to work overtime before beating Oklahoma State 95-92 on Saturday.
Punch and Micah Robinson both scored four, and Jayden Pierre hit a 3-pointer to help the Horned Frogs (16-9, 6-6 Big 12 Conference) prevail in the extra period after Parsa Fallah tipped in a missed 3-pointer by Jaylen Curry at the regulation buzzer for the Cowboys (16-9, 4-8) to tie it 84-all.
Punch added six rebounds and three steals before fouling out for TCU. Edmonds totaled 15 points and 10 rebounds. Pierre hit four 3-pointers and scored 16, adding six rebounds, four assists and two blocked shots. Harding hit three 3-pointers and scored 15 as the Horned Frogs sank 12 of 25 from distance. Robinson and reserve Tanner Toolson both scored 11.
Fallah made 10 of 13 shots and scored 27 to lead Oklahoma State in a third straight loss. Anthony Roy had 16 points and Kanye Clary totaled 13 points and nine assists before fouling out. Christian Coleman also scored 13 and Curry added 12 off the bench.
TCU came in averaging seven 3-pointers per game, but Pierre and Harding each sank two and the Horned Frogs hit seven in the first half to take a 39-34 lead at the break.
TCU, which has won three straight and was coming off a 62-55 victory over No. 5 Iowa State, led the whole second half until Fallah's tip-in tied it.
Pierre buried a 3-pointer following a layup by Robinson for a 91-86 lead and TCU held on.
TCU: At UCF on Tuesday.
Oklahoma State: Hosts No. 9 Kansas on Wednesday.
___
Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketba spurtll: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
The No. 12-ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs face the Santa Clara Broncos in a showdown between the two best teams in the WCC tonight.
The Zags have been locked in since losing at Portland last week, and my Gonzaga vs. Santa Clara predictions expect them to pick up a big win on the road tonight.
Here are my best free college basketball picks for this marquee matchup on Saturday, February 14.
Gonzaga vs Santa Clara best bet: Gonzaga -4.5 (-110)
The Gonzaga Bulldogs made key second-half adjustments to beat the Santa Clara Broncos 89-77 in Spokane last month.
Although Santa Clara is at home this time, the Broncos are still not talented enough to hang with Gonzaga, which ranks 26th in adjusted offense and 12th in adjusted defense.
The Broncos thrive when they can force turnovers and jump out in transition, but Gonzaga takes care of the ball.
While both teams shoot extremely well inside the arc, the Zags defend significantly better. They are 29th in the country in opponent 2PT% (46.8%) while the Broncos rank 188th (51.9%).
Portland guard Joel Foxwell dropped 27 points against Gonzaga last week with Emmanuel Innocenti on the bench for long stretches. Mark Few has fixed that mistake, giving Innocenti 62 minutes over the last two games, and he'll get lots of burn tonight since he'll defend Christian Hammond.
Innocenti is Gonzaga’s top defender, and while the offense can stagnate with him on the floor, his presence strengthens the case for the Under.
All-WCC forward Graham Ike (19.7 ppg, 8.5 rpg) has seen his production surge with Gonzaga’s second-best big, Braden Huff, sidelined. Ike has cleared 8.5 rebounds in eight of his last 12 games and Santa Clara struggles on the defensive glass.
Ike had 34 points and 11 boards in the previous meeting and has dropped 24+ points in four of his last six games.
The Zags have cashed the Under in nine of their last 11 games (+6.80 Units / 56% ROI). Find more college basketball betting trends for Gonzaga vs. Santa Clara.
| Location | Leavey Center, Santa Clara, CA |
| Date | Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 10:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Betfred Super League
Hull FC (18) 27
Tries: Batchelor, Barron, Litten, Cust Goals: Pryce 5 Drop-goal: Pryce
Bradford (10) 20
Tries: Blake, Wynne 2 Goals: Milnes 4
Bradford Bulls were denied a comeback victory on their return to Super League as Hull FC clinched a last gasp 27-20 victory in a thriller at the MKM Stadium.
Just 48 hours on from top-flight debutants York Knights stunning reigning Champions Hull KR by a one-point margin, the visitors ended up on the wrong side of a epic season-opening fixture.
It was to the Bulls' credit, on their first return to Super League after 11 years away, that victory for their hosts never looked locked in with the match all square with three minutes of regular time left on the clock.
It took a drop-goal from Hull FC full back Will Pryce to get the home side's noses in front before Cade Cust finally delivered the win by barrelling over on 79 minutes.
Bradford have been through much since their last try in Super League, Manese Manuokafoa scoring in a win over London Broncos in September 2014 with liquidation and reconstruction from the rubble.
But it was like they had never been away in the first exchanges, pushing back last year's Super League seventh placed side and scoring the first try through Waqa Blake, as the Fijian international burst through flimsy defence on six minutes.
The excellent Pryce produced a moment of magic to break through defensive lines and grubber kick as he was bring tackled for Joe Batchelor to level things up 10 minutes later but back came Bradford through ex-Hull FC back Connor Wynne.
Harvey Barron responded once again for the hosts who went 12-10 up with the help of Pryce's unerring boot before Davy Litten broke through some weak tackles on the left wing to make it 18-10 at half time.
If John Cartwright's side were hoping the Bulls would run out of steam in the second period they were swiftly disabused just six minutes into the second half, Rowan Milnes added the extras to give the visitors the lead.
Milnes added two converted penalty goals, the second of which came after a high tackle from Aidan Sezer on Joe Mellor on 61 minutes, which put Bradford into a slim 20-18 lead.
Eight minutes later, a penalty for Hull in front of the sticks was taken without hesitation, as Pryce levelled once again with 10 minutes to go.
Bradford had great field position from a goal-line dropout after a drop goal attempt from Milnes was charged down but a knock-on as they were rebuilding their attack took the wind from their sails.
Hull charged up the other end and, with three left on the clock, grabbed a point themselves; a pass back to Sezer shifted cleverly back again to Pryce and his kick sailed over from 30 metres out.
A lead of 21-20 with one minute to play looked fair but Cust added gloss to the scoreline in the final seconds.
Hull FC: Pryce; Barron, Hardaker, Litten, Martin; Kemp, Sezer; Knight, Bourouh, Hill, Batchelor, Romano, Aydin
Interchanges: Cust, Fash, Lisone, Sao
Bradford: Aekins; Okunbur, Marsters, Blake, Wynne; Keyes, Milnes; Sutton, Ackers, Lewis, Russell, Fulton, Mellor
Interchanges: Souter Scurr, Doro, Chamberlain
Referee: Marcus Griffiths.
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has been left underwhelmed by the performances put forth by a leading member of his defensive ranks across the season to date.
The player in question? Alejandro Balde.
Stopper Balde has of course continued to act as a key member of Barcelona’s first-choice XI thus far this term.
Despite competition from Gerard Martín and more recently João Cancelo, when it matters most, Hansi Flick has continued to depend on his young full-back.
And yet, despite the faith placed in his talents, Balde has for the most part struggled to rediscover his best form.
The Spaniard has come in for consistent criticism on the part of the Barcelona faithful, for his efforts in and out of possession alike.
And if the latest word stemming from the media is anything to go by, it would appear that such woes have recently begun to weigh on Barca’s headmaster, too.
As per a report from Fichajes:
‘The German coach believes that Alejandro Balde’s current performance does not meet the demands of the most challenging matches this season. Defensive lapses and a lack of attacking depth shown in the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético de Madrid have precipitated this decision.’
So alarming has the situation become, that Flick is said to have demanded the signing of a new left-back to compete with Balde for next season.
Conor Laird – GSFN
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Six players were ejected from Saturday’s game between No. 17 St. John’s and Providence after a fracas resulting from a hard foul by Friars forward Duncan Powell on Bryce Hopkins sent the Red Storm star crashing to the ground.
St. John’s coach Rick Pitino, who led Providence to the 1987 Final Four, was in the middle of it, trying to hold back his players. But several entered the fray as it drifted toward the Red Storm bench.
The game was delayed by nearly 20 minutes while the referees sorted out the punishments: Four St. John’s players were booted and two from Providence, and by the time the Friars got the ball back they had watched a one-point lead turn into a four-point deficit.
St. John’s led by as many 13 points in the first half, but the Friars rallied in the second to take a series of one-point leads and had a 40-39 edge with 14:25 left when Hopkins — who played three seasons in Providence — went up for a fast-break layup and was raked across the head and face by Powell’s arm, taking him to the ground.
Hopkins got up and moved toward Powell but was held back and guided away by his former teammate, Friars forward Oswin Erhunmwunse. Others in the game got involved and the players from the nearby St. John’s bench couldn’t be held back any longer.
The pushing and shoving continued while coaches, referees and security tried to break it up.
During the delay, players for both teams warmed up at their baskets. As the referees updated the coaches on their decision, the fans broke into a chant of “Duncan Powell!”
Providence guard Jaylin Sellers was led down the tunnel to cheers from the crowd; he was soon joined by Powell. St. John’s Dillon Mitchell, Ruben Prey, Sadiku Ibine Ayo and Kelvin Odih also were ejected.
Hopkins made two free throws, then St. John’s Oziyah Sellers made one of two and followed it with a layup for a five-point play that gave the Red Storm a 44-40 lead. After a Friars miss, St. John’s Dylan Darling hit a 3-pointer for a seven-point lead.
Tensions flared again with five minutes left after a hard foul by Erhunmwunse on St. John’s Zuby Ejiofor. That was ruled a common foul, but Providence fans under the basket got the Red Storm players riled up enough for the referees to step in.
___
Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Yaxel Lendeborg had 17 points and eight rebounds to lead No. 2 Michigan to an 86-65 victory over UCLA on Saturday that puts the program in position to be ranked No. 1 in the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2013.
No. 1 Arizona lost its first game Monday night on the road against No. 9 Kansas, giving the Wolverines (24-1, 14-1 Big Ten) a path to the top spot in the poll with their 10th straight win.
The Bruins (17-8, 9-5) had won five of six games.
Michigan made nine straight shots — including Lendeborg’s two 3-pointers — early in the second half to turn what was a closely contested game into a rout.
Just two years after losing a school-record 24 games in Juwan Howard’s final season, coach Dusty May took advantage of the transfer portal to build a deep and talented roster that has won 24 of 25 games for the first time in school history.
The Wolverines are aiming to be No. 1 for the first time since Jan. 28, 2013, a season that ended with AP national player of the year Trey Burke and coach John Beilein losing to Rick Pitino-led Louisville in the national championship game.
In their latest lopsided win, Morez Johnson finished with 15 points, LJ Cason scored 13, Nimari Burnett added 12 and Aday Mara had nine points, eight rebounds and three blocks against his former team.
UCLA’s Trent Perry scored 11 of his 14 points in the first half and Tyler Bilodeau had 10 of his points in the opening 20 minutes, when the visitors trailed by just two points.
UCLA: At No. 10 Michigan State on Tuesday.
Michigan: At No. 13 Purdue on Tuesday.
Riley Greene isn’t running from the numbers. He’s attacking them head-on.
After back-to-back All-Star seasons, the Detroit Tigers outfielder entered the 2026 offseason with one clear goal: cut down the strikeouts without losing what makes him dangerous. That meant changing how he trained, how he thought, and how honest he was willing to be with himself in the batter’s box.
“Stop trying to hit a home run on every pitch,” Greene said via the Detroit Free Press.
That simple sentence now defines his mindset heading into the new season.
In 2025, Greene launched a career-high 36 home runs, but it came with a cost. He also struck out a franchise-record 201 times. Rather than ignore it or chalk it up to the price of power, Greene decided to make his offseason work less comfortable on purpose.
“Not as many feel-good days, as we like to call them,” Greene said.
Those “feel-good days” were the batting practice sessions where pitches were grooved down the middle and confidence came easily.
“We hit a bunch of homers and feel good about ourselves,” Greene said.
But that comfort, he admitted, wasn’t helping him grow.
So Greene flipped the script. He asked his personal hitting coach to crank up the pitching machine and take away the easy swings. Instead of hunting damage, he focused on discipline — laying off tough pitches, seeing velocity, and forcing himself into uncomfortable counts.
“So I can take pitches and make it super-competitive,” Greene said.
The approach wasn’t just about mechanics. It was about awareness. Greene wants the game to slow down for him, especially in big moments.
“If you have two strikes with a runner on second, maybe try not to hit a homer 5,000 feet or so,” Greene said. “Taking a step back, letting the game slow down, recognizing the situations. Obviously, there are points where you can take your shot, and there’s points where, let’s maybe choke up and do some work in the box.”
It’s a mature shift for a player who already sits near the top of the league in offensive impact. Greene isn’t trying to become someone else, he’s trying to become a more complete version of himself.
And if his offseason work translates the way he expects, the Tigers could be getting a hitter who still punishes mistakes, but gives pitchers far fewer easy outs along the way.
The post Riley Greene Details Offseason Plan to Fix Strikeout Problem appeared first on Detroit Sports Nation.
By nearly any measure the Los Angeles Rams had one of the NFL’s top offenses in 2025:
On the surface it seems like a wild take to say that LA needs more offensive firepower. But they do.
The Rams can be too heavily reliant at times on star receiver Puka Nacua. Nacua is the engine of the offense and seems to make the play when his team needs it most. But the young pass catcher has been dealt his fair share of injury struggles and plays a very physical brand of football. Nacua doesn’t need replaced, although the Rams do need other options and insurance.
Then there is Davante Adams who led the NFL in receiving touchdowns with 14. Adams helped fix Los Angeles’ recent red zone woes and was nearly automatic with Matthew Stafford at the goal line. However, his work between the 20-yard lines left a lot to be desired.
Adams caught just 52% of the passes thrown his direction. The veteran ranked 21st in target volume but finished 34th in yards. This especially matters when considering that Adams receives high-volume targets in the red zone and on late downs. He’s no longer the ultra-efficient receiver we know and love. That doesn’t mean he no longer has value for the Rams, but he shouldn’t be a 100-target player or every-down staple on offense.
It’s no guarantee that the Rams elect to keep Adams.
The third receiver conversation requires more nuance.
Do the Rams need a bonafide third option if they continue their heavy deployment of 13 personnel? Is there a chance LA runs fewer three tight end sets in 2026 with Tyler Higbee’s contract set to void? These are fair questions and ones the Rams should be asking themselves as they retool the roster for next season.
We also know the team re-signed Tutu Atwell to a one-year, $10M contract last offseason to be the third option behind Nacua and Adams. Atwell fell by the wayside because of the personnel deployment change.
So how will things look moving forward?
Assuming LA retains Adams (which may require a pay cut), the Rams still need a new second receiver in my view. Adams is best-utilized as a role player in the red zone and on third down. Keeping him fresh for key plays in individual games and into the postseason will help the offense in multiple ways.
So where do the Rams find that second receiver? It will not be cheap. The team needs to get away from signing older receivers in free agency after recent disappointing investments in Cooper Kupp, Allen Robinson, and Adams. Improving through the draft would require a first or second round pick in all likelihood.
The Georgia Bulldogs gained a few transfers over the 2026 transfer portal window, but one of them could make or break their season is Auburn Tigers edge rusher Amaris Williams.
Williams stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs 260 pounds. He was a five-star recruit from the class of 2024, and the Clinton, North Carolina product was ranked as the No. 5 edge rusher and No. 30 player in the nation when he committed to Auburn.
Through two years, Williams never completely broke through in Auburn's front seven. In his freshman year, he had just seven total tackles and half a sack. In 2025, He was a rotational edge rusher in 11 games, with 14 total tackles and two sacks.
However, his former prowess in high school gives Georgia fans hope he could have a monster season with the Bulldogs. He already has experience playing in SEC play, and he has the size to compete with SEC guards. It's part of the reason why he was a four-star transfer, ranked as the No. 4 edge rusher and No. 36 overall player in the transfer class.
A great comparison for him would be Gabe Harris Jr., who has a similar build to Williams (Harris Jr. weighs in at 260 pounds and stands at 6-foot-4). Harris might've been more effective in 2024 than 2025, with two sacks and a forced fumble in 2024 versus just a sack in 2025. However, he had more tackles in 2025 (26 vs. 14) and Georgia felt his absence due to turf toe in a big way in their loss to Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl.
Georgia's pass rush wasn't the same this past year versus 2024, when they had blue-chip players such as Mykel Williams and Jalon Walker. Amaris Williams could be an effective pass rusher in Georgia, and he will be another talented tool for Kirby Smart and Glenn Schumann to have in their toolbox. His high school tape shows the potential of being an effective pass rusher.
Last year at Auburn, Williams showed his twitch as a pass rusher and had a strong get-off. He has experience as an edge and interior pass rusher.
Follow UGA Wire on Instagram or Threads for more college football coverage!
This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Auburn edge rusher transfer Amaris Williams highlights
Canada's women's hockey team is using a wooden loon as its mascot, and it has a great name originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Canadian women's ice hockey team is embracing the fun of its journey at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
One way they're trying to do so: Their mascot.
One of their players, Emma Maltais, was gifted a wooden loon. That has taken on the role of representing the team.
They've named it Wolf Bird.
It even got a role in a post-match interview on Saturday:
her holding it up to mic is killing me https://t.co/d980BciAiqpic.twitter.com/vkR7HvDfzH
— TK🍉 (@CrazySadAzn) February 14, 2026
MORE: Chloe Kim's silver medal has some controversy
Canada played its women's hockey quarterfinal on Saturday, handling Germany comfortably, 5-1.
The Canadians are on to the semifinals, with the United States on the opposite side of the bracket.
It's been expected all along that Team USA and Canada would meet in the gold medal match. They're each one win away from that.
MORE: Controversy and cursing with Canada curling
The United States won 5-0 when they played in the preliminary round, although Marie-Philip Poulin wasn't available for Canada in that one.
And besides, the Canadian squad has Wolf Bird on their side now. That's gotta help.
PHOENIX – When the 2026 MLB season kicks off, the Arizona Diamondbacks will be handing the ball to Merrill Kelly on Opening Day, as Kelly has been named the starting pitcher per MLB writer Steve Gilbert.
Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly during spring training workouts at Salt River Fields on Feb. 13, 2026, Scottsdale. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
With Corbin Burnes sidelined following Tommy John surgery and unable to be available before Opening Day, Arizona needed certainty. While Zac Gallen remains talented, 2024 revealed struggles and stretches where his command wavered at the worst moments. Kelly, meanwhile, was surgical. Kelly was traded midseason to the Texas Rangers, and in 2025, he carried a 3.52 ERA with a 12-9 record. His splitter generated strikeouts against some of the best hitters in the league. This wasn’t smoke and mirrors. It was a repeatable command layered over veteran sequencing.
Sep 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Fans in Phoenix wanted both arms back. They got them. But the Opening Day nod tells you what the organization sees right now: Kelly’s stuff is sharper. His floor is higher. His emotional steadiness sets the tone in a division that punishes hesitation. There’s psychological gravity to this decision. Gallen now pitches from a prove-it posture on a one-year deal. Burnes, when healthy, adds October-level upside. But Kelly will be the No. 1 pitcher in the rotation when the season begins.
Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Corbin Burnes (back) and pitching coach Brian Kaplan watch pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) throw during spring training workouts on Feb. 10, 2026, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For a club balancing long-term payroll planning with immediate NL West contention, this is the right risk allocation. Kelly gives Arizona competitive oxygen while others recalibrate. Opening Day isn’t about just reputation; it’s about reliability, and Kelly gives the Diamondbacks both.
There are seven active running backs in the top 90 in career touches. At 28, Josh Jacobs is the youngest in the group. He could conceivably end his career in the top 25 -- that is, if he can remain a healthy bell cow for at least a couple more seasons. It's doable on a team that still needs him as a three-down bell cow.
Jacobs was last year's fantasy RB13 across 15 contests. On a per-game basis, he was the RB10. A key to his success was 16 carries inside the opposing five-yard line, which tied for fifth-most in the league. The year before, he was #1 in carries (22 total) inside the five.
This usage helped him reach the end zone 20 times over the past two seasons, including 28 on the ground. Jacobs' outsized TD total helped make him a weekly fantasy starter. Yes, the volume helped a lot. But that's not what endeared him to fantasy managers.
For context, compared to Jacobs, Breece Hall had more rushing attempts, more rushing yards, the same number of catches, and more receiving yards. Hall also averages nearly half a yard more per carry. But Hall wasn't a weekly starter because he had only five TDs.
Jacobs' scoring prowess shouldn't be held against him. Until we see otherwise, he'll remain highly engaged near the end zone. At the same time, it's often easier to bet on volume than scoring. Jacobs' high floor is secure. His ceiling hinges on sustained scoring opportunities.
We might expect an ADP around RB8 to RB10. That would price him about right -- with the understanding that he'll probably need double-digit touchdowns to exceed or even meet expectations.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Josh Jacobs: Early 2026 ADP and scoring projections for Packers RB
The common sense and dollars and cents agree with ownership on the 2025-26 Knicks: This year is the year for the best team constructed in the franchise’s recent history.
It’s been at least 25 years — dating back to the Knicks’ failed 1999 NBA Finals run — since Madison Square Garden has housed as stacked, as complete, of a basketball team as the one tasked with an NBA Finals or bust mandate from above.
Because it’s hard to find a star with as many weapons at his disposal as Jalen Brunson, the all-world guard whose boom-or-bust task is striking the right balance between scoring and distributing.
The Knicks have given Brunson a six-time All-Star co-captain in Karl-Anthony Towns. They’ve given him his friends from Villanova, including one who cost five draft picks plus a $150 million extension. They’ve given him two of the most impactful two-way wings in the sport, a Defensive Player of the Year candidate off the bench, plus a second unit — with trade deadline acquisitions — stretching 10 to 11 real rotation players deep.
Leon Rose and his front office did that.
They identified a less rigid, more collaborative and modern head coach (albeit a backup option). They maximized limited roster-building resources. They drafted Mohamed Diawara, re-signed Landry Shamet, and swapped Guerschon Yabusele out for Jose Alvarado and Jeremy Sochan.
The Knicks have gotten tougher. They’ve gotten deeper. They’re more talented at all five positions than possibly any team in the Eastern Conference.
Which means they are out of excuses. This team has to win — and win big — or else the front office will return to the questions they had as the Knicks spiraled out of control, losing nine of an 11-game stretch before finally getting their act together ahead of the trade deadline.
Or, as James Dolan said in a Jan. 5 interview on WFAN: “I’d say we want to get to the Finals and we should win the Finals. This is sports, anything can happen. Getting to the Finals, we absolutely have to do. Winning the Finals, we should do.”
If the Knicks don’t. If they don’t at least make it to the Finals, you can bet they will return to the Giannis Antetokounmpo discourse. To the discourse that deems the roster as currently constructed unworthy of ownership’s championship mandate.
Yet it’ll be hard to break these Knicks up if they run the table in the East and make the Finals for the first time in more than a quarter century.
“Look how far we got with our group last year and look at who was playing and who wasn’t,” Dolan continued. “We’re going into the second half of the season, Josh [Hart] is still out and Landry [Shamet] is coming back. We got depth.
“We stay healthy, we’ll go into the playoffs in much better condition than last year.”
The Knicks have $201 million in guaranteed player salaries for the 2026-27 NBA season. The second apron is only expected to increase by 7% to $223 million, which will leave the Knicks just $22 million in space before encroaching over into restricted territory.
That $201 million payroll for 2026-27 does not include Jose Alvarado, who — as someone with career earnings of less than $12 million — can decline his $4.5 million player option for next season to sign a more lucrative deal elsewhere (or in New York). It doesn’t include Mitchell Robinson, who will be an unrestricted free agent seeking a pay raise, potentially north of $20 million annually alone. It doesn’t include Shamet, Jordan Clarkson or Jeremy Sochan, all in New York on one-year deals. Nor does it include Mohamed Diawara, Ariel Hukporti or Kevin McCullar Jr., each of whom will enter restricted free agency this summer.
The payroll for next season includes only Brunson, Towns, Bridges, Hart and OG Anunoby plus Miles McBride, who will be eligible for a contract extension, Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek. The Knicks will need to go into the second apron to build a complete roster, let alone re-sign Robinson. They will be under even more pressure to trade a piece of their core in hopes of improving their roster elsewhere.
Or they can double down. They can bite the bullet associated with the second apron because the taste of victory could far outweigh the bitter tax bill at the end of a season.
This Knicks team has the goods. They’ve got stars on both ends of the floor, proper spacing, a deep bench and a coach prioritizing a free-flowing style of basketball.
It’s time to turn the goods into hardware. Into results. Into this franchise’s most successful season of the century. This team is constructed to run the wide-open Eastern Conference.
If it doesn’t, the second apron will force the front office to answer questions the roster couldn’t.
Bruce Bennett/Getty ; Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Charlie McAvoy and his wife, Kiley McAvoy (née Sullivan), bonded over their love of hockey while in college.
After meeting through mutual friends at Boston University in 2015, they started dating that December, connecting over the ice sport.
At the time, Charlie played for the school's team before he was drafted by the NHL and joined the Boston Bruins in his sophomore year. Meanwhile, Kiley is the daughter of former Bruins player, current New York Rangers coach and Team USA hockey coach Mike Sullivan at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The couple married in August 2023 at the chapel on the Boston University campus, and welcomed their first child, son Rhys, in January 2025. In the following months, Charlie and Kiley faced different health struggles, including Charlie suffering injuries in the ice rink.
In turn, Charlie has credited Kiley with helping the family through tough times.
“[Injuries] take a toll, they really do ... But it’s my family that always gets me out of it. Kiley, my wife, she’s always there, picking up the pieces when they fall apart,” he told ESPN in January 2026. “She’s everything for us, she’s everything for our family.”
So who is Charlie McAvoy’s wife? Here’s everything to know about Kiley McAvoy and her relationship with the Boston Bruins defenseman.
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Charlie and Kiley met during their freshman year of college at Boston University in 2015.
They were introduced through mutual friends that fall semester and grew close over their shared interest in hockey, Kiley told Boston magazine in January 2024.
Their first date was at a Halloween party, at which Charlie dressed up as Average Joe from the movie Dodgeball and Kiley as a mermaid.
The two officially began dating on Dec. 15, 2015. Shortly after, Charlie posted a photo of them on his Instagram with the caption, “What a year Ki, thanks for letting me share it with you ☺️.”
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Though Charlie left college during his sophomore year when he was drafted by the Bruins, Kiley earned two bachelor’s degrees.
Kiley graduated from Boston University in 2019 with a B.S. in health science with a minor in communications, per her LinkedIn. To mark her accomplishment, Charlie shared a photo on Instagram of them celebrating.
She later attended the MGH Institute of Health Professions, where she earned a second bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2022. Afterward, Kiley gave Charlie a shout-out on social media, writing, “I truly couldn’t have done it without you."
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Around the time Kiley graduated with her second bachelor's degree, Charlie proposed while they were on vacation in Italy in the summer of 2022.
The pair had originally traveled to the country to attend the Lake Como wedding of Charlie’s former Bruins teammate Tuukka Rask. Charlie and Kiley arrived a few days early and were on a boat ride under the Faraglioni Rocks off the Capri coast when he popped the question with a cushion-cut diamond.
The idea to propose under the rocks came from Charlie’s teammate Brad Marchand, Kiley told Boston magazine in January 2024. “Legend is that if you kiss under the rocks, you will be in love forever,” she told the outlet.
They later shared photos of their engagement on Instagram. “The kind of love you dream about 🤍 I can’t believe I get to be your wife @cmcavoy25 💍,” Kiley wrote in her caption.
“The most amazing day — can’t wait to marry my best friend ❤️🇮🇹,” he penned on his account.
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Charlie and Kiley exchanged their wedding vows at Boston University — where they first met — on Aug. 5, 2023.
The special event was officiated by Kiley's uncle at the Marsh Chapel on the Boston University campus. Afterward, the couple held a reception at the nearby Boston Public Library, which featured a variety of personal details and was attended by more than 260 family and friends, per Boston magazine.
Charlie and Kiley only included one reference to hockey: a seating chart and escort cards made from hockey pucks with the phrase, “Score a seat.” The pucks were decorated with photos of the library’s iconic green lamps and the hockey phrase “Light the lamp,” the publication reported.
The pair later shared snaps of their celebration on Instagram.
“Mine forever @kileymcavoy ❤️💍 Yesterday was the best day of my life. So blessed to share this entire weekend with our incredible family and friends,” Charlie captioned a photo of him and Kiley walking out of the church.
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Charlie and Kiley welcomed their first child, son Rhys Michael McAvoy, on Jan. 26, 2025.
They revealed the pregnancy on Instagram in October 2024 with professional photos of the couple and Kiley’s baby bump, as well as a sex reveal cake. “Preparing to fall in love for a lifetime... Our boy is coming soon,” she wrote in the joint post.
Charlie and Kiley announced the birth of Rhys with another post on Instagram of him in a bassinet next to a pillow embroidered with his name. “The greatest love we will ever know 💙 Rhys Michael McAvoy is here,” she captioned it.
Shortly after, Charlie told NHL.com about what the first few days of parenthood were like, and he also took the opportunity to voice his love and support for Kiley.
“You think you might know what to expect, but you don’t. Just the amount of pride and the absolute, utmost respect and love for the moms and what they do. Because it truly is incredible,” he said. “I’ve seen that just on a three-day scale, how much they put their bodies through and what they go through. She’s doing an incredible job.”
Since then, the pair have shared glimpses of their family online, from Rhys spending time on the ice with his dad to beach trips and celebrating birthdays.
The family also has a French bulldog, Otto, who they adopted in July 2025.
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
With Charlie’s professional NHL career and Kiley’s father’s own experience in the league, hockey is an important part of their lives.
Charlie has a close relationship with Kiley’s father, Mike Sullivan — who served as his coach during the 2025 Four Nations Face-Off and again at the ongoing 2026 Winter Olympics.
“Really it's something that none of us ever could have dreamed of," Charlie told NHL.com about the experience.
He continued, "It’s just amazing and I know the pride that I've seen in my wife and just how proud she is of her dad and of me and it's just extremely special.”
Charlie McAvoy/Instagram
Since their first date on Halloween in 2015, Charlie and Kiley have gone all-out with their Halloween costumes nearly every year.
In 2018, the two dressed up as the main characters from Blades of Glory — Charlie as Will Ferrell’s Chazz Michael Michaels and Kiley as Jon Heder’s Jimmy MacElroy.
In 2019, they were the Joker and Catwoman and in 2021, they were characters from Happy Gilmore — with Charlie as Happy, dressed in a Bruins jersey, and Kiley as Happy’s caddie Otto, complete with a drinking helmet.
More recently, in 2022, they were Hagrid and Bellatrix Lestrange from Harry Potter, alongside other friends who dressed up as Dumbledore, Harry and Dobby.
Read the original article on People
The 2026 offseason has featured great change for the Minnesota Vikings. Most notably, there has been the decision to fire GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah alongside the change that is yet to occur: the needed reinforcements at quarterback.
Swirling around these prominent stories — the GM and QB uncertainty — has been the various moves for the team’s coaching staff. Brian Flores was retained to be the DC, but his side of the ball got hollowed out by various coaches being stolen away from promotions. Likewise, the offense lost some talent while assistant head coach Mike Pettine retired. At the end of the week, Minnesota officially announced the two most recent adds.
The team’s official social media passing along the word means that the ink has been put down on paper.
So, consider the news that got passed along: “The #Vikings have promoted Ryan Cordell to Tight Ends/Game Management Coordinator and hired Derek Warehime as Assistant Offensive Line coach.”
Already, the news about shoring up the coaching help at tight end was out there in the world.
In Derek Warehime, the Vikings add another coach to help out along the front. He’ll partner with Keith Carter to lead the large lads who are tasked with winning in the trenches.
On a 53-man roster, a team commonly carries somewhere between eight and ten players for the offensive line (with more on the practice squad), so that could be roughly 20% of the roster all at one position. Having a pair to coach the spot therefore makes sense.
Rolling into the ’26 season, the Vikings are facing ample pressure.
Coach O’Connell, in particular, is going to be sitting on a seat that’s getting warmer. He was retained while Adofo-Mensah wasn’t, breaking up the twosome that got added in 2022. In fact, Adofo-Mensah was hired before O’Connell, but the coach has survived longer than the executive.
O’Connell’s task involves responding to Minnesota’s underwhelming, injury-filled 2025 that resulted outside of the playoffs due to a 9-8 record. A major part of the problem was what took place at quarterback, with the injuries depleting Minnesota’s quarterback depth.
Something that would make a major difference is revitalizing the run game. Or, at least, feigning interest in committing to the run game.
Daniel House commented on the new add to help along the o-line, making a connection to running the ball: “Coastal Carolina ran a mix of zone and pulling gap schemes. QB run game elements too. They also had a solid screen game, which is an area he may be able to help as well. It’s clear that KOC has made a strong commitment to bringing in more run game perspectives.”
Lately, the Vikings have more been known for wide-zone running — picture the gliding, elusive Dalvin Cook going horizontal before putting hit foot in the dirt to explode through an open crease (Jordan Mason can do this, too) — but layering in some “pulling gap” would be a nice change up built on rugged physicality and power. At times, Donovan Jackson showed off an ability to pull, and Will Fries was signed largely due to being pretty mean.
Minnesota, like all teams, will do different things but will need to ensure that balance exists between run and pass. At worst, running allows the offensive linemen to fire off the ball rather than needing to constantly be on their heels to withstand the pass rush. At best, running allows a team to chew up clock by grinding out first downs, helping to set up explosive passes while making life easier for the defense, too.
The Vikings’ coaching staff may yet get another add or two. Unlike the roster, the coaching staff doesn’t have a salary cap, so money shouldn’t be an issue.
With snow covering half of the bleachers and a midday start on Valentine’s Day, No. 6 Maryland women’s lacrosse’s matchup with No. 12 Virginia was anything but alluring for fans. But the rivalry clash proved to be one that many fans will regret missing.
Kori Edmonson and Jordyn Lipkin led the offensive charge, and combined with strong efforts from transfer attackers Keely Block and Kristen Shanahan, the Terps cruised past the Cavaliers, 17-9, in a lopsided Saturday matinee.
The Terps drew first blood within just 47 seconds as Lexi Dupcak finished a chance following an opening draw control from Kayla Gilmore.
Virginia started stagnant on offense. Loading three attackers behind the goal line on each possession spread their midfielders to thin in the passing lanes, resulting in three turnovers in the first eight minutes.
The moment the positioning changed, the results did, too. The Cavaliers introduced a more spread-out concept with six minutes left in the quarter, allowing Addi Foster to crash on net and tie the game.
After being shut out last game, Maryland’s midfield captains finally broke through. Edmondson and Lipkin notched their first scores of the season within minutes of each other, both on powerful blasts from distance.
Shanahan then added on to her three-assist opening quarter with a free position score of her own to make it three goals on the season.
Virginia claimed possession for most of the first two minutes of the second quarter, resulting in a no-angle netter from Madison Alaimo cutting the lead to two.
Lauren LaPointe grabbed her sixth goal of the year four minutes into the second frame, but twin missiles from Livy LaVerghetta and Jenna DiNardo minutes later closed the gap to one.
Maryland’s defense didn’t close gaps effectively all quarter, allowing much better looks for Virginia than it did in the season opener. The Terps only caused three turnovers before halftime.
As the quarter came to a close, the teams traded blow after blow. Dupcak found the net on a backhanded snipe, but another goal from DiNardo cut Maryland’s lead back down to a single goal.
Edmondson and Lipkin then added on scores with two minutes left before Alaimo and Block traded netters in the final thirty seconds.
Just when the half seemed sealed, Edmondson secured her hat trick with three seconds left, bringing the score to a chaotic 10-6 at the half.
Shanahan silently made herself the hero of the half, dishing out six assists — that’s more than the Terps had in the entirety of their last game. Meanwhile, Maryland was uncharacteristically dominant in the draw circle, snagging 12 of 15 draw controls in the half.
The Terps continued to pile on. Ava Meyn and Lipkin found nylon in the first five minutes of the half — Meyn twice — to push the lead to seven goals.
“She’s really good at finishing the ball from low,” said Block on Meyn’s ability. “She doesn’t play like a freshman.”
Virginia typically starts Mel Josephson in goal before pulling her at the half for Elyse Finnelle. But Finnelle got the start Saturday and played the whole game, but was clearly not the answer the Cavaliers needed.
Despite letting up a score from Foster with seven minutes left, Maryland wouldn’t find itself in any trouble. Block notched her second of the game just two minutes later. Edmondson then added on yet another goal, this time from a free position, for Maryland’s 15th score.
Where Maryland’s success came on quick possessions, Virginia’s failures came from drawn-out set plays where aggressive drives were hard to come by.
A score from Gilmore outside the arc followed by DiNardo’s hat trick-sealer kept the lead at eight goals entering the final 10 minutes of play. Another free position dart from Alaimo two minutes later secured her first hat trick of 2026.
Block weaved her way through Virginia’s backline and fired a rocket for a hat trick of her own with less than three minutes left. As the jumbotron flashed zeros, the Cavaliers couldn’t get out of the Shell fast enough.
“We have a lot of room to grow, a lot of areas to get better,” said head coach Cathy Reese. “But I like where we are right now.
1. Complete 180 in the circle. Against Syracuse, the Terps looked shaky controlling the draw, but they completely turned it around Saturday. Maryland secured 18 of 26 draw controls, which led to the high offensive volume in Saturday’s rout.
2. Guess who’s back. After failing to score in the season opener, Edmondson and Lipkin were everywhere against the Cavaliers. The pair combined for seven goals, and Edmondson controlled five draws that provided a huge spark on offense.
3. Transfer twins. Block and Shanahan have proven to be crucial additions for an already-loaded Maryland roster. Block scored her first hat trick as a Terp, while Shanahan shuttled six pinpoint assists on her way to a seven-point outing.
“It’s easy to be an assister…so I love giving everybody the ball,” Shanahan said. “And watching Keely on her first goal too, assisting that I think is awesome.”
In a Valentine’s Day "White Out" at the Crisler Center, the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines (24-1, 14-1 Big Ten) gave their fans a performance to love, dismantling the UCLA Bruins 86-56. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement of dominance and a measure of personal vindication for Aday Mara, the former Bruin who helped anchor a relentless Michigan effort on both ends of the floor.
A Fast Start and a First-Half Surge
The energy in Ann Arbor was electric from the jump. Decked out in white, the Michigan faithful saw their team come out with the clinical efficiency that has defined the Dusty May era. Michigan’s ball movement was sublime, consistently finding the open man and forcing UCLA’s defense into a frantic scramble.
The first half saw Michigan build a comfortable cushion, though UCLA—fighting for its NCAA Tournament life—showed flashes of resistance. Bruins’ guard Donovan Dent tried to keep his team afloat, but Michigan’s defensive rotations were too crisp. The Wolverines’ "Big Three" of Yaxel Lendeborg, Morez Johnson Jr., and Aday Mara imposed their will early, controlling the glass and protecting the rim with an intensity that UCLA simply couldn't match.
While UCLA went on a brief run to close the first half, cutting into what had been a larger lead, the momentum never truly shifted. Michigan headed into the locker room with the lead and the confidence that they were the deeper, more athletic squad.
The Aday Mara Revenge Game
The second half was where the rout truly began. For Aday Mara, this game carried extra weight. After a freshman season at UCLA where minutes were scarce under Mick Cronin, Mara has flourished in Ann Arbor. Today, he played like a man possessed. His rim protection (anchoring a defense that held UCLA to 38% shooting) and his ability to facilitate from the high post left the Bruins without answers.
Whenever UCLA tried to pack the paint, Elliot Cadeau and Tre Donaldson made them pay from the perimeter. Michigan shot a staggering 62% from the field, an absurd number that reflects the high-quality looks generated by Dusty May’s offensive system.
Closing the Door
The final ten minutes were a victory lap. Michigan’s depth was on full display as the lead ballooned to 30 points. Will Tschetter provided his signature spark off the bench, including a late driving layup that sent the "White Out" crowd into a final frenzy.
The defensive stats were perhaps the most telling:
• FG% Defense: Michigan held UCLA to just 38%.
• Assists: Michigan recorded 18 assists on their way to 86 points, showcasing the unselfishness of this roster.
• Turnovers: The Wolverines remained disciplined, limiting mistakes while forcing UCLA into 13 turnovers.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Michigan moves to 24-1, continuing the best start in program history. They have now swept the season series against the Bruins (following their 94-75 win in Los Angeles last season) and remain firmly in the driver’s seat for the Big Ten regular-season title.
The road doesn't get easier, as a trip to Mackey Arena to face Purdue looms on Tuesday. But if the Wolverines play with this level of cohesion and defensive bite, they look like a team destined for a #1 seed in March.
According to New York Post national baseball writer Jon Heyman, the San Diego Padres and Nick Castellanos have agreed on a one-year deal. The move comes after the Philadelphia Phillies released the outfielder a few days ago.
Castellanos will be paid minimum on MLB deal with San Diego. Phils pay the rest. Agreed to. https://t.co/krCeOd9jve
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 14, 2026
Castellanos was owed $20 million for the 2026 season. The Padres will pay the veteran’s minimum of $780K, and the Phillies will pick up the remainder of the salary.
The right-handed slugger has played primarily as an outfielder in his 13-year major league career, but Castellanos has been seen working out at first base this winter, and the Friars are expected to play him at the position once he arrives in Peoria, Ariz.
He is coming to San Diego with some baggage, as his time in Philadelphia ended with controversy. The dispute stems from Phillies manager Rob Thomson’s decision to bench Castellanos following a dugout confrontation last season. The skipper removed the veteran for a defensive replacement late in a game against the Miami Marlins.
Castellanos proceeded to confront Thomson about his decision in the dugout.
The 33-year-old posted a social media comment earlier this week to provide further clarification on the incident. Castellanos admitted to bringing a beer into the dugout after being taken out of the game. His teammates took the can away before he could open it.
Nick Castellanos posted a goodbye on IG to Philly fans as well as an explanation of the “Miami incident” with Rob Thomson when he was benched. pic.twitter.com/6HGWT7ULaf
— Amy Fadool Kane (@amyfadoolNBCS) February 12, 2026
Also, Castellanos confirmed that he apologized to the organization for his dugout actions in a postgame meeting with Thomson and Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski.
The veteran outfielder batted .250 with 17 HR and 72 RBI in 147 games.
After trade negotiations failed to gain traction this offseason, the Phillies released Castellanos before the start of full-squad workouts.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Pryce Sandfort scored 29 points, Sam Hoiberg added 14 and No. 7 Nebraska shook off a slow start to beat Northwestern 68-49 Saturday.
The Cornhuskers (22-3, 11-3 Big Ten) overcame a season high-tying 18 turnovers and poor shooting in the first half to sweep the season series with the Wildcats (10-16, 2-13).
Nebraska was celebrating alumni weekend with more than 75 players on hand and came into the game off losses in three of their last four.
This one was a slog until the middle of the second half. Reserve guard Cale Jacobsen scored eight of his 10 points and blocked a shot during a 14-4 spurt that turned the Huskers’ 39-38 deficit into a 52-43 lead. The Wildcats managed just three field goals over the final 13 minutes.
Sandfort, who shot 6 of 11 on 3-pointers, had 25-plus points and six 3s in a game for the fourth time.
Northwestern, which led second-ranked Michigan by 16 points at home before losing 87-75 on Wednesday, was up eight on the Huskers in the first half.
The Wildcats were looking for their highest-ranked win on the road in nine years and were down 28-27 at half before bogging down. They shot 35%, made 1 of 7 3s and turned over the ball eight times in the final 20 minutes.
Big Ten scoring leader Nick Martinelli, averaging 22.5 points per game, missed his first six shots before he muscled in his only basket of the first half and finished with a team-leading 11.
Northwestern: Hosts Maryland on Wednesday.
Nebraska: Visits Iowa on Tuesday.
___
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
Head coach Dan Lanning and his staff received exciting news on Saturday, as four-star running back Cadarius McMiller has committed to the Oregon Ducks, per On3's Hayes Fawcett. McMiller is the No. 19 running back and No. 249 player nationally, per 247 Sports.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound back competes for Tyler High School in Tyler, TX, where he's the 36th-ranked player in the state.
McMiller had a bevy of offers, but recently narrowed his list down to Texas, SMU, Texas A&M and Oregon. In the end, he decided to depart from Texas and commit to the Ducks.
According to 247 Sports, McMiller appeared in 11 games during the 2025 season as a junior and recorded 939 yards and 17 touchdowns on 8.7 yards per carry. He also added 11 catches for 186 yards and three touchdowns in the receiving game.
BREAKING: Four-Star RB Cadarius McMiller has Committed to Oregon, he tells me for @Rivals
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) February 14, 2026
The 6’2 200 RB from Tyler, TX chose the Ducks over Texas, SMU, and Texas A&M
“Calling home from Beast Texas”https://t.co/LcRMrEdtB8pic.twitter.com/VJt1R8qLnY
The Ducks have had massive amounts of success in recent years at the running back position, making it no surprise that McMiller would want to come to Eugene. Just in 2025, both true freshman Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill Jr. carved out consistant roles in the backfield and flourished in the Oregon offense.
McMiller is the fifth commit for the Ducks in the 2027 class, joining three-star offensive tackles Avery Michael and Drew Fielder, three-star linebacker Sam Ngata and four-star edge rusher Cam Pritchett.
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: 2027 4-star RB Cadarius McMiller commits to Oregon Ducks
The Cincinnati Bengals are something of a question mark this offseason.
Duke Tobin and pretty much anyone from the organization who has been in front of a camera this offseason has made it clear that they weren’t happy with the roster last year. That’s led to theories about big spending in free agency on outside players.
But the how of the spending is up for debate.
While some Bengals fans might daydream about doing something wild like using cap space to trade for a Maxx Crosby or pay a free agent like Devin Lloyd, the reality is probably going to be a little more grounded.
Case in point, while talking about the offseason for Cincinnati recently, NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe recently said the Bengals are “going to look for a lot more volume pickups on defense to get better with the group that just wasn’t good enough to compete in 2025.”
RELATED: 6 Bengals veterans who won’t be on Zac Taylor’s roster next year
Translation: Expect a scattershot of signings that equals big total dollar amounts, but not one big signing or massive name.
This would certainly align with how the Berngals have done things in the past. The last major Super Bowl window opened, in part, because they rolled the dice on names like Trey Hendrickson and DJ Reader. They also found smaller names like Mike Hilton, Vonn Bell and others.
The problem areas are obvious. The Bengals need help in the middle of the defense on the line, starting safeties and a third corner who can play inside, to name a few.
Like those past successes with this strategy, though, the Bengals will need to carefully mine the free-agent class for guys who fit the system.
RELATED: Bengals' key offseason dates for NFL free agency, draft and more
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Bengals’ strategy in free agency gets a big hint from NFL insider
Dolphins facing $50 million release question that doesn't involve Tua Tagovailoa originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Miami Dolphins will have a lot of eyes on them this offseason, with a majority of that attention on what they do with Tua Tagovailoa.
While the $214 million quarterback is owed more than $50 million in 2026, the Dolphins are seriously contemplating cutting him or trading him this offseason.
Bradley Locker of PFF.com poses that a $50-plus million question is the biggest one facing the Dolphins this offseason. But it's not about Tagovailoa. Instead, it's about the other $50 million cut question on offense, in wide receiver Tyreek Hill.
"Turning 32 in March and owed a whopping $51 million against the cap next year, Hill would be a very expensive veteran to keep on the roster," Locker writes.
With such an expensive contract and the brutal injury he's coming off of during the 2025 season, the Dolphins trading or cutting Hill this offseason will be very much in play.
The Dolphins could elect to keep Hill if they want to retain him for one more season, but with such a massive cap hit and the huge issue of Tagovailoa's future, moving on from Hill might be the best path forward.
If the Dolphins do end up cutting him, since most teams wouldn't want to spend capital and money to acquire Hill, the Dolphins would incur a $28 million dead cap charge if he's released before June 1st.
More: Dolphins GM reveals exciting quarterback plan for upcoming NFL Drafts
However, if the Dolphins do cut him with a post-June 1st designation, they will only take on $15 million in dead cap space in 2026, with $35 million in savings.
They would have more dead cap in 2027, but it would spread the damage over a few years and be a much more feasible way of moving on from Hill this offseason.
Such a decision is very much in the cards for the Dolphins. While the massive $99 million decision with Tagovailoa is the biggest one for the Dolphins. What they do with Hill might be the more pressing question they're facing this offseason.
Hill still has some value, even if he's not 100%. But, with such a huge cap charge of $51 million for 2026, the Dolphins might be forced to release Hill to help facilitate the Tagovailoa dead cap hit this offseason.
Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gives hilarious advice on how to have aura originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The word 'aura' has become increasingly popular amongst the youth recently.
Its meaning has slightly been altered by Gen Z, as it's used as a slang word now to describe someone who comes across as cool and confident.
At All-Star Weekend, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was asked by a young fan what they could do to improve their aura, and SGA had a hilarious response.
SGA goes viral on and off the court, with clips of his viral on-court abilities as well as photos of the way he dresses on gameday.
MORE: Internet catches NBA insider Shams Charania checking phone during All-Star Celebrity Game
He won the MVP during the regular season last year and also won the NBA Finals.
He's at the top of the list of players you'd ask this question to, and as expected, he has a hilarious answer.
"Do your homework, eat your vegetables...and work hard," Gilgeous-Alexander said.
As funny as the answer is, he might have a point, but I don't think anyone expected to hear an answer consisting of those three pieces of advice.
How the Trinidad Chambliss ruling affects the 2026 NFL Draft class originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Trinidad Chambliss case seemed to have three different rooting parties. People who wanted to see him return to Ole Miss, some who wanted him to go pro and those concerned with the precedent it would set.
In the end, the 'back to Ole Miss' people won and the 'go pro' people most certainly lost. The jury will be out for a while on what precedent it set. What this ruling means for Ole Miss is a topic for another day.
While everything Draft related is subject to change from now until Draft Day, one thing seems obvious. Chambliss not being draft eligible creates a significant gap between projected starters and developmental or dedicated backups.
Chambliss as a prospect was not going to challenge Fernando Mendoza for the top spot, nor was he necessarily going to ascend above Ty Simpson. Chambliss in the draft would have created an interesting dynamic for teams looking to swing for a potential future starter, without spending a top 20 pick to do so.
Fernando Mendoza is as close to a No. 1 pick lock as any drafted top quarterback in recent memory. Barring something catastrophic or completely unexpected, that status is not likely to change.
Simpson is the only other quarterback at this stage, even considered as a first-round option and that is even beginning to look like it's on shaky ground. The one season as a starter factor will come up. Even if Chambliss was in this Draft, he would have needed to do an incredible job during the Draft process to crack the first round.
Even within media outlets that cover the Draft and were brave enough to include Chambliss during his case against the NCAA, no one had Chambliss in the first round. With most outlets willing to give a projection, settling somewhere between the second and fourth rounds.
Until proven otherwise throughout the process, there are only six quarterback prospects that project today as even potential starters at the next level. Simpson, Fernando Mendoza, Garrett Nussmeier, Carson Beck, Drew Allar and Cade Klubnik. Of those seven, only Mendoza is considered to have immediate starting potential.
One could make the argument for Mendoza and Simpson. Had Chambliss been eligible, he would have been the third of that group, but one round later. Creating a value benefit. The Raiders should take Mendoza at No. 1. Simpson should go somewhere between 15 and 25.
Making Chambliss perhaps the only quarterback worth considering in the second round. Before the Combine, the interviews, the pro days and the individual workouts, Nussmeier, Beck, Allar, and Klubnik all project somewhere between the third and fifth rounds.
This Chambliss decision changes how teams will look at QB outside the top 20 picks. Chambliss would have been the bridge between round one and round three. If Simpson is not taken ahead of the twenties, teams could look to trade back into the first round for a crack at landing Simpson. As opposed to waiting for Nussmeier, Beck, Allar, or Klubnik later.
From an NFL Draft perspective, Chambliss was a very interesting prospect. If his measurables are accurate, 6’0 and 200 pounds is at the lower end of the ‘suitable’ range. If he measured at 6’1 and even 5-10 pounds heavier, he might rise a tad. If he ran sub 4.5 considering his dual threat ability, he could’ve also rose.
With this decision going final, NFL teams are now going to have to adjust their strategy as there is no second-round worthy player to take and turn into a starter. This is the Drew Brees factor as it relates to draft position. Brees was incredible for Purdue but not viewed as a first-round talent. Yet in the right system, he thrived. A couple decades later, Brees is a Hall of Famer.
More: Demond Williams bombshell could've resulted in Lane Kiffin being fired at LSU
Now those teams that wanted to prioritize pass rushers, offensive lineman or receivers but still intended on getting a QB they can turn into a starter, no longer can lean on that strategy. Some of those teams are going to need to abandon getting the quarterback second. Forcing at least a few teams to consider reaching for Simpson so they don’t have to decide between four other guys that has significant question marks.
Ultimately for his future NFL career, coming out in 2026 would have been better for his Draft position. Going into the 2025 season, there were believed to be as many as 8-10 quarterbacks analysts believed could be franchise quarterbacks. All of them do not look that way today.
More:Trinidad Chambliss wins case amid NCAA lawyers ghosting the judge
Projecting the 2027 Draft class, Chambliss will have some competition to be a top 50 pick when a top 50 pick in 2026 was all but assured. Arch Manning, Dante Moore, Julian Sayin, Darian Mensah, LaNorris Sellers, DJ Lagway, Sam Leavitt, CJ Carr, Jayden Maiava, Brendan Sorsby, and Dylan Raiola could all potentially enter the 2027 NFL Draft.
Chambliss has about a month to acclimate himself back into the Ole Miss program and internally promoted new head coach Pete Golding, which should not be difficult. Before starting the Ole Miss Spring Ball program.
All games will be played on Monday, Feb. 16
5A Div. I
Aledo (24-7) vs Colleyville Heritage (15-16)
5:30 p.m. at Eagle Mountain High School
A season to remember for the Aledo Ladycats after an undefeated record in District 5-5A, their first district title in seven years and only the second district championship since moving up to 5A in 2014.
The Ladycats dominated their district opponents, averaging a 33.5-point margin of victory in those 12 games. Led by senior guard Elizabeth Griffin and senior forward Tiara Butler, the Ladycats open the postseason with a favorable matchup against the Colleyville Heritage Lady Panthers.
Colleyville Heritage was a .500 team all season and earned the fourth seed out of District 6-5A by one game.
This is the first meeting between the two schools since the 2022 area round, where the Lady Panthers won 68-49.
4A Div. II
Brock (27-5) vs Levelland (24-10)
5:30 p.m. at Baird High School
The Brock Lady Eagles were the Cinderella story of the 2024-25 postseason for the area, when two buzzer beaters and a decisive regional semifinal win over Pampa took them to the regional final against district rival, Glen Rose.
The Lady Tigers had Brock's number last season, winning both regular-season games and the third meeting in the playoffs. It's a much different story this year, as the Lady Eagles have put down Glen Rose twice on their way to an undefeated District 6-4A title and are considered one of the top-ranked 4A teams in the state.
As a sophomore, guard Laney Hudson has taken over as Brock's primary option and she'll look to continue her impressive season against Levelland.
The Lady Lobos are a great test for the Lady Eagles early in the first round. Levelland is one of three teams in District 5-4A who won 24 or more games, along with Liberty and Frenship Memorial.
3A Div. II
Peaster (20-13) vs Jacksboro (27-7)
6 p.m. at Springtown High School
The Peaster Lady Greyhounds are back in the postseason for the first time since 2022 and head coach Michael Hall earned his first trip to the dance after the team topped Eastland in Friday's play-in.
The Lady Hounds draw what is possibly the hardest first-round matchup against Jacksboro. A Lady Tigers team on its best season in recent memory is known for its high-scoring ability.
In Friday's win, Peaster struggled to put points on the board and missed many free throws. Plus, senior forward Makada Davis' status is unknown for Monday's contest after suffering a knee injury against the Lady Mavs.
1A Div. II
Gordon (30-0) vs Highland (13-11)
8 p.m. at Clyde High School
It's the second year in a row that the two meet in the bi-district round, with Gordon winning by five last season. A year later, the Lady Longhorns look much different and are heavily favored in this game.
30-0. From going viral after beating a 6A team early in the season to claiming a district title for the first time since 2005.
Highland squeezed into the playoffs after only winning one district game. The only way the Lady Longhorns don't move on is if they beat themselves, which they haven't done all season.
2A Div. II
Santo (20-12) vs Crawford (21-5)
5:30 p.m. at Stephenville High School
At 20-12, this is the best season for the Santo Lady Wildcats since 2015. They finished second in District 11-2A with a 10-2 record, behind Lipan.
The Ladycats look for their first playoff win since 2020 against a Crawford team riding a hot streak. The Lady Pirates are 19-2 since Dec. 6 and three of their five losses came to 3A teams.
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Yaxel Lendeborg had 17 points and eight rebounds to lead No. 2 Michigan to an 86-65 victory over UCLA on Saturday that puts the program in position to be ranked No. 1 in the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2013.
No. 1 Arizona lost its first game Monday night on the road against No. 9 Kansas, giving the Wolverines (24-1, 14-1 Big Ten) a path to the top spot in the poll with their 10th straight win.
The Bruins (17-8, 9-5) had won five of six games.
Michigan made nine straight shots — including Lendeborg's two 3-pointers — early in the second half to turn what was a closely contested game into a rout.
Just two years after losing a school-record 24 games in Juwan Howard's final season, coach Dusty May took advantage of the transfer portal to build a deep and talented roster that has won 24 of 25 games for the first time in school history.
The Wolverines are aiming to be No. 1 for the first time since Jan. 28, 2013, a season that ended with AP national player of the year Trey Burke and coach John Beilein losing to Rick Pitino-led Louisville in the national championship game.
In their latest lopsided win, Morez Johnson finished with 15 points, LJ Cason scored 13, Nimari Burnett added 12 and Aday Mara had nine points, eight rebounds and three blocks against his former team.
UCLA’s Trent Perry scored 11 of his 14 points in the first half and Tyler Bilodeau had 10 of his points in the opening 20 minutes, when the visitors trailed by just two points.
UCLA: At No. 10 Michigan State on Tuesday.
Michigan: At No. 13 Purdue on Tuesday.
___
Follow Larry Lage on X
___
Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
The 2026 Olympic men’s hockey tournament is nearing the end of the preliminary rounds. Group B kicked off the tournament on the 11th and was the first to wrap up their round-robin games.
Two members of the Anaheim Ducks organization went head-to-head on Saturday, as Mikael Granlund’s Finland were looking to earn the top seed with a big win against Ducks prospect goaltender Damian Clara’s Italy.
Ducks at the Winter Olympics: Dostal, Gudas Fall to Canada, LaCombe Scratched
Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe served as a healthy scratch for the United States’ first tournament game against Latvia and would do so again for Saturday’s game against Denmark.
Finland: 11, Italy: 0
Finland’s listed third-line center, Anton Lundell, was forced to miss this game due to an illness, which caused Finland to alter their forward lines. Eeli Tolvanan slotted into captain Mikael Granlund’s spot on the top line next to Roope Hintz and Mikko Rantanen. Granlund filled in for Lundell on the third line between Eetu Luostarinen and Kaapo Kakko.
Finland dominated this game from the opening puck drop. They generated non-stop, relentless offensive zone possession time, and with their active defenseman and reliable F3s, they were able to keep pucks in the zone and keep cycles alive. Italy simply was unable to advance pucks beyond their defensive blueline.
With Luostarinen’s defensive prowess and without his linemates’ demand for the puck on the top line, Granlund was freer to transport pucks through the middle third of the ice and drive cycles deep in the Italy zone. He continued to make little plays to create space for his linemates and find them streaking with speed, utilizing his elite vision. As the game wore on, he began to toy with Italy’s defense, breaking down on-puck defenders with creative dangles and attempting spin-o-rama seam passes from circle to circle.
He operated lower, toward the bottom of the left circle on the power play, which allowed him to see the entire offensive zone when he had the puck and feed the net front, bumper, and Rantanen on the far side alike.
Granlund finished with two goals on seven shots in 17:15 TOI.
Italy: 0, Finland: 11
Much like in Italy’s opening game against Sweden, Clara was given a tall order for this game against medal hopeful Finland. He was forced from the game against Sweden early in the third due to an injury, but avoided anything serious, as he was able to return to the crease three days later for Saturday’s game.
Clara only lasted 40 minutes in this one, as he was pulled after the second period when Finland got out to a 6-0 lead. He let in six goals, but due to Finland’s never-ending pressure and Italy’s lack of NHL-caliber defensive structure, one would be hard-pressed to lay blame on him for any of those tallies.
The only nitpick would have come on Finland’s third goal, Kakko’s first, where Kakko’s momentum was carrying him away from the net while at the right dot and beat Clara on the far side. However, that came off a defensive breakdown that led to Kakko having ample time and space to get his release off from a dangerous location. The other five goals allowed by Clara developed from a 2v1 out of the corner, an own-goal while penalty killing, a screened and tipped point shot, a dot-to-dot seam pass, and a 3v2 backdoor tic-tac-toe play.
Clara was visibly calmer to start this game than he was on Wednesday, confident on his angles when facing shots from distance, and less noisy when Finland drove pucks to his crease. Finland ran a lot of plays out from the goal line to the faceoff dots, and Clara was excellent on those pushes to cut down any potential net for shooters to aim for. When Finland attempted to carry pucks out from behind the net, his reverse VH rendered him massive, and he covered the entirety of the net when shots were taken in tight and at the bottom of the circles.
Clara stopped 32 of the 38 shots he faced through the first two periods in this game before he was pulled in favor of Davide Fadani.
星読みAI is a tool that allows you to create a personalized horoscope and natal chart by simply entering your nickname, date of birth, time of birth, and place of birth. It provides deep insights based on a vast amount of astrological data, making it an ideal guide not only for those interested in astrology but also for anyone aiming for personal growth.
Hong Kong, Thailand, and the Marshall Islands are exploring tokenized debt instruments and administering social benefit programs onchain.
Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir are once-in-a-lifetime athletes and commentators. Their insight and commentary are able to keep audiences captivated. However, if you want to see them in a different environment, you’re in luck! They are launching a new series that takes them out of the commentary booth and into the world of luxury travel. In the new series, 1st Look Presents: Extra Mile Club, produced by LXTV, Lipinski and Weir guide us through the world of luxury travel as they discuss the process of customizing a travel experience and what goes into it. The series features travel experts as they create luxury trips around the world through their unparalleled travel networks and a whole lot of imagination.
Luxury Travel & Passion Travel Advising
Winner of numerous Emmy Awards, including for Best Feature Programming for a Series for NBC Universal Local, LXTV is the producer of Extra Mile Club. They center the show around the Global Travel Collection (GTC), a luxury travel advising network that is responsible for $2.4 billion in sales each year. This network is known for creating travel itineraries that include everything but the kitchen sink—exclusive access, personal service, and a lot of knowledge about the venues and destinations.
Every episode showcases Lipinski’s and Weir’s new destinations and the work of luxury travel advisors such as Tom Ho and Michael and Steven Lieberman. These advisors create and manage competitions to design the best bespoke itinerary—turning a collection of suggestions into a memorable experience for the stars. The series illustrates the research, relationships, and planning that go into a bespoke travel experience, including access to events and travel arrangements.
An Emphasis on Scotland and Other Global Sporting Events
From December 2025, season 5 of The Extra Mile Club features Lipinski and Weir traveling around Scotland. Scotland’s captivating landscapes and rich history provide the perfect setting for illustrating the talents of the travel advisors. The season illustrates how each advisor utilizes their knowledge of Scotland to design bespoke itineraries for the travel advisors.
The show also connects to world events like the Winter Games currently taking place in Italy. Millions of people are going to Milan and Cortina for the Games. The Extra Mile Club show explains how people can customize their luxury experiences for these high-profile international events. The series offers a peek behind the curtain to show how travel advisors help people get closer to the action, all while making the experience seamless and unforgettable, like VIP event access and private tour sightseeing opportunities.
The Increased Interest in Personalized Travel
The Global Travel Collection’s profitability illustrates the growing interest in travel that is customized to each individual’s needs. The demand for luxury travel advisors has increased due to the desire to have a one-of-a-kind experience where each detail is arranged in advance, up to the purchase of front-row tickets to a major sporting event. Clients increasingly look to GTC for travel planning that includes private tours of significant historical sites, adventurous luxury, and all-inclusive travel packages.
Angie Licea, who is president of Global Travel Collection, noted how large global events, such as the Winter Games, inspire people to travel in a deeper and more meaningful way. She said the Extra Mile Club portrays the power of luxury travel advising and shows that it is not just about where the traveler goes, but how they travel, and what the world means to them. It also portrays a day in the life of a luxury travel advisor, a highly passionate, expert professional, who can make a remarkable difference through their work.
Travel Advising with a Personal Touch
What makes this show different from the rest is the emphasis on travel advising as a business of personal relationships. Each show portrays the travel advisor’s ability to create and sustain a long-term business and personal partnership with their clients. Each episode’s winning travel advisor gets to continue working with Lipinski and Weir, underlining the trust and comfort that goes with this exclusive service.
The series offers an opportunity to look at a career that combines artistry with technicality in a way that none of the series’s competitors are doing. It demonstrates the value of a profession that many people do not consider. It shows the travel advisor profession in a way that inspires people to consider becoming one themselves. The travel advisor profession cements the value of a profession that many people do not consider. The series demonstrates that the travel advisory profession is one of knowledge, skill, and most of all, the desire to help people travel in a way that is impactful and important to the traveler.
The changing needs of consumers in the travel industry are clear and continue to evolve. Extra Mile Club is a case study in the evolution of the luxury travel industry. That being said, the evolution of the industry makes it clear that highly customized travel plans are in demand. For clients of Global Travel Collection, luxury travel advisors create personalized travel plans in order to cater to the client’s idea of a dream or bucket list trip.
Authentic experiences are something people are yearning for, even while they are getting more comfortable with global travel. With an increase in interconnected travel, people are looking for journeys in which they can integrate with the local lifestyle rather than getting serviced. The Extra Mile Club demonstrates how luxury travel consultants are collating the above-mentioned experience with their own tailored travel planning.
Conclusion: Behind the Curtain of Luxury Travel with Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir
In the Extrmile Club, Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir take us into the unexplored world of luxury travel. The show demonstrates the massive amount of effort put in by travel consultants and the amount of work put in by them to make the experience as bespoke as possible. The show also demonstrates how bespoke travel can provide an experience that is unique to the cubes of planes, the hotel rooms, and the standard itineraries. The art of travel planning is something that the vast majority of people do not have the privilege of experiencing. The show’s success proves that people are seeking unique experiences. With global events sure to lure travelers, the show captures the essence of luxury travel through endless opportunities.
The post Explore VIP Travel Planning With Tara Lipinski And Johnny Weir In Extra Mile Club appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Passengers Left in Limbo as American Airlines faces widespread disruption, with 107 cancellations and 511 delays affecting air travel across major destinations. The ripple effects of these disruptions are felt from Dallas to Nuevo León, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and beyond. As hundreds of flights were grounded or delayed, passengers found themselves stranded or rebooked on alternative routes, adding to the stress of already packed airports. With airlines battling operational challenges and facing mounting pressure, travelers are left uncertain about their next moves. Flights connecting the US, Mexico, and Japan have been particularly impacted, with major airports like Dallas-Fort Worth International (KDFW), Los Angeles International (KLAX), and Narita (NRT) seeing significant disruptions. As travelers grapple with unexpected changes, many are left wondering how to proceed amidst the ongoing chaos.
American Airlines’ operations have been disrupted in a number of key U.S. airports, as seen in the massive number of cancellations across major cities. Dallas-Fort Worth, a hub for the airline, saw multiple routes grounded, including flights to and from Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR), Seattle-Tacoma International (KSEA), San Francisco International (KSFO), and Los Angeles International (KLAX). Notably, flights from Washington D.C.’s Reagan National Airport (KDCA) to Dallas-Fort Worth were also among the disrupted services.
Other significant cancellations include flights departing from Miami International Airport (KMIA), Tampa International Airport (KTPA), and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (KCLT), causing major delays for travelers attempting to connect through Dallas.
The United States has borne the brunt of the disruptions, with its largest hubs, particularly Dallas-Fort Worth, experiencing massive ripple effects. Major cities across the country, including New York, Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Seattle, saw their American Airlines flights affected. This has caused chaos, particularly for business travelers and holidaymakers heading for popular destinations.
In Japan, Narita International Airport saw cancellations for flights arriving from Dallas-Fort Worth, impacting international travelers. The ongoing disruptions have also affected travelers with layovers in major U.S. hubs, complicating their journey.
American Airlines’ decision to cancel these flights appears to be a response to a combination of operational and weather-related factors, though the airline has yet to provide a full explanation.
For passengers whose flights have been cancelled or delayed, the first step is to check the status of their booking through the airline’s official website or customer service. American Airlines has indicated that passengers on affected flights are eligible for rebooking options, and in many cases, they will be able to change their flights for free.
Passengers should also keep an eye on American Airlines’ mobile app and email updates for the latest information on cancellations and delays. In some cases, the airline is offering meal vouchers, accommodation, or compensation for those whose flights are significantly delayed.
If you are a traveler on one of these disrupted flights, it’s essential to reach out to American Airlines customer support as soon as possible for assistance with rebooking. For those with tight connections or international layovers, the airline will typically prioritize rebooking and accommodation assistance, especially for passengers affected by long delays.
For now, passengers affected by the disruptions should remain in contact with American Airlines and keep updated on rebooking and compensation options. The airline’s customer service is the most reliable source for information and alternative travel arrangements.
Source: FlightAware and affected airports
Image Credit: American Airlines
The post Passengers Left in Limbo as American Airlines Hit with 107 Cancellations and 511 Delays Impacting Air Travel Across the US, Mexico and Japan Including Dallas, Nuevo León, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Beyond appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In a significant move for both Minor Hotels and the Slovenian tourism sector, the hotel group has signed a management agreement with MK Group to operate Hotel Palace Portorož in Slovenia. This marks Minor Hotels’ first entry into the country, further expanding the brand’s footprint along Europe’s prestigious Adriatic coast. Scheduled to reopen in March 2026 after extensive refurbishment, the resort promises to elevate Slovenia’s reputation for luxury wellness tourism.
What is the Hotel Palace Portorož?
Hotel Palace Portorož, located in the coastal resort town of Portorož, is an iconic 183-key property offering an unparalleled combination of contemporary luxury and the region’s deep-rooted wellness heritage. Aimed at guests seeking privacy, exclusivity, and highly personalized experiences, the hotel blends state-of-the-art facilities with a serene environment that draws from the region’s history as a renowned spa destination.
The resort will feature three fine-dining restaurants, three bars, and a full-service spa, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a rejuvenating stay. In addition, the hotel will have indoor and outdoor pools, beach access, and a dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) area, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
When Will the Hotel Reopen, and What Are the Future Plans?
While Hotel Palace Portorož will reopen its doors for the 2026 season in late March, an extensive refurbishment is underway to enhance the property’s luxurious offerings. The hotel will relaunch in Q1 2027 as Hotel Palace Portorož, Minor Reserve Collection Slovenia, joining Minor Hotels’ prestigious new luxury soft brand. This brand is specifically designed for independent luxury hotels that offer a strong sense of identity and place.
By joining the Minor Reserve Collection, Hotel Palace Portorož will be able to position itself within a highly curated group of destinations that offer guests a unique blend of refined luxury, cultural authenticity, and sustainability.
Where Is the Hotel Located, and Why Is It Important for Slovenia?
Portorož, situated on Slovenia’s picturesque Adriatic coastline, is renowned for its long-standing wellness culture, making it a prime location for luxury tourism. The hotel will not only offer world-class accommodations but also become an integral part of Slovenia’s broader tourism strategy, aligning with the country’s growing reputation for sustainable and wellness-oriented travel. The strategic location of the hotel also allows guests to easily access Slovenia’s cultural and natural wonders, including the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site, the Škocjan Caves.
As part of Minor Hotels’ Adriatic expansion, Hotel Palace Portorož is expected to play a pivotal role in attracting high-net-worth international visitors to the region, contributing significantly to the local economy and further establishing Slovenia as a luxury destination in Europe.
Who Are the Organizers and Key Partners?
The partnership between Minor Hotels and MK Group represents a significant step in diversifying Slovenia’s tourism offerings. The hotel is owned by MK Group, a major player in the Adriatic region with diversified interests spanning tourism, real estate, renewable energy, agriculture, and food industries. MK Group operates across Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Croatia, making the partnership an important one for both companies in enhancing the visibility and appeal of the Adriatic region to global travelers.
Minor Hotels, known for its portfolio of luxury brands and properties, sees this collaboration as a strategic move to expand its footprint in Europe and particularly in the Adriatic, an increasingly important region for tourism. The addition of Hotel Palace Portorož aligns with Minor Hotels’ ambition to grow its luxury offerings and cater to the growing demand for wellness and sustainable tourism in the region.
Why Is This Move Significant for the Regional Tourism Sector?
The launch of Hotel Palace Portorož is more than just a new addition to Minor Hotels’ portfolio—it’s a pivotal moment for the broader tourism industry in the Adriatic region. Slovenia, along with neighboring Croatia and Montenegro, has been positioning itself as a key player in European luxury tourism, with a strong emphasis on wellness and environmental sustainability.
The introduction of Minor Hotels’ luxury brand to Slovenia is expected to boost the country’s profile on the international tourism map, particularly in the high-end and MICE markets. This move comes at a time when Slovenia is seeking to attract more affluent international tourists and expand its offerings beyond traditional summer holidays.
The hotel’s wellness-focused services, combined with its MICE capabilities, will help draw a variety of high-value tourists, from corporate executives to wellness seekers. It aligns perfectly with Slovenia’s ambition to create year-round tourism opportunities, helping mitigate the challenges of seasonality while supporting local businesses and communities.
What Can Guests Expect at Hotel Palace Portorož?
Guests staying at Hotel Palace Portorož can look forward to an immersive experience that blends luxury with the region’s wellness traditions. The hotel will provide a range of holistic wellness treatments inspired by Slovenia’s natural resources, such as mineral-rich waters and herbal therapies. Furthermore, the property will feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the needs of modern business travelers, with versatile meeting spaces, high-speed internet, and expert event planning services.
For those seeking leisure and relaxation, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat by the beach, access to outdoor recreational activities, and fine dining options that highlight local Slovenian ingredients and international cuisine. The expansive spa and wellness center will offer tailored experiences designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Luxury Tourism in Slovenia
With the reopening of Hotel Palace Portorož in 2026 and its future relaunch as part of Minor Hotels’ Minor Reserve Collection in 2027, Slovenia is poised to strengthen its position as a premier luxury destination in Europe. The hotel’s combination of high-end facilities, personalized service, and unique location near one of Europe’s most iconic natural landmarks makes it a prime example of the country’s commitment to promoting sustainable, wellness-focused tourism.
The collaboration between Minor Hotels and MK Group signals a promising future for Slovenia’s tourism sector, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation for exceptional hospitality, cultural authenticity, and environmental consciousness. As Hotel Palace Portorož begins its journey into 2026, it will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of luxury tourism along the Adriatic coast.
Conclusion
The debut of Minor Hotels in Slovenia with the opening of Hotel Palace Portorož represents a major milestone for both the brand and the Slovenian tourism industry. Set to become a cornerstone of luxury hospitality in the region, the hotel’s unique blend of wellness, sustainability, and business event offerings is poised to attract international guests and elevate Slovenia’s presence on the global tourism map. As the property embarks on its refurbishment journey, the future of luxury tourism in the Adriatic region looks brighter than ever.
Image: Minor Hotels
The post Minor Hotels Expands into Slovenia with Hotel Palace Portorož: A Luxury Destination on the Adriatic Coast appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Lagos offers seven stunning Valentine’s Day getaways where couples can immerse themselves in romance, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for serene beaches, lush nature retreats, or elegant city escapes, Lagos has something for every couple. These handpicked destinations combine breathtaking views, exceptional service, and intimate settings, ensuring that your Valentine’s Day is filled with love and memories that last a lifetime. From exclusive resorts to cultural havens, each location promises a unique and unforgettable experience, making Lagos the perfect place to celebrate love this season.
1. Tarkwa Bay Beach
Tarkwa Bay, one of Lagos’ hidden treasures, offers a tranquil escape from the city buzz. Accessible only by boat, this serene beach provides couples with a private slice of paradise. Enjoy intimate moments as you walk hand-in-hand along the soft sands, savor the captivating ocean views, and unwind during a peaceful sunset. With its secluded atmosphere, Tarkwa Bay is the ideal place for couples who crave a quiet, picturesque beach getaway away from the crowds.
2. Lekki Conservation Centre
For couples who cherish the beauty of nature, the Lekki Conservation Centre offers an idyllic retreat. Walk together across the iconic canopy walkway, where you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The peaceful setting of the conservation centre, with its vast nature trails and serene atmosphere, makes it the perfect location for couples seeking a simple, outdoorsy date. Take in the fresh air, admire the natural beauty, and share quiet moments in the heart of nature.
3. Nike Art Gallery
For a touch of culture and creativity, Nike Art Gallery offers an immersive experience into Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage. Wander through an array of vibrant artworks, from intricate crafts to stunning sculptures, and explore the colorful exhibitions that showcase the talent of Nigerian artists. Couples can immerse themselves in art while spending quality time together, making it the perfect spot for those looking to combine romance with cultural exploration and inspiration.
4. La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort
Tucked away in Ibeju-Lekki, La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a romantic retreat. With its private beachfront chalets, soothing ocean sounds, and stunning vistas, the resort provides couples with a serene escape from the everyday. Whether you’re relaxing on the golden sands, enjoying exclusive African-inspired experiences, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, La Campagne Tropicana offers an intimate and peaceful haven. This perfect fusion of opulence and nature creates an unforgettable backdrop for a Valentine’s Day celebration.
5. Eko Atlantic City
For a stylish and modern Valentine’s Day experience, Eko Atlantic City offers a sophisticated urban backdrop. The city’s sleek design, impressive waterfront views, and chic restaurants provide a refined atmosphere for a romantic evening. Couples can take a leisurely stroll along the water, enjoy a sunset, or indulge in a delightful meal at one of the many upscale dining spots. Whether you’re after a quiet evening or a lively dinner date, Eko Atlantic offers a blend of elegance and modernity that ensures an unforgettable celebration.
6. Terra Kulture
If you’re looking for a cultural experience with a touch of romance, Terra Kulture is a must-visit. Known for its celebration of Nigerian culture, the venue offers an exciting mix of theatre, art, and delicious local cuisine. Couples can enjoy a live performance, explore captivating art exhibitions, or dine on authentic Nigerian dishes, all while soaking in the lively yet intimate atmosphere. Terra Kulture brings together art, food, and culture in a way that makes it the perfect place for couples to enjoy a unique, dynamic, and romantic experience.
7. Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel
For couples in search of an opulent escape, the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel provides a refined and romantic ambiance, offering breathtaking views of Lagos’ waterfront. With its elegant rooms and intimate dining experiences by the tranquil lagoon, this five-star hotel ensures a top-tier luxury experience. Couples can unwind in style, enjoy impeccable service, and immerse themselves in a serene atmosphere. Whether dining under the stars or relaxing beside the peaceful waters, Radisson Blu is the perfect destination for those seeking a lavish and unforgettable Valentine’s celebration.
Lagos offers seven stunning Valentine’s Day getaways where couples can immerse themselves in romance, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. From serene beaches to elegant resorts, these destinations promise the perfect setting for creating lasting memories with your loved one.
These seven romantic destinations in Lagos cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, offering something for every couple. From the tranquil shores of Tarkwa Bay to the luxurious ambiance of the Radisson Blu, Lagos has everything you need to make this Valentine’s Day special. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or indulge, these spots promise to provide a memorable and romantic experience.
The post Lagos offers Seven stunning Valentine’s Day Getaways Where Couples Can Immerse Themselves in Romance, Luxury, and Unforgettable Experiences appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In an unexpected move, Alaskan Dream Cruises, a beloved small‑ship cruise operator based in Sitka, Alaska, has suspended all operations, effectively halting every planned voyage for the 2026 Alaska cruise season. The closure, announced on 4 February 2026, is set to affect hundreds of booked travelers, with all future sailings now cancelled.
This sudden shutdown has come as a shock to many, especially since the company was a preferred choice for travelers seeking intimate and immersive expeditions through Southeast Alaska’s wild beauty.
Alaskan Dream Cruises was known for its small, intimate ships, accommodating between 40 and 80 passengers, offering guests an exclusive experience. This unique approach allowed travelers to access remote fjords, bays, and shorelines that larger cruise ships cannot reach. The company’s routes provided a deeper connection to Alaska’s rich culture and wildlife, positioning it as a standout in the region’s crowded cruise market.
But with its unexpected closure, this vibrant corner of Alaskan tourism will face significant disruptions. The cruise line’s absence means that many travelers will miss out on cultural excursions and wildlife adventures that were exclusive to these smaller, more intimate voyages.
In its statement, the cruise line described the shutdown as part of a strategic decision aimed at realigning business resources. The company’s parent, Allen Marine Tours, also based in Sitka, will continue to operate day tours and wildlife excursions. However, these services will not involve overnight voyages, further limiting options for tourists who had hoped to experience the full extent of Alaska’s coastal beauty.
As Alaska’s tourism sector faces challenges in attracting visitors to remote areas, Alaskan Dream Cruises’ decision to close its doors leaves a notable void. It is especially detrimental for those seeking a personalized, sustainable experience that large cruises cannot provide. While UnCruise Adventures offers a similar product, not all of Alaskan Dream’s passengers are guaranteed to transition smoothly into this alternative.
As a part of their commitment to customer satisfaction, Alaskan Dream Cruises has ensured that all passengers with upcoming bookings will receive full refunds for their deposits and trip payments. The company has also partnered with UnCruise Adventures to offer affected travelers an alternative, giving them the option to transfer their bookings to a similar small‑ship cruise operator.
However, while these efforts are appreciated, they may not compensate for the disappointment and frustration caused by such a drastic and unexpected change, especially for those who had long awaited their Alaskan adventure.
Founded in 2011, Alaskan Dream Cruises made a name for itself as an Alaska Native‑owned business that focused on providing culturally rich, authentic travel experiences. The cruise line prided itself on offering guests a chance to engage with the local culture and wildlife of Alaska while providing a unique perspective on the state’s natural wonders. By operating small, luxury ships, Alaskan Dream Cruises was able to deliver an experience that allowed for more personalized service, access to exclusive sights, and direct interaction with the environment.
This niche appeal has contributed significantly to the Alaska tourism economy, particularly in more remote regions that require specialized operations to access. The company’s focus on sustainable tourism practices and its focus on small‑ship expeditions catered to a growing market of eco‑conscious travelers seeking an alternative to mass tourism.
The ripple effect of this closure will likely extend beyond just Alaskan Dream Cruises. Alaska’s tourism sector is heavily reliant on smaller, specialized operators to offer a diverse range of experiences. Losing a key player in this niche could affect the overall perception of Alaska as a destination, especially for travelers seeking authentic, immersive journeys.
While larger cruise lines will continue to operate in the region, their impact will not be the same. These lines often focus on mass tourism, which does not provide the level of personalization and environmental stewardship that smaller cruise lines like Alaskan Dream Cruises promoted.
Additionally, local businesses, tourism vendors, and even wildlife conservation groups that relied on cruise passengers for revenue and engagement will feel the impact. Communities in remote Alaskan locations may see fewer visitors, putting a strain on businesses that depend on the influx of travelers during the cruise season.
The closure of Alaskan Dream Cruises leaves a significant gap in Alaska’s small‑ship cruise market. While the company’s parent firm, Allen Marine Tours, will continue offering day tours, the loss of overnight small‑ship cruises will be deeply felt by travelers looking for personalized and immersive experiences.
This move marks a turning point in Alaska’s ongoing struggle to balance large‑scale tourism with sustainable, community‑focused travel. As the industry adjusts, it will be important for tourism stakeholders to explore ways to fill the gap left by Alaskan Dream Cruises, ensuring that the charm of Alaska’s natural wonders remains accessible to future generations of travelers.
In the meantime, tourists seeking to explore Alaska’s remote beauty will need to seek alternatives, possibly in UnCruise Adventures or other small‑ship operators.
The post Alaskan Dream Cruises Shuts Down Operations, Cancels All Voyages for 2026 Alaska Season, Disrupting Tourism: All You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Lincoln is known for being one of the most picturesque English cities with lovely architecture and rich history. It is the stuff of medieval fantasy and even up until today, it remains one of the finest examples of England’s medieval charm. It is an alluring travel destination and it offers wonderful experiences for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and medieval fantasy lovers.
If you want to avoid the commercialized medieval street experience of London and of oxford, Lincoln is a great and a less traveled alternative. Its winding streets with medieval buildings and picturesque bridges are guaranteed to capture your imagination and take you back to the medieval ages. It really has a medieval spell or little to no touristy experience.
A Glimpse of History
At the heart of Lincoln’s historic appeal is its magnificent cathedral, which was once the tallest building in the world for over 200 years. The cathedral’s towering spires still dominate the skyline, standing proudly over the city. Its intricate architecture and impressive design are a testament to the skill of medieval builders.
The city’s ancient roots stretch back even further, with traces of its Roman and Anglo-Saxon past still visible in various parts of the town. Visitors can explore remnants of the city’s early history, including the Lincoln Castle, which dates back to the 10th century. The castle, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-see attraction.
Medieval Streets and Stunning Architecture
One of the most enchanting aspects of Lincoln is its medieval streets, particularly the famous Steep Hill. A narrow cobbled street that climbs up to the Lincoln Cathedral, Steep Hill is lined with independent shops, quaint cafes, and historical buildings that transport visitors to another era. The charm of this area is undeniable, with its crooked buildings and winding lanes, perfect for those wanting to step back in time and experience the true heart of the city.
The historic Bailgate area, located at the top of Steep Hill, is another gem. Here, visitors can stroll through charming lanes filled with cozy shops, restaurants, and tea rooms, all set against the backdrop of the cathedral and castle. The blend of history and modernity makes Bailgate a delightful spot for both history buffs and casual tourists alike.
Hidden Treasures and Uncrowded Attractions
Unlike other famous cities in the UK, Lincoln remains relatively undiscovered by large crowds. Its status as a “hidden gem” means that visitors can explore its attractions without the overwhelming crowds typically found in more famous cities like Oxford or Cambridge. For those seeking a more peaceful and intimate experience, Lincoln provides the perfect setting.
There are numerous hidden treasures to explore, including medieval bridges that span the River Witham. These picturesque bridges are steeped in history and offer some of the most beautiful views of the city. The old wooden buildings along the riverbank add to the town’s historical charm, providing a perfect spot for photographers and history lovers alike.
Travel Tips for Visiting Lincoln
Getting to Lincoln is easy, with the city being located just two to three hours north of London by train. The transport links are excellent, making it a convenient stop for those traveling through the UK. Visitors can take a direct train from London to Lincoln, enjoying a scenic route through the English countryside.
When visiting Lincoln, it’s recommended to take time to explore the city on foot. Its compact nature means that most attractions are within walking distance, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere.
For a truly unforgettable experience, visit during the winter months when the city is less crowded, and the cathedral is illuminated by festive lights. Alternatively, spring and summer bring an added charm with blooming flowers and outdoor events that showcase the city’s vibrant community.
Must-See Attractions in Lincoln
Conclusion: Lincoln, A City Worth Exploring
Lincoln is one of the best-kept secrets in the UK. With its medieval charm, historical landmarks, and tranquil atmosphere, you’ll find authentic British charm without the typical large crowds. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or looking for a gorgeous place to relax, Lincoln is a must-see destination.
When you visit the UK next, don’t miss out on this secret gem. Medieval history lives and breathes in every nook and cranny. Experience best of the UK, and find out what makes Lincoln so special.
The post Discover the Beauty of Lincoln: Medieval Streets, Castles, and Cathedrals appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In a major environmental initiative, Okaloosa County, Florida, has set a tentative date to sink the iconic SS United States in April 2026. The ship, once a symbol of luxury and power on the high seas, is being repurposed as the world’s largest artificial reef, a process that promises to bring ecological benefits to the region while preserving the legacy of the historic ocean liner. The operation will take place 22 miles west of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, marking the start of a new chapter for this famed vessel.
The SS United States, built in 1952, has been in a state of limbo since being decommissioned in 1969. After decades of uncertainty, the ship was acquired by Okaloosa County in 2023 with plans to transform it into a giant artificial reef. This remarkable project aligns with the county’s broader environmental goals of promoting marine biodiversity and enhancing local ecosystems.
According to a report by Fox10 News, Okaloosa County is set to sink the vessel after several months of preparation and modifications. The ship is being readied for the sinking operation at a facility in Mobile, where extensive remediation and decontamination work have taken place to ensure the ship is safe for its new underwater habitat.
Before the SS United States is deployed, significant work has been carried out to prepare the ship for its new life as an artificial reef. The process included thorough remediation and decontamination of the ship’s interior spaces and exterior decks. Contractors worked to remove hazardous materials, including non-metal parts and any remnants of fuel or oil left onboard.
Nick Tomacek, Okaloosa County’s Public Information Officer, explained that the vessel had 200 tanks containing oil and fuel, all of which had to be safely extracted and transported to environmentally approved disposal sites. The fuel removal process involved pumping the liquids from the tanks and taking them to an environmentally safe location. The removal of hazardous materials has been critical to ensuring that the sinking process does not harm the marine environment in which the ship will rest.
Additionally, the ship’s two funnels and main mast were removed. These iconic elements of the ship will be preserved for display in a future land-based museum dedicated to the SS United States. This careful preservation ensures that the historical significance of the vessel will be shared with future generations.
Once the necessary preparations are completed, the SS United States will be slowly sunk in a carefully planned and controlled operation. Special modifications have been made to ensure the ship lands upright on the ocean floor, providing a stable base for the creation of the artificial reef.
The process of sinking the ship will be an assisted operation, with the vessel being guided down to the ocean floor using strategically placed ballast. The ship will eventually settle at the right depth, where it will remain as a reef for marine life to colonize.
The decision to sink the SS United States off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach was made after careful consideration of environmental factors. Artificial reefs like this one have been proven to support marine biodiversity by providing habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms. The SS United States will serve as a significant addition to the region’s reef systems, enhancing the local marine environment and offering exciting opportunities for divers and other ocean enthusiasts.
The final act of this monumental event will be livestreamed for the public to witness. Okaloosa County plans to broadcast the reefing event on the Destin-Fort Walton Beach YouTube channel, allowing people from around the world to watch as the SS United States sinks into its new role as a giant underwater sanctuary. This live stream offers an exciting opportunity for history buffs, environmental advocates, and marine enthusiasts to be part of the event, celebrating the legacy of the SS United States while supporting the creation of a thriving marine ecosystem.
The SS United States has had a storied career since it was first launched in 1952. It was once the fastest ocean liner in the world and an essential vessel for transatlantic crossings. The ship was designed to be a symbol of American strength and innovation, and it served as a luxury liner for decades before being decommissioned.
After spending most of the last three decades docked at a commercial dock in Philadelphia, the SS United States’ fate seemed uncertain. However, its transformation into an artificial reef marks a new phase in its life. Though some people may be saddened to see the ship sink, the move to create an artificial reef is widely seen as a positive step for the environment and marine life.
Nick Tomacek reflected on the lasting impact of the project, stating that the SS United States would be enjoyed by divers, anglers, and enthusiasts for years to come. He explained that the sinking of the vessel would provide future generations with the opportunity to connect with the ship in a completely new way, experiencing its grandeur underwater as part of a living, thriving marine environment.
As Okaloosa County prepares to sink the SS United States in April 2026, the world will watch as this historic vessel embarks on its final voyage. While it may no longer sail the seas, the ship’s legacy will continue to live on, both above and below the surface. The SS United States’ transformation into the world’s largest artificial reef promises to be an ecological boon, benefiting marine life and providing an exciting destination for divers and ocean lovers alike.
Okaloosa County’s efforts reflect the region’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its dedication to preserving the history of one of America’s most iconic ocean liners. The SS United States will now serve as a reminder of the past while contributing to a more sustainable future for our oceans.
The post Okaloosa County, Florida to Sink SS United States as World’s Largest Artificial Reef in April 2026 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
For over five decades, Colombia has been recognized for its role in the U.S. Valentine’s Day flower trade. Providing over 80% of Valentine’s Day flowers in the U.S. supply chain, Colombia boasts some of the world’s most stunning flower fields. With ravishing landscapes, exceptional cities, and an array of engaging experiences, Colombia promotes its wedding and romance travel experiences. As a +50 wedding destination, the country goes further and hopes travelers will cross the borders of their bundles of joy, flowers, and kisses.
Rapidly Emerging Destination for Wedding Tourism
Colombia, the Land of Eternal Spring, has been a repeat wedding destination for tourism and romantic travel. Cities like Medellin and Bogota, with their climate, flowering fields, and warm, hospitable, almost without borders, are the most preferred for destination wedding tourism services. Providing endless wedding services, Colombia keeps the romantic travel destination experience.
Colombia’s potential as an emerging tourist market received further validation with Cartagena de Indias winning South America’s Leading Honeymoon Destination at the 2024 World Travel Awards. It also highlights the growing popularity of Colombia as a honeymoon and couples’ love celebration destination.
The Charm of Colombia’s Romantic Venues
From the spellbinding colonial streets and the beaches of Cartagena de Indias to the majestic Eastern Colombian Andes, the country boasts a range of options for lovers’ de-stress meetings with nature. It features a diverse list of six tourist regions, stunning places, and magnificent flora and fauna, as well as a respectful and relaxing environment for couples.
Medellín: Modern and dynamic,
Medellín is also a great destination for weddings and lovers’ meetings with nature. It is a great and welcoming climate for nature. The culture, the urban development, and the sophistication of the city, as well as the beautiful surrounding mountains and green nature, transform the city into a great destination. Couples looking to immerse themselves in history and architecture should take a trip to Colombia, where they will find a variety of contemporary and colonial fusions in its capital city, Bogotá, as well as plenty of museums and incredible views.
For serene nature couples retreats, the Eastern Colombian Andes are decorated with brilliant natural beauty, ecoromantic retreats, and charming little towns. Barichara and similar destinations are a great place to enjoy a quiet romance.
What truly sets Colombia apart are the lovingly crafted bridal offerings tailored to your needs; you will find the best value for your money when compared to similar wedding destinations. You will be well-served with floristry, event catering, and bridal services. You will enjoy the great setting provided by Colombia.
Also, Colombia boasts a variety of flowers, including stunning roses, which elevate its attraction for wedding events. Colombia is a leading producer of flowers in the world, guaranteeing couples the presence of beautiful, fresh flowers during their wedding ceremonies, which further enhances their wedding experience.
Colombia’s Tourism Boom
21 million international tourists visited Colombia in the last 3 years, supporting its increase in popularity as a travel destination, especially as USA tourists first picked Colombia as their most favorable destination in South America. This interest is further supported by increased airline routes from the USA to Colombia. As a newlywed couple, you can take advantage of the romantic sites in the South American country.
Improvements in transport and tourism services have presented travelers with great opportunities in newly developing countries. Demonstrated in the new tourism infrastructure, well-organized transport, high-quality accommodation, and great service have proved to deliver incredible opportunities in travel. The Colombian government invested in tourism infrastructure to increase the opportunities for world travelers, and it proved successful.
Valentine’s Day in Colombia
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and Colombia is engaging with U.S. classical tourists by promoting romantic travel with new direct mail campaigns. Colombia will be present at iconic hotspots, such as Lincoln Road in Miami, as one of the many countries celebrating romance with vibrant displays for couples inspired by romantic travel. Colombia has beautiful flowers and world-class cacao, with adventure to be had and memories to be made.
Colombia’s Valentine’s
This Valentine’s season, Colombia steals couples’ hearts and makes travel plans for them. With the Andes mountains, a wedding, a honeymoon, or a romantic escapade, a perfect blend of culture and hospitality will be provided. From Cartagena to the Andes, a premier romantic travel destination for love, adventure, and memories is offered. Many of Colombia’s experiences of beauty and flowers await.
The post Fall In Love With Colombia: The Perfect Romantic Escape For Couples appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
American Airlines has announced a major 2026 expansion, launching a series of new nonstop international flights that will reshape the airline’s global reach. The airline is adding direct routes to Central Europe, South America, and smaller U.S. cities, aiming to connect travelers with more international destinations and offer easier domestic access. These new routes reflect American Airlines’ strategy to strengthen its global network, cater to growing traveler demand, and better serve both international tourists and domestic passengers.
Among the most highly anticipated additions are new daily seasonal flights from Philadelphia to Budapest and Prague, giving American travelers easy access to two of Central Europe’s most historic and culturally rich cities. American Airlines’ entry into these markets comes as the first nonstop service from the U.S. to Budapest and a major connection to Prague, which has seen increased popularity among both business travelers and leisure tourists. This expansion cements Philadelphia’s role as a critical gateway for transatlantic travel.
American Airlines’ new flights to Budapest and Prague are the cornerstone of the airline’s European expansion. Budapest, known for its thermal baths, Danube River views, and Habsburg-era architecture, becomes the only U.S. nonstop route to Hungary. American’s new Philadelphia to Budapest flight eliminates the need for connecting flights, offering travelers a seamless and quick trip to one of Europe’s most romantic cities.
Similarly, the Philadelphia to Prague route offers a quick connection to the Czech Republic, known for its Gothic architecture, historic charm, and vibrant cafés. American Airlines is turning these routes into a twin-city travel corridor, offering travelers a chance to explore both cities with just one booking, combining cultural exploration with the convenience of direct flights.
The airline is also making a big push into South America with new expanded services to Buenos Aires, Argentina, which will see year-round service from Dallas-Fort Worth and Miami. These routes cater to a growing demand from U.S. travelers looking to explore Argentina’s wine regions, Patagonia for winter sports, and Buenos Aires’ vibrant arts scene.
While the international routes dominate the headlines, American Airlines is also expanding its domestic network, introducing new connections to smaller cities and secondary markets. These additions will enhance the airline’s domestic travel offerings, improving access to U.S. heartland destinations and connecting mid-sized cities with the airline’s major hubs.
Cities like Lincoln, Nebraska, Erie, Pennsylvania, and Tri-Cities, Tennessee are now set to benefit from new nonstop flights linking them to key hubs like Chicago, Dallas, and Boston. These flights will make it easier for travelers in smaller markets to reach global destinations, whether heading to Europe, South America, or within the U.S. itself. For example, Lincoln’s new route to Chicago will give local passengers access to American Airlines’ entire international network.
American’s new routes to Kalispell, Montana, and Madison, Wisconsin, offer additional access to nature tourism in Glacier National Park and Wisconsin’s scenic beauty. These new routes are part of a broader strategy to provide regional access to international flights, making it more convenient for travelers to book seamless two-leg journeys without lengthy layovers.
The expansion marks a strategic response to the growing post-pandemic demand for international travel. According to U.S. Travel Association data, international travel to the U.S. is projected to rise steadily in 2026, with many travelers eager to explore new destinations while connecting through U.S. hubs. By enhancing its global network, American Airlines is positioning itself as a dominant player in transatlantic and intercontinental travel.
The airline’s new flight offerings reflect the changing preferences of modern travelers, who seek faster connections, more direct flight options, and the ability to connect seamlessly to global destinations. Whether visiting Prague’s cobbled streets, Buenos Aires’ tango-filled nights, or exploring smaller cities in the U.S., American Airlines is working to accommodate these evolving needs.
For U.S. travelers, American Airlines’ new direct flights to Budapest, Prague, Buenos Aires, and other international destinations offer increased travel options and flexibility. These direct routes will save time and energy for passengers who previously had to make multiple connections through larger European hubs. Furthermore, the new domestic routes ensure that small and mid-sized U.S. cities are better connected to the airline’s global network, opening up a world of possibilities for leisure and business travelers alike.
As more U.S. cities gain direct international access, travelers will benefit from competitive fares, increased seat availability, and more frequent departures, making international travel more accessible to everyone. For those planning 2026 holidays or business trips, American Airlines’ expanded routes ensure a seamless, convenient travel experience.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup bringing global attention to the United States and international tourism rebounding strongly, American Airlines is positioning itself to capitalize on the demand for cross-border travel. As the global travel landscape continues to evolve, American Airlines’ investment in new routes and increased capacity reflects the airline’s commitment to offering its passengers more choices, more convenience, and more global connections.
Looking beyond 2026, American Airlines is likely to expand its reach even further, with new destinations and innovative services. The airline’s strategic growth in South America, Europe, and the U.S. heartland will continue to shape the future of international travel, making it easier for Americans to explore the world and for global travelers to experience the United States.
Image Source: Syniti
The post American Airlines Expands Its Global Reach: New Nonstop Flights to Budapest, Buenos Aires, and More in 2026 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Antarctica emerges as the ultimate frontier with Ponant Explorations announcing bookings for a groundbreaking sixty-two-day circumnavigation aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Departing Ushuaia, Argentina, on January 11, 2028, the voyage traces nearly twenty-three thousand km of frozen coastline, revolutionizing access to the White Continent. This luxury icebreaker expedition promises to transform Antarctica tourism by venturing into rarely visited ice shelves and pack ice zones.
The full odyssey spans sixty-two days and sixty nights, structured in two legs for flexible booking options. The first segment sails westward from Ushuaia to Hobart, Tasmania, over thirty days, hugging Antarctica‘s western shores. A brief stopover in Hobart precedes the thirty-day return eastward along eastern coastlines back to Ushuaia. Such routing maximizes immersion in monumental landscapes, positively impacting Antarctica tourism through unprecedented passenger access.
Le Commandant Charcot leverages PC2 icebreaking prowess to navigate Weddell Sea challenges, echoing historic feats. Naturalist guides and polar scientists deliver insights during the austral summer peak. This setup elevates tourism standards, blending adventure with education for discerning explorers.
Le Commandant Charcot stands as the world’s first luxury LNG-powered polar icebreaker for passengers, featuring electric propulsion for minimal environmental footprint. Dual scientific labs host global researchers studying oceanography and glaciology, shared with guests via presentations. These facilities underscore responsible Antarctica tourism, ensuring compliance with IAATO protocols amid variable ice conditions.
Onboard luxuries include private balconies, Nuna restaurant, spa with snow room, and heated outdoor seating. Expedition leaders prioritize safety while optimizing landings for wildlife sightings like emperor penguins. This hybrid research-luxury model boosts tourism by fostering eco-conscious voyages to remote sectors.
Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, launches this polar quest with Tierra del Fuego’s rugged backdrop. Pre-cruise extensions immerse visitors in Patagonian trails and museums, channeling energy into Antarctica tourism. The port’s infrastructure supports seamless transitions to icebound realms, drawing elite travelers seeking exclusivity.
From Ushuaia, the ship plunges into Drake Passage, setting the stage for Antarctica‘s icebergs and glaciers. Such departures amplify local tourism economies through high-value spending on gear and services. Ponant’s focus on southern gateways sustains year-round interest in polar escapes.
Hobart, Tasmania, provides a pivotal respite amid the marathon route, blending Australian heritage with Antarctic prelude. Visitors explore Salamanca markets and kunanyi/Mount Wellington hikes during the layover. This interlude enhances Antarctica tourism by linking southern hemisphere cultures to polar narratives.
Hobart‘s maritime legacy complements Le Commandant Charcot‘s arrival, spotlighting expedition history. Port calls like this stimulate regional tourism, as passengers extend stays for island discoveries. Ponant’s itinerary choice positions Tasmania as a key node in global polar travel.
Ponant’s circumnavigation unlocks unexplored shores, ice shelves, and relics from early explorers, areas off-limits to conventional vessels. Guests witness pristine wildlife and volcanic isles, experiences that viralize Antarctica tourism online. Responsible navigation minimizes impact, adhering to strict environmental guidelines.
The voyage’s scale, first full passenger circumnavigation, sets benchmarks for luxury expeditions. Scientists’ data collection on ice thickness aids climate studies, educating participants. This elevates tourism from sightseeing to stewardship, attracting eco-adventurers worldwide.
Staterooms and suites offer panoramic views for optimal scenery capture, paired with gourmet dining and wellness facilities. Lectures in the Observatory Lounge deepen appreciation for Antarctica‘s fragility. These amenities ensure comfort during long sea days, broadening tourism appeal to non-hardcore explorers.
Ponant emphasizes humility in extreme environments, with captains adjusting for weather. Zodiac outings and helicopter options, where feasible, intensify encounters. Such features position the line as leader in sustainable Antarctica tourism.
Powered by LNG, Le Commandant Charcot reduces emissions, supporting polar conservation. Collaborations with institutes like Alfred Wegener provide real-time ice data via drones and buoys. Guests engage in this science, amplifying tourism‘s role in preservation efforts.
IAATO compliance governs landings, prioritizing wildlife over guarantees. This ethos safeguards Antarctica tourism‘s future, preventing overcrowding in sensitive zones. Ponant’s innovations ensure enduring access to the continent’s wonders.
Bookings opening signals surging demand for ultra-long expeditions, with prices reflecting exclusivity starting at euro 121,955. Flexible legs accommodate varied budgets, democratizing elite Antarctica tourism. Ushuaia and Hobart thrive from influxes, while the route pioneers paths for future voyages.
Ponant’s ambition inspires competitors, fostering industry-wide responsibility. Antarctica‘s mystique endures through such feats, drawing dreamers to its edges. This 2028 milestone reshapes polar tourism, blending legend with modern luxury.
Image Credit: PONANT 2026
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__mnn__images__2016__12__New_York_City_skyline-c32994448b404131a4f6829b952951f5.jpg "(Photo: TTstudio/Shutterstock)")
© (Photo: TTstudio/Shutterstock)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-how-to-get-there-CARLSBADCAVERNSNP0226-82fe431f1c7e4ef0808b2f3a39966a8b.jpg "<p>Billy McDonald/Getty Images</p>")
© <p>Billy McDonald/Getty Images</p>
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-lead-image-BARBADOSGEMS0226-336da75a401f470ab94dcf23a51bea97.jpg "<p>The Gazebo</p>")
© <p>The Gazebo</p>
Samsung became the top smartphone brand in Southeast Asia again in 2025, according to new data from Omdia. This happened even though the overall market was slightly weaker than last year.
In total, 100 million smartphones were shipped in Southeast Asia in 2025. This was 1% lower than in 2024. Sales were slow in the first three quarters of the year. But in the last three months, the market improved. Shipments in the fourth quarter rose 2% compared with the same period last year. This helped Samsung finish the year strongly.
Samsung shipped 17.9 million phones in 2025. This was 5% more than the year before. The company captured 18% of the market, which makes it number one in the region. While some other brands saw their sales fall, Samsung was able to grow.
In the fourth quarter, Samsung also did very well. It shipped 4.2 million phones during that period, up 19% year-on-year. This gave it a 17% market share for the quarter.
Image via Omdia
One main reason for Samsung’s success was its Galaxy A17 series. These phones offer better features than the earlier Galaxy A16 models but are still affordable. In Southeast Asia, most smartphones sold cost less than US $200. Because of this, strong low-cost models are very important.
Looking ahead to 2026, Samsung may face higher production costs. Prices for memory and storage parts are rising. Even so, Samsung’s strong product updates and good performance in late 2025 show it is in a good position to stay on top.
The post Samsung leads Southeast Asia with strong Galaxy A17 sales appeared first on Sammy Fans.
Samsung is reportedly working on a wide Galaxy Z Fold, and last year, some speculative renders showed us what this foldable smartphone could look like. However, thanks to One UI 9, we are now getting our best look yet at the wide Galaxy Z Fold. One UI 9 test builds for Samsung's unannounced Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 recently popped up, and those included a couple of animations, giving us our first sort of official look at the wide Galaxy Z Fold. These animations don't reveal much, but their presence in the One UI 9 builds confirms that Samsung is working on a wide Galaxy Z...
Barcelona was clearly the inferior team last Thursday in their visit to the Spanish capital. The 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid left many areas to improve for the players, but the referees were in the spotlight. Today the club formally complained after the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal match.
The referee of the match was Juan Martínez Munuera, who did not have a good performance according to Barcelona. Their biggest complaint is the disallowed goal to Pau Cubarsí, while also claiming he did not apply the same criteria when he showed a red card to Eric García for a similar foul that Giuliano Simeone committed earlier.
This statement included five points the club wanted to highlight. Number one was the lack of coherence in disciplinary decisions. It explains: “This disparity creates a sense of a double standard, which is incompatible with the principles of fairness, equality, and legal certainty that should govern the competition.”
Among the five points the club’s advisors presented to the Real Federación Española de Fútbol was one titled “contradictory criteria in hand plays.” It states: “The club highlights the incoherence in the interpretation of handballs inside the box. The lack of uniformity reinforces the arbitrariness of the application of the rules.”
The third point refers to a long list of mistakes against their side over time: “Beyond isolated cases, Barcelona sees the recurrence of flagrant mistakes throughout the season, many of them decisive for the club. This accumulation directly affects the integrity of the competition.”
The fourth focused on the VAR action. They described: “The club expressed reasonable doubts about the use and application of the technology, especially in marginal decisions that have not been supported by conclusive technical explanations. It also denounces the lack of transparency in the publication of the audio recordings.”
The use of the tool sparked much debate because it took six minutes for the referee to disallow Cubarsí’s goal. This was the final point in the long complaint the club presented.
They wrote the following about this controversy: “Barcelona questions the lack of a clear and coherent criterion for sending referees to the field to review plays on the monitor, which contributes to a perception of insecurity and inequality in decisions.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on modern soccer remains impossible to ignore, and now his legacy is quietly unfolding in the next generation. During Portugal’s youth preparations for the 2026 Algarve Tournament, attention turned to a familiar surname, sparking debate over whether history might be repeating itself. The teenager carrying the Ronaldo name drew headlines for an eye-catching moment that left fans questioning just how far the family dynasty could extend.
For Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to shape the game with record-breaking feats and relentless ambition, seeing his eldest son step into the spotlight is both symbolic and intriguing. And while the journey is only just beginning, the signs of talent are already difficult to overlook.
The 15-year-old was captured performing spectacular trick moves with ease, showcasing technical control, ball mastery, and confidence with both feet. The video instantly went viral, sparking reactions from fans around the world who were stunned by the teenager’s natural ability. “Talent is so genetic it should be illegal,” wrote one supporter.
“Kid’s got some serious moves just like his dad, wonder if he’ll break records too,” added another. Others echoed the sentiment, saying, “Talent clearly runs in the family. The future of football looks bright.” The footage reinforced a growing belief: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is not just living off his surname; he is beginning to show genuine promise of his own.
Cristiano Jr. has the skills ⭐️
— 433 (@433) February 12, 2026
🎥 IG/rac.video pic.twitter.com/ZbXI418DOx
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. has grown up in elite soccer environments, following his father across Europe and the Middle East. He has played in the youth setups of the clubs where Cristiano Ronaldo starred, including Manchester United and now Al-Nassr, ensuring access to top-tier coaching and facilities.
He has also earned call-ups to the Portugal youth national team, marking an important step in building his own soccer identity. Observers have noted that his game already reflects discipline, tactical awareness, and strong positional understanding—qualities instilled by his father’s legendary work ethic.
Beyond raw skill, the 15-year-old has shown a competitive spirit, determination, and passion for improvement. These attributes mirror the mindset that defined Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and transformed him into one of the greatest players in history.
The 2026 Algarve Tournament serves as an important showcase for Portugal’s top youth prospects, with matches against Japan, the Netherlands, and Germany. For Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., the event marked a personal milestone, as it was his first international youth tournament played on home soil.
Portugal opened with a 3-0 win over Japan, where Ronaldo Jr. came on early due to an injury substitution. He made an immediate impact, nearly scoring, forcing several saves, providing an assist, and logging 64 minutes in a confident, involved attacking display.
Cristiano Ronaldo Junior Back With Portugal U16 vs Japan [12/2/2026]
— Ramy (@Ramy_Stats) February 12, 2026
pic.twitter.com/JjFStVfqwk
A bigger step followed against the Netherlands, when he earned his first-ever start for Portugal U-16, playing 45 minutes on the left wing. He held his width well, made intelligent diagonal runs, and showed composure on the ball, opting for combination play and patient buildup rather than forcing individual actions.
Cristiano Ronaldo Junior vs Netherlands U16 [14/2/2026]
— Ramy (@Ramy_Stats) February 14, 2026
pic.twitter.com/Lcca2GHVtZ
The future of Luka Modric and Christian Pulisic has become one of the defining storylines of Milan’s long-term planning, as the club continues reshaping its squad around experience, stability, and star power. With Mike Maignan’s renewal already secured, attention has shifted to a new wave of contract negotiations that could shape the Rossoneri’s identity well into the next decade.
Behind the scenes, directors are juggling multiple priorities: rewarding key performers, maintaining squad continuity, and making decisions on veteran icons whose careers are approaching their twilight. And while the headlines may focus on new signings, the real battle at Milanello is happening at the negotiation table.
Milan recently finalized Mike Maignan’s contract renewal after a period of uncertainty, ensuring stability in goal and calming fears of losing a crucial pillar of the squad. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the extension was essential, given that his previous deal was set to expire soon and negotiations had been tense earlier in 2025.
The next priority is strengthening the core of the squad with further renewals. Fikayo Tomori is expected to be the next player rewarded with a new deal, while Davide Bartesaghi is set to receive a salary increase after emerging as a regular starter. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is also in line for improved terms due to his growing importance under Massimiliano Allegri.
Among the most delicate negotiations is Christian Pulisic’s future. The American winger is currently under contract until 2027, with an option extending it to 2028. The club plans to pick up the option, effectively securing his future without rushing into a new deal. However, Milan’s leadership wants a longer-term agreement that reflects his impact.
La Gazzetta dello Sport adds that the club sees Pulisic as one of the most decisive and consistent players in recent seasons, despite a quiet start to 2026. His influence on and off the pitch, combined with a strong bond with the fans, makes him a strategic asset worth securing long-term.
However, interest from abroad complicates matters. Reports suggest Premier League giants such as Liverpool and Arsenal are monitoring the USMNT captain, which could push Milan to act swiftly with improved terms and salary parity with the squad’s top earners.
While younger stars represent the future, Milan’s present has been shaped by Luka Modric’s experience and leadership. The Croatian maestro has been a technical reference point in Allegri’s system, controlling tempo and guiding younger teammates with his vision and composure.
His performances, including a decisive late goal against Pisa, have reinforced his value. In that match, the Croatian veteran scored a goal, made 93 accurate passes, and made key defensive contributions, earning MVP recognition from supporters on the official club platform. Yet, his contract situation remains one of the most fascinating dilemmas facing the club.
In the middle of ongoing negotiations, the club’s stance has quietly become clear. Milan will exercise Modric’s option to extend his contract until 2027, but only if the Croatian midfielder wishes to continue his journey at San Siro, per La Gazzetta dello Sport and Calciomercato.
The 40-year-old’s current deal expires this June, but the option for an additional year gives the Rossoneri flexibility. The club sees him as indispensable but respects that the final choice will rest with the player, who will evaluate his motivation, physical condition, family considerations, and the outcome of the 2026 World Cup.
This Saturday, Real Madrid will play a key La Liga Matchday 24 clash against Real Sociedad. It’s an important game for Los Blancos, as the standings at the top are very tight, with Barcelona currently in first place. Despite the significance of the match, Kylian Mbappe will not start.
Just over an hour before kickoff at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, Real Madrid shared the confirmed lineup on their official social media accounts, highlighting the absence of the French forward.
Mbappe will begin the match on the bench, waiting for an opportunity to come on in the second half and continue extending his impressive goal-scoring streak this season, which currently makes him the top scorer in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
The reason coach Alvaro Arbeloa did not include Kylian in the starting XI is related to the physical issues he has experienced recently, which prevented him from taking part in several training sessions with his teammates this week.
📋✅ Our starting XI!
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) February 14, 2026
🆚 @RealSociedadEN pic.twitter.com/boFZ3Zglfs
It’s clear that Kylian Mbappe’s absence dramatically changes the team’s dynamics. Since last year, and especially this season, Real Madrid’s offensive strategy has revolved around creating the best conditions for the French forward to shine.
Without him, the attacking responsibility falls primarily on Vinicius Junior, the team’s other standout star, though his style and area of influence are very different from Mbappe’s. Supporting the Brazilian winger will be Gonzalo Garcia, who will take on the role of center forward.
While Real Madrid’s 2025-26 season has been far from ideal, with disappointments in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup, that doesn’t mean their chances of competing for major titles are over. On the contrary, they are still very much alive both domestically and in Europe.
As they prepare for the Champions League playoffs against Benfica, Los Blancos know they cannot afford to neglect La Liga. They currently sit in second place in the standings, just one point behind league leaders Barcelona. Barcelona will play Girona on Monday, so a win for Real Madrid this Saturday against Real Sociedad would put them, at least temporarily, at the top of the table.
Süper Lig'de şampiyonluk yürüyüşünü sürdüren Fenerbahçe'de Marco Asensio fırtınası esiyor. Trabzonspor deplasmanında 1 gol ve 1 asistle galibiyeti getiren matador, Guardiola'nın Barcelona'sındaki Messi rolünü Tedesco'nun sisteminde canlandırıyor.
Süper Lig’de şampiyonluk yürüyüşünü sürdüren Fenerbahçe’de Marco Asensio fırtınası esmeye devam ediyor. Trabzonspor deplasmanında 1 gol ve 1 asistle galibiyeti getiren İspanyol yıldız, Guardiola’nın Barcelona’sındaki Messi rölünü Tedesco’nun sisteminde canlandırıyor.
Fenerbahçe’nin sezon başında kadrosuna kattığı Marco Asensio, Süper Lig’e damga vurmaya devam ediyor. Trabzonspor deplasmanında gösterdiği performansla da bir kez daha galibiyetin mimarı oldu. Matador oyun tarzıyla futbolseverlere Guardiola’nın Barcelona’sındaki Lionel Messi’yi hatırlatıyor.
Sarı-lacivertlilerin 3-2 kazandığı Trabzonspor maçında 1 gol ve 1 asistlik performansıyla şov yapan Asensio, sadece skora katkısıyla değil, saha içi liderliğiyle de büyüledi. Sağ kanattan merkeze kat ederek oyun kuran yıldız oyuncu, savunma arkasına attığı çapraz paslarla hücumun ana istasyonu oldu.
Skor Katkısı: 1 Gol / 1 Asist
Kilit Pas: 2
Savunma Katkısı: 4 (Defansif farkındalık)
Topla İlerleme: 8 kez
Asensio, bu sezon sergilediği performansla sadece Türkiye’de değil, Avrupa’da da zirveye oynuyor. Avrupa’nın 10 büyük liginde 10 gol ve 8 asist barajını aşmayı başaran dört özel isimden biri oldu.
Michael Olise 10 16
Luis Diaz 13 10
Marco Asensio 10 8
Lamine Yamal 10 8
Bu sezon Süper Lig'de aynı maçta hem gol atıp hem asist yapma istatistiğinde de zirve Asensio’nun. Matador; Trabzonspor, Eyüpspor, Konyaspor ve Çaykur Rizespor maçlarında bu dubleyi yaparak takımına doğrudan puanlar kazandırdı.
Marco Asensio maçtan sonra şu açıklamaları yaptı:
- Çok mutluyum. Takım olarak iyi iş çıkarıdk. Bİreysel anlamda performansımdan mutluyum. Sahada çok iyi olduğumu hissediyorum. Çok çalışarak yolumuza devam ediyoruz. Önemli olan 3 puandı. Takımıma yardımcı olduğum için çok mutluyum.
- Kerem takım için çok önemli. Kendisi çok iyi performansta, çok üst seviye bir oyuncu. En baştan beri sahada çok iyi anlaşıyoruz. Takıma çok yardımcı oluyor.
Süper Lig'de 20 yılın en uzun yenilmezlik serisine imza atan Domenico Tedesco, 60 yıllık Oscar Hold rekoruna ortak oldu! Avrupa'nın 5 büyük ligi ve Türkiye'deki tek namağlup takım olan Fenerbahçe, Alman hocasıyla tarih yazmaya devam ediyor.
Fenerbahçe, Domenico Tedesco yönetiminde sadece Türkiye’de değil, Avrupa futbolunun zirvesinde de eşi benzeri görülmemiş bir üstünlük kurdu. Alman teknik adam, sarı-lacivertli kulübün tarihini yeniden yazarken, taraftarlara 20 yıldır özlemi çekilen o sarsılmaz özgüveni geri kazandırdı.
Süper Lig'in şu andaki tek namağlup takımı olan Fenerbahçe, bu unvanı ülke sınırlarının ötesine taşıdı. Avrupa’nın 5 büyük ligi ve Türkiye hesaba katıldığında, bileği bükülemeyen tek takım olma onuru Tedesco’nun Fenerbahçe’sine ait.
Domenico Tedesco, Fenerbahçe’nin başındaki ilk 19 lig maçında mağlubiyet yüzü görmeyerek (13G 6B), kulüp tarihinin efsanelerinden Oscar Hold’un 1964-65 sezonundaki rekoruna ortak oldu. Tedesco, bir sonraki maçında mağlup olmazsa, Fenerbahçe tarihinde göreve başladıktan sonra en uzun süre yenilmeyen teknik adam olarak tek başına zirveye yerleşecek.
Tedesco sadece maç kazanmıyor, aynı zamanda büyük maçların psikolojisini yönetiyor. İstatistikler Alman hocanın "büyük maç" karakterini ortaya koyuyor.
Beşiktaş, Galatasaray ve Trabzonspor’a karşı oynanan dev maçlarda henüz mağlubiyet yüzü görmedi.
Bu sezon skor dezavantajına düştüğü maçlardan 14 puan çıkaran Kanarya, ligin bu alandaki lideri. Özellikle deplasmanda geriye düştüğü 4 maçın tamamını kazanarak rakiplerine korku saldı.
Son 7 lig maçında 6 galibiyet alarak şampiyonluk yolunda vites yükselten Fenerbahçe, Tedesco ile inanılmaz bir bitiriciliğe ulaştı. Özellikle Trabzonspor deplasmanında kaydedilen 3 isabetli şutta 3 gol, takımdaki taktiksel disiplinin ve bitiriciliğin hangi seviyeye çıktığının kanıtı niteliğinde.
Domenico Tedesco! pic.twitter.com/90nJP0OMUW
— Fenerbahçe SK (@Fenerbahce) February 14, 2026
Trabzonspor, büyük maçlardaki galibiyet hasretini dindiremedi.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Fenerbahçe'ye 3-2 mağlup olan Trabzonspor, üç büyük rakibi karşısında 833 günlük galibiyet hasretini sonlandıramadı.
İstanbul'un üç büyük ekibi Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe ve Beşiktaş'a karşı oynadığı maçlarda son galibiyetini, 4 Kasım 2023'te sarı-lacivertli takımı deplasmanda 3-2 mağlup ederek alan Karadeniz ekibi, daha sonra galibiyet sevinci yaşayamadı.
Bordo-mavililer, söz konusu rakipleri karşısında çıktığı son 13 lig müsabakasında 3 beraberlik ve 10 yenilgiyle galibiyet göremedi.
Ligde üç büyükler önündeki son 13 karşılaşma
Trabzonspor, Fenerbahçe maçının ardından 2023-2024 sezonunda Galatasaray'a 5-1, deplasmanda Beşiktaş'a 2-0, evinde Fenerbahçe'ye 3-2 mağlup oldu.
Bordo-mavililer, geçen sezon ise Beşiktaş ile 1-1 berabere kalırken Fenerbahçe'ye evinde 3-2, İstanbul'da oynadığı maçlarda ise Galatasaray'a 4-3, Beşiktaş'a 2-1, Fenerbahçe'ye 4-1, iç sahada sarı-kırmızılı takıma 2-0 yenilerek 11 sezon sonra bu maçları galibiyetsiz kapadı.
Trabzonspor, bu sezon oynadığı ilk büyük karşılaşmasında ise İstanbul'da Fenerbahçe'ye 1-0 mağlup oldu, Galatasaray ile deplasmanda 0-0, Beşiktaş ile kendi evinde 3-3 berabere kaldı.
Karadeniz ekibi, bu akşam Fenerbahçe'ye de 3-2 kaybederek söz konusu maçlardaki kötü gidişatını sürdürdü.
Son galibiyet Avcı ile
Trabzonspor, büyük maçlarda son galibiyetini teknik direktör Abdullah Avcı yönetiminde aldı.
Bordo-mavililer, 2023-2024 sezonunun 11. haftasında İstanbul'da Fenerbahçe karşısında 3-2 galip gelerek son büyük galibiyetini yaşadı.
Karadeniz ekibi, daha sonra görev yapan Şenol Güneş ve Fatih Tekke yönetiminde büyük maçlarda galibiyet elde edemedi.
İki kupa finalini de kaybetti
Ligde bu rakiplerine karşı son 12 karşılaşmasını kazanamayan Trabzonspor, bu süreçte iki kez Ziraat Türkiye Kupası finalini kaybetti.
Bordo-mavililer, 2023-2024 sezonunda Atatürk Olimpiyat Stadı'nda Beşiktaş'a 3-2, geçen sezon da Galatasaray'a Gaziantep'te 3-0 mağlup olarak kupa sevinci yaşayamadı.
Süper Kupa yarı finalinde de kaybetti
Trabzonspor, bu sezon Turkcell Süper Kupa yarı finalinde de Galatasaray karşısında kaybetti.
Gaziantep'te oynanan karşılaşmasında bordo-mavililer, sahadan 4-1'lik yenilgi ile ayrılarak finale yükselemedi.
Trabzonspor, üç büyük rakibine karşı Süper Lig, Ziraat Türkiye Kupası ve Turkcell Süper Kupa'da olmak üzere son 16 resmi karşılaşmada 3 beraberlik ve 13 yenilgi yaşadı.
Fotospor yazdı, sahada 'TAK' fırtınası esti! Fenerbahçe; Talisca, Asensio ve Kerem'den oluşan yeni hücum sacayağıyla Trabzonspor'u sahadan sildi. Guardiola'nın efsane Barcelona sistemini kopyalayan Tedesco; Asensio Messi gibi yönetti, Kerem Neymar gibi parçaladı, Talisca ise Suarez gibi bitirdi.
Fenerbahçe, Trabzonspor deplasmanında sadece 3 puanı değil, Tedesco'nun taktik dehasına damga vuran bir geceyi daha geçirdi. Fotospor’un günler öncesinden duyurduğu "Guardiola’nın Barcelona sistemi" sahada kusursuz işledi Talisca, Asensio ve Kerem (TAK) üçlüsü toplamda 3 gol ve 2 asistle fırtınayı dindirdi.
Guardiola'nın sisteminde Kerem (Neymar), Talisca (Suarez) ve Asensio'yu (Messi) kopyalayan Tedesco'nun hücum hattı makine düzeninde işleyerek Trabzonspor savunmasını çaresiz bıraktı:
Tedesco santrforsuzluğa çare buldu! Messi-Neymar-Luis Suarez
15’ Talisca: Sahneye ilk çıkan isim oldu. İsmail'in hazırladığı pozisyonda ağları sarsarak perdeyi açtı.
34’ Kerem Aktürkoğlu: Asensio’nun pasında farkı ikiye çıkardı.
48’ Marco Asensio: İkinci yarının hemen başında Kerem’in ikramını geri çevirmedi ve maçın skorunu tayin etti.
Messi-Neymar-Suarez rüzgarı! Fenerbahçe Trabzonspor'da Barcelona gibi
- Marco Asensio (Lionel Messi)
Sağ kanattan merkeze kat ederek oyun kurdu. Savunma arkasına attığı çapraz paslarla maçın gizli kahramanı oldu.
- Kerem Aktürkoğlu (Neymar)
Sol çizgide genişlik sağladı, hızıyla bekleri üzerine çekerek takım arkadaşlarına koridorlar açtı.
- Talisca (Luis Suarez)
En uçta bir "duvar" oldu. Stoperlerle boğuştu, alan boşalttı ve klasik bir bitiriciden fazlasını yaparak sistemi tamamladı. Fenerbahçe, bu galibiyetle sadece zirve yolunda dev bir adım atmakla kalmadı; aynı zamanda hücum hattındaki Talisca-Asensio-Kerem (TAK) uyumuyla rakiplerine korku saldı. Fotospor'un işaret ettiği o "pas trafiği ve sahte roller" sistemi, Trabzonspor karşısında galibiyetin anahtarı oldu.
Kerem Aktürkoğlu ve Marco Asensio, Süper Lig'de Aralık 2016'dan (Moussa Sow & Jeremain Lens) bu yana Trabzonspor deplasmanında hem gol atan hem de asist yapan ilk Fenerbahçeli oyuncular oldu.
Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi 22. haftasında Galatasaray Daikin ile Türk Hava Yolları karşılaştı. Galatasaray mücadeleyi 2-3 kazandı.
Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi 22. haftasında Galatasaray Daikin, Türk Hava Yolları'nı deplasmanda 3-2 yendi.
Salon: Burhan Felek Vestel Voleybol
Hakemler: Ebru Kaya, Alper Bulut
Türk Hava Yolları: Tuğba İvegin, Karmen Aksoy, Ratzke, Bergmann, Büşra Kılıçlı, Nicoletti (Melis Yılmaz, Orthmann, Çağla Çiçekoğlu, Alondra, Işıl Öz)
Galatasaray Daikin: Sylla, Yuanyuan, Bongaerts, İlkin Aydın, Yasemin Güveli, Carutasu (Eylül Akarçeşme Yatgın, Grobelna, Ayçin Akyol, Timmerman, Naz Aydemir Akyol, Frantti)
Setler: 25-23, 22-25, 25-16, 19-25, 12-15
Süre: 136 Dakika (32, 31, 27, 27, 19
Trendyol 1. Lig'in 25. haftasında Sipay Bodrum FK, sahasında Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü'nü ağırladı. Bodrum FK mücadeleyi 4-3 kazandı.
Trendyol 1. Lig'in 25. haftasında Sipay Bodrum FK, sahasında Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü'nü 4-3 yendi.
Stat: Bodrum İlçe
Hakemler: Oğuzhan Aksu, Hüsnü Emre Çelimli, Selim Şenöz
Sipay Bodrum FK: Bahri Can Tosun, Ajeti, Ali Aytemur, Cenk Şen, Mustafa Erdilman, Imeri (Dk. 81 İsmail Tarım), Ahmet Aslan (Dk. 90+1 Enes Öğrüce), Hotic (Dk. 81 Yusuf Sertkaya), Ege Bilsel (Dk. 66 Mert Yılmaz), Ali Habeşoğlu (Dk. 90+1 Astanakulov), Seferi
Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü: Emre Satılmış, Oğuzcan Çalışkan, Wellington, İshak Karaoğul, Ali Dere, Halil Can Ayan (Dk. 74 Enes Yılmaz), Diaby (Dk. 65 Hakan Bilgiç), Hüseyin Bulut (Dk. 84 Ali Akman), Ezeh, Diouf, Fernandes
Goller: Dk. 8 ve 37 Ali Habeşoğlu, Dk. 20 ve 70 Hotic (Sipay Bodrum FK), Dk. 25 ve Dk. 45+3 Diouf, Dk. 90+2 Oğuzcan Çalışkan (Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü)
Sarı kartlar: Dk. 41 Ezeh, (Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü), Dk. 62 Ajeti, Dk. 71 Hotic (Sipay Bodrum FK)
Fenerbahçe hücumda makineye bağladı, Trabzonspor karşısında 3-2'yi bulan "Muhteşem Üçlü" resital sundu. Fotospor'un haftalar önce duyurduğu Tedesco'nun "Sahte 9" planı sahada gerçeğe dönüştü: Asensio, Talisca ve Kerem Aktürkoğlu, efsanevi Messi, Neymar ve Suarez ruhunu Türkiye'ye taşıdı!
Fenerbahçe hücumda makine gibi işlemeye devam ediyor. Trabzonspor karşısında rakip kaleye gönderilen 3'üncü isabetli şutta golü bularak skoru 3-2’ye getiren sarı-lacivertlilerde gol "muhteşem üçlü" sayesinde geldi.
Fotospor’un daha önce dile getirdiği Barcelona'nın Messi, Neymar ve Luis Suarez benzetmesi, sahadaki performansla tam anlamıyla örtüştü. Talisca, Kerem Aktürkoğlu ve Marco Asensio üçlüsü üçüncü golde mükemmel bir organizasyon gerçekleştirdi.
Tedesco santrforsuzluğa çare buldu! Messi-Neymar-Luis Suarez
Fotospor, Tedesco’nun, istediği santrforun alınmaması üzerine arayışa girdiğini ve Guardiola’nın efsanevi "Sahte 9" sistemine yöneldiği haberin yapmıştı. Sahadaki tablo, Tedesco'nun bu zorunluluktan bir şaheser yarattığını kanıtlıyor. Bu sistemde Messi rolüne soyunan Asensio ilk yarı sonunda asist sayısını 8’e, gol sayısını ise 10’a yükselterek durdurulamaz bir grafik çizdi.
Trabzonspor'un "dinamik" ikilisi Folcarelli ve Oulai, Fenerbahçe'nin milyon Euro'luk orta saha hattını ilk yarıda sahadan sildi! Kante, Guendouzi ve İsmail Yüksek gibi dev isimlere karşı fiziksel üstünlük kuran ikili, istatistikleri altüst etti.
Trabzonspor’un dinamik ikilisi Folcarelli ve Oulai ilk yarıda Fenerbahçe karşısında sergiledikleri performansla orta sahanın nasıl domine edileceğinin dersini verdi.
Kante, Guendouzi ve İsmail Yüksek gibi uluslararası tecrübeye sahip isimlere karşı kurulan fiziksel ve taktiksel üstünlük, istatistiklere de net bir şekilde yansıdı.
İlk yarının en dikkat çeken performansı Folcarelli’ye ait. Özellikle zemindeki ikili mücadelelerdeki kusursuzluğu, Fenerbahçe’nin hücum sürekliliğini baltaladı. Zeminde girdiği 8 ikili mücadelenin 8’ini de kazanarak (%100) rakiplerine geçit vermedi. Fenerbahçe’nin üçlüsü (Kante, Guendouzi, İsmail) toplamda sadece 4 ikili mücadele kazanabildi. Folcarelli tek başına, üç yıldızın toplamından iki kat daha fazla ikili mücadele kazandı.
Oulai, pas kalitesi ve soğukkanlılığıyla orta sahadaki dengeyi Trabzonspor lehine çevirdi.
Rakip yarı sahada attığı 13 pasın 13’ünde de isabet bulan Oulai ilk yarıyı 0 top kaybı ile tamamlayarak "verimlilik" kelimesinin karşılığı oldu. Guendouzi pas isabetinde ona eşlik etse de, ikili mücadelelerde 2’de 0 çekerek fiziksel savaşta Oulai’nin gerisinde kaldı.
Fenerbahçe’nin orta sahası topa daha çok sahipmiş gibi görünse de (Guendouzi 30 buluşma), Trabzonspor'un ikilisi temaslı oyunda fark yarattı. İsmail Yüksek, girdiği 6 ikili mücadelenin 4’ünü kaybederek orta sahadaki direncini yitirdi. Kante, süpürücü rolünde kalsa da Folcarelli’nin yarattığı fiziksel tahribata cevap veremedi.
Folcarelli sadece savunma yapmadı; yaptığı 2 başarılı dripling ve aldığı 4 faul ile oyunun yönünü sürekli rakip kaleye yıktı.
Futbol üzrə Azərbaycan millisinin müdafiəçisi Zamiq Əliyev Albaniyanın “Eqnatiya” komandasının heyətində növbəti matçına çıxıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komanda Albaniya çempionatının 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 24-cü turu çərçivəsində “Vora” ilə qarşılaşıb.
“Eqnatiya” səfərdə baş tutmuş bu oyundan heç-heçə ilə ayrılıb – 1:1. Əliyev bu görüşə start heyətdə başlayıb və 90-cı dəqiqədə əvəzlənib. O, 80-ci dəqiqədə sarı vərəqə də alıb.
“Eqnatiya” 24 turdan sonra 43 xalla 10 komandanın mübarizə apardığı Albaniya çempionatının yarış cədvəlində 2-ci pillədə qərarlaşıb. Sözügedən komanda 24 oyunda 12 qələbə qazanıb, 7 heç-heçə edib, 5 məğlubiyyətə üzülüb.
Xatırladaq ki, Zamiq Əliyev Albaniya klubuna 2024-cü ilin yayında “Araz-Naxçıvan”dan azad agent kimi keçib. Müdafiəçi “Eqnatiya” ilə 3 illik müqaviləyə imza atıb. O, indiyə qədər bu komandanın heyətində 58 oyuna çıxıb, 1 qola imza atıb. Əliyev “Eqnatiya” ilə ötən mövsüm Albaniya çempionu olub.
Əliyev daha öncə “Qarabağ”da və “Kəpəz”də də oynayıb. Azərbaycanın U-17, U-19 və U-21 yığmalarında forma geyinmiş müdafiəçi 2024-cü ilin noyabr ayında əsas millimizdə də debüt edib və hələlik 2 oyun keçirib.
Futbol üzrə Azərbaycan milli komandasının hücumçusu Mahir Emrelinin formasını geyindiyi “Kayzerslautern” növbəti matçına çıxıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, 27 yaşlı futbolçunun komandası Almaniya 2-ci Bundesliqasının 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 22-ci turu çərçivəsində “Qroyter Furt”la qarşılaşıb.
Doğma meydanda baş tutmuş oyunda “Kayzerslautern” qələbəyə sevinib – 1:0. Ağır zədədən sonra bərpa prosesi keçən Mahir bu oyunun iştirakçısı olmayıb.
23 turdan sonra 34 xalı olan “Kayzerslautern” 18 iştirakçı arasında 7-ci pillədə qərarlaşıb. Komanda keçirdiyi 22 oyunda 10 qələbə qazanıb, 4 heç-heçə edib, 8 məğlubiyyətə üzülüb.
Xatırladaq ki, Mahir Emreli “Kayzerslautern”lə 2025-ci ilin yayında 3 illik müqavilə bağlayıb. O, Almaniya klubunda 10 nömrəli formanı geyinir. Azərbaycanlı futbolçu bu komandanın heyətində 5 oyuna çıxıb, 1 qola imza atıb.
Mahir ötən mövsümü Almaniyanın digər klubu “Nürnberq”də keçirib. Azərbaycanlı futbolçu sözügedən komandanın heyətində 25 rəsmi matça çıxıb, 11 qol vurub, 1 assistlə yadda qalıb.
“Bakı”nın yetirməsi olan Emreli karyerası ərzində “Qarabağ”, “Legiya” (Polşa), “Konyaspor” (Türkiyə) və “Dinamo” (Zaqreb, Xorvatiya) klublarında da forma geyinib. Hücumçu Azərbaycan milli komandasının heyətində meydana çıxdığı 59 oyunda 6 qol vurub, 3 məhsuldar ötürmə müəllifi olub.
Bu gün Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasında (ABL) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 17-ci turunun növbəti oyunları keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, üçüncü oyun günündə iki qarşılaşma baş tutub.
A qrupunda “Gəncə” səfərinə yollanan “Abşeron Lions” 81:71 hesablı qələbəyə sevinib.
B qrupunda isə “Ordu” və “Quba” kollektivləri münasibətlərinə aydınlıq gətiriblər. Qarşılaşma birincilərin 98:87 hesablı qələbəsi ilə bitib.
Daha əvvəl keçirilmiş görüşlərdə “Sərhədçi” “Lənkəran”ı (83:69), “Naxçıvan” “Sumqayıt”ı (110:107) məğlub edib.
Tura fevralın 14-də yekun vurulacaq.
A qrupu: Sabah – 31. Abşeron Lions – 30. Gəncə – 24. Neftçi – 23. NTD – 19. Şəki – 18.
B qrupu: Ordu – 31. Naxçıvan – 30. Sərhədçi – 23. Sumqayıt – 23. Quba – 22. Lənkəran – 21.
Xatırladaq ki, ABL oyunları dörd dövrədən və 20 turdan ibarət olacaq. Müntəzəm mövsümün oyunları A və B qruplarına bölünməklə keçirilir. Müntəzəm mövsümdə A qrupunu ilk 3 sırada tamamlamış klublarla yanaşı, B qrupunu lider bitirmiş komanda pley-offun 1/4 final mərhələsinə vəsiqə qazanacaq. A və B qruplarında digər yerləri tutmuş komandalar isə pley-offun 1/8 final mərhələsində üz-üzə gələcəklər. Bu mərhələdə ən tez iki qələbə qazanacaq klublar 1/4 finala yüksələcəklər. Həm 1/4 final, həm də yarımfinal seriyaları 2 qələbəyə qədər davam edəcək.
Final seriyasında isə ən tez 3 qələbə qazanacaq klub Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının çempionu olacaq.
Qadın voleybolçular arasında təşkil edilmiş Azərbaycan çempionatında (Yüksək Liqa) bu gün 13-cü turun növbəti oyunu keçirilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, günün yeganə matçı UNEC və “Murov” komandaları arasında baş tutub.
Tərəflər UNEC-in idman zalında üz-üzə gəliblər. “Murov” meydan sahiblərini 3:1 (25:23, 19:25, 25:23, 25:23) hesabıyla məğlub edib.
Xatırladaq ki, bu turun digər oyunları ötən gün keçirilmişdi. “Milli Aviasiya Akademiyası” “Azərreyl”i 3:1, “DH Volley” isə “Turan”ı 3:2 hesabı ilə üstələmişdi.
13-cü tura fevralın 17-də yekun vurulacaq. Turun son oyunu Gəncə şəhərində “Gəncə” və “Gənclər” komandaları arasında keçiriləcək.
Yüksək Liqa
13-cü tur
13 fevral
UNEC – “Murov” 3:1 (25:23, 19:25, 25:23, 25:23)
Almaniya nəhəngi “Bayern”in fransalı mərkəz müdafiəçisi Dayo Upamekano Bundesliqa təmsilçisi ilə yeni müqaviləyə imza atıb.
Arena.az bu barədə Münhen klubunun rəsmi saytına istinadən xəbər verir.
Tərəflər müddəti 2030-cu ilin 30 iyununadək nəzərdə tutulmuş yeni sözləşməyə imza atıblar. Əvvəlki müqavilənin müddəti cari mövsümün sonunda bitəcəkdi.
Xatırladaq ki, Dayo Upamekano “Valansyen”in yetirməsidir. Fransalı müdafiəçi karyerası ərzində “Zalsburq”, “Leypsiq” və “Bayern”də çıxış edib.
“Bayern” Upamekanonu 2021-ci ilin iyulunda 42,5 milyon avro müqabilində “Leypsiq”dən tamhüquqlu əsasda heyətinə qatıb.
Upamekano cari mövsümdə “Bayern”in heyətində 28 oyuna çıxıb, 1 qol vurub, 1 məhsuldar ötürmə verib. O, Münhen təmsilçisində bütövlükdə 180 oyun keçirib, 6 qol və 11 məhsuldar ötürmə müəllifi olub.
Dayo Upamekanonun qənimətlər muzeyində “Leypsiq”lə 2 Avstriya çempuonluğu, 2 Avstriya Kuboku və “Bayern”lə 3 Almaniya çempionluğu və 3 Almaniya Super Kuboku var.
Upamekano 2020-ci ilin sentyabrında debüt etdiyi Fransa yığmasının heyətində 35 oyuna çıxıb, 2 qol vurub. Müdafiəçi “xoruzlar”la 2021-ci il UEFA Millətlər Liqasının qalibi olub.
“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 27 yaşlı fransalı mərkəz müdafiəçisinin transfer dəyərini 70 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.
İtaliyanın “Bolonya” komandasının argentinalı mərkəz hücumçusu Santyaqo Kastro A Seriyası təmsilçisi ilə yeni müqaviləyə imza atıb.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə A Seriyası təmsilçisinin mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb.
Klub gənc hücumçusu ilə yeni müqavilənin 2030-cu ilin 30 iyununadək nəzərdə tutulduğunu bəyan edib. Əvvəlki müqavilənin müddəti 2028-ci ilin yayında bitəcəkdi.
Xatırladaq ki, Santyaqo Kastro Argentinanın “Veles Sarsfild” klubunun yetirməsidir. “Bolonya” onu 2024-cü ilin yanvarında 13,2 milyon avro müqabilində Argentina klubundan transfer edib.
Kastro cari mövsümdə iştirakçısı olduğu 31 oyunda 8 qol vurub və 2 məhsuldar ötürmə edib. Onun “Bolonya” karyerası bütövlükdə 85 oyun, 19 qol və 11 məhsuldar ötürmədən ibarətdir.
Kastro Argentinanın U-16, U-20 və U-23 yığmalarında forma geyinsə də, hələ əsas millidə debüt şansı qazanmayıb.
“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 21 yaşlı hücumçunun transfer dəyərini 35 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini admits Inter ‘have been the strongest squad in the league for many years now’ and stands up for troubled Teun Koopmeiners.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
The Bianconeri won the Derby d’Italia back in September, emerging with a stoppage-time 4-3 victory in Turin, while last season this fixture ended 4-4 at San Siro.
Can they keep the title race open maybe not for themselves, but for the other teams?
“We do hope to keep the Scudetto battle open, but Inter have been the strongest squad in the league for many years now, the club deserved credit for building such a great team,” Chiellini told Sky Sport Italia.
“It’s going to be a difficult but fun match to take part in, I hope to see apart from the result, also a confirmation of the performances we’ve seen in recent months.
“We need to make fewer mistakes, as we are paying a heavy price for those lately, but a good performance here against the best team in Serie A would be a confirmation of that form.”
Both Thuram brothers were on target when these sides met earlier in the season, but this time Khephren is out injured, joining Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik on the absentee list.
“Conceicao hasn’t always been available due to injury. Naturally, we have to focus on our quality and pace, because if we try to take Inter on physically, their defenders have considerably more than us on that level,” noted Chiellini.
With Khephren Thuram injured, it was assumed that Koopmeiners would step into the midfield, but he is dropped in favour of Fabio Miretti and Weston McKennie for a change of system to 4-3-3.
“Koop had a very good game against Lazio on Sunday and was unlucky with the offside goal. He is training well, he still needs to show what he did when playing for Atalanta, but he’s not complaining or anything, he’s relaxed and prepared for the game,” insisted Chiellini.
Inter President Beppe Marotta insists they are not that ‘pleasantly surprised’ by Cristian Chivu ahead of tonight’s clash with Juventus, as it was not a decision they made ‘lightly.’
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
The last few editions of the Derby d’Italia have been thrilling battles, including a 4-4 draw last season and 4-3 Juve victory back in September 2025.
The Nerazzurri are on extraordinary form, winning 11 of the last 12 Serie A games interrupted only a 2-2 draw with Napoli.
“It can confirm our recent excellent results and maintain momentum going forward in a tough season. We are also aware that we’re against a strong opponent, and are hoping for a positive result,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.
“We knew this was a strong team, the performance in Turin was very positive until some late incidents. We always looked more to the performances than the results, and in that sense have seen real progress building on solid foundations.”
Chivu was a bit of a surprise in taking over from Simone Inzaghi last summer with just days to go before the Club World Cup, but he had flourished.
“We didn’t choose Chivu lightly, we pondered it considering the man we had known, the coach he had become, and the player that he was. We didn’t need to think of other candidates, we went straight for him,” assured Marotta.
“Some might be pleasantly surprised by him, but we already expected him to be a protagonist in the world of coaches.”
Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to the squad after several weeks out, so the only remaining absentee is Denzel Dumfries, and he too has been participating in partial training sessions.
“Last season’s experience helped us to realise that we must try to achieve the maximum result in every competition. We are still in all three tournaments and we want to go all the way, but in modern football it’s not just about keeping physical freshness, but psychological too.
“This is why the coach rotates the squad and uses everyone in a very intelligent way,” concluded the Inter President.
Atalanta continue their climb up the Serie A table with this important victory away to Lazio, as Ederson’s penalty and a Nicola Zalewski curler conquered the Olimpico.
These teams will meet again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, with the second leg scheduled for March 4, as the Aquile beat holders Bologna on penalties on Wednesday. Alessio Romagnoli was suspended here, with Pedro, Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot injured, so Daniel Maldini faced his former club. La Dea lost Charles De Ketelaere for at least a month following knee surgery, with Gianluca Scamacca not fully fit either, but Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor returned from bans. The stadium was again mostly empty, as Lazio fans continue their protest.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
Ivan Provedel got it very wrong when rushing off his line to close down Lorenzo Bernasconi, who was able to put in the cross for Nikola Krstovic, but Oliver Provstgaard got back for a decisive goal-line clearance in an empty net.
Kenneth Taylor couldn’t get enough power on his acrobatic volley, while Ahanor nodded a corner wide of the far post.
Ahanor was struggling to deal with Gustav Isaksen and already on an early yellow card, so Raffaele Palladino hauled the 17-year-old off after just 25 minutes to introduce Sead Kolasinac.
Lazio remained aggressive and came very close moments later when Daniel Maldini pulled back from the by-line for Taylor, whose strike was fingertipped onto the near post by Marco Carnesecchi.
The game changed just before half-time when Davide Zappacosta completed a give and go to break down the right and his pull-back from the by-line was blocked by Danilo Cataldi’s raised arm as he came sliding in. The referee spotted it in real time without needing VAR, and Ederson sent Provedel the wrong way to put Atalanta in front.
Mario Gila went off with a knock just above the knee and Lazio also had penalty appeals for a potential Zappacosta handball after the restart, but Nuno Tavares was offside in the build-up and therefore irrelevant.
They had a huge double chance moments later, as on a short corner Carnesecchi made a one-handed save on the Tijjani Noslin flicked header, then Adam Marusic couldn’t keep the rebound down at the back post.
Instead, Atalanta doubled their advantage with ex-Roma talent Zalewski, who gathered outside the area and bent a wonderful right-foot strike into the far bottom corner.
Carnesecchi was ready for the Maldini free kick, but Atalanta had a problem when Raspadori hobbled off with a thigh problem at the 86th minute with all the substitutions completed, so they finished with 10 men.
In this scenario, Lazio threatened to get back into the game with Petar Ratkov’s header from a corner clipping the upright. Ratkov also hit a fresh-air shot from eight yards, although his blushes were spared by Boulaye Dia’s offside.
Atalanta temporarily go into sixth place, although Como have a game in hand.
Ederson pen 41 (A), Zalewski 60 (A)
| 10' | Giorgio Scalvini | |||
| 12' | Honest Ahanor | |||
| 41' |  |
Éderson |
| 60' |  |
Nicola Zalewski (Assist: Lorenzo Bernasconi) | ||
| 74' | Lorenzo Bernasconi | |||
| Kenneth Taylor | 78' | |||
| 90' |  |
Berat Djimsiti |
Inter bring Nicolò Barella back with Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, but Juventus are forced to change with Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceicao and Jonathan David.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
This is the Derby d’Italia, a notorious grudge match, not to mention a battle between two of the top five.
The last few editions have been thrilling, including a 4-4 draw at San Siro last season, and a 4-3 Juventus victory in Turin back in September.
Both Thuram brothers were on target that day, but this time around Khephren is out with a bruised leg and not even on the bench.
He joins Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik on the treatment table, so Fabio Miretti and Weston McKennie into a deeper midfield role than usual.
Conceicao shrugs off a knee issue to start with Yildiz and David upfront in what appears to be a 4-3-3 formation.
Inter have big news, as Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to training on Tuesday after several weeks out, leaving just Denzel Dumfries on the absentee list.
Only the Italian is thrown straight into the starting XI with Piotr Zielinski and Petar Sucic, while Marcus Thuram partners Capocannoniere Lautaro Martinez.
They are running away at the top of the Serie A table, winning 11 of the last 12 games.
Inter: Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Sucic, Dimarco; Lautaro Martinez, M Thuram
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; McKennie, Locatelli, Miretti; Conceicao, David, Yildiz
| Alessandro Bastoni | 9' | |||
| Andrea Cambiaso |  |
17' | ||
| 26' | Andrea Cambiaso (Assist: Weston McKennie) | |||
| 32' | Pierre Kalulu | |||
| 42' |  |
Pierre Kalulu |
| Nicolò Barella | |
53' | ||
| Pio Esposito (Assist: Federico Dimarco) |
|
76' |
Liam Delap admitted to making a “silly” error after his premature celebrations cost him a goal in Chelsea’s 4-0 rout of Hull City in the FA Cup. Liam Rosenior’s team eased into the fifth round of the competition with a dominant performance at MKM Stadium on Friday, with Pedro Neto scoring a hat-trick. Estevao was […]
The post Chelsea´s Delap owns up to ´silly´ error after horror miss appeared first on Soccer News.
The post Chelsea´s Delap owns up to ´silly´ error after horror miss appeared first on Soccer News.
HDD capacity from one of the world's largest manufacturers has started to run dry, according to Western Digital's CEO, as major LTAs have been signed out. Western Digital's Consumer Share Drops to 5%, as Enterprise Demand Gobbles Up the Supply Well, the ongoing AI supercycle has disrupted supply chains, and we have talked about DRAM and NAND before, but it appears HDDs are also in significant demand: according to WD's CEO, Irving Tan, the manufacturer's entire capacity for this year is booked out. Speaking at the Q2 earnings call, Tan revealed that the focus has been on developing products that […]
Read full article at https://wccftech.com/western-digital-has-no-more-hdd-capacity-left-out/
A new study published in Injury Epidemiology provides evidence that the 2024 United States presidential election prompted specific groups of Americans to change their behaviors regarding firearms. The findings suggest that individuals who feel threatened by the policies of the current administration, specifically Black adults and those with liberal political views, are reporting stronger urges to carry weapons and keep them easily accessible. This research highlights a potential shift in gun culture where decision-making is increasingly driven by political anxiety and a desire for protection.
Social scientists have previously observed that firearm purchasing patterns often fluctuate in response to major societal events, such as the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic or periods of civil unrest. However, there has been less research into how specific election results influence not just the buying of guns, but also daily habits like carrying a weapon or how it is stored within the home.
To understand these dynamics better, a team led by Michael Anestis from the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center at Rutgers University sought to track these changes directly. The researchers aimed to determine if the intense rhetoric surrounding the 2024 election altered firearm safety practices among different demographics.
The researchers surveyed a nationally representative group of adults at two different points in time to capture a “before and after” snapshot. The first survey included 1,530 participants and took place between October 22 and November 3, 2024, immediately preceding the election. The team then followed up with 1,359 of the same individuals between January 7 and January 22, 2025. By maintaining the same group of participants, the scientists could directly compare intentions expressed before the election with reported behaviors and urges felt in the weeks following the results.
The data indicated that identifying as Black was associated with a increase in the urge to carry firearms specifically because of the election results. Black participants were also more likely than White participants to express an intention to purchase a firearm in the coming year or to remain undecided, rather than rejecting the idea of ownership. This aligns with broader trends suggesting that the demographics of gun ownership are diversifying.
Similarly, participants who identified with liberal political beliefs reported a stronger urge to carry firearms outside the home as a direct result of the election outcome. The study found that as political views became more liberal, individuals were over two times more likely to change their storage practices to make guns more quickly accessible. This suggests that for some, the perceived need for immediate defense has overridden standard safety recommendations regarding secure storage.
The researchers also examined how participants viewed the stability of the country. Those who perceived a serious threat to American democracy were more likely to store their guns in a way that allowed for quicker access. Individuals who expressed support for political violence showed a complex pattern. They were more likely to intend to buy guns but reported a decreased urge to carry them. This might imply that those who support such violence feel more secure in the current political environment, reducing their perceived need for constant protection outside the home.
Anestis, the executive director of the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center and lead researcher, noted that the motivation for these changes is clear but potentially perilous.
“These findings highlight that communities that feel directly threatened by the policies and actions of the second Trump administration are reporting a greater drive to purchase firearms, carry them outside their home, and store them in a way that allows quick access and that these urges are a direct result of the presidential election,” Anestis said. “It may be that individuals feel that the government will not protect them or – worse yet – represents a direct threat to their safety, so they are trying to prepare themselves for self-defense.”
These findings appear to align with recent press reports describing a surge in firearm interest among groups not historically associated with gun culture. An NPR report from late 2025 featured accounts from individuals like “Charles,” a doctor who began training with a handgun due to fears for his family’s safety under the Trump administration.
A story from NBC News published earlier this week highlighted a sharp rise in requests for firearm training from women and people of color. Trainers across the country, including organizations like the Liberal Gun Club and Grassroots Defense, have reported that their classes are fully booked. This heightened interest often correlates with specific fears regarding federal law enforcement.
For example, recent news coverage mentions the high-profile shooting of Alex Pretti, a concealed carry permit holder in Minneapolis, by federal agents. Reports indicate that such incidents have stoked fears about constitutional rights violations. Both the academic study and these journalistic accounts paint a picture of defensive gun ownership rising among those who feel politically marginalized.
While the study provides evidence of shifting behaviors, there are limitations to consider. The number of people who actually purchased a gun during the short window between the two surveys was low, which limits the ability of the researchers to draw broad statistical conclusions about immediate purchasing habits.
Additionally, the study relied on self-reported data. This means the results depend on participants answering honestly about sensitive topics like weapon storage and their willingness to use force. Future research will need to examine whether these shifts in behavior result in long-term changes in injury rates or accidental shootings.
“Ultimately, it seems that groups less typically associated with firearm ownership – Black adults and those with liberal political beliefs, for instance – are feeling unsafe in the current environment and trying to find ways to protect themselves and their loved ones,” Anestis said.
However, he cautioned that the method of protection chosen could lead to unintended consequences.
“Although those beliefs are rooted in a drive for safety, firearm acquisition, carrying, and unsecure storage are all associated with the risk for suicide and unintentional injury, so I fear that the current environment is actually increasing the risk of harm,” he said. “Indeed, recent events in Minneapolis make me nervous that the environment fostered by the federal government is putting the safety of Americans in peril.”
The study, “Changes in firearm intentions and behaviors after the 2024 United States presidential election,” was authored by Michael D. Anestis, Allison E. Bond, Kimberly C. Burke, Sultan Altikriti, and Daniel C. Semenza.
BYD's retail sales plummeted by more than 50% year-on-year, from around 200,000 units in the same period last year to 94,000 units.
The post Geely overtook BYD in passenger vehicle sales, Huawei’s HIMA emerged among top 10 in China, January 2026 appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.
Verdict: Lamine Yamal to score anytime Best Odds: 29/20 Bookmaker: Luckster With Catalonia bragging rights up for grabs on Monday night, Barcelona will travel to the Estadi Montilivi when they meet local rivals Girona. Girona Starting with the hosts, while Girona might have opened 2026 at the heart of a La Liga relegation scrap, Michel’s […]
The post Prediction: Girona vs Barcelona – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.
The post Prediction: Girona vs Barcelona – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.
Verdict: Vedat Muriqi over 0.5 shots on target Best Odds: 4/9 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Hoping to make up some ground in the Champions League chase, Real Betis will travel to Palma on Sunday night when they meet Mallorca. Mallorca Starting with the hosts, making an immediate return to losing ways last time out as they eventually […]
The post Prediction: Mallorca vs Real Betis – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.
The post Prediction: Mallorca vs Real Betis – Betting Tips, Team News, Key Facts appeared first on Soccer News.
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Well, best not as it’s actually a nippy day in mid-February, but still, I love you Jack Marriott.
Valentine’s Day is when we celebrate the ones we hold in our hearts, and Marriott is most certainly our special someone. Time and time again he steps up (it’s frankly ridiculous just how consistent he is in front of goal), and today was the purest example yet, a love-in of sublime finishing.
The first, a moment of pure poacher’s instinct to see an opportunity where no-one else did. The second, sheer determination in bursting in on goal before an excellent finish. The third? Good Lord, that outside-of-the-boot strike to find the far side of the goal was one of the best bits of technique we’ve seen from a centre-forward in recent years.
If you haven’t seen the goals, watch them. Now. On repeat. It’s worth it, I promise.
Even just one of those moments was proof enough that Reading have one hell of a striker on their books. Put all three together and you have a truly special performance, a tour de force. So I say again: Jack Marriott, I love you.
Sadly I very much do not have similar sentiments for Reading’s overall performance. Marriott was the exception (a game-changing one, thankfully) on an afternoon when the Royals were second best to a dangerous Wycombe Wanderers side.
Headline stats don’t always give a fair representation of a game, but this time they do. The Royals had much less of the ball (34%), shots (7-23) and shots on target (4-10). In fact, according to WhoScored, a whopping 45% of the game was played in our third – and just 20% of it in Wycombe’s.
And going by the eye test, Reading lacked control of the game, didn’t manage the contest as convincingly as they should have, struggled to build up sustained periods of attacking threat and looked too open defensively. Collectively, we simply were not at the races.
That’s certainly not to say it was all bad. On the contrary, big performances at the back – from Joel Pereira and Benn Ward in particular – went a long way to fighting off the Wanderers danger, so credit to both of them. And the bottom line is, of course, that Reading as a unit did enough to get over the line and seal the points. That’s certainly not to be sniffed at.
But it is to say we’re still well off being at a level where we can look like serious candidates for the playoffs, despite the results we’ve recently managed. Reading have done really well to grind out wins in spite of performances, but that disparity has to be rectified. As much as we love him, we can’t keep relying on Marriott.
Leam Richardson made two changes to Tuesday’s side, resting Haydon Roberts and Ryan Nyambe while bringing in Kadan Young and Andy Yiadom. I’ve no complaints with either decision, given the new defenders’ lack of game time before joining in January. They’ve needed a break and will likely start on Tuesday anyway.
Reading (4-2-3-1): Pereira; Yiadom, O’Connor, Ward, Dorsett; Wing, Fraser; Lane, Doyle, Young; Marriott
Subs: Stevens, Nyambe, Burns, Roberts, Savage, Ritchie, Ehibhatiomhan
Wycombe started the afternoon the stronger of the two sides (a theme that would be consistent throughout the game), but it was Reading who got their noses in front. With eight minutes on the clock, the ball bounced loose in behind and Marriott was the only one to spot the danger, darting in behind and slotting home for 1-0.
The Royals failed to build on that lead, managing just two more shots before the break (one of which we’ll return to) and barely managing to get into the visitors’ third with any real threat.
Instead it was Wycombe who were on top for possession, territory and intent in the first half, and they had two great chances in that period, but Junior Quitirna fired the first wide and the second over. Joel Pereira also had to be alert to deny Niall Huggins from close range when a cross was lofted to the back post.
That second Reading shot though: sublime. A couple of minutes before half-time, Marriott seized on a loose ball in midfield, blazed forwards into open space and blasted home with his left foot for 2-0.
Despite the scoreline, it was clear from the first half just how much Reading seemingly needed to improve – defensively and in terms of game management – if they were to see out the win. However, the second half was overall worse, if anything. Let’s go back to the stats: Wycombe managed 16 shots after the break to Reading’s three.
Wanderers had one back just five minutes into the half. Andy Yiadom had given away a cheap free-kick on the right, which was swung in and nodded home by Dan Casey for 2-1 – a scrappy goal, but one that should have been cut off at source.
The next 20 minutes or so were varying speeds of one-way traffic, Wycombe getting forwards confidently but not quite doing enough to find an equaliser. Richardson oddly opted to hold fire on making changes, keeping things exactly the same until after the 70th minute. Yiadom in particular was struggling and should have come off for Nyambe, while the attacking midfield three needed freshening up.
In fact, Wycombe struck back to make it 2-2 before subs could be introduced. Neither Kamari Doyle nor Young were alert enough to the dangerous run of Anders Hagelskjær, who slammed home from a tight angle, beating Pereira with sheer power.
Charlie Savage and Roberts were then brought on, for Lane and Young out wide, and the former made an immediate impact. The ball dropped loose from a long ball in Wycombe’s half and Savage quickly played a cute pass through for Marriott, who guided the ball home with an outstanding finish off the outside of his right boot. 3-2, what a game!
Reading had one chance to give themselves some breathing room again, as Doyle found space on the edge of the area, only to blast the ball over the bar. Otherwise it was pretty much all Wycombe in the closing stages and they did look a threat, but Reading managed to tighten up enough to get over the line. That was helped by a couple of changes in the 87th minute (Marriott off for Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan, Yiadom for Nyambe) and another in injury time (Ward off for Finley Burns).
All in all, a real smash-and-grab game that really mustn’t draw Reading into a false sense of security. For the most part this wasn’t good enough – the Royals were effectively bailed out by one particularly sublime showing up top from Marriott.
And yet, it keeps Reading’s points tally ticking up. We’re now up to seventh, just three points off sixth-placed Huddersfield Town and with a game in hand on them. If the Royals can translate recent wins (today, 2-1 at Wigan Athletic and 2-0 at Northampton Town) into more convincing all-round performances in the weeks and months to come, this season could well have a happy ending – but improvement does have to come.
Men's Six Nations
Scotland (24) 31
Tries: Jones 2, Ritchie, White Cons: Russell 4 Pen: Russell
England (10) 20
Tries: Arundell, Earl Con: Ford Pens: Ford 2
Rampant Scotland bounced back from Six Nations defeat by Italy a week ago to blow England away in a bonus-point win in a pulsating Calcutta Cup at a riotous Murrayfield.
Orchestrated by the brilliant Finn Russell and playing with a ruthlessness that a shell-shocked England could not contain, the Scots were a team reborn.
Pelted with flak in the build-up to facing an England team looking for a 13th straight win and and a first in Edinburgh since 2020, Gregor Townsend's previously beleaguered boys motored into a stunning 17-0 lead inside the opening quarter.
A penalty from Russell and tries from Huw Jones, Jamie Ritchie and Ben White were answered only by a converted Henry Arundell try and a George Ford penalty.
For Arundell, it was a hair-raising experience. England played 30-minutes with only 14 men due to the two yellow cards given to the wing in the first half. Scotland scored 14 points on the back of his first yellow.
Scotland led 24-10 at the break. Ford narrowed the gap with the boot early in the new half, but Jones added a second soon after when a George Ford drop goal attempt was charged down by Matt Fagerson and the centre ran 60 metres unopposed.
Scotland have an unfortunate history of going to sleep when ahead in games, but not this time. England had some moments of pressure but they were met with Scottish thunder on both sides of the ball.
Ben Earl scored late on to bring the gap down to 11. Not that it bothered Murrayfield all that much.
England, for all the improvements they have made, were sent rocketing back to the drawing board.
Scotland promised a big performance and they delivered an intensity, an accuracy and a ruthlessness that was totally absent in Rome.
They were utterly lethal in the opening minutes, Russell sending them on their way with an early penalty that was borne out of hard and direct rugby that England could not live with.
Another Scottish blast inside 10 minutes saw the first yellow for Arundell and it proved so damaging for England. While the wing was away, Scotland didn't half play and Russell in full genius mode was at the heart of it.
After stretching the England defence to breaking, Russell then finished them, beating the blitz - Tom Roebuck sold himself in the midst of it - with a gorgeous one-handed flick on to Jones who sprinted around Maro Itoje to score.
They fly-half made it 10-0 and the promised Scottish reaction to Rome was being visited upon England. And there was more. Part of their woes in Rome was their lack of ruthlessness. Here, they fixed the problem.
In their next visit to England's 22 they nailed their chance again, getting outside the defence with a speed and a skill-set of the highest class. Sione Tuipulotu flung a long pass out to Ritchie, standing free on the left wing, and the blindside scored with aplomb.
Russell made it 17-0 with just 14 minutes on the clock. Breathless and brilliant. England, heavy favourites, were getting blown away. That Arundel yellow cost them 14 points.
They got some joy at last. Their scrum, completely dominant, was key and their big runners took them deep into Scotland's 22. The resistance held, but only for so long. Ford's lovely delayed pass sent Arundell in. Quite a half for the wing.
Ford narrowed the gap to seven points soon after as England threatened to build up a head of steam. Their respite was dismantled in quick order when Scotland struck for their third score.
It was wonderful Russell invention once again that sparked it, the fly-half scampering down the short side, skipping past Guy Pepper and Sam Underhill and getting a kick while in the process of falling over.
Ellis Genge was in the back field and seemingly in control of the situation only to slide and let the ball fall loose. White was on to him like a shot and touched down for a smash-and-grab that sickened England. Russell added the extras - a 14-point game now.
Arundell's calamity came just before the end of a pulsating half when he took Steyn out in the air. Second yellow and now a 20-minute red. England were in deep trouble.
Their scrum superiority brought them three more points early in a second half that began without Ritchie on one side and Sam Underhill. Both injured. On came Fagerson and Tom Curry and away we went.
England's one area of joy was the scrum and their muscle in the set-piece saw Ford narrow the gap early in the second half. These were moments when Scotland had to dig deep.
England were getting on the front foot, but the Scottish defence held. More than that, they frustrated England. Going nowhere in the hosts' 22. Ford opted to take an easy three with a drop goal in front of the posts.
It backfired. Fagerson was out like a bullet from a gun and charged down the kick, then scooped up the loose ball and fed Jones who galloped away with Scottish delirium ringing in his ears all the way.
Russell banged over the conversion and, incredibly, the underdogs were ahead by 18 points with a bonus point in the bank.
England emptied their bench, brought on any amount of heavy hitters, but could only manage a late, late try for Earl, converted by Ford. Scotland's lead was 11 - and to the utter ecstasy of the home fans, it stayed that way.
Scotland: Jordan, Steyn, Jones, Tuipulotu (capt), Dobie, Russell, White; McBeth, Turner, Z Fagerson, Brown, Cummings, Ritchie, Darge, Dempsey.
Replacements:Cherry, Schoeman, Millar-Mills, Williamson, M Fagerson, Horne, Hastings, Graham.
England: Steward; Roebuck, Freeman, Dingwall, Arundell; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, Cowan-Dickie, Heyes, Chessum, Itoje, Pepper, Underhill, Earl.
Replacements: George, Rodd, Davison, Coles, Pollock, T Curry, Spencer, F Smith.
Referee: Nika Amashukeli (Geo)
If nothing else, the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl triumph should close the book on the Russell Wilson trade. The first three seasons of post-Russ results indicated that while Seattle got a nice haul out of the blockbuster deal, they were still treading water as a non-contender. After the 2025 offseason masterclass, the Wilson trade was indeed instrumental in Seattle’s newest championship window. Devon Witherspoon or Derick Hall winning Super Bowl MVP would’ve been the perfect encapsulation.
But we’re not here to talk about the Wilson trade, of which Witherspoon and Derick Hall made outsized impacts . There were some other deals Schneider made with the Broncos that had a season-long impact on Seattle’s success, as well as an outsized success in the Super Bowl win over the New England Patriots.
SAM DARNOLD TO AJ BARNER TOUCHDOWN!
— NFL (@NFL) February 9, 2026
Super Bowl LX on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/sCoEyewllX
It is distinctly possible that Barner could end his rookie contract as the Seahawks’ all-time leading receiver at the tight end position. He wasn’t even the top tight end at Michigan—Colston Loveland looks like he is the real deal with the Chicago Bears—but he’s shown himself to be a well-rounded traditional tight end. Barner may not have the gaudy stats like Trey McBride or prime Travis Kelce or George Kittle, but he blocks well, has excellent hands, and he’s shown himself to be the warmest of security blankets for Sam Darnold.
In the Super Bowl, Barner had four catches for 54 yards and Seattle’s only offensive touchdown. It was a fitting performance after quietly finishing second on the team in receptions and touchdowns and third in receiving yards.
How he was acquired: The Seahawks were slated to pick at No. 102 overall early in Round 4 of the 2024 draft. John Schneider traded down to No. 121, gaining another pick in the process. Denver took Oregon receiver Troy Frankling, while the Seahawks selected Barner at No. 121.
Frick it, Michael Dickson Super Bowl highlights 🔥@Seahawks | @mdcksn | @NFLAUNZpic.twitter.com/yiSXKnWC4k
— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2026
"That's why he is the best."
— SEN 1116 (@1116sen) February 9, 2026
Not much was happening in that first half, but Australia's very own Michael Dickson stood up when it mattered most for the Seahawks to put them in good field position when required 💪#NFL | #SuperBowlpic.twitter.com/C7HcPgSioX
Michael Dickson was pressed into action a little more than hoped for, but the Aussie was his usual phenomenal self. Facing a dangerous returner in Marcus Jones, he downed the Patriots inside the 10 three times out of seven punts, and Jones’ two returns went a grand total of four yards. He also saved a Jason Myers field goal attempt by corralling a low snap from long snapper Chris Stoll in time to hold and spin the laces out for Myers to boot his kick through the uprights.
This was one of those games where field position mattered quite a bit, and Dickson flipped the field repeatedly against a Patriots offense that could do next to nothing for the entire Super Bowl.
Dickson was second-team All-Pro in 2025 and tied for his career low in touchbacks with three.
How he was acquired: Trading up for a PUNTER?! This is what the Seahawks did in 2018 after giving up picks 156 and 226 to the Broncos to select Dickson at 149. Dickson remains the only All-Pro at any position selected in the fifth round from that draft class.
Denver drafted Troy Fumagalli (out of the league in two years) and running back David Williams (never played for Denver) with its picks from Seattle.
Another way to look at this is Witherspoon, Hall, Dickson, and Barner were among the top performing Seahawks in Super Bowl 60 and all of them were directly acquired from traded Denver draft picks.
Regardless of who’s in the front office for the Broncos, they might as well hang up the phone when Schneider comes calling.
NBCUniversal dubbed this month Legendary February, since the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Super Bowl LX game, and the launch of NBC’s Sunday Night Basketball were all aligning. But the much-hyped sports events have made February legendary for the company, too.
In a press release on Thursday, NBCUniversal announced that viewers have streamed 6.3 billion minutes of Milan Cortina Olympics coverage on Peacock and other streaming platforms through Wednesday, with more than week of Olympics action remaining. That viewership beats the full viewership of the last two winter games combined: Viewers streamed 6.1 billion minutes of the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang and the 2022 games in Beijing.
The 2026 Winter Olympics had already set the record for the most-streamed Winter Games with Tuesday’s total of with 5.3 billion minutes, up 36 percent from the entire 2022 Olympics (3.9 billion) and more than double the entire 2018 Olympics (2.2 billion).
Sarah Stier/Getty Images
NBCUniversal also noted on Thursday that these Winter Games were averaging 25.7 million viewers on NBC, Peacock, NBCUniversal’s digital platforms, and spinoff media company Versant’s CNBC and USA Network through Wednesday, the best performance for a Winter Games since the 2014 Olympics in Sochi.
And Super Bowl LX — in which the Seattle Seahawks trounced the New England Patriots on Sunday, February 8 — also delivered a huge audience to NBC. As NBC Sports President Rick Cordella noted in a media conference call, the game averaged 125 million viewers to become the second most-watched broadcast in U.S. television history. It also scored the largest peak audience in U.S. TV history with 137.8 million viewers watching in the second quarter.
“This level of audience accumulation over just an 11-day period is exceptional in today’s media environment,” Cordella said in Thursday’s press release. “We look forward to continued momentum, with Team USA in contention for many medals in upcoming Olympic competition, and the return of NBA All-Star Weekend to NBC for the first time in more than two decades.”
Read the latest entertainment news on TV Insider.
Casey Wasserman, whose emails with Ghislaine Maxwell came to light as a result of the latest release of Epstein files, will be selling a talent agency whose clients include multiple NFL players.
Via Charisma Madarang of Rolling Stone, Wasserman sent a memo to the 4,000 employees of his agency informing them that he will sell the business. Wasserman wrote that he has become a "distraction" to the company. He also apologized for "past personal mistakes" that caused “so much discomfort."
"It’s not fair to you, and it’s not fair to the clients and partners we represent so vigorously and care so deeply about," Wasserman said.
The move comes after multiple clients left the firm, starting with pop star Chappell Roan. Former soccer player Abby Wambach also has severed ties with Wasserman's agency.
Wasserman exchanged emails with Maxwell before Epstein's first arrest. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison term for conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse minors.
NFL clients of Wasserman's firm include Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, Saints defensive end Cam Jordan, and Raiders quarterback Geno Smith.
Wasserman will continue to serve as chairman and president of the LA28 Olympic committee.
Leverkusen reversed.
This Saturday, OM suffered yet another terrible disappointment against Strasbourg. For their first match after the thrashing by PSG and the departure of Roberto De Zerbi, the Marseillais threw it all away against Strasbourg.
Despite leading by two goals in the 74th minute, the Olympians once again conceded a dramatic draw with Joaquin Panichelli’s equalizer in the 90+7th minute.
Crucified once again at the end of the match, OM is on the verge of breaking an absolutely dreadful record in Ligue 1.
According to Opta, the Marseillais have conceded seven goals in stoppage time of the second half in the league this season. Over the last 20 seasons, only Metz has done worse, conceding nine goals after the 90th minute.
This record can even be extended to the last 10 minutes of regulation time across all competitions this season.
Furthermore, according to StatsduFoot, without stoppage time, OM would be co-leader of Ligue 1 with PSG.
In your opinion, how can OM fix this problem?
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.
West Brom manager Eric Ramsay said there were positives to take from his side's FA Cup exit at Norwich City.
The Baggies head coach told BBC Radio WM: "I'm really disappointed to lose the game, particularly given how the second half went, and how we felt that we grew into the game and played with some real authority for a large portion of that second half.
"I felt strongly before the game that, irrespective of the outcome, we had to come out feeling positive across a number of other elements and there were strong performances from the young players Ollie [Bostock], Harry [Whitwell] and from Hindo [Mustapha] and we had to feel that we were nudging players towards 90 minutes fit.
"The guys that haven't been able to hit 90 minutes all that regularly so far this season. The fact we've done that across the board is pleasing.
"We weren't happy with the first-half performance. There wasn't the level of aggression and competitiveness that we would have expected and we lacked control on the ball. That was entirely different in the second half."
LOS ANGELES -- One of football's greatest icons: legendary Brazilian defender and two-time FIFA World Cup champion Cafu (Marcos Evangelista de Morais) sat down for an exclusive conversation with The Sporting Tribune on Friday. As the only player in history to feature in three consecutive World Cup finals (1994, 1998, and 2002), and Brazil's all-time most-capped player with over 140 appearances for the Seleção, Cafu's legacy transcends trophies. It stands as a testament to leadership, unwavering passion, and the enduring spirit of the beautiful game.
Bruno De Witt Zanotto - The Sporting Tribune
Former Brazilian National Team captain Marcos Evangelista de Morais "Cafu" during an interview about the World Cup at Saturday Football in Los Angeles, California
Cafu captained Brazil to their fifth World Cup title in 2002, famously lifting the trophy in Yokohama after a dominant performance. His career highlights include starring roles at São Paulo, Roma, and AC Milan, where his tireless overlapping runs from right-back earned him the moniker "Il Pendolino" (The Express Train). Decades later, he remains a revered figure, often sharing insights on Brazil's prospects and the global stage.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now just months away—co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and marking the first 48-team edition—the tournament's return to American soil holds special meaning for Cafu. Los Angeles, via SoFi Stadium (also known as Los Angeles Stadium), will host several matches, though Brazil's group stage opener is scheduled elsewhere (e.g., Philadelphia). The city evokes powerful memories for Cafu: it was the site of his World Cup debut in 1994, when Brazil triumphed over Italy in the final at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, ending a 24-year drought for the Seleção.
Bruno De Witt Zanotto - The Sporting Tribune
Frame of a photograph of The 1994 World Cup Final at the Rose Bowl " during an interview about the World Cup at Saturday Football in Los Angeles, California.
We asked him: "As someone who lifted the World Cup, how exciting is it for you to see the tournament coming to Los Angeles and inspiring a new generation of fans?"
Cafu responded with deep emotion: "Wow, first to lift a World Cup trophy is fascinating, grateful, and very proud—especially when we're talking about the Brazil National Team. Having the opportunity in Los Angeles after 32 years, Brazil returning here once again, the World Cup returning to the United States, specifically Los Angeles—it's a memory that will stay with you for the rest of your life. For me, for being my first World Cup, and for being my World Cup Final here in the United States."
Bruno De Witt Zanotto - The Sporting Tribune
Brazil National Team 1994 game Jersey worn by Marcos Evangelista de Morais "Cafu" at Saturday Football in Los Angeles, California
The conversation naturally turned to Brazil's current stars and their hopes for 2026. Bruno also inquired about Neymar Jr., whose fitness and form have been topics of intense discussion amid injuries and club transitions.
We asked: "If Neymar is healthy, how important is he to the Brazilian National team?"
Cafu replied confidently: "Neymar is important to any club, especially the Brazilian National team. Neymar knows how important he is to us. Him being focused 100% without a doubt Brazil has a strong chance of conquering the World Cup with him."
The Sporting Tribune
Former Brazilian National Team captain Marcos Evangelista de Morais "Cafu" and Bruno De Witt Zanotto during an interview about the World Cup at Saturday Football in Los Angeles, California
Cafu's endorsement highlights Neymar's unique talent and influence—often described by the legend himself in past comments as one of Brazil's greatest assets when fully fit and committed. With Brazil aiming to reclaim global supremacy after a 24-year wait since 2002, Cafu's belief underscores the potential impact of a healthy, focused Neymar alongside emerging talents.
As the countdown to June 2026 continues, Cafu's reflections bridge past glories with future possibilities. The World Cup's return to Los Angeles isn't just a sporting event—it's a full-circle moment for legends like Cafu, inspiring the next generation to chase dreams on the biggest stage. Brazil's pursuit of a sixth title promises drama, passion, and perhaps another iconic lift under the California lights.
Bruno De Witt Zanotto - The Sporting Tribune
Sao Paolo Football Club Jersey worn by Marcos Evangelista de Morais "Cafu" at Saturday Football in Los Angeles, California
Salford City arrived at Etihad Stadium with a certain amount of trepidation, the scars of last season's 8-0 FA Cup defeat still fresh in the mind.
This time the League Two club left Manchester City's home with their heads held high after going toe-to-toe with the club still hoping to pull off an unprecedented quadruple this season.
"It was demoralising last season, our confidence dipped," Salford captain Luke Garbutt told BBC Sport after pushing their opponents all the way before losing 2-0.
"Today is a totally different feel.
"On another day we would've got a goal. To come away with 2-0 when it was 8-0 last season shows the club is on the rise."
Salford, the club co-owned by Manchester United stars Gary Neville and David Beckham, were playing in the fourth round for the first time in their history.
And they were in the tie right up to the moment substitute Marc Guehi doubled the lead with his first Manchester City goal since a £20m move from Crystal Palace in the 81st minute.
"They defended so well," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. "They had more chances near the end, they were really good."
Salford's players stayed on the pitch a good five minutes after the full-time whistle to show their appreciation to their travelling fans.
"Why did you bring that up?" manager Karl Robinson joked in his post-match press conference, when a reporter mentioned last season's eight-goal drubbing.
He must have feared his side were facing another hammering when Alfie Dorrington scored an own goal in the sixth minute.
The visitors, however, regrouped.
Not only did they prevent their opponents from registering an attempt on target before half-time, they twice went close to scoring themselves through Ben Woodburn and Brandon Cooper.
It was still only 1-0 when James Trafford denied Kelly N'Mai, before Guardiola sent on Antoine Semenyo, Nico O'Reilly, Rodri and Guehi, the latter eventually easing home nerves nine minutes from the end.
"It's about us using this as a benchmark to move forward," added Robinson, whose side sit sixth in the fourth tier of English football.
"We couldn't do that last season. We have to get out of League Two.
"It was a fantastic defensive performance against one of the best teams in Europe.
"They had to bring on four of their best players in the last 20 minutes. We dust ourselves off and get ready for Tuesday [Newport County at home]."
Former Manchester City midfielder Michael Brown, who was at Etihad Stadium for BBC Sport, said Salford will learn from Saturday's experience.
"For Salford to get to this stage they have done well," he added.
"The test was there with this draw, but Robinson will have learned a lot about his players."
Garbutt added: "They are a world-class team and they are going to create chances and score good goals but we kept that to a minimum."
Guardiola mentioned in his pre-match news conference how he "enjoys" playing FA Cup ties away from home against League One and League Two clubs.
"When you arrive at the stadium on the coach and all the fans sing 'Who are ya?! Who are ya?!" added Guardiola.
On Saturday, Salford's 3,900 fans inside Etihad Stadium made themselves heard as the visitors took the game to their Premier League opponents.
Afterwards, Guardiola labelled his side's 41st game of the season "boring".
"It has been tough but not just this two weeks, since November it's been every three days and that's a lot," he added.
"The good news is we go through.
"We have to move the ball quick to the opposite side and we didn't do it. That's why it was boring."
City might not have been at their best but it's now 17 FA Cup wins in a row at Etihad Stadium since a 2-0 defeat by Middlesbrough back in 2015.
Breaking Gerd Müller’s record for goals in a single Bundesliga season-40 in 34 games- seemed utterly impossible. The Bayern Munich legend is one of the greatest goal scorers in the history of the sport. Surely, he could not be caught. Then a new Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski arrived on the scene and broke it, plundering an incredible 41 goals in 29 games with a goal in the dying embers of the final matchday.
Now it is Harry Kane’s turn to try to break the record. He came fairly close in the first season and fell further behind in his second season. Now in his third, he has 26 goals with 12 games remaining. Could he break the record this season?
Asked about this possibility after a Kane brace led Bayern to a 3-0 win in the Bundesliga against Werder Bremen, head coach Vincent Kompany deflected the question: “I assume that the league title is much more important for him than the record,” he said, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “But maybe I’m wrong because I was a defender not a striker [laughs]. He’s Harry Kane, he has and will always score goals.”
Lewandowski missed 5 games the season he broke the record. Kane has yet to miss a match and will likely need to carry this through the season to have any hope of reaching 42 goals.
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…
Sign up for a user account and get:
One of the things that has captivated social media around the Tennessee Titans so far this offseason has been the rumor that the team will change its uniforms in 2026. This rumor is nothing new. Last offseason, Hall of Famer Warren Moon hinted at a redesign during Cam Ward’s introductory press conference, but no specifics on the look were given.
Unlike last offseason, when word broke on this possibility in January, it created a frenzy, with fans doing jersey and uniform mock-ups and flooding social media with design ideas. Now, after a few weeks of speculation, Fanatics may have leaked the updated logo on one of their plus football items.
Did Fanatics leak the new Titans logo? 👀
— 2nd & Victory (@2ndandVictory) February 14, 2026
(h/t to ryangarrettxo on Reddit) pic.twitter.com/fFQtYDL6DS
Similar to the current Titans design, minus the flames and featuring “Titans Blue” instead of a dark blue, this design aligns with comments from last offseason, when members of the team's administration discussed embracing their history and using their color scheme moving forward
What do you think? Do you like this new look, or would you like to see something different? Sound off and let us know what you think.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Did Fanatics just leak the new Tennessee Titans logo? Take a look
Elfyn Evans headed into the final day of Rally Sweden with a slender 13.3s lead despite a late push from Takamoto Katsuta, as Toyota’s domination continued.
Evans started Saturday facing a 2.8s deficit to Katsuta, but this was turned on its head after the morning loop. A perplexed Katsuta struggled for grip, which left him 16.1s adrift.
The deficit grew to 18s early in the afternoon as Evans maintained his strong pace, headlined by a fastest time in stage 13. But Katsuta managed to arrest his slide backwards and issued a response as the afternoon progressed. The Japanese driver took time out of Evans across the final two stages to reduce the gap to 13.3s.
"This morning was pretty good but this afternoon was a bit more mixed. Looking after the tyres was a bit more difficult, and not my specialty, but it has still been a clean afternoon,” said Evans, who defeated Katsuta to win Rally Sweden last year.
Katsuta has not given up on an opportunity to beat Evans and snatch a maiden WRC win on Sunday. “One more day to go. Not really happy today and we will find out what went wrong. I will definitely try my best tomorrow,” said Katsuta.
Katsuta also came under pressure from Toyota team-mate Sami Pajari, who set an impressive pace across the afternoon. The Finn, sitting in third, picked up fastest times in stages 12 and 14 to close within 11.4s of Katsuta, before ending the day 12.1s behind his team-mate.
Toyota’s domination of the event was outlined by Oliver Solberg leaping ahead of Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux and Esapekka Lappi to claim fourth in the morning. The Monte Carlo winner’s charge was halted in the afternoon.
"It has been a tricky afternoon that is for sure,” said Solberg, who ended the day in fourth, 33s behind Pajari and 11.2s ahead of Lappi. “Not good. It was so slippery and there was a lot of loose snow and it was difficult to find the rhythm and the confidence. That is it really. It is not where I want to be.”
Hyundai’s crews conducted multiple set-up changes across its trio of i20 N Rally1 cars in a bid to find answers to its lack of pace. To some degree the changes worked as Lappi began to feel more at home behind the wheel to remain in the fight for fourth overall.
Fourmaux tried a radical damper change which wasn’t comfortable for the crew inside the car, but it did deliver some encouraging results. The Frenchman held onto fifth, 8.2s behind Lappi. Thierry Neuville ended the day by winning the final Umea Sprint stage by 1.1s from Katsuta, but the 2024 world champion remained mired in seventh, 2m10s adrift of the lead.
"We had a good day in the car honestly,” said Neuville. “Strong pace for the speed we have at the moment. I enjoyed it a bit more. The conditions were more stable than yesterday, so it made it a bit easier. The car is following the line a bit better. That is all we have at the moment, but at least we had a bit of fun.”
M-Sport Ford’s Jon Armstrong delivered head turning pace in the afternoon stages after making a roll bar tweak to his Puma's set-up at the midday service. The Irishman was comfortably quicker than his team-mates, ending the day in eighth overall, ahead of Josh McErlean, who was hampered by an intermittent light pod failure that he described as “quite scary”.
Martins Sesks completed the day’s seven stages on his return to action after three punctures on Friday forced him into retirement. The Latvian claimed the fastest time on stage 10, but was hampered by being first on the road in the afternoon. Sesks ended the final stage with a water pressure alarm being triggered on his Puma.
The top 10 was completed by WRC2 leader Roope Korhonen. Three stages await the crews on Sunday to conclude the second round of the season.
To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.
Inter bring Nicolò Barella back with Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, but Juventus are forced to change with Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceicao and Jonathan David.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: General view inside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This is the Derby d’Italia, a notorious grudge match, not to mention a battle between two of the top five.
The last few editions have been thrilling, including a 4-4 draw at San Siro last season, and a 4-3 Juventus victory in Turin back in September.
Both Thuram brothers were on target that day, but this time around Khephren is out with a bruised leg and not even on the bench.
He joins Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik on the treatment table, so Fabio Miretti and Weston McKennie into a deeper midfield role than usual.
Conceicao shrugs off a knee issue to start with Yildiz and David upfront in what appears to be a 4-3-3 formation.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 16: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on February 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Inter have big news, as Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu returned to training on Tuesday after several weeks out, leaving just Denzel Dumfries on the absentee list.
Only the Italian is thrown straight into the starting XI with Piotr Zielinski and Petar Sucic, while Marcus Thuram partners Capocannoniere Lautaro Martinez.
They are running away at the top of the Serie A table, winning 11 of the last 12 games.
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 13: Pierre Kalulu of Juventus competes for a header with Lautaro Martinez of Internazionale during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and FC Internazionale at on September 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Inter: Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Sucic, Dimarco; Lautaro Martinez, M Thuram
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; McKennie, Locatelli, Miretti; Conceicao, David, Yildiz
Serie A Week 25 Liveblog Inter vs. Juventus, Lazio vs. Atalanta, Como vs. Fiorentina
One of the players FC Barcelona have been following and monitoring is Ruud Nijstad. The 18-year-old Dutch centre-back is regarded as one of the outstanding prospects of his generation in the Netherlands.
Despite his age, the centre-back has already played nine matches for FC Twente in the Eredivisie. Standing at 1.93 metres tall, he is a powerful defender with presence and great potential.
As such, Barça have been working on a deal for Nijstad since January and, at one point, it seemed like a move was close.
However, according to SPORT, Barcelona have decided to walk away from their pursuit of Nijstad as they consider the price requested by Twente for their young prospect to be too high.
The Dutch outfit are pushing to renew his contract and secure his immediate future, while several top European clubs are pressing to sign him.
Twente are demanding a fee close to €10 million, a figure that is entirely outside the Blaugrana club’s roadmap.
As such, the decision has been made not to enter the bidding for the defender, even though the player would be interested in wearing the Blaugrana shirt.
At no point has an official approach been made by the La Liga champions, neither to Twente nor to the player’s representatives. The transfer fee is considered entirely excessive.
Barcelona have focused on signing young, left-footed centre-backs with future potential – having added Juwensley Onstein and Patricio Pacifico during the winter window. Nijstad was also seen as a viable option with an eye on the future, but the move is now off.
Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has decided to start Nicolo Barella following his return from injury, while captain Lautaro Martinez will partner Marcus Thuram in attack against Juventus and Hakan Calhanoglu will return to the bench.
If ever there was a defining moment in the Serie A campaign, this is one.
Inter host Juventus in a Derby d’Italia loaded with title implications and enormous pressure on both sides.
However, Lautaro Martinez and his teammates have repeatedly shown they can deliver in decisive fixtures.
Meanwhile, Juventus arrive with momentum of their own and renewed attacking options, setting the stage for a high-intensity encounter.
Despite the stakes, Inter still have one notable absence.
Indeed, Cristian Chivu remains without Denzel Dumfries, although the Dutch wing-back has returned to partial training and is nearing his comeback.
Therefore, the Romanian tactician has made key midfield decisions following the return of two injured stars.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nicolo Barella returns directly to the starting lineup after recovering from injury, restoring energy and intensity to Inter’s midfield.
Hakan Calhanoglu is also back available, but the Turkish international begins on the bench.
Piotr Zielinski keeps his place and will operate in a central role alongside Petar Sucic, who was a surprising late addition after it was expected that Mkhitaryan would be on the bench..
On the flanks, in-form Federico Dimarco and Luis Henrique provide width and attacking thrust.
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale celebrates with his team-mate Lautaro Martinez after scoring their team’s forth goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marcus Thuram starts alongside captain Lautaro Martinez.
Indeed confirming Inter’s first-choice attacking partnership for the season’s most important fixtures.
Their chemistry and movement remain central to Inter’s attacking identity.
Especially against a Juventus defence built on physicality and structure.
Behind them, the midfield trio will look to control tempo and supply forward momentum.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Weston McKennie of Juventus in action during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti faced uncertainty surrounding Khephren Thuram, who misses out due to a bone edema issue.
Teun Koopmeiners is ready to step in if needed.
Francisco Conceição returns to the starting lineup and joins Weston McKennie and Kenan Yildiz in support of striker Jonathan David.
The Bianconeri remain without long-term absentees Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
INTER (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Sucic, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro Martinez.Bench: Martinez, Di Gennaro, Acerbi, De Vrij, Darmian, Carlos Augusto, Cocchi, Kamate, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Frattesi, Diouf, Bonny, Esposito.Coach: Chivu.Unavailable: Dumfries.
JUVENTUS (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Miretti; Conceição, McKennie, Yildiz; David.Bench: Perin, Pinsoglio, Gatti, Cabal, Holm, Kostic, Thuram, Adzic, Zhegrova, Boga, Openda.Coach: Spalletti.Unavailable: Milik, Vlahovic.
As the Tennessee Titans officially enter the offseason, they face some significant questions that will shape the organization's future.
With new head coach Robert Saleh and an experienced staff in place, one would think that the quality of their roster and improving depth through free agency and the draft would be their biggest issues. However, Turron Davenport of ESPN’s NFL Nation believes the Titans have a different question that must be answered.
Can quarterback Cam Ward take the next step under Brian Daboll?
Ward closed the season on a high note before suffering a shoulder sprain to his throwing arm. Perhaps that injury hasn't impacted his offseason training since he's been working mostly on footwork? But his rehab, paired with learning a new offense led by new-to-Tennessee coordinator Daboll, will likely be a challenge for Ward. Daboll most notably helped Bills QB Josh Allen go from a raw rookie to an All-Pro passer. The Titans are banking on a similar jump for Ward that would help turn the franchise around.
Davenport is spot on; no matter what the team does in free agency and the draft, it means very little if Ward can’t take the next step in his development.
Known as a diligent worker who strives to be great, Ward has shown flashes of what to expect if the team can add some playmakers and consistency around him. It should come as no surprise that the improvement he demonstrated down the stretch coincided with improved line play and a focus on the running game that was invisible early in the season.
With Daboll in the fold, the fact that he has experience both asa a coordinator and play caller is a significant improvement over what the Titans have had for the past two seasons, and hopefully, will pay off once the season opens.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: ESPN analyst believes Cam Ward's growth is Titans' key to offseason
The Tennessee Titans have been rumored to be one of the NFL teams looking to unveil new uniforms and a new logo ahead of the 2026 season, with the buzz beginning back in October.
Now, it looks like the secret may have been spoiled by none other than Fanatics.
Late Friday night, an item popped up in the shop that appeared to show a new Titans logo. The item was a “Pegasus Player Pal Plush Ball,” which was added as current Titans jerseys are being marked down on sale.
MORE: Troy Aikman explains why Drake Maye was so overmatched in the Super Bowl
The new logo was noticeably different, appearing to include a light blue color scheme reminiscent of the beloved Oilers days. The item has since been removed from the shop.
Did Fanatics leak the new Titans logo?
— 2nd & Victory (@2ndandVictory) February 14, 2026
(h/t to ryangarrettxo on Reddit) pic.twitter.com/fFQtYDL6DS
If it is the new logo, it falls in line with the buzz on the rumor mill that the Titans could be returning to the old Oilers throwback color scheme, which would be music to the Titans faithful’s ears.
In late January, FanDuel’s Zach Cohen shared what he was hearing, and it was backed up by the apparent Fanatics leak.
MORE: NFL’s latest win over NFLPA might silence transparency around the league
In a video shared to social media, Cohen said he was “told to expect them ditching the flames for a new logo soon.” Cohen also shared a mock-up of the new logo based on what he was hearing. Again, it is eerily similar to what we saw in the brief Fanatics leak.
EXCLUSIVE: A new logo for the Titans? Yeah, it’s happening (as I expected)
— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) January 28, 2026
In October, I exclusively reported the Titans as 1 of multiple teams to file for new uniforms for 2026
Now, I’m told to expect them ditching the flames for a new logo soon…
Also in my video:
– All… https://t.co/mDdZ8ryTQfpic.twitter.com/WOnQTgzosZ
It will be interesting to see if the Titans’ new logo is what is now making the rounds on social media, but more exciting is the idea of what a new uniform could look like.
If it’s a blast from the past with a modern twist, the new look will be welcomed with open arms.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) reacts after wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) received a pass for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023.
OLYMPICS: Watch Ilia Malinin suffer shock end to 2026 Winter Olympic run
NFL: NFL teams with the highest winning percentages over the last 10 years
CFB: Ole Miss given huge Trinidad Chambliss boost for 2026 college football season
MLB: Former Dodgers World Series champion to sign with Angels
NHL: Full list of NHL players in the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey tournament
VIRAL: Myles Garrett, girlfriend Chloe Kim share heartfelt moment after Olympic stunner
The post Tennessee Titans’ new logo leaked in Fanatics mishap? appeared first on The Big Lead.
Now 41 years old, but still not satisfied. Cristiano Ronaldo scored again for Al Nassr right after his comeback following the strike. This brings the Portuguese star to 18 goals in 19 matches.
The fuss surrounding him and the dispute with the state fund PIF seem to have no impact on his performance. Ronaldo now has a total of 962 goals in his career.
CR7 is reportedly dissatisfied with the transfer policy of the state fund PIF, which oversees four clubs in the Saudi league. From his perspective, Al-Nassr is being treated worse compared to other clubs.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.
Jorge Prado paced the field last week in Glendale, Arizona, and he will need to master a different style of track in Round 6 of the 2026 SuperMotocross World Championship at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. He was equal to the task with the fastest lap in Qualification 1.
Jorge Prado (50.600) posted a lap that was one second faster than Hunter Lawrence (51.605) as the riders face an extremely soft track.
"I feel comfortable on the track," Prado told Peacock's Haley Shanley. "I like rutty tracks. My bike is working really good, which makes it easier. I'm happy. I put up an okay lap. I didn't expect this lap time, but I think the key is to be smooth and no mistakes."
Eli Tomac struggled for most of the session, but his last lap around the track moved him from eighth overall to third.
Fourth-place Justin Cooper (52.085) and Malcolm Stewart (52.166) rounded out the top five.
Qualification 1 Results coming soon
Sheffield Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen believes his side are playing in the "right direction" despite losing at home to promotion chasers Millwall 1-2 on Saturday.
Although Millwall dominated the majority of the game, Jamal Lowe tapped in for the Owls after Charlie McNeill's long-range effort was spilled to give the league's bottom side a surprise advantage on the hour mark.
However, an own goal from Cole McGhee and Lions substitute Macaulay Langstaff's close-range finish from Femi Azeez's low cross completed a swift turnaround for the visitors who succumbed Wednesday to their 23rd league loss of the season.
"I think it was a fantastic game for the boys," said Pedersen to BBC Radio Sheffield. We played against a strong Millwall team, a top team in the Championship, and we knew they are maybe the most physical team in the league for set-pieces, long balls, second balls and duels.
"How we managed this game today, big respect to our guys. For the defensive stuff, we were really well organised and we managed all the long balls, and we also managed to win a lot of the second balls.
"Today, compared to some of the other games, we also had some power when we won the ball to play forward, to run forward, to get high up on the pitch and to create something so it's a big step in the right direction."
Karachi, Pakistan – As rain and thunder threatened to disrupt their team’s T20 World Cup match against India on Sunday, Pakistan’s cricket fans are bracing for a different storm – the now-customary loss against their archrivals at global events.
Pakistan have not beaten India in the tournament since 2021 when they recorded a solitary win in eight T20 World Cup encounters against their formidable opponents.
Despondent fans have now shifted from anticipating a thrilling, unpredictable game to praying for a miracle as Salman Ali Agha’s team step on the field at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Pakistan’s latest “win” came in the form of a move to boycott the match on political grounds. Despite the eventual reversal of the decision after weeklong negotiations with the International Cricket Council (ICC), the initial decision to not take the field against India was seen as a triumph by cricket fans in Pakistan.
Escalating political tensions between the South Asian neighbours have seen a decades-old sporting rivalry turn into an ugly debacle both on and off the pitch with customary handshakes avoided and light jibes replaced by controversial hand gestures invoking their most recent armed conflict in May.
Politics and sport blur boundaries on both sides of the border, making these fixtures an exhibition of nationalistic pride that can sometimes turn distasteful.
The pre-match jingoism in Pakistan, though, was short-lived. It has been replaced by bitterly disappointed fans airing their thoughts in the form of self-deprecating memes or reels depicting the “foolishness” of a section of fans expecting a win.
“We’ll have heartbreak on February 14 and 15,” read the captions of several social media posts set to melancholic songs on Valentine’s Day, the eve of the match.
Supporters – both hardcore and casual – will religiously watch the three-plus-hour encounters. Come 6:30pm (13:30 GMT) on Sunday, the public will be glued to screens across the country to watch the high-stakes match.
Roadside tea stalls will be thronged by male spectators filling up wooden benches, plastic chairs or squatting on their haunches in front of small TV screens.
Food delivery riders busy with an overflow of match-day meal orders will occasionally halt their journeys to catch a glimpse of the action on their phones or through restaurant windows.
Upscale eateries will bring in large screens and host groups of young fans and families.
Domestic responsibilities will be wrapped up before the start of the match, and extended families will gather around a living room TV with drinks, snacks and feasts of biryani.
The weekend – now the standard time that all India-Pakistan matches are played for economic and logistical reasons – will offer some respite from an otherwise hectic schedule of school and office routines that throw the heaving metropolis of Karachi into transport turbulence.
Despite the days of anticipation and hours spent preparing for the showpiece, fans remain realistic in their expectations.
On a balmy late Friday afternoon in Karachi as life gradually returned to its normal pace after an hour-long pause for midday prayers at mosques across the city, a group of young law students picked up their kits for a local league match.
“It’s looking 70-30 in India’s favour,” Talha Bandayal, a law student, told Al Jazeera as he watched his teammates play a cricket match in their local lawyers league at the historic Karachi Parsi Institute on Friday.
Bandayal and his friends plan to watch the match at a restaurant in one of Karachi’s posh localities.
“It’s a Pakistan-India match. We’re excited regardless of the result!”
Syed Ahmed Shah, who officiated the league match as a third umpire, was more sceptical of the team’s chances and more in tune with the country’s overall opinion of Pakistan’s expected performance.
“Sport is just like politics in our country,” a bespectacled Shah opined dryly to everyone’s amusement, drawing comparisons between the nation’s two most favoured topics.
“India is far superior to us, not just in cricket but everything,” Shah told Al Jazeera.
Cricket analysts have appeared on national talk shows throughout the week, dissecting the team’s shortcomings, the Pakistan Cricket Board’s organisational failures and the squad’s weak mental fortitude for a match of this proportion.
Local cricketers like Bandayal have been analysing Pakistani players’ strengths and weaknesses. Usman Tariq’s unreadable spin action and variations are being seen as Pakistan’s secret weapon.
When it comes to off-field behaviour, though, India’s trend of avoiding handshakes with Pakistani teams has been frowned upon.
“Politics should strictly be kept separate from sports,” a local cricket coach who requested anonymity said of Suryakumar Yadav and his team’s controversial actions from the Asia Cup last year.
“But if India takes that stance, Pakistan also needs to have some self-respect and respond accordingly,” the 46-year-old coach said.
Admittedly, the handshake row has taken centre stage in a fixture that has historically been remembered for scintillating bowling performances, swashbuckling innings or nail-biting finishes.
When Pakistan awakes on Sunday morning, most cricket fans will begin their day by playing their own cricket games – whether in narrow neighbourhood streets or vast, dusty fields hosting multiple matches simultaneously. As the evening draws closer, the clothes will be dusted off and equipment packed away for the showdown in Colombo.
Just as the hustle and bustle of life gave way for prayers two days earlier, the India-Pakistan match will do the same.
After all, it’s only cricket and Friday prayers that can bring life to a standstill in Pakistan.
At San Siro, the Derby d'Italia is being played: a crucial match in the race for the Scudetto and the Champions League spots. Inter, after 5 consecutive winsin the league, needs to respond to Milan's success, now 5 points behind and with a game in hand against Como.
Juventus under Spalletti wants to return to winning ways after the defeat in the Coppa Italia against Atalanta and the draw with Lazio, aiming to reach the level shown in the 3-0 win against Napoli. A victory would put pressure on Roma, who are level on points and facing Napoli tomorrow night.
🔴 Article constantly updated. Click the match card above for live text coverage.
INTER (3-5-2): Sommer; Bisseck, Akanji, Bastoni; Luis Henrique, Barella, Zielinski, Sucic, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro.
JUVENTUS (4-3-3): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; McKennie, Locatelli, Miretti; Conceiçao, David, Yildiz.
We remind you that Kephren Thuram was not called up due to a bone edema, Calhanoglu and Mkhitaryan start from the bench.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.
Northern Iowa tight end Parker Sutherland has tragically died, UNI announced Saturday. Sutherland, an 18-year-old Iowa City native, was entering his sophomore season with the Panthers.
Details surrounding Sutherland's death are sparse as of publication. A cause of death has yet to be announced. However, Cedar Falls public safety, fire and emergency medical services rushed to the football complex Thursday afternoon under the reasoning of "unconscious/fainting/non trauma," according to The Athletic.
Sutherland appeared in four games as a UNI freshman after an impressive high school career. At Iowa City High, he earned All-District and All-Conference honors twice and landed second-team All-State as a senior. According to his UNI bio, he had a sister, Georgia, and enjoyed video games, movies, pickleball and Legos.
In a statement shared with Iowa news personality Keith Murphy, UNI coach Todd Stepsis said Sutherland represents everything he looks for in a recruit. Stepsis explained that "Parker hits every quality and characteristic out of the park" with regards to talent, character, attitude and toughness.
"Parker embodied everything we look for in a UNI Football Panther," Stepsis said in a UNI athletics statement. "His talent and potential excited us on a daily basis, but it failed to compare to the type of person and teammate he was. His character, humility, toughness and genuine love of others are what champions are made of. While I'm saddened that our time together was short, we will celebrate the bright light that he brought to our football team for the rest of our lives."
"It is a heartbreaking day for our Panther Athletics family with the passing of our Parker Sutherland. He embraced the opportunity to play Panther football and represent the University through sport," UNI athletic director Megan Franklin added. "We are devastated - just devastated. The blessing is that we have a Panther family who will hold the Sutherland family, our football team, and our athletics staff close as we grieve."
Sutherland will be missed.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Parker Sutherland cause of death: What we know about Northern Iowa TE
Captain Michele Lamaro eloquently summed up how the perception around Italy has changed after they fell short in their bid for back-to-back Six Nations wins in Saturday's absorbing contest against Ireland.
After beating Scotland in Rome, Italy arrived in Dublin with confidence and were the better team for large periods against the Irish, who withstood intense pressure from the Azzurri in the closing stages to win 20-13.
And after Italy boss Gonzalo Quesada spoke of his pride in his team's performance, Lamaro was asked about their growing belief.
"This is my fifth year as a captain in the Six Nations and I remember my first year, the main question was, 'what do you think about Italy leaving the Six Nations?'," said the Benetton back row.
"I've never believed that in a couple of years you can change things up too much. I always have a humble mindset because I know how much it takes to get to that level to be able to come here and perform and compete against an unbelievable team like Ireland.
"The perception means a lot. The belief we've created, I didn't have that growing up.
"I grew up with us being last in the table and that's the thing I'm most proud of, me coming through with a bunch of guys who might be able to win the championship one day."
Lamaro, who was named Italy captain by Quesada's predecessor Kieran Crowley in 2021, added that the squad wants to "inspire people".
"Inspiring people around us, inspiring the kids coming through, giving them the chances we didn't have," added the 27-year-old.
"That's what we want to create. Sometimes it's tough because you find yourself in a tough situation but trusting the process is what you can do to have long-term ambition and legacy you can create.
"That makes us really proud and thank you for that [saying that Italy have improved] because it makes us proud to see how much the perception of the team has changed."
When Quesada and Lamaro last led Italy into a match in Dublin, they lost 36-0.
However, on Saturday, the Azzurri faced an Irish side lacking confidence after a bruising defeat by France in Paris last week.
"Obviously we wanted to take advantage of that. We knew if we put them under scoreboard pressure, it would have been very difficult for them.
"I've been in that situation before around mindsets. You have to perform and beat the team in front of you but if you're down after 20, 30 minutes, it can become a real pain in...I don't say where.
"They have some unbelievable players and they showed how much they care for this group and country. You always expect Ireland to be a world-class team.
"Ups and downs happen to every team in the world. At the moment, they haven't been what they want to be but I'm pretty sure they have all the abilities to get back."
Lamaro also ended Italy's post-match news conference with an unprompted tribute to Hollie Davidson after the Scottish official became the first woman to referee a men's Six Nations game.
"I just want to congratulate her," he said.
"She has been doing so much for world rugby and our game and I think it's an important thing to say.
"I appreciated the work we did together today on the pitch.
"Whatever the decision was, I was backing her and making sure everything was going the right way so I just want to congratulate her and thank her for the effort on the field."
Canada women's curling schedule: Times, TV channels, live streams to watch every game at 2026 Winter Olympics originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Canadian women's curling team has high expectations heading into the Winter Olympics.
Led by Rachel Homan, Team Canada is the heavy favorite to capture the gold medal at the Milan Cortina Games. The Canadians know that winning on the Olympic stage is not an easy task, though, as they haven't reached the podium since 2014.
MORE:Latest Olympic news and updates
The action will start with a battle between Canada and Denmark on Feb. 12. The bronze medal game will be played on Feb. 21, and the gold medal game will be held on Feb. 22.
Here is everything you need to know about Team Canada's schedule at the 2026 Winter Olympics, including TV and streaming options for women's curling games.
CBC is the exclusive broadcast rights holder for the Winter Olympics, offering daily coverage of curling at the Milan Cortina Games. Curling will also be available to watch on CBC Gem, the CBC's digital streaming service.
The full schedule for CBC and CBC Gem is available on the official CBC website.
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada 10, Denmark 4 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: USA 9, Canada 8 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Great Britain 7, Canada 6 |
| 1:05 p.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. Switzerland |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. China |
| 1:05 p.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. Japan |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. Sweden |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 1:05 p.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. Italy |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Round-Robin: Canada vs. South Korea |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Semifinal 1 |
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Semifinal 2 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Women's Bronze Medal Game |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 5:05 a.m. | Women's Gold Medal Game |
| Player | Role |
| Rachel Homan | Skip |
| Tracy Fleury | Third |
| Emma Miskew | Second |
| Sarah Wilkes | Lead |
| Rachelle Brown | Alternate |
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
Travis Kelce is currently at a crossroads. Long considered the best tight end in the NFL, the now-36-year-old Kelce is now at the center of retirement chatter. Additionally, football analysts haven’t held back on criticizing Kelce’s ability to still play at an elite level, especially at his age. Regardless of what those outside of Kelce's camp think, the future hall of famer himself has yet to announce a decision one way or the other. Now, his mother, Donna Kelce, is weighing in on his upcoming decision.
Donna Kelce has been quite supportive of her children in anticipation of difficult decisions. Two years ago, her oldest son, Jason, was in a position similar to Travis', when he retired from playing center on the Philadelphia Eagles. So how is the matriarch of the famous family feeling now that her younger child has to make up his mind? Here's what she tells TMZ:
You know, I just want him to do what he feels comfortable doing. He’s gotta talk to people in his life to decide what he wants to do. So I’m not sure. We’ll see what happens!
By “the people in his life,” Donna Kelce may be referring to Chiefs Coach Andy Reid, who likely will be a sounding board in his decision-making process as the Kansas City team looks towards making a roster for next season. Another person Donna may be referencing is pop superstar Taylor Swift, who Kelce has been in a relationship with since 2023. They got engaged back in August, and Swift has seemingly been incredibly supportive of her fiance. Over the last few years, Swift has attended Kelce’s games and held his hand through major wins and losses.
Some sources have alleged that wedding planning has slowed down, as Travis Kelce approaches his tough retirement decision. With that, it's alleged that Swift has focused on being there for her man, rather than overwhelming him with stress. Deciding may be hard for Kelce, who has been profuse in expressing his love for the game. The three-time Super Bowl winner said one of the biggest things he’s considered in making his decision is how much he loves playing and how he believes he can still play at an elite level.
The good thing is that if Kelce does decide to retire from football, he has another chapter of his life waiting for him on the other side. He's already soft launched an acting career, as he's starred in Ryan Murphy’s Grosesquerie and played a small role in Happy Gilmore 2. Additionally, he hosted the TV game show Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity? I also wouldn't be surprised if he picks up a sports commentary gig post-retirement. And, of course, Swifties like myself would also just love to see him relax and enjoy married life with Taylor Swift.
In the meantime, the public at large will just have to wait and see when Travis Kelce makes his big decision. Based on Donna's comments, it seems she'll be behind her son regardless of what he chooses. In the meantime, you can get a glimpse into Travis Kelce’s relationship with Taylor Swift by checking out the singer’s End of an Era concert documentary series, which is currently streaming with a Disney+ subscription.
USA men's curling schedule: Times, TV channels, live streams to watch every game at 2026 Winter Olympics originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The U.S. men's curling team will look to reach the podium at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Team USA will start things off with a matchup against Czechia on Feb. 11. The bronze medal game will be played on Feb. 20, and the gold medal game will be held on Feb. 21.
Can the Americans win their first gold medal in men's curling since 2018?
Here's the full day-by-day broadcast and streaming schedule for USA men's curling at the Winter Olympics.
Live broadcasts of men's curling at the 2026 Winter Olympics will be extremely limited with only two matchups available to watch on CNBC (gold medal game) and USA Network (USA vs. Canada).
All U.S. men's games can be streamed on Peacock, which will carry every event of the 2026 Milan Cortina Games live.
The NBC-owned streaming service's sports programming features live coverage of NFL Sunday Night Football, the NBA, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Premier League soccer, Big Ten football and basketball, Notre Dame football, Big East and Big 12 basketball, PGA Tour golf and more.
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA 8, Czechia 7 | — |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: Switzerland 8, USA 3 | — |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: Canada 6, USA 3 | — |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA 8, Germany 6 | — |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA vs. Sweden | Peacock |
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA vs. Norway | Peacock |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 3:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA vs. China | Peacock |
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA vs. Italy | Peacock |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 8:05 a.m. | Men's Round-Robin: USA vs. Great Britain | Peacock |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Semifinal 1 | Peacock |
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Semifinal 2 | Peacock |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Bronze Medal Game | Peacock |
| Time (ET) | Event | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|
| 1:05 p.m. | Men's Gold Medal Game | CNBC, Peacock |
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac has offered up his thoughts on Serhou Guirassy’s return to form. After several prominent form dips this season, the Guinean international is at least back to scoring goals. Guirassy has actually scored five goals in his last three Bundesliga starts, though the 29-year-old continues to experience his fair share of problems.
Kovac’s relationship with his lead striker over the course of the season has featured plenty of rocky patches. The Bundesliga veteran has been benched on multiple occasions. Most recently, Kovac reacted to Guirassy’s seven Bundesliga fixtures without a goal by benching him in two consecutive league matches after the turn of the calendar year. Matters were not looking good at all for the former Köln and Stuttgart man.
Guirassy took a seat in favor of Fabio Silva against Werder Bremen and FC St. Pauli in the second and third league fixtures of 2026. Guirassy did manage to score off the bench in the former match. Since his reinstatement, he’s managed to get his name on the scoresheet in four consecutive league games. Guirassy has reclaimed his status as BVB’s leading goalscorer, knocking back Maximilian Beier with his recent tallies.
“It’s important to prove a striker with adequate support,” Kovac remarked at the post match press conference after last night’s convincing Bundesliga victory over Mainz. “Fabio Silva was doing really well. His [Guirassy’s] reaction has been sensational. The team helps him and he helps the team. We need his goals. When he scores, we increase our chances of winning games.“
Though he did technically record a brace last night, much of the credit belonged to BVB “assist meister” Julian Ryerson. Guirassy also bagged a brace in a league win over Heidenheim two weeks ago, but failed to convert from the penalty spot in the match. Generally speaking, one still detects a great deal of tentativeness in the striker’s body language. A certain confidence is still lacking.
The five goals in the last three Bundesliga fixtures still give Guirassy a season total of 11 goals and three assists in 21 league appearances. This is good enough for third place in the Bundesliga scorer race behind the prolific Bayern Munich duo of Harry Kane and Luis Diaz. Across all competitions, Guirassy has scored an impressive 15 goals and added six assists.
Guirassy has still missed from the penalty spot thrice this season, twice in the Bundesliga and once in the Champions League. It simply hasn’t been a good year for the 26-times-capped West African international. Guirassy scored 35 goals across all competitions for Dortmund last year. During his epic 2023/24 campaign with Stuttgart, he found the back of the net 28 times in the league.
Such numbers won’t be produced this year.
There’s a new offensive-minded regime in the Pittsburgh Steelers, and head coach Mike McCarthy will no doubt be looking to acquire additional playmakers this offseason.
With DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson serving as Pittsburgh's top two wideouts, it's safe to say the Steelers will add a high-profile name via free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft. And look no further than Houston Texans wide receiver Christian Kirk, who's set to become a free agent in March.
Kirk proved at the Steelers' expense in the Wild Card round of the playoffs that he's still one of the best slot receivers in the league, catching eight passes for 144 yards and one touchdown in the Texans' blowout victory.
Pittsburgh was also reportedly close to acquiring Kirk from the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 before he broke his collarbone just days before the trade deadline. The Steelers now have the opportunity to finally bring him in to form a terrifying wide receiver duo with Metcalf.
Considering that his last 1,000-yard season dates back to 2022, it's safe to say Kirk won't command top dollar in free agency. We at Steelers Wire predict Kirk will sign a two-year, $15 million contract.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2026 free agency scouting report: Texans WR Christian Kirk
Vincent Kompany has maintained consistency in his communication during his time at Bayern Munich. He has always been clear of what he expects of his players and has communicated so to the media- mantras such as “work hard and I will be happy” or “when there’s hype please don’t believe it, you’re not that good. And when you lose a game or you have a bad performance, don’t believe that you’re bad, you’re not that bad” come to mind immediately. This consistency is also the case with 17-year-old Lennart Karl, who Kompany has always insisted should be able to enjoy matches while other players take on the responsibility.
This remained true as Karl was breaking records in the fall and it remains true as Karl has hit something of a rough patch to start 2026. Speaking after the match, Kompany confirmed just as much:
“As I’ve always said there’s zero pressure on him. Nobody is given gifts, but as a 17-year old, he’s not under pressure to carry a team to success,” Kompany emphasized, as captured by @iMiaSanMia. “He worked well offensively and defensively today.”
Karl’s 18th birthday might be just around the corner on the 22nd of February, but it is important to remember that he is still so young. Despite some incredible performances, he will have down periods and that is fine. For now, he just needs to enjoy his football and the rest will come with time.
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…
Sign up for a user account and get:
Coleraine manager Ruaidhri Higgins says his side's 1-1 draw with Carrick Rangers "isn't a disaster".
Will Patching broke the deadlock for Coleraine, who made a bright start to the game, before Mikey Place cancelled out his effort.
Despite closing the gap to the top of the Irish Premiership to five points, league leaders Larne's defeat by Portadown means that the Bannsiders missed an opportunity to further catch up.
"The disappointing thing for us was in that period of dominating part of the game, we didn't get ourselves further in front and we have given up one chance in the first half and they have scored from it," Higgins told BBC Sport NI.
"We huffed and puffed second half on a really poor pitch, by no fault of their own. It didn't make for a game we wanted to play.
"Listen, the players have put in so much over the last few weeks and have come up against a team who have won five league games on the spin. We wanted three [points] obviously, but it is not a disaster."
The result means that Coleraine are now unbeaten in their last five games as they try to further close the gap to Larne. However, they have played an extra game compared to the Inver Reds.
Third in the table Glentoran's victory against Ballymena United means that they are now seven points behind the Bannsiders with three games in hand.
"No, not at all," Higgins replied when asked would he be thinking about Larne's loss and Glentoran's victory.
"As I have said from the very start of the season, we can only look after our own house and we will continue to do that.
"There is plenty of football still to play and there are 27 points still to play for and let's see how many of the 27 we can get. We are in good form ourselves, so we just need to keep going."
Carrick Rangers manager Stephen Baxter added that he thought a point apiece was a "fair result", as his side extend their unbeaten league run to seven games.
"We created those two moments in the second half to put the game away," Baxter told BBC Sport NI.
"Coleraine hit the crossbar on two occasions and these things can go either way.
"I think a point was probably a fair result."
The door just opened for either the Cleveland Guardians or Cincinnati Reds to add a high upside former star prospect for an affordable rate before Opening Day.
While the Guardians and Reds are not favorites to reach the World Series in the fall, there is excitement about both teams heading into the 2026 season. Cleveland again proved that, despite their financial limitations, they are one of the best-run organizations in MLB by winning the division title last season. While Cincy took another key step forward in their development by making the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
However, if there is one area the Ohio baseball teams would like to improve before the start of the season, it’s one of the corner outfield spots. Yet, despite the moves they made (or didn’t make) in the offseason, improving the outfield wasn’t part of it.
But an intriguing option should soon be available on the trade market. This week, New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman was asked about former top prospect Jasson Dominguez and his potential to make the roster without a clear path for him heading into spring training.
“I would concede it’s in his best interest to be getting everyday reps,” he said at the team’s Florida facility. “We’ll just have to wait and see how the spring shakes out, who’s standing, and then we’ll make the appropriate decisions when we have our meetings close to the end of camp.”
The NY Yankees are locked into a pricey outfield of MVP Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Trent Grisham. And Giancarlo Stanton is again expected to be the team’s starting DH. It puts the club in a position where they can just let the player who was ranked No. 1 in their system two years ago sit in the minors (again) or trade him.
Trading him would be the smart move. However, they won’t have much leverage in trade talks because they won’t use Dominguez in the majors, and his stock has declined after not living up to expectations during his opportunities so far in the big leagues.
A trade offers the Guardians or Reds the chance to get an intriguing option for the outfield, but not have to give up premium prospects in a deal. With the NY Yankees farm system weak at the moment, they would be open to taking lower-level youngsters in the hopes they can add depth and develop them into something more.
While Dominguez has not lived up to his projections as a star prospect, he still has a lot of potential. The Dominican is only 23 years old, has legitimate power from either side of the plate, underrated base-stealing skills (23 last season), and a rock-solid arm in the outfield. In a less pressurized situation in Cleveland or Cincinnati, it is very possible he flourishes in 2026 and can make an impact for either team and at a low cost.
Related Headlines
Millwall manager Alex Neil believes his side made their 2-1 win at Championship bottom side Sheffield Wednesday more difficult than it needed to be.
Jamal Lowe tapped in for the Owls after Charlie McNeill's long-range effort was spilled just after the hour mark to give the hosts a surprise lead.
An own goal from Cole McGhee levelled things up at Hillsborough while Millwall substitute Macaulay Langstaff converted Femi Azeez's low cross just two minutes later to complete a quickfire turnaround.
"I think I would sum it up as job done," said Neil to BBC Radio London after the game.
"I thought Sheffield Wednesday made it difficult for us. I thought we made it difficult for ourselves at times.
"Coming here there's a lot of expectation that you're just going to turn up. The simple fact is, apart from the last game when they played a back four, a lot of the games have been really tight.
"It's not been plain sailing or easy for any team coming here and I didn't expect it to be any different for us, and it was exactly what I expected."
Formula 1 held its first official pre-season test for the 2026 campaign in Bahrain this week, offering a glimpse into the wholesale regulation changes which'll debut this year.
All 11 teams were present and there were several talking points from the action, such as debates over who the benchmark is to Max Verstappen expressing his anger over the new rules.
So here are the key stats from the test.
Mercedes dominated the top of the timesheets, setting the only times under 1m34s in Bahrain with Italian teen Andrea Kimi Antonelli taking the fastest lap across the three days.
The 19-year-old, now in his sophomore year, claimed a 1m33.669s on Friday which was 0.249s quicker than team-mate George Russell, who was second fastest during that final day.
But lap times should be taken with a pinch of salt in testing, as mileage is what's most important. That is an area Antonelli actually fell short on, as he completed the fewest laps overall due to various technical problems for the W17.
On the other end of the scale, seven drivers reached, or even exceeded, 200 laps: Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, Lando Norris, Lewis Hamilton, and Oliver Bearman.
| 1 | Antonelli | Mercedes | 94 | 1'33"669 (J3) | C3 |
| 2 | Russell | Mercedes | 188 | 1'33"918 (J3) | C3 |
| 3 | Hamilton | Ferrari | 202 | 1'34"209 (D3) | C3 |
| 4 | Leclerc | Ferrari | 219 | 1'34"273 (D2) | C3 |
| 5 | Piastri | McLaren | 215 | 1'34"549 (D3) | C3 |
| 6 | Norris | McLaren | 207 | 1'34"669 (D1) | C2 |
| 7 | Verstappen | Red Bull | 197 | 1'34"798 (D1) | C3 |
| 8 | Bearman | Haas | 200 | 1'35"394 (D2) | C3 |
| 9 | Hadjar | Red Bull | 146 | 1'35"561 (D2) | C3 |
| 10 | Ocon | Haas | 190 | 1'35"578 (D1) | C3 |
| 11 | Colapinto | Alpine | 172 | 1'35"806 (D3) | C3 |
| 12 | Hülkenberg | Audi | 178 | 1'36"291 (J3) | C3 |
| 13 | Bortoleto | Audi | 176 | 1'36"670 (Day 2) | C3 |
| 14 | Gasly | Alpine | 146 | 1'36"723 (D2) | C3 |
| 15 | Albon | Williams | 208 | 1'36"793 (D3) | C3 |
| 16 | Lawson | Racing Bulls | 169 | 1'36"808 (D3) | C3 |
| 17 | Bottas | Cadillac | 153 | 1'36"824 (D2) | C3 |
| 18 | Sainz | Williams | 214 | 1'37"186 (J3) | C2 |
| 19 | Pérez | Cadillac | 167 | 1'37"365 (J3) | C3 |
| 20 | Lindblad | Racing Bulls | 158 | 1'37"470 (D2) | C3 |
| 21 | Stroll | Aston Martin | 108 | 1'38"165 (D3) | C3 |
| 22 | Alonso | Aston Martin | 98 | 1'38"248 (D2) | C3 |
Four teams exceeded 2,000 km with McLaren and Williams topping that table on 2,284km. This is particularly good news for the James Vowles-led outfit, as it was absent from the Barcelona shakedown.
Mercedes, meanwhile, which significantly impressed in Catalonia, actually completed the second fewest amount of laps in Bahrain as it endured various technical difficulties. The most notable was the morning of day two when Antonelli completed just three laps thanks to a power unit problem.
But behind Mercedes was Aston Martin, whose delays and various technical issues limited it to just over 1,000km.
Total KM
(Bahrain 1 + Barcelona)
| McLaren | Mercedes | 422 | 2284 | 3639 |
| Williams | Mercedes | 422 | 2284 | 2284 |
| Ferrari | Ferrari | 421 | 2279 | 4328 |
| Haas | Ferrari | 390 | 2111 | 3932 |
| Audi | Audi | 354 | 1916 | 3010 |
| Red Bull | Red Bull Ford | 343 | 1856 | 3267 |
| Racing Bulls | Red Bull Ford | 327 | 1770 | 3255 |
| Cadillac | Ferrari | 320 | 1732 | 2496 |
| Alpine | Mercedes | 318 | 1721 | 3346 |
| Mercedes | Mercedes | 282 | 1526 | 3864 |
| Aston | Honda | 206 | 1115 | 1422 |
On the engine side, unsurprisingly, Mercedes racked up the most mileage with over 13,000km thanks to that power unit being the most popular on the grid with four teams.
But in terms of average kilometres per squad, Ferrari performed better with each team powered by the Italian marque averaging over 2,000km in Bahrain.
Audi, which has only its factory squad, is just below the Mercedes average but above Red Bull, which is rather impressive given the German marque is making its F1 debut this year.
Honda, however, which powers Aston Martin, is struggling having completed the least mileage of the five power unit manufacturers in F1.
KM
(Bahrain 1)
| Mercedes | 1,444 | 7815 | 1954 | 13,133 |
| Ferrari | 1131 | 6121 | 2040 | 10,736 |
| Red Bull Ford | 670 | 3,626 | 1,813 | 6,523 |
| Audi | 354 | 1916 | 1916 | 3010 |
| Honda | 206 | 1115 | 1115 | 1422 |
| Alpine | Colapinto | Wednesday | 9:37am | Unknown |
| Audi | Hülkenberg | Wednesday | 2:32pm | Unknown |
| Cadillac | Pérez | Thursday | 8:10am | Unknown |
- | - | Thursday | 11:52am | FIA test |
| - | - | Thursday | 2:35 pm | Debris |
| Alpine | Gasly | Thursday | 2:53 pm | Unknown |
| - | - | Thursday | 4:53 pm | FIA test |
| - | - | Thursday | 5:00 pm | FIA Test |
| Cadillac | Bottas | Friday | 8:50am | Cooling |
| Ferrari | Hamilton | Friday | 4:49 pm | Running out of gas |
| - | - | Friday | 4:55 pm | FIA test |
To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.
While the use of VAR has proven consistently controversial, it was the lack of it that made headlines as Aston Villa took the lead in the FA Cup fourth round against Newcastle.
Tammy Abraham opened the scoring with his first goal since returning to Villa in January, with his happy moment under the microscope as replays showed the striker was offside, with no way to overturn his close-range effort.
The Villa striker found the back of the net after he appeared to catch Newcastle out, getting on the end of Douglas Luiz's free-kick to finish from inside the box.
Later in the first-half, Lucas Digne was shown a yellow card for what looked like a strong, and potentially reckless, sliding tackle on Newcastle's Jacob Murphy.
While Villa's goalkeeper Marco Bizot received a red card on the stroke of half-time, Newcastle fans will still be absolutely fuming with VAR's absence.
However, in the wake of a controversial and lengthy decision in last weekend's Premier League clash between Liverpool and Manchester City, Abraham's goal perhaps demonstrates the merits of VAR, in spite of its downsides.
Consider the Calcutta Cup form books once again tossed out of the window. What is it about this fixture, what is it about this Scotland side? After defeat to Italy, Gregor Townsend’s tenure and team had seemed listless, almost lifeless, an emptying vessel; we will find out what restorative effect a few sups of sweet spirit from the Calcutta Cup can have after a dismantling of England that no-one saw coming.
Add another Murrayfield horror show to England’s haunting recent history. The Calcutta Cup has provided a few dark days for recent visitors here but never anything quite like this, a side who bounced up over the border on a run of 12 consecutive victories sent home to think again. Defeat may not be terminal to their Six Nations chances but the prospect of a grand slam charge, which seemed realistic ahead of kick off, swirled swiftly away into the crisp Edinburgh skies.
Steve Borthwick is a pragmatic thinker but even his brow was furrowed. Only the visitors’ scrum emerged from the wreckage of a Scotch demolition job in credit. English errors came early and often, providing the beat to which Scotland jigged. Henry Arundell saw red for two yellows, one cynical, one clumsy; Ellis Genge’s gaffe gifted a try; George Ford’s blocked drop goal provided a ten-point swing. Everything that could go wrong for England just about did; yesterday had been Friday the 13th, after all.
On match eve, home captain Sione Tuipulotu had spoken of a “desperation” in the Scottish ranks, a drive to make amends for the missteps and mistakes of Rome. That manifested itself most magnificently in a 15-minute opening salvo from Scotland as good as any as they have produced in recent memory. England could not handle their ferocity.
The warning shot was fired almost immediately, the first contestable kicked tapped back into home hands and only a scrambling Alex Mitchell saving a score. Nae matter – two more breaks soon arrived, resulting in a Finn Russell penalty to start the scoring and a yellow card to Arundell for a ruck infringement.
Then came a more telling blow. Huw Jones has been among England’s Calcutta Cup tormentors in chief over the last decade and six tries in this fixture soon became a magnificent seven courtesy of Russell’s volleyball-style tap on. Five minutes later, captains present and past combined to great effect, Tuipulotu arcing a pass virtually across the Firth of Forth to find Jamie Ritchie all alone on the left edge.
England, who had spoken all week of avoiding the sort of thunderbolts that have hit them here before, looked shellshocked. Only their scrum gave them any sort of foothold, allowing Arundell – back from his stint on the naughty step – to transport a neat Ford dummy and toss under the posts.
That was about the only bright moment, though, as the evening gloom descended for the visitors. One can now add Genge’s clumsy sliding fumble, which gifted Ben White a try following a Russell chip, to a catalogue of English errors here over the years swelling to encyclopaedia size. More material was on the way – an out-of control Arundell collided with Kyle Steyn in the air; two yellows turning to red, bad turning to worse for the visitors.
If England were seeing ghosts, they were failing to grasp them. There had already been 20 missed tackles before half time. Even Ford, their old reliable, was faltering; an attempt to narrow the gap with a drop goal instead extending it, Matt Fagerson charging the fly half down and sending Jones racing away to his second.
England’s power-packed bench had swung plenty of tight contests their way on the long winning run, yet this was a different sort of Test. Besides, their arrival came out of necessity: Sam Underhill and Maro Itoje both trudged off early, while Fin Smith was forced into an unfamiliar role at inside centre to accommodate the absence of Arundell. The shuffling that followed, with Fraser Dingwall and Tommy Freeman also forced into alternative roles, reflected minds muddled again by Murrayfield’s strange brew.
All the while, the home fans re-found their voices. Even the Townsend loyalists had come to question if this era had run its course after events in Rome, though a showing like this surely stirred Scottish souls. A few harsh critics might wonder why the blue moon from which this performance was plucked only seems to appear on Calcutta Cup day – for now, though, and despite a late Ben Earl consolation, they could guzzle again on renewed optimism long into the night.
Real Madrid will be aiming to make it eight wins in a row in La Liga when they take on Real Sociedad later tonight at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With kickoff over an hour away, manager Alvaro Arbeloa has announced the Real Madrid starting lineup that will take the field against La Real.
In a major switch-up, Arbeloa has opted to leave Kylian Mbappe out of the lineup, amid reports of the Frenchman dealing with some knee issue.
Instead, Vinicius Jr., back from suspension, starts in attack, where he partners up with academy graduate Gonzalo Garcia.
Meanwhile, in defence, Trent Alexander-Arnold gets a start ahead of Dani Carvajal in the right-back position.
Antonio Rudiger also makes a return to the lineup after a month out, replacing Raul Asencio as Dean Huijsen’s partner. Alvaro Carreras continues at left-back, with Thibaut Courtois starting in goal as usual.
As for the midfield unit, Arbeloa has opted for four players in the second line of press, with Arda Guler, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camavinga all starting.
Mansfield Town captain Louis Reed scored a stunning free-kick to dump Premier League side Burnley out of the FA Cup in the fourth round.
Josh Laurent put the Clarets ahead in the first half at Turf Moor, but it was cancelled out by Rhys Oates shortly after the interval.
Nigel Clough’s side looked the more likely team to grab the winner as the game wore on, and it was Reed who clinched it when he fired a knuckleball strike into the top left corner with ten minutes left on the clock.
The Stags are in the fifth round of the FA Cup for the first time in over half a century, and it’s the first time they have have eliminated a top-flight side from the FA Cup for the first time since February 1969.
They had lost nine successive matches in this competition against clubs in the top tier since defeating West Ham 3-0.
First team coach Andy Garner was asked afterwards if Mansfield could believe they had pulled off the upset. “Yeah we can,” he told TNT Sports.
“We said that to them at half-time, that we didn’t think there was anything to fear. We were a little disappointed in the first half with how much we gave the ball away, especially in the final third a bit sloppy at times.
“We said, ‘let’s get back into this game’ and we believed we could.”
The League One outfit did not sit in a low block and hope to catch Burnley on the break, instead taking the game to the Premier League club.
“We didn’t want to come here and sit back,” Garner added. “We wanted to go forward and have a go. We did that in the first 25 minutes but the quality wasn’t great and we are better than that. In the second half we improved and scored two very good goals.”
On his winning goal, Mansfield captain Louis Reed told Final Score: “As soon as it left my boot I felt it going in. I have been working on them throughout the week. The lads said, ‘This is your moment, go and take it’. Thankfully, I did.
“It shows what a group we have got. The draws we keep getting are big ones. I felt we were always in the game even when we were 1-0 down at half-time.
“I think it’s a cliché, whoever we get in the next round, we will go into that with the same energy as this one.”
Read – Premier League Awards: Anxious Arsenal and Sesko’s stunner
See Also – The highest-spending leagues in world football in 2025/26
Elverseberg look to regain a spot in the top three when they face Dynamo Dresden away from home in the Topspiel of matchday 22. The perennial overachievers have been in poor form recently, while the hosts are unbeaten in 2026 despite their 17th place in the standings.
Here are the lineups for the Topspiel of the 2. Bundesliga at the Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion.
Dresden: Schreiber; Sterner, Keller, Müller, Rossipal; Wagner, Amoako; Ceka, Hauptmann ©, Bobzien; Vermeij
Elversberg: Kristof; Keidel, Pinckert ©, Rohr, Mickelson; Conde, Poreba; Petkov, Conté, Zimmerschied; Mokwa
Ball number 15 has been allocated to Macclesfield or Brentford.
Fifth-round ties will take place across the weekend of Saturday 7 March.
1 Liverpool or Brighton & Hove Albion
2 Stoke City or Fulham
3 Oxford United or Sunderland
4 Southampton
5 Wrexham
6 Arsenal or Wigan Athletic
7 Chelsea
8 West Ham United
9 Mansfield Town
10 Norwich City
11 Port Vale or Bristol City
12 Grimsby Town or Wolverhampton Wanderers
13 Aston Villa or Newcastle United
14 Manchester City
15 Macclesfield or Brentford
16 Birmingham City or Leeds United
Real Madrid have their eyes set on signing Rodri in the summer transfer window but the club’s Ballon d’Or protests from 2024 may damage a move.
The Manchester City midfielder was labelled the best player in the world after scoring the all-important goal to help Pep Guardiola’s side win their first ever UEFA Champions League and subsequent 2022-23 season before winning the 2024 UEFA European Championship with Spain.
At the ceremony, a last-minute boycott from Real Madrid shocked many after the club learned that Vinicius Jr. would not win the Men’s Ballon d’Or despite the 15-time UEFA Champions League winners being recognised as the Best Men’s Club of the Year and Carlo Ancelotti, their manager at the time, being named Coach of the Year.
Only four months after the feud, City faced Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 at the Etihad Stadium – wherein Vinicius Jr. was greeted with an amusing banner in the crowd that depicted Rodri kissing the Ballon d’Or trophy beside the song title ‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’ by City-supporting band Oasis.
Rodri, who was still sidelined with an ACL in September 2024, got his phone out and recorded the scenes happening before him but it was just about the only positive of the night after Ancelotti’s side came from behind to run away 3-2 winners in the first leg en route to eliminating City and going on to win the UEFA Champions League that term.
However, it seems the La Liga club have overcome an ego that damaged their reputation years ago and instead want to sign the City midfielder in the summer transfer window, as reported by Mundo Deportivo and relayed by Sport Witness.
Since his lengthy ACL lay-off, Rodri has suffered recurring setbacks that have limited his playing time this term – but these problems feel like a distant memory now given he has completed the full 90 minutes in each of City’s last four Premier League games.
Perhaps the only way Rodri can progress his career now would be a move to the Spanish capital, but El Desmarque journalist Ruben Uria believes that the 29-year-old won’t end up at Real Madrid.
“It would be very difficult for Rodri to go to Real Madrid. Something broke down between Rodri and Real Madrid when he won the Ballon d’Or (in 2024). There were people connected to Real Madrid who behaved indecently regarding the Ballon d’Or,” he said.
It would be a pain felt like not many others if Rodri was to leave the club, with his importance marking some of the greatest memories that City fans have felt over the last few years.
His exit would likely come under a similar bittersweetness to Kevin De Bruyne’s after the Belgium international wasn’t offered a new contract by City’s higher-ups. The midfielder, who now plays for Napoli in the Serie A, announced he would leave in April last year.
As for Rodri, his future is yet to be determined, especially because City could offer him a new contract in the coming months, with the midfielder’s father giving his two cents on the Ballon d’Or winner’s renewal situation in a recent interview.
After a midweek bye afforded the Texas Longhorns a chance to recover from the grind of SEC play, head coach Sean Miller’s team trips to Columbia to face the Missouri Tigers at Mizzou Arena on Saturday trying to extend the team’s winning streak to four games.
“This week gives us the opportunity to mentally and physically be fresh for what I think is the stretch run of the season, and also at the same time balancing that with getting better,” Miller said on Monday.
The break was particularly important for junior wing Dailyn Swain, who has been carrying a heavy playmaking load for the Horns, and graduate forward Lassina Traore, held out of last Saturday’s win over Ole Miss after he took a knock on his surgically-repaired knee.
Miller hopes that the finish for Texas looks familiar — last year, his Xavier team made an unexpected run to the NCAA Tournament by winning its final seven regular-season games.
“The team that I had was super, super hungry to finish strong. We had a lot of older guys, this was their last chance in college, and they were like, we’re not going out any other way than the best way we can and practice became everything. We practiced as well in February as we would have in November. As a matter of fact, in some areas better,” Miller said.
After multiple Longhorns secured the first three-game conference winning streak of their career against the Rebels, the Texas head coach sees some similar attributes in this group.
“I think that we’re hungry and determined to be the best we can be down the stretch,” Miller said.
But the Horns face a more difficult path to the NCAA Tournament in the SEC than the Musketeers did in the Big East.
Narrow underdogs on the road against Missouri on Saturday before hosting LSU as heavy home favorites next Tuesday, Texas sees its schedule stiffen afterwards with three of the next four games on the road and as heavy underdogs when Florida comes to the Moody Center on the 25th.
The opportunity exists to significantly improve the team’s NCAA Tournament chances, which have only increased by about 10 percentage points over the three-game winning streak. But last year’s group under Rodney Terry is one of the most similar resumes for these Longhorns, and the upside of teams with similar profiles is limited historically — only three of the 10 comparable teams made it past the first round and none advanced to the Sweet 16.
Compared to where Texas was after an 0-2 start to SEC play, that statistical ceiling represents clear development that needs to continue individually to buoy Miller’s program-building efforts.
Sophomore center Matas Vokietaitis possesses the most untapped potential over the final seven regular-season games after bouncing back from his worst SEC performance to score a game-high 27 points in the 79-68 win over Ole Miss last Saturday.
In an effort that balanced the ability to finish through contact in the paint, Vokietaitis went 9-of-11 shooting from the field and 9-of-12 shooting from the floor in an emotionally-regulated 35 minutes that represented his career high, the big Lithuanian showcased his superior conditioning and what Miller hopes is a burgeoning capability to avoid bad fouls by limiting the physical contact that he creates offensively and maintaining his verticality defensively to force contested shots.
“We’re working with Matas to learn how to go vertically, straight up in the air, hands behind his head, where he can use his length and his size to our advantage defensively, but yet not foul,” Miller said. “It’s a different way of protecting the rim that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to block the shot, but it’s really just protecting that area that has been unkind to us so many games where drives and shots around the basket do us in.”
Despite his height, Vokietaitis has a 3.3-percent block rate that ranks as mediocre in college basketball that illustrates a lack of natural shot-blocking ability exacerbated by his breakdowns in fundamentals.
Offensively, however, Vokietaitis was remarkably efficient against the Rebels, getting the frontcourt for Ole Miss into foul trouble and taking advantage of a defensive game plan that trapped more than usual, opening up the lane for Vokietaits, who was also the beneficiary of the Ole Miss defense loading the strong side of the court with defenders to stop Swain’s penetration ability.
Because Vokietaitis was able to avoid foul trouble, he played a career-high 35 minutes, showcasing his superior conditioning.
“We talked to modest about being able, at this point in the season, to play longer stretches, which means foul less, be more in control of your emotions. But his conditioning is incredible. He’s one of the best-conditioned big guys that I’ve ever been around — he’s seven foot, 250, and I think his body fat is about five or six percent, and with that, he’s one of the hardest workers on our team,” Miller said after the Ole Miss win.
To beat Missouri, which has a 57-percent win probability, Texas will likely need to slow down bruising wing Mark Mitchell, a Duke transfer who is averaging 17.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
“He is a one-man wrecking crew. I’ll call him a bully in the most kind and good way I can — I mean that in a sports-specific way, like he just imposes his will on the opponent, rebounding, physicalit,y drives, living at the free-throw line, playing both the five and the four, using his quickness at the five, using his physicality at the four,” Miller said. “And the other thing about him, he’s an excellent passer, so when you try to bring help or double team, he sees the game, and he finds his teammates, and his teammates are very, very skilled.”
Guards Jayden Stone and Jacob Crews are particularly dangerous playing off of Mitchell with Stone shooting 41.2 percent from three, and Crews hitting at 46.7 percent. It’s a deep guard corps for the Tigers that also includes another good shooter in Trent Pierce and a secondary playmaker in Anthony Robinson II, a poor shooter even in the mid range.
Also in the midst of a three-game winning streak, Missouri does have some weaknesses — the Tigers don’t protect the ball particularly well on offense and aren’t a good defensive team with a pronounced difficulty defending the three-point line.
Tip is at 7:30 p.m. Central on ESPN2.
Harry Kane has made history by becoming the first Englishman to reach 500 professional goals in official games.
The Bayern Munich striker hit the milestone with a brace against Werder Bremen on Saturday.
Kane was already the highest-scoring Englishman, having surpassed Jimmy Greaves' total of 474 in December.
It has been another remarkable goal-scoring season for Kane, who has 26 goals in just 22 Bundesliga games. And it is only February.
BBC Sport takes a look at how Kane has scored his goals and what other records he could break.
Kane's first goal in professional football came 15 years ago when he scored as a 17-year-old playing for Leyton Orient against Sheffield Wednesday.
That was one of five goals he got for the O's before he went on to score two goals for Leicester, nine for Millwall, 280 for Tottenham and is currently on 126 goals for Bayern Munich.
Kane is also the highest-scoring man for England with 78 goals for the Three Lions.
Almost half of his goals have come in the Premier League (213). After that he has scored 89 in the Bundesliga while he has also been prolific in the Champions League.
He was already by far and away the highest-scoring Englishman in European football elite club competition as he currently sits on 48 goals, 18 more than Wayne Rooney, who sits second on that list.
Kane has also scored in every competition he has played in.
Greaves' record as the highest-scoring Englishman stood for six decades until Kane overtook his tally two months ago.
Kane left the Premier League as the second-highest scorer in the competition, with Alan Shearer holding the record with 260 goals.
According to the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS), Shearer sits fourth in the all-time list of English scorers with 409 goals, with Steve Bloomer - who played in the early part of the 20th century - third with 412 goals, behind Greaves and Kane.
Dixie Dean sits fifth with 396 top-level goals and Rooney is sixth on 360.
Kane is a master at taking penalties and a fifth of his 500 goals have come from the spot.
In open play he is deadly inside the box with 349 of his goals coming from there.
The vast majority of his goals have come from his right foot (318) with 94 of them being headers.
The goal that saw him reach 500 was of the type that is quite rare for Kane. He struck from distance, making it one of 49 he has scored from outside the box.
Kane reached 500 goals in 743 appearances for club and country.
That means he got to the milestone quicker than Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who in 2015 hit his 500th goal on his 753rd game in professional football.
However, Lionel Messi was the quickest of the three to reach the landmark.
The Argentina star scored his 500th goal in April 2016 on what was his 632nd professional appearance. That's 121 matches faster than Ronaldo and 111 games quicker than Kane.
Kane is already England's record scorer but there's a few other things at club level he can aim for.
Robert Lewandowski holds the record for the most goals scored in a single Bundesliga season, having hit 41 in 2020-21.
Kane is certainly in a good position to surpass that tally as he currently has 26 goals with 12 games remaining.
In Europe, he could break his own record - having become the highest-scoring Englishman in a single Champions League campaign when he scored 11 last term. He is currently on eight goals.
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder spoke to BBC Radio Sheffield following Saturday's win at Portsmouth.
"It was mentality maybe over control and us imposing ourselves. They were better at what they did in the first half than what we did, but they never put us to bed," he said.
"We grew into the game in the second half. At half-time we talked about it, that we could be a little bit better and I'm not so sure they could do any better than that.
"We knew the game would settle down a little bit and it did, and we started to impose ourselves.
"I thought Kalvin [Phillips] in the middle of the park, it was a really tough one to get chucked into because of the pace and the nature of the game and the intensity of it. They had two midfielder players who were all over our midfield players, and they won that battle in the first half. But Kalvin gave us an opportunity to start finding passes and getting out, while always knowing the opposition are dangerous.
"Maybe I would have taken a point with 10 minutes to go, and that not being negative because this is a difficult place to come. So to get a winner is brilliant for everybody."
PARIS (AP) — Marseille's chaotic week continued with an equalizer conceded deep into stoppage time in 2-2 home draw with Strasbourg on Saturday.
Marseille was coasting at 2-0 after Amine Gouiri created one goal and scored the other. But Marseille's feeble defense fell apart and striker Joaquin Panichelli's rescued a point with a 97th-minute penalty.
“Once again we conceded a late goal (and) we wasted everything at the end,” Gouiri said. “When things happen a dozen times, it’s not the (tactical) choices of the coach, it’s us on the field.”
Later, Lens needed to win at struggling Paris FC to regain top spot from Paris Saint-Germain, which lost on Friday.
Marseille's players were reeling from Roberto De Zerbi's departure on Wednesday, just days after a humiliating 5-0 loss at PSG.
The atmosphere was tense at Stade Vélodrome.
Both stands behind the goal were empty except for angry banners, with one urging American owner Frank McCourt and president Pablo Longoria in blunt terms to leave, along with the words "all of your projects go up in smoke! After all these wasted years.”
Nine-time French champion Marseille has not won a trophy since the now-defunct League Cup in 2012.
The fans who did turn up on Saturday booed the players onto the field.
Gouiri set up Mason Greenwood’s league-leading 14th goal of the season in the 14th minute. He neatly controlled the ball near the penalty with the outside of his foot and played a pass behind the defense for Greenwood to clip the ball in.
Gouiri showed fine technique again to curl in Marseille's second goal in the 47th after collecting a botched clearance from goalkeeper Mike Penders, who tried passing the ball out instead of putting it into touch.
Sebastian Nanasi pulled a goal back in the 74th and Marseille defender Emerson Palmieri clumsily gave away a penalty.
In Saturday's other game, Lille hosted Brest.
Defending champion PSG lost 3-1 at Rennes for its third defeat of the campaign, one more than all of last season. ___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Canada women's hockey schedule: How to watch every 2026 Olympic team game from Milan originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Team Canada will look to continue its run of dominance when it hits the ice at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The Canadians have captured the gold medal in five of the seven Olympic Games since women's hockey was introduced as a sport in 1998. They are the returning champions after defeating Team USA, 3-2, in the 2022 gold medal game.
MORE:Latest Olympic news and updates
With Olympic veterans like Marie-Philip Poulin, Sarah Nurse and Ann-Renee Desbiens on the roster, the expectations are once again extremely high for Team Canada.
Here is everything you need to know about Team Canada's schedule at the 2026 Winter Olympics, including TV and streaming options for women's hockey games.
Canada is one of 10 teams to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics. It will be playing in Group A along with Czechia, Finland, Switzerland and the United States.
The Group A opener against Finland that had been scheduled for Feb. 5 was postponed to Feb. 12 due to widespread illness in the Finland team.
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:10 p.m. | Women's Group A: Canada 4, Switzerland 0 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:10 p.m. | Women's Group A: Canada 5, Czechia 1 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 2:10 p.m. | Women's Group A: USA 5, Canada 0 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. | Women's Group A: Canada 5, Finland 0 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 10:40 a.m. | Women's Quarterfinal: Canada 5, Germany 1 |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 10:40 a.m. | Women's Semifinal |
| 3:10 p.m. | Women's Semifinal |
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:40 a.m. | Women's Bronze Medal Game |
| 1:10 p.m. | Women's Gold Medal Game |
CBC is the exclusive broadcast rights holder for the Winter Olympics, offering daily coverage of women's hockey at the Milan Cortina Games. Events will also be available to watch on CBC Gem, the CBC's digital streaming service.
The full schedule for CBC and CBC Gem is available on the official CBC website.
| Number | Player | Position |
| 7 | Laura Stacey | Forward |
| 10 | Sarah Fillier | Forward |
| 19 | Brianne Jenner | Forward |
| 20 | Sarah Nurse | Forward |
| 24 | Natalie Spooner | Forward |
| 26 | Emily Clark | Forward |
| 27 | Emma Maltais | Forward |
| 29 | Marie-Philip Poulin | Forward |
| 40 | Blayre Turnbull | Forward |
| 43 | Kristin O'Neill | Forward |
| 88 | Julia Gosling | Forward |
| 94 | Jenn Gardiner | Forward |
| 95 | Daryl Watts | Forward |
| 2 | Sophie Jaques | Defense |
| 3 | Jocelyne Larocque | Defense |
| 4 | Kati Tabin | Defense |
| 14 | Renata Fast | Defense |
| 17 | Ella Shelton | Defense |
| 23 | Erin Ambrose | Defense |
| 42 | Claire Thompson | Defense |
| 35 | Ann-Renee Desbiens | Goaltender |
| 38 | Emerance Maschmeyer | Goaltender |
| 82 | Kayle Osborne | Goaltender |
| Coach | Role |
| Troy Ryan | Head coach |
| Kori Cheverie | Assistant coach |
| Caroline Ouellette | Assistant coach |
| Britni Smith | Assistant coach |
| Brad Kirkwood | Goaltending consultant |
It was a heavy blow for the Rossonere as they lost at home to Fiorentina. It's a tough price to pay in their league campaign as the game ended 0-1 in Fiorenzuola d'Arda, determined by a goal in the 18th minute from Ria Öling Janogy. This now marks AC Milan Women's second consecutive defeat after last weekend's loss to Roma, and is the second game in a row where the Rossonere have come out goalless. The absence of Van Dooren, who is the team's top scorer and currently their strongest attacker, contributed heavily; it was clear their attack was struggling. However, it comes down to more than just the attack; it was a lacklustre performance, despite the team's determination and the quality of the opposition. It is also worth noting that the pitch conditions were far from ideal due to the rain.
The Viola once again proved themselves to be a consistently troubling opponent for AC Milan after already winning the first leg and the recent Coppa Italia quarter-finals. Thanks to this result, they have overtaken AC Milan Women in the standings. Suzanne Bakker's side have now slipped into eighth place, on just 20 points since the start of the month, and level with Como Women. They are currently six points away from the Champions League qualification spots, but at risk of the gap increasing with every result that isn't positive. Today's result wasn't encouraging for them, and they certainly need to turn things around. It's a period where things can make or break, and the best way to achieve their goals is through hard work and togetherness. For the next Serie A Women matchday, the Rossonere will play Lazio Women on the road on Saturday, 21 February at 15:00 CET.
CHECK OUT THE GALLERY FROM AC MILAN v FIORENTINA
MATCH REPORTAfter a risky back-pass from Keijzer caused an early scare, Fiorentina came close in the tenth minute, with Woldvik setting up Severini, whose shot drifted just wide. The goal came in the 18th minute as a vertical pass from Bredgaard sent Ria Öling Janogy through onside, and she beat the goalkeeper and slotted home. Two minutes later, Eiríksdóttir's shot was off target, with Fiorentina continuously pressing. Severini posed a threat again in the 23rd minute, followed by Woldvik ten minutes later. In between this, AC Milan almost found their equaliser through De Sanders' close-range volley in the 28th minute. Eiríksdóttir had another opportunity in the 44th minute, but failed to convert. There was another major chance in the 50th minute when Park shot inside the box, and Woldvik was forced into a sliding block to stop the shot.
The second half got back underway with a free kick from Park in the 47th minute and a touch from Grimshaw that failed to go in. In the 52nd minute, Janogy's left-footed attempt was saved by the Rossonere's captain. The momentum shifted slightly as AC Milan began to put pressure on: Stokić sent in a shot in the 54th minute, and Renzotti forced a save from Cecilie Fiskerstrand in the 63rd. Fiskerstrand produced a crucial save with her foot in the 73rd minute to deny Færge, and just two minutes later, De Sanders stopped Janogy at the other end. It was a pivotal moment in the 76th minute as Bonfantini was sent off for her second yellow. AC Milan's late push lacked energy: Park, Appiah, and Mascarello all created chances but didn't score. Koivisto had the final opportunity, but Fiskerstrand tipped the ball away.
MATCH DETAILS
AC MILAN 0-1 FIORENTINA
AC MILAN (4-3-3): Giuliani; Koivisto, De Sanders, Soffia, Keijzer (85' Mascarello); Arrigoni, Grimshaw, Park; Stokić (69' Sesay), Kamczyk (70' Appiah), Kyvåg (46' Renzotti). Subs: Estévez, Tornaghi; Cernoia. Coach: Bakker.
FIORENTINA (4-3-3): Fiskerstrand; Woldvik, Van der Zanden, Færge, Filangeri; Severini, Curmark (86' Orsi), Cherubini (72' Tryggvadóttir); Bredgaard (36' Bonfantini), Janogy, Eiríksdóttir (71' Omarsdottir). Subs: Bartalini, Bettineschi; Johansen, Lombardi, Toniolo; Tomassoni, Wijnants. Coach: Piñones-Arce.
Referee: Teghille di Collegno.Goals: 18' Janogy (F).Booked: 28' Cherubini (F), 37' Curmark (F), 58' Bonfantini (F), 91' Filangeri (F), 93'Fiskerstrand (F).Red Card: 76' Bonfantini (F) for a second yellow card.
TheAC Milan PUMA Kits for 2025/26 are available: buy them now!
An Arctic maritime air mass is set to significantly impact the North East of the UK, as weather experts warn of heavy snow, icy conditions, and plummeting temperatures. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for snow and ice, predicting that up to six inches of snow could blanket parts of the region, with some areas expected to face freezing rain. The cold snap is predicted to affect various parts of the North East, including Newcastle, Manchester, and Glasgow, as well as northern regions of Scotland. These conditions will likely cause widespread travel disruption over the weekend, with motorists advised to take extra precautions and ensure they are prepared with emergency supplies.
The Weather System’s Path and Its Impact
The Met Office explained that the cold, damp air from the Arctic is expected to arrive on Saturday night, with rain turning into snow at low levels before becoming confined to higher ground. While the snowfall will be temporary, it could accumulate to 1-3 cm at lower altitudes and 3-7 cm above 150 meters. For areas above 400 meters, snow could reach up to 10-15 cm. This weather system, which has been classified as an Arctic maritime air mass, will bring snow showers followed by a brief period of freezing rain. Temperatures will continue to drop, making conditions dangerous for commuters and travelers throughout the weekend.
Travel Disruptions and Warnings for Northern Areas
The forecasted conditions could significantly affect public transportation and road travel, particularly in northern areas of the UK. The Met Office has emphasized that ice will be a major hazard, especially in northeast England and Scotland, where precipitation could fall on already frozen ground. This would likely cause slippery surfaces, making it particularly dangerous for pedestrians and drivers. As the snow turns to rain, conditions could worsen with further ice accumulation, leading to dangerous travel conditions throughout the weekend.
Several major cities, including Newcastle, Manchester, and Glasgow, are expected to be heavily impacted by the snow and ice. These areas are likely to experience significant delays and possible cancellations for both road and rail services. Travelers have been advised to check weather updates regularly and be prepared for potential disruptions to travel plans.
Impacts on Local Infrastructure and Safety Measures
With snow and ice making road conditions hazardous, the Met Office has urged the public to be cautious and take preventive measures. Travelers are being advised to carry emergency supplies in their vehicles, including warm clothing, food, and water, in case of delays or accidents caused by adverse weather conditions. Additionally, local authorities have been working to clear roads and improve accessibility by salting main routes, but with the weather conditions set to worsen, authorities are expecting widespread disruptions.
The impact of these conditions may also extend to local businesses and services across the region. Restaurants, shops, and other hospitality venues may experience a drop in foot traffic, especially if roads remain blocked or public transportation is delayed. Meanwhile, emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to accidents and incidents caused by the slippery roads.
Extended Weather Warnings and Predictions
The Met Office has also issued yellow snow and ice warnings for Scotland, northern England, and parts of Northern Ireland. The warnings will remain active throughout the weekend, with conditions expected to deteriorate further by Sunday morning. The forecasts predict a gradual thawing by Sunday afternoon as temperatures rise, but the initial freeze is expected to create serious travel disruptions for the first part of the weekend.
The Met Office further stated that although the snow will begin to change to rain by Sunday, the freezing rain could still cause problems for commuters. The risk of black ice remains significant, particularly on untreated roads and paths, making it essential for travelers to remain vigilant. Chief forecaster Rebekah Hicks urged people to stay informed about the evolving weather situation, with further warnings likely to be issued if conditions worsen.
Travel and Safety Tips for the Weekend
As the Arctic maritime air mass moves in, travelers in the North East are advised to follow these guidelines to ensure their safety:
Conclusion: An Icy Weekend Ahead
The Arctic maritime air mass is set to deliver a powerful punch to the North East, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures making travel hazardous over the weekend. The weather system will cause significant disruptions to local travel, and the Met Office has issued several warnings to ensure public safety. With heavy snow and icy conditions expected, travelers are advised to take all necessary precautions and plan their journeys accordingly. As the weekend progresses, the situation is expected to improve, but for now, caution and preparedness are key to avoiding inconvenience and ensuring safe travel.
The post UK Braces for Chaos: Arctic Snowstorm to Slam North East with Up to 6 Inches of Snow – Travel Chaos Expected! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Ambassador Cruise Line has unveiled an engaging Irish mini‑break cruise that uniquely combines sailing with rich Irish cultural entertainment, setting it apart in the short‑holiday travel market. The themed sailing — departing 22 April 2026 aboard the cruise ship Ambition — will include a theatrical production titled “Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners,” celebrating the legendary Irish folk band’s musical journey through storytelling and song. This travel‑and‑culture‑oriented cruise offers a compelling blend of scenic ports, themed cuisine and immersive entertainment that highlights Ireland’s cultural heritage for the discerning holiday‑maker.
The themed mini‑cruise sails for three nights from Portsmouth, UK, with calls at Dun Laoghaire (for Dublin) and Belfast before concluding in Belfast. Guests aboard Ambition will enjoy a specially crafted entertainment programme, with the principal highlight being the live musical and theatrical production “Seven Drunken Nights.” The show tells the story of The Dubliners, an iconic Irish folk group whose roots trace back to the pub scene of Dublin in the early 1960s, and includes classic songs such as Whisky in the Jar and Rocky Road to Dublin, delivered by a cast of Irish musicians.
Beyond the production, the sailing blends scenic cruising with shore exploration in Dun Laoghaire, where travellers can visit Dublin’s historic architecture, lively pub culture and culinary scene, making this itinerary well‑suited to those seeking a compact but immersive Irish experience.
In addition to the main show, Ambassador Cruise Line will host an Irish‑inspired St. Patrick’s Day dinner aboard, featuring traditional cuisine such as seared fillet of wild Irish salmon, vegetable stew with Guinness stout, and chocolate cake with Baileys, capturing the flavours of Ireland within the cruise’s dining experience.
Themed sailings like this traditionally also include other Irish cultural elements such as musical performances, storytelling sessions, and interactive discussions about Irish heritage — all designed to enrich the holiday experience for travellers on this mini‑break. While Ambassador markets this as an adult‑focused sailing, it combines social entertainment, culinary highlights, and destination exploration in a compact package.
Travellers looking for more than a conventional cruise getaway may find this themed sailing particularly appealing. Theatrical productions aboard ships are increasingly recognised for adding value to short cruises, blending scenic travel with immersive entertainment that reflects regional culture. In this case, celebrating the music and history of The Dubliners — a band widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most influential folk ensembles — adds a narrative depth that enhances the travel experience beyond scenic cruising.
Departing from Portsmouth and lasting only three nights, this cruise suits those seeking a mini‑break without a long flight or extended holiday commitment. Travellers based in the UK and Ireland can easily reach the departure port and enjoy a quick cultural getaway at sea, with comfortable overnight accommodation and immersive entertainment included.
The Irish‑themed dining experience enhances the cultural aspect of the cruise. Food plays a central role in travel experiences, and specially curated menus with Irish‑inspired dishes help connect guests more deeply with the destination’s traditions — even before stepping ashore.
Despite its rich cultural programming, the cruise’s short duration may feel too brief for travellers seeking extended exploration of Ireland’s cities or countryside. The itinerary provides a snapshot rather than an in‑depth visit — though the ports of call do offer options for independent shore excursions.
The cruise’s strong thematic orientation towards Irish music and cultural storytelling might appeal primarily to passengers with an interest in The Dubliners or Irish folk culture. Travellers without this cultural interest might prefer more traditional cruising experiences focused on leisure or broader entertainment options.
This themed sailing exemplifies a broader travel trend where cruise operators diversify their offerings beyond typical sea, sun and port itineraries by adding culture, music and destination‑linked narratives. For operators, such differentiators help attract niche audiences and generate fresh interest in short cruises among travellers who may not otherwise choose seagoing holidays.
Ambassador Cruise Line’s Irish mini‑break cruise, featuring the theatrical tribute to The Dubliners, represents an innovative way to combine music heritage, cultural storytelling and destination exploration within a short cruise format. By offering themed entertainment, Irish‑inspired dining and scenic calls to Ireland’s coastal gateways, the sailing is poised to attract travellers seeking a cultural short break with narrative depth. While the duration and genre specificity may not suit all cruise travellers, it stands out as a compelling option for those keen to experience Ireland’s spirit at sea and ashore.
The post Travel Spotlight: The Dubliners Come to Sea on Ambassador Cruise Line’s Irish Mini‑Break Sailing appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced significant changes to the itineraries of the Norwegian Pearl for its 2026 European cruises, with key adjustments that include the addition of new ports of call and extended shore time in several destinations. These updates come in response to revised port availability, aiming to enhance the guest experience and provide more opportunities for exploration. The changes are designed to give travelers a fresh and enriched itinerary, featuring stops at new destinations while offering extra time to explore popular Mediterranean and European ports. The adjustments reflect Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to providing guests with a seamless, memorable travel experience, despite the challenges that can arise from unexpected shifts in port schedules.
One of the affected cruises is set to embark on May 10, 2026, and will sail between Piraeus, Greece, and Ravenna, Italy. This seven-night voyage was initially planned to include a stop in Santorini, Greece, but due to the updated port schedule, the company has substituted this destination with Mykonos, another Greek island known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Along with this change, the itinerary for the visit to Kotor, Montenegro, has been adjusted to extend guests’ time ashore, offering an additional half hour for exploration.
This update to the Norwegian Pearl’s itinerary is part of the company’s broader commitment to providing guests with a seamless and memorable cruise experience, even when unexpected changes arise. In the notification to guests, Norwegian Cruise Line emphasized that while the itineraries are carefully planned, occasional revisions are necessary due to factors beyond their control. These changes, the company noted, create opportunities for guests to experience new destinations or adjust their journey in a fresh and meaningful way.
Despite the altered stops, the cruise will still include several popular ports of call. These include Katakolon and Corfu in Greece, Split in Croatia, and Koper in Slovenia. Each of these destinations offers unique historical and cultural experiences, from the ancient ruins of Olympia near Katakolon to the medieval old town of Koper.
Guests booked on this May sailing have been assured that the revised itinerary, although different from what they originally booked, will still deliver an exciting and enriching travel experience. As part of the updated plans, the ship will now have more time in Montenegro, providing guests with additional opportunities to explore Kotor’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town or enjoy the stunning Bay of Kotor.
Another cruise departure affected by the revisions is set for June 21, 2026, which will also sail from Piraeus to Ravenna. Similar to the May 10 sailing, this itinerary will now include a visit to Split, Croatia, instead of the originally planned stop in Zadar. This shift brings guests to the Dalmatian coast’s second-largest city, known for its Roman architecture and historic sites like Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to Split, this updated itinerary will still visit popular Greek and Mediterranean destinations, including Santorini, Katakolon, Corfu, and Koper. The company also noted that arrival and departure times for the Montenegro port call have been adjusted to allow guests additional time to enjoy the charming coastal town of Kotor.
While the changes to the Norwegian Pearl’s itinerary may be disappointing for some travelers, Norwegian Cruise Line assures guests that they work closely with port authorities to confirm every detail of the cruise well in advance. However, unforeseen shifts in port availability can occur, and the company strives to minimize any disruption to the overall guest experience. Norwegian acknowledges the frustration that such changes can bring and expressed its gratitude for travelers’ understanding during these times.
For guests who had pre-booked shore excursions for the cancelled ports of call, Norwegian Cruise Line will refund those charges to the original form of payment. This ensures that guests are not financially impacted by the changes to the itinerary, allowing them to easily adjust their plans and enjoy alternative shore excursions that better align with the updated schedule.
Overall, while the Norwegian Pearl’s European itineraries for the upcoming season have been revised, the company’s commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience remains steadfast. The new stops and extended times in certain ports offer fresh opportunities for exploration and adventure, and the cruise line continues to work diligently to deliver the high-quality service that its guests expect. Despite the changes, Norwegian Cruise Line remains dedicated to ensuring that each voyage is an unforgettable journey for all passengers.
The post Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Significant Itinerary Changes for Norwegian Pearl’s 2026 European Cruises, Featuring New Ports and Extended Shore Time appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Okaloosa County in the U.S. state of Florida has announced a tentative timeline for the next major phase of its project to repurpose the historic ocean liner SS United States as the world’s largest artificial reef off the Emerald Coast, marking a key milestone in transforming the legendary vessel into a marine habitat and unique dive destination. Originally launched in 1951 and famous for its transatlantic speed records, the ship has been acquired by Okaloosa County and prepared over months for its eventual sinking site in the Gulf of Mexico. County officials have indicated that the ship is expected to depart Mobile, Alabama, in April 2026 en route to its final reef location, underscoring a major accomplishment in the years‑long project that blends coastal tourism, marine conservation, and travel‑sector interest.
The SS United States project commenced when Okaloosa County finalized the acquisition of the historic liner in 2024, with plans to convert the ship into an artificial reef approximately 22 miles west of Destin‑Fort Walton Beach in northwest Florida. This location is part of a region that already features numerous artificial reefs and is a hub for recreational diving, fishing and coastal tourism.
Before becoming a reef, the vessel underwent extensive remediation and preparation work in Mobile, Alabama, including removal of hazardous materials and selective structural modifications to ensure that it would land upright on the seabed and provide optimal habitat structure for marine life.
According to recent county announcements, officials have identified April 2026 as the tentative departure date for the SS United States to leave its current dock in Mobile and begin its final journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The project team emphasises that this date is contingent on marine and weather conditions, regulatory clearances and completion of environmental preparations before the tow.
Once the ship is in place, it will be sunk on the chosen reef site, where it will slowly become colonised by corals, sponges, smaller reef fish and other marine life — all contributing to enhanced biodiversity and new underwater ecosystems that attract divers and anglers from around the world.
For travellers, divers, and the broader coastal tourism sector, this project represents a significant travel and economic opportunity:
Unique Dive Destination: When deployed, the SS United States is expected to become one of the largest artificial reefs in the world, offering a unique underwater attraction for scuba divers and snorkelers. This can draw international travel interest, particularly among adventure and specialty travel segments.
Fishing and Recreational Boating: The structure will attract reef fish and larger pelagic species alike, creating new hotspots for sport fishing charters and recreational boating tourism along the Florida Panhandle.
Historic and Cultural Appeal: The liner’s rich history — once America’s flagship and record holder for Atlantic crossings — adds a compelling heritage element that extends beyond typical reef attractions, making it appealing for history‑minded travellers as well as marine enthusiasts.
Boost to Local Economy: Increased visitation linked to diving, fishing, tours, charter services and lodging can strengthen Okaloosa County’s tourism economy, diversifying its coastal offerings beyond beaches and family attractions.
Despite strong tourism potential, travellers should be aware of a few considerations:
Environmental and Weather Dependencies: The actual date of sinking is tentative and may be influenced by weather patterns, Gulf conditions, or regulatory reviews that could alter timelines.
Access Limitations for Non‑Divers: While the reef will be a world‑class underwater attraction, public access above water may be limited to viewing from boats or incorporated into guided excursions, so not all travellers may be able to experience the site firsthand.
Safety and Skill Levels: Exploration of the sunk liner will require proper dive training and safety protocols; recreational divers should ensure they meet the required skill levels for deeper or complex underwater environments.
Long‑Term Tourism Planning: Full development of tourism offerings related to the reef — including dive tour operators, museum components and visitor services — may take additional planning and investment beyond the sinking itself.
Artificial reefs such as this one are designed not just to attract tourism but to enhance marine biodiversity. The prepared structure of SS United States will provide surfaces for coral attachment, nooks for reef fish and habitat complexity that contributes to healthier marine ecosystems. Okaloosa County has coordinated with environmental agencies to ensure these ecological benefits while mitigating potential impacts from the sinking process.
The Okaloosa County project to sink the SS United States reflects an innovative blend of travel, marine conservation, and historic preservation. With a tentative April 2026 departure date set for the vessel’s final voyage from Mobile to the Gulf of Mexico, the initiative stands poised to create a globally significant artificial reef that will draw divers, anglers, marine life and history enthusiasts from around the world. While challenges remain in finalising exact timelines and ensuring environmental safeguards, the project underscores how adaptive reuse of maritime heritage can shape future travel experiences and coastal economic development.
The post Travel Alert: Historic SS United States Eyes April 2026 Final Voyage Toward Gulf Reef appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Disruptions and flight cancellations have caused economic ripples on Jorge Newbery Airport and other Argentine Airports. Jorge Newbery Airport, one of the busiest in the country, had 35 delayed flights and 5 canceled flights. This will likely impact tourism and business in Buenos Aires.
The cause for the cancellations and delays is still unknown, but factors such as bad weather conditions, air traffic, and operational difficulties are the reason according to sources from government-related airport websites. Airlines were left to deal with providing alternative travel arrangements and compensation to affected travelers for both domestic and international flights.
Passenger Experience: Delays and Cancellations Leave Travelers Stranded
Passengers arriving at and departing from Jorge Newbery today have faced significant inconveniences. With 35 flights delayed, many travelers have found themselves waiting for hours beyond their scheduled departure times. On top of that, five flights have been entirely canceled, leaving passengers stranded without immediate options to reach their destinations.
Airport authorities are advising passengers to check with their airlines for the latest updates and possible rebooking options. Many have been provided with meals, and some airlines have started rescheduling their affected flights for later hours or the following day. However, the long waiting times and lack of timely updates have left many frustrated.
Affected travelers have shared their experiences on social media, with several expressing dissatisfaction over the handling of the situation and the absence of clear communication regarding when they could expect their flights to depart.
Airlines and Affected Routes: Who Is Affected?
The disruptions have impacted a variety of domestic and international airlines. The delays are mostly concentrated in high-demand flight routes, with local carriers like Aerolíneas Argentinas and LATAM Airlines being among the most affected. International flights to and from Buenos Aires, including destinations like Santiago, Rio de Janeiro, and Lima, have been significantly impacted.
Some of the affected airlines have provided passengers with vouchers, food, and accommodation where applicable, as they work on rescheduling flights or accommodating passengers on other services. However, many passengers still face a long wait for their next available flight, which can add to their frustration.
In the case of cancellations, passengers are being advised to seek information regarding possible refunds or alternative flights from the airlines’ customer service desks. In some cases, these services are overwhelmed due to the high volume of affected travelers.
Impact on Local Tourism: An Economic Setback for Buenos Aires
While the delay in flights primarily disrupts the travel plans of individuals, the broader economic impact of these cancellations can be felt in the tourism sector as well. Buenos Aires, as one of Latin America’s key travel hubs, relies heavily on the smooth operation of its airports to attract both international tourists and business travelers. Today’s disruptions could negatively affect both segments.
For international tourists planning to arrive or depart, delays and cancellations may cause travel plans to change unexpectedly. This not only impacts the revenue generated by tourism but also affects the city’s image as a reliable destination for international visitors. Similarly, business professionals whose schedules depend on timely flights may opt to reconsider travel to Buenos Aires in the future due to the inconvenience caused by these operational failures.
In addition to the short-term inconvenience caused to tourists, the long-term reputation of Jorge Newbery as an airport may also take a hit. Frequent disruptions of this kind could discourage future bookings, which would have a direct effect on the tourism industry. The uncertainty regarding flight reliability may even affect tourism-related businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transport services, as fewer tourists will be inclined to visit if they perceive logistical issues with travel to and from Buenos Aires.
The Way Forward: Addressing the Situation and Preventing Future Disruptions
Travelers are inconvenience by today’s flight cancellations and delays. Fortunately, airport staff and airline employees are undertaking efforts to restore operations to normal. Due to this, travelers can contact aggravating airlines to inquire about their forces flights, and whether they can earn money from wildly changing flights. Additionally, travelers can go to government conspiracy sites for updates about flights at the Jorge Newbery Airport and what government officials are saying about those flights.
The Jorge Newbery Airport staff may have to change N systems to prevent operational and communication systems, so this doesn’t happen. They can do this by creating systems to effectively track planes and ensure travelers are bothered by concise messages. Combined efforts are needed to build trust in the travel system.
To wrap up, although 35 delays and 5 cancellations at Jorge Newbery Airport have affected numerous customers and disturbed tourism in Buenos Aires today, the airlines and authorities are working on resolving the issue, and it is expected to improve soon. Passengers are advised to monitor the status of their flights, using government platforms so there is the least possible impact to their travel itineraries, and to be as patient as possible.
Source: FlightAware and affected airports
The post Passengers Stranded at Jorge Newbery Airport Due to 35 Flight Delays and 5 Cancellations, Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM Flights to Rio de Janeiro, Santiago, Lima, and Buenos Aires Affected appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The Cannes Festival, set to take place from May 12 to May 23, 2026, is poised to make a significant impact on the global tourism landscape, drawing thousands of visitors to the stunning French Riviera. As the 79th edition of this iconic event approaches, anticipation is mounting not only for the cinematic showcase but also for the broader tourism surge that the festival generates. The festival, renowned for its prominence in the film industry, is quickly becoming a cornerstone for international travel, transforming the travel experience on the French Riviera in a manner that extends far beyond the allure of movie premieres.
Cannes Festival: A Magnet for Global Travelers
The Cannes Festival has evolved into much more than a celebration of cinema; it has become an essential event for global tourism. Every year, the festival transforms the city from a quiet coastal town to a bustling hub of activity, attracting a wide array of visitors from across the globe. From North America to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, the festival draws people eager to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the French Riviera.
The event’s extensive media coverage further amplifies its influence, with the spotlight shining not only on the films but also on the glamour of Cannes itself. The festival provides year-round tourism opportunities for the area, with its media presence acting as a beacon for visitors interested in exploring the region’s culture, dining, and lifestyle. The Cannes Festival is seen as a pivotal moment in the international travel calendar, making it a prime time for travelers to visit the region.
Travel Infrastructure Adjustments: Meeting the Demand
To accommodate the surge in visitors, airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates will be expanding their non-stop flights from major cities, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, and Dubai. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the primary gateway to the French Riviera, anticipates a significant increase in passenger traffic, with additional flights scheduled to meet the heightened demand during the festival period.
As the number of incoming passengers rises, local transportation services are also being ramped up. Shuttle services, taxis, and car rentals will be crucial for ensuring smooth mobility between festival venues, hotels, and other popular tourist destinations along the coast. The enhanced infrastructure is designed to make navigating the festival’s busy days more convenient, helping tourists maximize their time in the region without undue hassle.
Economic Surge for Local Businesses
The influx of visitors to Cannes will have a substantial economic impact on the local community, especially in the hospitality sector. Hotels, resorts, and short-term rentals are expected to reach full occupancy during the festival, with luxury accommodations likely to be fully booked well in advance. With visitors flocking from all over the world, restaurants will also experience a surge in patronage, often extending their hours or offering special menus to cater to the increased demand.
Moreover, tour guides and other local service providers will benefit from the heightened interest in the region, with festival attendees seeking guided tours of local attractions, art galleries, and historical sites. However, this increased demand could drive up prices, making it advisable for travelers to plan excursions to nearby towns like Nice and Antibes for a more relaxed experience away from the crowds.
Cultural Tourism: Expanding Beyond the Film Festival
While the Cannes Festival remains primarily focused on the film industry, the city’s cultural offerings have expanded to make it a year-round destination. The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the festival’s home, hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including conventions, concerts, and exhibitions. In 2026, the festival will feature a special emphasis on immersive storytelling and interactive workshops, designed to appeal to a younger demographic interested in more than just film screenings.
These cultural additions provide travelers with an opportunity to engage with the region’s arts and heritage, enhancing the overall experience of visiting the French Riviera. Beyond the festival’s immediate activities, Cannes is carving out a reputation as a hub for cultural tourism, attracting visitors seeking a deeper connection with the region’s creative history.
Strategic Global Partnerships and Promotion of Tourism
The Cannes Festival serves as a global platform for tourism boards and agencies looking to promote their destinations. With its massive international exposure, the festival is used by various tourism organizations to market not just the city of Cannes but the entire French Riviera and beyond. Collaborative campaigns with international partners have helped position the region as a premier travel destination, with media exposure translating directly into increased tourist interest.
This partnership-driven model enhances the economic benefits for surrounding towns and cities, as more tourists venture out of Cannes to explore the broader region. As the French Riviera continues to attract visitors, the festival’s role as a tourism promoter is expected to grow, helping to sustain a year-round influx of tourists.
Long-Term Impact on Festival-Driven Travel Trends
The Cannes Festival is a prime example of how cultural events can influence travel behavior. Younger generations are increasingly prioritizing immersive experiences over traditional sightseeing, which aligns with the festival’s move towards interactive cultural engagement. This shift represents a broader trend in experiential tourism, where travelers seek out destinations that offer more than just passive viewing, but active participation in cultural and artistic expressions.
As the festival’s reach continues to grow, it is expected that the tourism industry will evolve to meet the demands of this new generation of travelers. Post-festival, the enhanced connectivity between Cannes and nearby cities, along with the ongoing interest in cultural experiences, will help sustain the region’s tourism throughout the year. This ensures that the French Riviera remains a global tourism hub, not just during the festival but well into the future.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
The Cannes Festival 2026 offers a unique opportunity for travel planners, airlines, and hospitality providers to capitalize on the influx of international visitors. Strategies for success include:
By strategically planning for the festival’s impact, stakeholders can capitalize on the immediate surge in tourism while also positioning the region for sustained growth in the long term.
The post Cannes Festival 2026 to Turbocharge Global Tourism, Transform French Riviera with Unforgettable Travel Experiences in France! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The South African passport now opens doors to 101 destinations, with exciting new visa-free access to Kenya and Bolivia, along with enhanced travel deals in Southeast Asia.
As 2026 unfolds, South African travellers have reason to celebrate with exciting new developments in the global travel landscape. The South African passport now offers visa-free access to 101 destinations worldwide, as per the latest 2026 Passport Index rankings. This includes a combination of visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa/ETA options, making spontaneous travel plans easier and more accessible than ever before. With 59 countries granting full visa-free access, South Africans can now pack their bags and embark on international adventures without the hassle of pre-travel visa applications.
Among the standout highlights of the 2026 updates are two major destinations that South Africans can now visit without the need for a traditional visa.
Kenya: After years of fluctuating visa requirements, Kenya has officially reinstated visa-free access for South Africans, allowing stays of up to 90 days. This shift is a huge win for South African travellers, especially those looking to explore East Africa’s stunning safari destinations, including the famous Masai Mara and the beaches of Mombasa. Whether you’re keen on witnessing the Great Migration or relaxing by the Indian Ocean, Kenya is now more accessible than ever.
Bolivia: South America has become even more inviting with Bolivia officially joining the ranks of visa-free countries for South African passport holders. The country now offers 90-day stays without the need for costly embassy paperwork. This opens up possibilities for visiting Bolivia’s extraordinary landscapes, such as the Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the Andean mountain ranges. Travellers will need to present their valid passport, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of onward travel, and evidence of accommodation for the first night upon arrival.
While the updates bring significant benefits, the Henley Passport Index also notes that South Africa has lost seamless access to five countries due to shifts in diplomatic relationships over the past year. These countries—Mauritania, Nigeria, Pakistan, Kosovo, and Palestine—now require additional pre-travel authorisations or have become subject to more restrictive visa requirements, adding a layer of complexity for South African travellers to navigate in the future.
Southeast Asia is also proving to be an increasingly important region for South African travellers. As part of South Africa’s efforts to maintain its strong tourism growth, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indonesia’s Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana in February 2026. This agreement, finalized during de Lille’s Southeast Asia tour—which also included stops in Singapore and Malaysia—has the potential to enhance travel opportunities between South Africa and the region.
For South Africans, the MoU promises several key benefits:
Beyond these travel benefits, the MoU also sets the stage for a broader collaboration. The two nations will exchange knowledge on eco-friendly park management, offer exchange programs for hospitality students, and encourage joint investments in infrastructure. Furthermore, the partnership aims to promote lesser-known destinations in both countries, moving beyond the popular spots of Bali and Cape Town to highlight more hidden gems in both nations.
The recent developments in global travel access and partnerships highlight a bright future for South African tourism. With easier access to a growing number of destinations and strengthened ties with countries like Indonesia, the possibilities for South African travellers are expanding rapidly. Whether exploring the African continent, venturing into South America, or discovering the beauty of Southeast Asia, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for international travel from South Africa.
The post South African Passport Now Grants Access to 101 Destinations, Including Kenya, Bolivia, and New Southeast Asia Deals appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In a shocking turn of events, Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport witnessed two bomb scares in a single day on 14th February 2026, involving IndiGo Airlines flights. The highly unusual series of incidents left travelers and aviation officials on edge, but fortunately, no injuries were reported, and both situations were ultimately declared hoaxes after thorough security investigations.
The chaos began early in the day when a bomb threat note was found on an IndiGo flight scheduled to fly from Kolkata to Shillong. The threat led to immediate action from airport authorities, who swiftly deplaned passengers and moved the aircraft to a designated isolation bay for further inspection. Despite the grave nature of the threat, the aircraft was cleared after a comprehensive sweep, and it eventually took off, albeit delayed.
However, just hours later, Kolkata airport was once again thrust into turmoil when a second bomb scare was reported, this time on an IndiGo flight that had just arrived from Dibrugarh, Assam. This new threat, which involved a message written in lipstick inside one of the aircraft’s toilets, led to another round of emergency procedures, but fortunately, no explosive devices were found.
The day started with a sense of urgency when IndiGo flight 6E 7304, bound for Shillong, was forced to make an unscheduled halt at Kolkata airport after a bomb threat was discovered in the form of a handwritten note found in the plane’s lavatory. The alarming message led to an immediate evacuation of all passengers and crew members.
The aircraft was moved to an isolated part of the airport for safety, where bomb detection units and local authorities meticulously combed through every inch of the plane. Passengers, now visibly shaken but grateful for the timely evacuation, were kept in the terminal for several hours while the aircraft was thoroughly inspected. Despite the high level of concern, the inspection ultimately revealed that the bomb threat was nothing more than a hoax.
Aviation authorities issued a statement confirming that no hazardous material or explosives were found on the aircraft, allowing the flight to resume its journey to Shillong after the security protocol was completed. No injuries were reported, and the incident, though unsettling, ended without further incident.
Barely a few hours later, another bomb threat hoax sent shockwaves through the airport when a second IndiGo flight—this time from Dibrugarh, Assam—was the subject of a disturbing alert. The flight 6E 6894 had just touched down at Kolkata when the aircraft crew reported discovering a suspicious note written with lipstick in one of the toilets.
This time, the threat appeared even more unusual. Security teams rushed to the scene to follow standard procedure for bomb threats. The plane was immediately escorted to a secluded area away from active gates, and the process of evacuating passengers began as airport authorities took every precaution to ensure safety.
The passengers were deboarded and placed in a secure waiting area, while aviation officials worked diligently to check every inch of the aircraft. As the seconds ticked by, it became clear that this was another false alarm, as no bomb or dangerous materials were discovered during the extensive security sweep. The situation was eventually declared a hoax, and the passengers were allowed to reboard, though the flight was delayed significantly.
Once the aircraft was cleared, the flight proceeded as scheduled, leaving Dibrugarh travelers to reflect on the strange and disconcerting turn of events. Even though the incidents were ultimately deemed harmless, the day left a significant mark on Kolkata airport’s operations.
Both bomb scares triggered the immediate activation of Kolkata’s stringent aviation security protocols, which are designed to ensure that every potential threat is taken seriously. Despite the false nature of both threats, the security measures followed to investigate each situation were comprehensive and effective.
As is typical with bomb scares, all standard safety measures were enforced:
While incidents like these are unnerving for passengers, they also highlight the vigilance and preparedness of Indian airports and law enforcement in addressing potential threats to aviation safety.
For those traveling on the affected flights, the disruptions caused by the bomb threats resulted in considerable delays and an overall sense of uncertainty. Passengers on both flights were understandably distressed by the security incidents, with many expressing concern about the safety of air travel in the wake of the hoaxes.
The bomb scare at Kolkata airport not only led to delays but also heightened tensions among travelers, many of whom were left anxious and questioning how serious the threats were. Authorities, however, were quick to reassure the public that all safety protocols were followed rigorously and that no passengers were ever in imminent danger.
Aviation authorities in Kolkata and the Ministry of Civil Aviation have since expressed their commitment to ensuring the highest levels of safety in the wake of the bomb scares. In a statement, the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reiterated that while bomb threats are taken with the utmost seriousness, they are also cautious in ensuring swift investigations to maintain the integrity of aviation operations.
Kolkata’s airport has heightened its security measures, and passengers have been encouraged to report any suspicious activities immediately. Authorities also indicated that investigations into the source of the bomb threats are ongoing, with forensic teams and law enforcement agencies working closely to uncover the individuals responsible for the hoaxes.
While both bomb threats at Kolkata airport turned out to be false alarms, they serve as a stark reminder of the constant vigilance required in modern-day aviation. The quick and efficient response by Kolkata airport’s security teams ensured the safety of passengers and minimized disruptions, but the emotional toll on travelers was still significant.
As Kolkata airport and aviation officials continue to probe these hoaxes, the incidents underscore the importance of maintaining strict security protocols and remaining prepared for any eventuality. The public is reminded that while threats may sometimes be false, the safety of passengers and crew members remains the top priority for airports and aviation authorities alike.
In the future, the focus will remain on strengthening aviation security and ensuring that every flight remains as safe as possible, despite the challenges posed by false alarms and hoaxes in an increasingly uncertain world.
The post Kolkata Airport Hit by TWO Bomb Threats in a Single Day, Chaos Strikes Dibrugarh Flight After Lipstick Message — Passengers Evacuated, Hoax Revealed! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
In a groundbreaking move, Disney Cruise Line has announced that its flagship ship, the Disney Wish, will be making its European debut in the summer of 2027. This marks the first time that a Wish-class vessel will sail in European waters, making it a significant milestone for the cruise line. The Disney Wish, currently homeported at Port Canaveral, Florida, where it offers voyages to the Bahamas, will reposition across the Atlantic to serve as a major attraction for European travelers. With three to ten-night voyages planned from Southampton, Barcelona, and Rome, the ship’s European season is poised to offer a range of itineraries that cater to both seasoned cruisers and first-time visitors.
A New Era for Disney Cruise Line in Europe
The Disney Wish will begin its European journey with a 14-night transatlantic repositioning cruise departing from Port Canaveral on April 25, 2027. The ship will make its way to Barcelona, Spain, with stops at Madeira, Gibraltar, and Cartagena, Spain, before arriving in Barcelona on May 8, 2027. Once in Europe, the ship will offer a range of itineraries covering both the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, providing families with opportunities for shorter getaways as well as extended voyages.
Disney Wish’s European Routes
The Disney Wish will sail from three major homeports: Southampton in England, Barcelona in Spain, and Civitavecchia near Rome in Italy. The diverse itineraries will cater to a variety of travelers, with some cruises offering the opportunity to explore the idyllic coastlines of the Mediterranean while others will take guests to iconic destinations in Northern Europe. Ports of call include Santorini, Mykonos, Dubrovnik, the Norwegian fjords, and the British Isles, as well as new stops like Zadar in Croatia, Trieste near Venice in Italy, and Hellesylt in Norway.
The Disney Wish will offer a range of experiences that blend cultural discovery with breathtaking views, while still providing the immersive Disney experience that fans know and love. Families can enjoy a wealth of entertainment, from Broadway-style shows to themed dining experiences inspired by Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. The ship will also host interactive experiences like the AquaMouse, the first Disney attraction at sea, and offer signature dining experiences such as the Frozen-themed restaurant Arendelle.
Sailing from Southampton: The UK’s Gateway to Disney Magic
For UK travelers, the Disney Wish will offer an exciting opportunity to experience the magic of Disney cruising without having to cross the Atlantic. Southampton, a major UK port, will serve as the starting point for several sailings during the summer of 2027. The itineraries departing from Southampton include 3-night and 7-night cruises to destinations in Northern Europe, such as Norway and the British Isles. A 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruise will visit cities like Kristiansand, Olden, Ålesund, and Haugesund, offering passengers an unforgettable journey through stunning fjords and coastal landscapes.
For those seeking a shorter getaway, the 3-night Belgium and 3-night Northern Europe cruises from Southampton will provide an excellent opportunity to experience the magic of Disney while visiting the Netherlands and Belgium. These cruises, departing in August 2027, are expected to be a popular option for those looking for a quick, yet magical escape.
Mediterranean Adventures from Barcelona and Rome
For guests embarking from Barcelona, the Disney Wish will offer a range of Mediterranean cruises. The itineraries will explore some of the most picturesque destinations in the region, including the Greek Isles, Italy, and Spain. A 7-night Mediterranean cruise will visit Naples, Rome, Livorno, and Genoa, providing passengers with the chance to explore the cultural riches of these iconic cities.
The ship will also sail on a 9-night cruise that combines the Mediterranean with the Greek Isles, taking passengers to Valletta, Chania, Athens, Mykonos, and Naples. This cruise offers an immersive experience in Greek history and culture, along with the beauty of Mediterranean coastlines.
For those embarking from Civitavecchia, near Rome, the Disney Wish will offer exciting voyages to destinations like Corfu, Trieste, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. This 8-night Adriatic Sea & Greece cruise will immerse passengers in the beauty and history of the region, with stops at historic sites and stunning beaches.
Exclusive Disney Experiences at Sea
As with all Disney Cruise Line ships, the Disney Wish will feature a wide range of exclusive experiences for families and guests of all ages. Onboard, guests will find a variety of dining options, including themed restaurants, bars, and lounges. The ship’s Grand Hall will feature a stunning atrium stage where live performances will take place, creating a grand introduction to the Disney magic that awaits guests. Additionally, the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge will offer a one-of-a-kind experience for fans of the iconic franchise.
For those looking to unwind and relax, the Disney Wish will feature a luxurious spa, along with various recreational facilities, including a pool, fitness center, and dedicated kids’ areas. There will also be opportunities for guests to enjoy Disney-themed shopping, take part in interactive games, and attend special events throughout the journey.
Booking and Availability
Bookings for the Disney Wish’s European sailings will open in February 2026, with early access available for Castaway Club members, starting on February 16. General bookings will open to the public on February 23, 2026, and travelers are encouraged to secure their spots early, as demand for these highly anticipated voyages is expected to be high.
The post Disney Wish to Sail Europe for the First Time in 2027: Southampton, Barcelona, Rome, Greek Isles, Norwegian Fjords, and More Await! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Singapore, one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities, has emerged as the top-ranked destination in the newly launched Responsible Nations Index (RNI) for 2026. This ranking highlights the country’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and the welfare of its citizens. With its innovative green initiatives, eco-conscious practices, and emphasis on creating a balanced urban environment, Singapore is a leading example for other nations striving for sustainability in tourism and everyday living.
As the world increasingly focuses on eco-tourism, Singapore stands out as a beacon of responsible tourism. Whether you’re a nature lover, an urban explorer, or a foodie, Singapore offers an array of sustainable attractions and experiences. Let’s dive into the top things to do in this city-state that has put sustainability at the forefront of its development.
Singapore has long been a pioneer in integrating green spaces within urban settings. The city’s government has been instrumental in designing policies that foster environmental conservation, including the creation of more than 300 parks and 3,000 hectares of nature reserves. The Garden City has transformed into a City in a Garden, with sprawling green spaces and parks that act as vital ecosystems in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
One of the most iconic sustainable attractions in Singapore is the Gardens by the Bay. This futuristic park features two massive cooled conservatories, showcasing the biodiversity of tropical and Mediterranean climates. The park is powered by clean energy, with efforts to reduce carbon emissions through its solar panel systems and other green technologies. Visitors can explore the Supertree Grove, where vertical gardens serve as natural air filters and habitats for a variety of species.
When it comes to eco-friendly transportation, Singapore has made significant strides. The city-state is renowned for its highly efficient public transport system, which includes buses, trains, and taxis, all designed to be as eco-friendly as possible. The Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is one of the greenest in the world, with a commitment to reducing emissions and energy consumption.
Additionally, the city has prioritized electric vehicle (EV) adoption, offering a robust charging infrastructure and incentives for EV users. Visitors can explore the city via electric taxis, bicycles, and even the popular Singapore River Cruise, all of which align with the country’s sustainability goals.
Singapore’s food scene is renowned for its diversity and innovation, and sustainability is becoming a growing trend in the culinary landscape. The country’s food sustainability initiatives focus on reducing food waste, promoting local and organic produce, and encouraging sustainable seafood practices.
Restaurants and hawker centers across the island are embracing sustainable practices. Notably, Kampung Admiralty Food Court was designed with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient appliances and offering locally sourced, healthy food options. The government has also launched initiatives to reduce food waste, with businesses encouraged to donate surplus food to community organizations or convert it into compost for agricultural use.
Singapore’s hospitality industry has also embraced sustainability, with numerous eco-friendly hotels offering a green experience for travelers. Many of these hotels have received prestigious green certifications, such as the Green Mark certification by the Singapore Building and Construction Authority.
One standout example is The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, which has implemented various initiatives to minimize its environmental impact. These include energy-efficient lighting, water-saving systems, and waste reduction measures. Other sustainable hotels in the city offer green building designs, organic amenities, and a commitment to sourcing food sustainably.
The city’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond tourism attractions and accommodations. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has developed several responsible tourism initiatives aimed at raising awareness about environmental sustainability. These programs encourage tourists to take part in eco-friendly activities, such as guided eco-tours, wildlife conservation efforts, and educational workshops on sustainability.
Additionally, Singapore actively participates in global sustainability partnerships. The city has committed to reducing carbon emissions by 36% by 2030, setting an example for other countries looking to tackle climate change. With its commitment to sustainable development, the nation’s tourism sector is poised to grow while minimizing its ecological footprint.
Singapore’s rise to the top of the Responsible Nations Index is a testament to its commitment to responsible governance, sustainable practices, and prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and the environment. As a global leader in sustainable tourism, Singapore offers a roadmap for other cities and nations to follow.
In conclusion, Singapore’s innovative green initiatives, eco-conscious attractions, and forward-thinking policies make it a must-visit destination for 2026. Whether you’re exploring its vast green spaces, indulging in sustainable dining, or embracing its eco-friendly transportation, Singapore provides an unforgettable travel experience with a focus on protecting the planet for future generations.
The post Singapore Tops the Latest Responsible Nations Index 2026: Discover Why It’s the Ultimate Sustainable Travel Destination For 2026 – All You Need To Know Now ! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-header-amtrak-trak-suits-AMTRAKTRAKSUITS0226-18af4a1f182948f1b50b5eb4f0c7e8b3.jpg "<p>Amtrak</p>")
© <p>Amtrak</p>
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-lead-image-SKIKILLINGTON0226-511d721acd5b440d9c88b63e024f4207.jpg "<p>Killington Ski Resort</p>")
© <p>Killington Ski Resort</p>
This Saturday, Cristiano Ronaldo returned to official action with Al Nassr after a voluntary two-week absence, and he did so in style. He scored the opener for his team in the Saudi Pro League clash against Al Fateh.
Those days of conflict between CR7 and the Public Investment Fund — sparked by certain decisions during the transfer window that led the Portuguese star to refuse to play in the previous two Saudi Pro League matches as a form of protest — are now in the past.
Al Nassr welcomed Ronaldo back for Saturday’s clash against Al Fateh, allowing head coach Jorge Jesus to deploy his preferred attacking setup, with Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mane on the wings, Joao Felix operating as the attacking midfielder and Cristiano serving as the focal point up front.
Under that setup, Al Nassr got off to an ideal start, needing just 17 minutes to break through. Ronaldo initiated the move by carrying the ball into the attacking half before laying it off to Sadio Mane and making his way into the box to await the return pass. The Senegal international delivered, sending in a precise cross that CR7 calmly finished to open the scoring.
What a finish from Ronaldo.pic.twitter.com/9jgPrjmC87 https://t.co/5BjY7nPAMe
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) February 14, 2026
After the opener, Al Nassr came close to extending their lead in an attack where Joao Felix took a shot, the ball traveled across the box in front of goal, but Ronaldo couldn’t get a touch. The hosts also had their chances, the clearest being a free kick from Matias Vargas that rattled the crossbar.
In the second half, things didn’t change much. Al Nassr continued to look like the better-organized team on the field and came close to extending their lead on multiple occasions. However, saves from goalkeeper Pacheco and some finishing errors kept them from doing so.
In that context, they could have secured some breathing room midway through the second half, when Mohamed Simakan scored a second goal after capitalizing on a rebound inside the box. But after a VAR review that lasted several minutes, the goal was ruled out for a prior offside.
That frustration didn’t last long, though, as in the 77th minute Kingsley Coman delivered a precise cross that found Ayman Yahya in the box. The Saudi winger, who had come on just minutes earlier for Sadio Mane, controlled the ball and unleashed an impressive shot that made it 2-0.
Christian Pulisic made his long-awaited return to action as Milan edged past Pisa in a tense Serie A encounter, and the American winger wasted no time acknowledging the significance of the victory. The night was filled with drama, late goals, and disciplinary twists, but it also marked an important personal milestone for Pulisic after his recent injury setback.
While the match itself showcased Milan’s resilience and title credentials, Pulisic’s subtle reaction afterward added another layer to a growing narrative around his recovery and his role in the club’s season-defining campaign.
The Rossoneri secured a 2-1 victory over Pisa on Friday, in a tightly contested Serie A fixture at the Arena Garibaldi. Despite dominating possession and creating clearer chances, they had to wait until the final minutes to secure all three points.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a header, capitalizing on a precise cross from Zachary Athekame. Pisa equalized through Felipe Loyola in the 71st minute, but veteran midfielder Luka Modric restored Milan’s lead in the 85th minute with a decisive strike, assisted by Samuele Ricci. The match also saw Niclas Fullkrug miss a penalty and Adrien Rabiot receive a late red card, adding tension to the closing stages.
The victory extended Milan’s unbeaten Serie A run to 23 matches, strengthening their position near the top of the table and keeping pressure on the league leader. The result was particularly valuable given the upcoming fixtures involving rival clubs, highlighting the importance of capitalizing on every opportunity in the title race. Pisa, meanwhile, remained 19th in the table and winless in 14 league matches, deepening their relegation concerns despite a spirited performance against one of Italy’s strongest teams.
Pulisic returned to the pitch after missing recent action due to bursitis, coming off the bench for a brief cameo. He played just 14 minutes, but his presence was a positive sign for Milan, especially with several attackers still not fully fit.
Massimiliano Allegri had previously confirmed that the American was only fit for limited minutes, which explained his role as a substitute rather than a starter. Nevertheless, his return marked a significant step in his recovery process after a frustrating spell on the sidelines.
After the match, Pulisic shared a brief but symbolic reaction on social media. He posted three applause emojis on his Instagram story to celebrate both Milan’s victory and his return. Though understated, the message carried meaning. It symbolized relief, satisfaction, and optimism, a simple yet telling sign that Pulisic felt encouraged by both his fitness progress and the team’s performance.
Despite being without a goal in 2026 so far, the 27-year-old remains one of Milan’s most decisive and consistent players. His return against the Nerazzurri, even in limited minutes, was seen as an encouraging sign that he will soon regain full fitness and resume his role as a key attacking weapon.
Christian Pulisic was back on the pitch in Tuscany, and although his contribution lasted only minutes, his return coincided with a night that could shape Milan’s season and its place in history. The American winger stepped onto the field late in the match, marking his comeback from injury, as the Rossoneri scraped a dramatic victory that kept their title ambitions alive and nudged them closer to an elusive historical benchmark that has stood untouched for decades.
On the surface, it was just another hard-fought league win. Beneath it, Milan quietly edged closer to a milestone that would connect Massimiliano Allegri’s team with one of the greatest eras in the club’s past. The visitors secured a 2-1 victory over Pisa thanks to a late strike from Luka Modric, closing the gap on Serie A leader Inter to five points ahead of the weekend’s high-stakes clash between Inter and Juventus.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring just before halftime with a powerful header, while Niclas Fullkrug failed to convert from the penalty spot. Pisa fought back through Felipe Loyola, threatening to derail the visitors’ title push, before Modric stole into the box and poked home the winner in the closing minutes.
Pulisic returned from bursitis with a 14-minute cameo, a cautious reintroduction after a frustrating spell on the sidelines. Allegri had confirmed before the match that the winger was only fit for limited minutes, which explained his substitute role. Even so, his return carried symbolic weight.
With several attackers still managing fitness issues, his presence was seen as a major boost for Milan’s depth and attacking options as the season enters its decisive phase. More importantly, his comeback aligned with one of the most significant achievements of Allegri’s tenure so far—an achievement that links the present squad with the Rossoneri’s golden past.
By defeating Pisa, Milan extended its unbeaten Serie A run to 23 matches, matching a legendary benchmark that had stood for more than three decades. This result equaled the 23-match unbeaten run from the 1992-93 season under Fabio Capello, one of the most iconic campaigns in Milan’s history. That streak had long been a symbol of dominance, tactical discipline, and elite mentality.
For Allegri’s current squad, drawing level with that record represents a connection between generations, a bridge between modern resilience and historical greatness. Now, Milan stands on the brink of rewriting history. The next league fixture against Como presents an opportunity to surpass Capello’s benchmark with a 24th consecutive unbeaten match, setting a new modern club record.
The symbolism is powerful: a team seeking to reassert itself among Europe’s elite now has the chance to eclipse one of its most celebrated milestones.
The achievements do not stop there. According to Opta, Milan has also equaled its second-best points tally after the first 24 matches in the three-points-for-a-win era, matching campaigns from 1995-96 (53 points) and trailing only the 2003-04 season (61 points). This statistical consistency underlines Allegri’s impact and the club’s steady climb back toward the top of Italian soccer.
2 – #Milan have equalled their second-best performance after their first 24 seasonal matches in the three-points-for-a-win era (1994-95) in #SerieA, recorded in 1995-96 (53 points) and only fewer than the 61 points won in 2003-04. Route.#PisaMilan
— OptaPaolo (@OptaPaolo) February 13, 2026
Trabzon'da gökyüzünden sağanak, sahadan gol fışkırdı! Şampiyonluk yarışını yakından ilgilendiren dev randevuda Trabzonspor ile Fenerbahçe, nefes kesen ilk 45 dakikayı 2-2'lik eşitlikle tamamladı.
Trabzonspor ve Fenerbahçe arasındaki dev randevu, adına yakışır bir şekilde başladı. Sağanak yağışa rağmen iki takım da oyun disiplininden kopmadı. İlk devre tabelada 2-2’lik eşitlikle geçildi. Rakamlar oyunun her iki yöne de ne kadar hızlı gidip geldiğini kanıtlar nitelikte.
TS FB
52% Topla Oynama 48%
0.47 Gol Beklentisi (xG) 0.57
2 Büyük Şans 1
9 Toplam Şut 7
0 Kaleci Kurtarışı 3
5 İsabetli Şut 2
1 Direkten Dönen Şut 0
22 İkili mücadele 15
156 İsabetli Pas 133
Trabzonspor, sadece pas trafiğinde değil, hücum üretkenliğinde de bir adım önde göründü. Trabzonspor: 9 toplam şutun 5’inde isabet buldu. Ederson kalesinde devleşerek 3 kurtarışla takımını oyunda tuttu.
Fenerbahçe 7 şutun sadece 2'sinde isabet bulabildi. Ancak sarı-lacivertlilerin bu iki isabetli şutunun da ağlarla buluşması, bitiricilikteki yüksek verimliliklerini gösteriyor.
Trabzonspor, 22’ye 15’lik ikili mücadele üstünlüğüyle sahanın her bölgesinde daha agresif olan taraftı. Ayrıca Bordo-mavililerin bir şutunun direkten dönmesi, ilk devrenin kırılma anlarından biri olarak kayıtlara geçti.
Fenerbahçe derbisinde baskısını arttıran Trabzonspor, aradığı golü Nijeryalı kulesiyle buldu. İlk iki fırsatı kaçıran ancak pes etmeyen Onuachu, Oosterwolde'nin üzerinden yükselerek ağları sarstı.
Trabzonspor’un kulesi Paul Onuachu, Fenerbahçe kalesi önünde ısrarının meyvesini aldı. İlk iki denemesinde çerçeveyi bulamayan Nijeryalı golcü, üçüncü denemesinde ağları sarsmayı başardı.
Pozisyonda Oosterwolde’nin üzerinden adeta bir dev gibi yükselen Onuachu, yaptığı net vuruşla skoru 2-2’ye taşıdı.
Onuachu yükselirken Hollandalı sol stoper pozisyonu sadece seyretmekle yetindi. Bu golle birlikte Onuachu, bu sezonki toplam gol sayısını 16’ya çıkararak gol krallığı yarışındaki iddiasını sürdürdü.
Gol sonrası heyecan doruğa çıktı. VAR incelemesi beklenirken Onana yönelik itirazları yüzünden sarı kart gördü.
Zirve takibini sürdüren Fenerbahçe, Trabzon deplasmanında Kerem'in golüyle öne geçti. Savunma hatasını affetmeyen yıldız oyuncu, sağanak yağmura rağmen ikonik "Harry Potter" sevinciyle Fenerbahçelileri büyüledi.
Heyecan fırtınası şiddetli yağmur altında devam ederken Fenerbahçe, Trabzon deplasmanında öne geçti. 35'inci dakikada Trabzonspor savunmasında Nwaiwu’nun yaptığı büyük hata pahalıya patladı. Pozisyonu iyi takip eden Kerem, bu hatayı affetmedi. Meşin yuvarlağı ağlarla buluşturdu.
Golün ardından tribünlere koşan Kerem, kendisiyle özdeşleşen ikonik "Harry Potter" sevinciyle taraftarı coşturdu. Sağanak yağmura rağmen tribünlerdeki coşku tavan yaptı. Geçen hafta da Gençlerbirliği'ne 2 gol atmıştı.
Ligin ilk yarılarda en fazla gol atan takımı unvanını koruyan sarı-lacivertliler, bu periyottaki toplam gol sayısını 26'ya yükseltti. Yağmurun şiddetini artırdığı dakikalarda gelen 3'üncü golle birlikte Fenerbahçe öne geçti.
15 dakikada 2 golün atıldığı Trabzonspor-Fenerbahçe maçında Talisca skoru eşitledi. İsmail Yüksek'in tartışmalı pozisyonu ve Meler'in gol kararı Trabzonspor cephesini ayağa kaldırdı!
Futbolseverler Trabzonspor-Fenerbahçe maçında 15 dakika içinde tam 2 gol gördü. Beraberlik golü sezonun yıldızlarından Talisca’dan geldi.
Pozisyonun başlangıcında İsmail Yüksek’in topa elle müdahale ettiği yönünde yoğun itirazlar yükseldi. Hakem oyunu devam ettirirken, savunmadan seken top bir anda ceza sahası içinde boşta kalan Talisca’nın önünde kaldı.
Brezilyalı yıldız affetmedi ve topu ağlara göndererek skoru eşitledi.
Golün ardından saha içi bir anda karıştı. Hakem Halil Umut Meler, VAR incelemesinin ardından gol kararını geçerli saydı. Bu karar sonrası Trabzonspor taraftarları ve oyuncuları, özellikle İsmail Yüksek’in pozisyonuna vurgu yaparak maçın hakemine uzun süre tepki gösterdi.
Derbide 'atamayana atarlar' kanunu işledi! Skriniar ile mutlak bir golden yararlanamayan Fenerbahçe, savunmada Oosterwolde, Skriniar ve Ederson'un zincirleme hatasıyla sarsıldı. Fırsatçılığını konuşturan Muçi, Trabzonspor'u öne geçirdi. Felipe Augusto'ya kramponlarını sildirdi.
Trabzonspor, Fenerbahçe karşısında Muçi ile 1-0 öne geçti. Gol pozisyonu, Fenerbahçe savunmasındaki büyük bir koordinasyon eksikliği sonrası geldi. O
osterwolde, Skriniar ve Ederson’un ortak hatasını affetmeyen Muçi, meşin yuvarlağı ağlarla buluşturarak takımını 1-0 öne geçirdi.
Golün ardından stadyumdaki coşku, futbolcuların kutlamasıyla bambaşka bir boyuta taşındı. Golü atan Muçi, sevincini Augusto’ya ayakkabılarını sildirerek paylaştı.
Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 20. haftasında Beşiktaş GAİN, deplasmanda Bursaspor Basketbol ile karşılaştı. Beşiktaş mücadeleyi 61-88 kazandı.
Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 20. haftasında Beşiktaş GAİN, deplasmanda Bursaspor Basketbol'u 88-61 yendi.
Salon: TOFAŞ
Hakemler: Kerem Baki, Özlem Yalman, Duhan Köyiçi
Bursaspor Basketbol: Childress 7, Parsons 6, Yavuz Gültekin 5, Konontsuk 12, Nnoko 11, Tevfik Akdemir, Bora Satır, Berk Can Akın, Delaurier 5, Crawford 4, Yesukan Onar 2, King 9
Beşiktaş GAİN: Dotson 10, Yiğit Arslan 15, Lemar 2, Anthony Brown 8, Zizic 7, Kagamate 13, Berk Uğurlu 11, Yiğit Çoban, Emir Adıgüzel, Thomas 14, Vitto Brown 8
1. Periyot: 15-25
Devre: 26-43
3. Periyot: 41-68
Milli futbolcu Ozan Kabak'ın gol attığı maçta Hoffenheim, Freiburg'u 3-0 yendi.
Almanya 1. Futbol Ligi'nin (Bundesliga) 22. haftasında milli oyuncu Ozan Kabak'ın gol attığı maçta Hoffenheim, konuk ettiği Freiburg'u 3-0 mağlup etti.
İlk yarısı golsüz sona eren maçta Hoffenheim, 46. dakikada Fisnik Asllani'nin golüyle 1-0 öne geçti. 25 yaşındaki milli stoper Ozan Kabak, 51. dakikadaki kafa golüyle farkı ikiye çıkardı.
Hoffenheim, Valentin Gendrey'in 90+5'teki golüyle 3-0 öne geçti ve maç da bu skorla sona erdi.
Hoffenheim, Bundesliga'da 45 puanla 3. sırada yer alıyor.
Bu gün futzal üzrə Azərbaycan Kubokunda 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 1/8 final mərhələsinin oyunlarına start verilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə dörd qarşılaşma baş tutub.
İlk matçda iki iddialı komanda üz-üzə gəlib. Birinci hissə gərgin keçsə də, “Araz-Naxçıvan” ikinci hissədə oyunun taleyini həll edib. Digər oyunlarda Yüksək Liqa təmsilçiləri olan “Neftçi” və “Lənkəran” asanlıqla qalib gəliblər. Günün son dueli isə gərginliyi ilə yadda qalıb. Nominal qonaqlar ardıcıl 2 qol vursa da, meydan sahibləri qələbə qazanmağı bacarıblar. Beləliklə, “Araz-Naxçıvan”, “Neftçi” İK, “Lənkəran” və “Xan-Lənkəran” 1/4 finala vəsiqə qazanıblar.
Azərbaycan Kubokunda 1/8 final mərhələsinin qalan oyunları fevralın 15-də keçiriləcək.
Qarşılaşmaların hamısı “Olimpik Star”da baş tutacaq.
Futzal, Azərbaycan Kuboku
1/8 final
14 fevral
Baku Fire – Araz-Naxçıvan 1:5
Hakimlər: Knyaz Əmiraslanov, Əli Cəbrayılov, İmran Məhərrəmov.
Hakim-inspektor: Murad Məmmədov.
Neftçi İK – Trabzon Azərbaycan 14:3
Hakimlər: Hidayət Feyzullayev, Anar Fərəcov, Nihad Bağırov.
Hakim-inspektor: Füzuli Nəcəfov.
Lənkəran – Atletiko Baku 17:3
Hakimlər: Hikmət Qafarlı, Vüsal Balaşov, İmran Məhərrəmov.
Hakim-inspektor: Ramiz Əsədov.
Xan-Lənkəran – Dəstə Ordubad 6:3
Hakimlər: Rza Məmmədov, Elgün Hüseynov, Nihad Bağırov.
Hakim-inspektor: Azad Hüseynov.
15 fevral
14:00. Ulduz – Baku Fire-2
Hakimlər: İmran Məhərrəmov, Ramil Namazov, Hidayət Feyzullayev.
Hakim-inspektor: Murad Məmmədov.
16:00. U-19 – Yeni Suraxanı
Hakimlər: Hikmət Qafarlı, Kənan Məlikov, Vüsal Balaşov.
Hakim-inspektor: Elçin Səmədli.
18:00. STAR karqo – Şuşa
Hakimlər: Knyaz Əmiraslanov, Rza Məmmədov, Hidayət Feyzullayev.
Hakim-inspektor: Azad Hüseynov.
20:00. Timsport – PFL
Hakimlər: Əli Cəbrayılov, Mahir Məmmədov, Vüsal Balaşov.
Hakim-inspektor: Əfqan Həmzəyev.
Bu gün keçirilmiş oyunlarla Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasında (ABL) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 17-ci turuna yekun vurulub.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu oyun günündə iki qarşılaşma baş tutub.
Öncə, “Şəki” doğma meydanda “Neftçi” ilə qarşılaşıb. Şəki Olimpiya İdman Kompleksində baş tutmuş görüş Bakı klubunun qələbəsi ilə başa çatıb – 93:77.
Turun son matçı Bakı İdman Sarayında NTD və “Sabah” komandaları arasında baş tutub. Qarşılaşma qrup liderinin 103:87 hesablı qələbəsi ilə başa çatıb.
Daha əvvəl keçirilmiş görüşlərdə “Sərhədçi” “Lənkəran”ı (83:69), “Naxçıvan” “Sumqayıt”ı (110:107), “Abşeron Lions” “Gəncə”ni (81:71), “Ordu” “Quba”nı (98:87) məğlub etmişdi.
Beləliklə, 17 turdan sonra qruplardakı vəziyyət belədir:
A qrupu: Sabah – 33. Abşeron Lions – 32. Neftçi – 25. Gəncə – 25. NTD – 19. Şəki – 19.
B qrupu: Ordu – 33. Naxçıvan – 30. Quba – 23. Sərhədçi – 23. Sumqayıt – 23. Lənkəran – 21.
Xatırladaq ki, ABL oyunları dörd dövrədən və 20 turdan ibarət olacaq. Müntəzəm mövsümün oyunları A və B qruplarına bölünməklə keçirilir. Müntəzəm mövsümdə A qrupunu ilk 3 sırada tamamlamış klublarla yanaşı, B qrupunu lider bitirmiş komanda pley-offun 1/4 final mərhələsinə vəsiqə qazanacaq. A və B qruplarında digər yerləri tutmuş komandalar isə pley-offun 1/8 final mərhələsində üz-üzə gələcəklər. Bu mərhələdə ən tez iki qələbə qazanacaq klublar 1/4 finala yüksələcəklər. Həm 1/4 final, həm də yarımfinal seriyaları 2 qələbəyə qədər davam edəcək.
Final seriyasında isə ən tez 3 qələbə qazanacaq klub Azərbaycan Basketbol Liqasının çempionu olacaq.
Bu gün Premyer Liqa klublarının ikinci komandaları arasında təşkil edilmiş Əvəzedicilər Liqasında 16-cı turun oyunlarına start verilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma baş tutub.
“Sabah”la “Sumqayıt”ın ikinci komandaları arasında keçirilmiş oyunda qapılara qol vurulmayıb.
16-cı turun qalan görüşləri fevralın 16-da və 17-də keçiriləcək.
Əvəzedicilər Liqası
16-cı tur
14 fevral
“Sabah-2” – “Sumqayıt-2” 0:0
Hakimlər: Pərviz İbrahimov, Vüsal Xəlilzadə, İlkin Mustafazadə, Nəriman Ağayev.
Hakim-inspektor: Feyzulla Feyzullayev.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Seymur Səlimli.
“Bayıl Arena”, 14:00.
16 fevral
“Araz-Naxçıvan-2” – “Zirə-2”
Hakimlər: Elçin Abdullayev, Ağadur Mahmudov, Elvin Mədətov, Sənan Bayramzadə.
Hakim-inspektor: Zöhrab Qədiyev.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Bəhram Qurbanov.
Binə qəsəbə stadionu, 14:30.
17 fevral
“Turan Tovuz-2” – “Şamaxı-2”
Hakimlər: Rasim Musayev, Əkbər Əliyev, Əhməd Əhmədsoy, Niyaz Əhmədov.
Hakim-inspektor: Əmrah İbrahimov.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Novruz Əzimov.
Gəncə şəhər stadionu (ehtiyat meydança), 14:00.
“Qarabağ-2” – “Qəbələ-2”
Hakimlər: Nazim Abdullayev, Cavid Ömərov, Hüseyn Vəliyev, Rəsul Babayev.
Hakim-inspektor: Munis Abdullayev.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Yavər Rəhimov.
Binə qəsəbə stadionu, 14:30.
“Neftçi-2” – “Kəpəz-2”
Hakimlər: Ceyhun Hüseynov, Tural Bayramov, Sadiq Əliyev, Nahid Xasıyev.
Hakim-inspektor: Orxan Məmmədov.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Eldəniz Musayev.
“Neftçi Futbol Mərkəzi (4-cü meydança), 15:00.
Paulo Dybala is reportedly out of the Roma squad to face Napoli on Sunday evening, while Matias Soulé should be at least on the bench.
It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
Coach Gian Piero Gasperini had already warned in his press conference earlier today that he had concerns about both Argentine talents in his squad.
According to Sky Sport Italia, Dybala is still struggling with persistent pain in his knee and will not be risked for the big match.
Soulé is by no means fully fit either, as he has recurring groin issue, but is at the very least going to make the trip to Naples.
The Giallorossi are already forced to do without Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy, with Angelino and Robinio Vaz only fit for the bench.
If Soulé is not able to feature from the start, then January signing Bryan Zaragoza will get his full debut.
Edoardo Bove has returned to the field for the first time since the cardiac arrest playing for Fiorentina in December 2024, making his debut for Watford.
The 23-year-old came off the bench for the closing minutes of today’s 2-2 English Championship draw away to Preston North End.
The midfielder came up through the Roma youth academy and was on loan at Fiorentina when he suddenly collapsed during their Serie A match with Inter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
He was revived on the field and rushed to the local hospital, where after tests, he received an implanted cardiac defibrillator.
The Italian rules mean that any athlete with this type of implant is banned from participating in professional sport, which is why Christian Eriksen was forced to leave Inter after a similar situation when representing Denmark at EURO 2024.
Last month, Bove terminated his contract with Roma by mutual consent, and signed for Watford as a free agent.
Como head coach Cesc Fabregas did not hold back in his criticism of striker Alvaro Morata, who was sent off at the end of Como’s surprise 2-1 defeat at home against relegation-threatened Fiorentina on Saturday afternoon: ‘Those who can’t live with it should play another sport’.
Goals from Nicolo Fagioli and Moise Kean gave Fiorentina, who had been in the relegation zone before kick-off, enough to hold onto at the Stadio Sinigaglia, despite a second-half own goal from Fabiano Parisi.
You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Fabregas cut a frustrated figure during his post-match interview with DAZN, criticising his players for their lack of awareness, and Morata for his lack of self-control in the final minutes, which led to his sending off.
“I’m annoyed that I wasn’t able to help the boys understand the importance of the game. I showed them my experience as a footballer during the week, maybe too much, but it wasn’t enough. We’re a young team,” Fabregas said after full-time.
“It wasn’t a football match in the second half. Leaving that aside, the game has to be won with the right motivation and energy. I feel bad as a coach, because I wasn’t able to convey this to my players today. Maybe it was in our heads. We made a mistake in our attitude, we have to show more desire and be better in attack if we want to play our game.
“I didn’t like the first half very much, the second half, I repeat, wasn’t a game of football.”
Fabregas believes that Como’s congested fixture schedule is a benefit after a game like today’s.
“In 72 hours, we’ll play in San Siro and then against Torino, and this is a good thing to look forward to after this game,” he said.
Fabregas did not hold back when asked to comment on Morata’s late sending off. The Spaniard was shown two yellow cards in quick succession for tussles with Rolando Mandragora and then with Marin Pongracic.
“Provocation is part of football, those who can’t live with that should play another sport,” Fabregas said.
“I expect much more from an experienced player like him. We can’t make excuses, though, and we can’t allow for what other people do on the pitch to affect us.”
Paolo Vanoli says that it is ‘not easy for a team like Fiorentina to go from fighting for a European place to fighting for survival, but has expressed his pride at his players after picking up a big 2-1 victory away against Como in Serie A on Saturday afternoon.
The 2025-26 season has been one to forget for Fiorentina, who have found themselves in the bottom four for the vast majority of the campaign.
The Viola managed to lift themselves out of the bottom three on Saturday afternoon thanks to a 2-1 victory away against Como, who had beaten them 3-1 in Tuscany in the Coppa Italia at the end of January. Nicolo Fagioli and Moise Kean were enough for Vanoli’s side to hold onto, despite a second-half own goal from Fabiano Parisi.
You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.
“I congratulate the guys, we played a great game with a lot of sacrifice and showed that with organisation and intensity, we can beat teams like Como,” Vanoli said in his post-match interview with DAZN.
“We have to keep our feet on the ground, keep our heads down and think about the next one, first in the Conference League and then in the league.”
Vanoli was asked what he makes of goalscorer Fagioli and the form that he has been on as of late.
“He has great qualities, he defends well, we are working hard and he is improving a lot, the numbers say so. He made me a bit angry in the first 15 minutes, then he recovered. He has goals in him, he has to arrive with more determination and malice.”
And on the team in general, Vanoli added: “Since I arrived, I’ve tried to get this message of how to achieve safety across. It’s been a difficult transition, it’s not easy for a team like Fiorentina to go from a goal like fighting for European place to fighting for survival.
“We have to have courage and everything I have done, I’ve done to try and find new solutions, because this is a team with lots of quality.”
A new study published in Sexual and Relationship Therapy provides evidence that a person’s tendency to engage in sexual fantasy influences what they prioritize in a romantic kiss. The findings suggest that the mental act of imagining intimate scenarios is strongly linked to placing a higher value on physical arousal and contact during kissing. This research helps explain the psychological connection between cognitive states and physical intimacy.
From an evolutionary perspective, researchers have proposed three main reasons for romantic kissing. The first is “mate assessment,” which means kissing helps individuals subconsciously judge a potential partner’s health and genetic compatibility. The second is “pair bonding,” where kissing serves to maintain an emotional connection and commitment between partners in a long-term relationship.
The third proposed function is the “arousal hypothesis.” This theory suggests that the primary biological purpose of kissing is to initiate sexual arousal and prepare the body for intercourse. While this seems intuitive, previous scientific attempts to prove this hypothesis have failed to find a strong link. Past data did not show that kissing consistently acts as a catalyst for sexual arousal.
The researchers behind the current study argued that these previous attempts were looking at the problem too narrowly. Earlier work focused almost exclusively on the physical sensation of kissing, such as the sensitivity of the lips or the exchange of saliva. This approach largely ignored the mental and emotional state of the person doing the kissing. The researchers hypothesized that the physical act of kissing might not be arousing on its own without a specific cognitive component. They proposed that sexual fantasy serves as this missing link.
“People have tested three separate hypotheses to explain why we engage in romantic kissing as a species,” said study author Christopher D. Watkins, a senior lecturer in psychology at Abertay University. “At the time there had been no evidence supporting the arousal hypothesis for kissing – that kissing may act as an important catalyst for sex. This may be because these studies focussed on the sensation of kissing as the catalyst, when psychological explanations are also important (e.g., the mental motives for kissing which in turn makes intimacy feel pleasurable/desirable).”
To test this idea, the researchers designed an online study to measure the relationship between fantasy proneness and kissing preferences. They recruited a sample of 412 adults, primarily from the United Kingdom and Italy. After removing participants who did not complete all sections or meet the age requirements, the final analysis focused on 212 individuals. This group was diverse in terms of relationship status, with about half of the participants reporting that they were in a long-term relationship.
Participants completed a series of standardized questionnaires. The first was the “Good Kiss Questionnaire,” which asks individuals to rate the importance of various factors when deciding if someone is a good kisser. These factors included sensory details like the taste of the partner’s lips, the pleasantness of their breath, and the “wetness” of the kiss. The questionnaire also included items related to “contact and arousal,” asking how important physical touching and the feeling of sexual excitement were to the experience.
The scientists also administered the “Sexual Fantasy Questionnaire.” They specifically focused on the “intimacy” subscale, which measures how often a person engages in daytime fantasies about romantic interactions with a partner. This measure was distinct from fantasies that occur during sexual acts or while dreaming. It focused on the mental habit of imagining intimacy during everyday life.
To ensure their results were precise, the researchers included control measures. They measured “general creative experiences” to assess whether a person was simply imaginative in general. This allowed the scientists to determine if the results were driven specifically by sexual fantasy rather than just a vivid imagination. They also measured general sexual desire to see if the effects were independent of a person’s overall sex drive.
The results supported the researchers’ primary prediction. The analysis showed a positive correlation between daytime intimate fantasy and the importance placed on arousal and contact in a good kiss. Individuals who reported a higher tendency to fantasize about intimacy were much more likely to define a “good kiss” as one that includes high levels of physical contact and sexual arousal.
“Your tendency to think and fantasise about intimacy during the day is related to the qualities you associate with a good-quality kiss,” Watkins told PsyPost. “Specifically, the importance we attach to contact and arousal while kissing. As such, our mental preoccupations could facilitate arousal when in close contact with an intimate partner – explaining personal differences in how we approach partners during intimate encounters.”
This relationship held true even after the researchers statistically controlled for other variables. The link between fantasy and kissing preferences remained significant regardless of the participant’s general creativity levels. This suggests that the connection is specific to sexual and romantic cognition, not just a byproduct of having a creative mind.
Additionally, the finding was independent of general sexual desire. While people with higher sex drives did generally value arousal more, the specific habit of fantasizing contributed to this preference over and above general desire. This implies that the mental act of simulating intimacy creates a specific psychological context. This context appears to shape what a person expects and desires from the physical act of kissing.
The study also yielded secondary findings regarding kissing styles. The researchers looked at “reproductive potential,” which they measured by asking participants about their history of sexual partners relative to their peers. This is often used in evolutionary psychology as a proxy for mating strategy. The data showed that individuals with a history of more sexual partners placed greater importance on “technique” in a good kiss. Specifically, they valued synchronization, or whether the partner’s kissing style matched their own.
“One unplanned relationship found in the data was between the importance people placed on technique (e.g., synchronicity) in a good kiss and the extent to which people reported tending to have sex with different people across their relationship history (compared to average peer behavior),” Watkins said. “This may suggest that people who seek sexual variety also seek some form of similarity in partners while intimate (kissing style). This was a small effect though that we would like others to examine/replicate independently in their own studies.”
As with all research, there are some limitations. The research used a cross-sectional design, meaning it captured data from participants at a single point in time. As a result, the researchers cannot prove that fantasizing causes a change in kissing preferences. It is largely possible that the relationship works in the reverse direction, or that a third factor influences both.
The sample was also heavily skewed toward Western cultures, specifically the UK and Italy. Romantic kissing is not a universal human behavior and is observed in less than half of known cultures. Consequently, these findings may not apply to cultures where kissing is not a standard part of romantic or sexual rituals.
Future research could address these issues by using longitudinal designs. Scientists could follow couples over time to see how the relationship between fantasy and physical intimacy evolves. This would help clarify whether increasing intimate fantasy can lead to a more revitalized physical connection.
“We are looking to develop our testing instruments to explore other experiences related to kissing, and expand our studies on this topic – for example, by establishing clear cause and effect between our thoughts/fantasies and later kissing behaviors or other behaviors reported during close contact with romantic partners,” Watkins said.
The study, “Proclivity for sexual fantasy accounts for differences in the perceived components of a ‘good kiss’,” was authored by Milena V. Rota and Christopher D. Watkins.
New research suggests that the distinctive cognitive traits associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, may provide a specific advantage in how people tackle creative challenges. A study conducted by psychologists found that individuals reporting high levels of ADHD symptoms are more likely to solve problems through sudden bursts of insight rather than through methodical analysis.
These findings indicate that while ADHD is often defined by its deficits, the condition may also facilitate a unique style of thinking that bypasses conscious logic to reach a solution. The results were published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition typically characterized by difficulty maintaining focus, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. These symptoms are often viewed through the lens of executive function deficits. Executive function refers to the brain’s management system. It acts like an air traffic controller that directs attention, filters out distractions, and keeps mental processes organized.
When this system works efficiently, a person can focus on a specific task and block out irrelevant information. However, researchers have long hypothesized that a “leaky” attention filter might have a hidden upside. If the brain does not filter out irrelevant information efficiently, it may allow remote ideas and associations to enter conscious awareness. This broader associative net could theoretically help a person connect seemingly unrelated concepts.
To test this theory, a team of researchers led by Hannah Maisano and Christine Chesebrough, along with senior author John Kounios, designed an experiment to measure problem-solving styles. Maisano is a doctoral student at Drexel University, and Chesebrough is a researcher at the Feinstein Institutes for Biomedical Research. They collaborated with Fengqing Zhang and Brian Daly of Drexel University and Mark Beeman of Northwestern University.
The researchers recruited 299 undergraduate students to participate in an online study. The team did not limit the study to individuals with a formal medical diagnosis. Instead, they asked all participants to complete the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale. This is a standard survey used to measure the frequency and severity of symptoms such as inattention and hyperactivity. This approach allowed the scientists to examine the effects of these traits across a full spectrum of severity.
The core of the experiment involved a test known as the Compound Remote Associates task. Psychologists frequently use this task to measure convergent thinking, which is the ability to find a single correct answer to a problem. In this test, participants view three words that appear unrelated. Their goal is to find a fourth word that creates a familiar compound word or phrase with each of the three.
For example, a participant might see the words “pine,” “crab,” and “sauce.” The correct answer is “apple,” which forms “pineapple,” “crabapple,” and “applesauce.” The participants attempted to solve sixty of these puzzles.
After each successful solution, the participants reported how they arrived at the answer. They had to choose between two distinct cognitive styles. The first style is analysis. This involves a deliberate, step-by-step search for the answer. It is a conscious and slow process. The second style is insight. This is often described as an “Aha!” moment. It occurs when the solution pops into awareness suddenly and surprisingly, often after the person has stopped actively trying to force a result.
The data revealed a distinct pattern in how different groups approached the puzzles. Participants who reported the highest levels of ADHD symptoms relied heavily on insight. They were statistically significantly more likely to solve the problems through sudden realization than through step-by-step logic.
In contrast, the participants with the lowest levels of ADHD symptoms displayed a different profile. This group used a balance of both insight and analysis to find the answers. They did not favor one method overwhelmingly over the other.
“We found that individuals reporting the strongest ADHD symptoms relied significantly more on insight to solve problems,” said Maisano. “They appear to favor unconscious, associative processing that can produce sudden creative breakthroughs.”
The researchers also analyzed the total number of problems solved correctly by each group. This analysis produced an unexpected U-shaped curve. The group with the highest symptoms and the group with the lowest symptoms both performed very well. They solved the most puzzles overall. However, the participants in the middle of the spectrum performed the worst.
This U-shaped result suggests that high and low levels of executive control lead to success through different routes. People with high executive control can effectively use analytical strategies. They can systematically test words until they find a match. People with low executive control, such as those with high ADHD symptoms, struggle with that systematic approach. However, their tendency toward unfocused thought allows their brains to stumble upon the answer unconsciously.
The individuals in the middle appear to be at a disadvantage in this specific context. They may not have enough executive control to be highly effective at analysis. Simultaneously, they may have too much control to allow their minds to wander freely enough for frequent insight.
Kounios explains the implication of this finding. “Our results show that having strong ADHD symptoms can mean being a better creative problem-solver than most people, that is, than people who have low to moderate ADHD symptoms.”
The study aligns with the concept of dual-process theories of thought. Psychologists often distinguish between Type 1 and Type 2 processing. Type 1 processing is fast, automatic, and unconscious. It is the engine behind intuitive insight. Type 2 processing is slow, effortful, and conscious. It drives analytical reasoning.
ADHD symptoms are generally associated with a weakness in Type 2 processing. The effort required to maintain focus and manipulate information in working memory is often impaired. The researchers argue that this deficit in Type 2 processing forces—or perhaps allows—individuals with ADHD symptoms to rely on Type 1 processing.
This reliance on Type 1 processing is not merely a compensation strategy. It appears to be a robust pathway to solution in its own right. The high-symptom group did not just fail to analyze; they succeeded through insight. The regression analyses performed by the team showed that as ADHD symptoms increased, the probability of using analysis dropped, while the probability of using insight rose.
“Being both very high or very low in executive control can be beneficial for creative problem-solving, but you get to the right answer in different ways,” said Chesebrough.
Kounios and his colleagues emphasize that these findings challenge the traditional view of ADHD as purely a disorder of deficits. While the condition certainly presents challenges in environments that require rigid focus and organization, it offers advantages in situations that demand creative connections.
The study does have limitations. It relied on a sample of university students rather than a broader slice of the general population. Additionally, the study used self-reported symptoms rather than clinical diagnoses confirmed by a physician. It is possible that other undiagnosed conditions could have influenced the results.
The researchers also note that they excluded participants who reported poor sleep or substance use, as these factors can impair cognitive performance. Future research will need to replicate these findings with larger groups and formally diagnosed clinical populations to confirm the robustness of the U-shaped performance curve.
Despite these caveats, the research offers a new perspective on neurodiversity in the context of problem-solving. It suggests that the cognitive profile associated with ADHD is not simply a broken version of “normal” cognition. Instead, it represents a different functional organization of the brain. This organization favors spontaneous processing over deliberate control.
Understanding this strength could help educators and employers create environments that harness the natural abilities of individuals with ADHD. Rather than forcing these individuals to adopt analytical strategies that do not fit their cognitive style, it may be more effective to encourage their intuitive approaches.
“Understanding these strengths could help people harness their natural problem-solving style in school, work and everyday life,” said Kounios.
The study, “ADHD symptom magnitude predicts creative problem-solving performance and insight versus analysis solving modes,” was authored by Hannah Maisano, Christine Chesebrough, Fengqing Zhang, Brian Daly, Mark Beeman, and John Kounios.
The post Solana (SOL) Price Prediction 2026, 2027-2030: Technical Outlook and Long-Term Forecast appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Solana (SOL) is trading at a moment where valuation and velocity have sharply diverged. At roughly $84, the market is pricing SOL as if growth has stalled, yet network throughput remains among the highest across Layer-1 ecosystems, validator distribution remains stable, and ecosystem development activity continues to expand. The chart currently reflects structural weakness, but cyclical compression.
Technically, SOL is coiling within a descending channel while repeatedly defending a historically reactive demand band in the $75–$85 range. This configuration, prolonged compression at support with declining volatility, often precedes expansion phases rather than extended downside. With February already halfway through 2026, the market now faces a decisive structural test.
| Cryptocurrency | Solana |
| Token | SOL |
| Price | $88.0362
 3.81%
|
| Market Cap | $ 50,000,890,772.62 |
| 24h Volume | $ 2,849,644,118.6003 |
| Circulating Supply | 567,958,097.0634 |
| Total Supply | 620,391,664.9140 |
| All-Time High | $ 294.3349 on 19 January 2025 |
| All-Time Low | $ 0.5052 on 11 May 2020 |
As of mid-February, Solana continues to respect a lower boundary support zone that previously acted as accumulation during prior cycles. Solana price recently wicked below short-term moving averages before reclaiming them intraday, suggesting that buyers are actively absorbing supply near $80. However, momentum indicators are flattening after extended bearish pressure, while volume has begun to show subtle expansion on bounce attempts. If SOL sustains above $90 and reclaims the mid-channel resistance near $110, a recovery toward the $130–$150 liquidity cluster becomes technically feasible within the coming weeks.
A failure to hold the $75 support zone would expose SOL to a temporary sweep toward $65, a region aligning with prior breakout structure from the previous cycle. At present, price behavior indicates stabilization rather than breakdown.
The broader 2026 outlook will likely depend on whether Solana can break decisively above its descending channel and reclaim the 200-day moving average with sustained volume. If the first half of 2026 transitions from compression to breakout, SOL could progressively build higher lows and challenge macro resistance levels around $180 and $240.
A confirmed breakout above $240 would invalidate the broader corrective structure and reopen the pathway toward $320–$350. In a sustained bullish macro environment, particularly if Bitcoin dominance rotates into high-beta Layer-1 assets, Solana has the structural capacity to extend toward the $450–$500 range by late 2026. That target aligns with historical expansion multiples seen in previous cycle recoveries. Conversely, if liquidity conditions remain tight and macro resistance zones reject price repeatedly, SOL may consolidate between $70 and $180 for an extended period before staging a delayed breakout.
| Year | Potential Low ($) | Potential Average ($ | Potential High ($) |
| 2026 | 70 | 200 | 500 |
| 2027 | 180 | 320 | 600 |
| 2028 | 300 | 420 | 720 |
| 2029 | 500 | 750 | 1000 |
| 2030 | 880 | 1200 | 1400 |
In 2026, Solana price could project a low price of $70.00, an average price of $200, and a high of $500.
As per the Solana Price Prediction 2027, Solana may see a potential low price of $180. The potential high for Solana price in 2027 is estimated to reach $600.
In 2028, Solana price is forecasted to potentially reach a low price of $300 and a high price of $720.
Thereafter, the Solana (Solana) price for the year 2029 could range between $500 and $1000.
Finally, in 2030, the price of Solana is predicted to maintain a steady positive. It may trade between $880 and $1400.
The long-term projection assumes Solana sustains relevance in enterprise blockchain use cases, with growth moderating over time as the asset matures.
| Year | Potential Low ($) | Potential Average ($) | Potential High ($) |
| 2031 | 1200 | 1500 | 1800 |
| 2032 | 1600 | 2000 | 2300 |
| 2033 | 1900 | 2400 | 3000 |
| 2040 | 3200 | 4800 | 5000 |
| 2050 | 5500 | 7500 | 10000 |
| Year | 2026 | 2027 | 2030 |
| Changelly | $220.00 | $350 | $500 |
| CoinCodex | $350.00 | $400 | $600 |
| WalletInvestor | $300.00 | $450 | $550 |
Coinpedia’s price prediction for Solana highlights that if SOL holds the $75–$80 and reclaims $120 mark during the first half of 2026, the probability of a broader expansion toward $500 by year-end strengthens considerably. Over the longer term, if ecosystem development and liquidity growth persist, SOL could gradually position itself toward $1,400 by 2030 under favorable macro conditions.
| Year | Potential Low ($) | Potential Average ($) | Potential High ($) |
| 2026 | 70 | 200 | 500 |
Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more.
If SOL holds $75–$85 and breaks $240 with strong volume, 2026 targets range from $200 average to a possible $500 high in a bullish cycle.
Under strong macro and ecosystem growth, Solana could reach a high of around $1,400 by 2030, with $880 as a projected floor.
If adoption expands and the network matures, projections suggest SOL could trade between $3,200 and $5,000 by 2040.
Long-term models estimate SOL could range between $5,500 and $10,000 by 2050 if usage, liquidity, and demand steadily grow.
“Barselona”nın futbolçusu Rafinya kollektiv məşqlərə başlayıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə AS nəşri məlumat yayıb. Braziliyalı hücumçu şans veriləcəyi halda, La Liqada “Jirona” ilə matçda meydana çıxa bilər.
Komandanın digər futbolçusu Markus Reşford isə hələ tam hazır deyil.
“Jirona” – “Barselona” oyunu fevralın 16-da keçiriləcək.
“Kəpəz” klubunun İdarə Heyətinin üzvü Fərman Əlizadənin “Futbolpress.az“a müsahibəsi:
– Gəncə stadionu ilə bağlı vəziyyət nə yerdədir?
– İlk növbədə ölkə başçısı, müzəffər Ali Baş Komandan cənab İlham Əliyevə klubumuz və azarkeşlər adından təşəkkür edirik. Məhz Prezidentin sərəncamı ilə stadionun inşası “Kəpəz”in inkişafı üçün böyük təkandır. Stadionun tikintisi Gənclər və İdman Nazirliyinə həvalə olunub və gördüyünüz kimi qısa müddətdə böyük iş görülüb. Fors-major hal baş verməzsə, hər zaman klubların yanında olan AFFA və PFL-in dəstəyi ilə ilk ev oyunumuzun may ayında keçirilməsi planlaşdırılır.
– “Kəpəz”ə gələrkən qarşınıza qoyduğunuz əsas məqsəd və hədəf nə idi?
– Mən özüm də Gəncədə doğulub, burada böyümüşəm. “Kəpəz” uşaqlıqdan azarkeşlik etdiyim komandadır. Doğma şəhərimin doğma klubuna dəstək olmaq təklifi olundu və mən də bunu böyük məmnuniyyətlə qəbul etdim. “Kəpəz” böyük tarixə, zəngin ənənələrə və güclü azarkeş bazasına malik klubdur. İlk mərhələdə prioritetimiz Premyer Liqada mövqeyimizi qorumaq, paralel olaraq isə struktur baxımından davamlı inkişaf üçün möhkəm baza formalaşdırmaq idi.
– Yeni mövsümün startından klubda hansı işlər görülüb?
– Akademiya ilə əsas komanda arasında koordinasiya gücləndirilib. Eyni zamanda infrastrukturun mərhələli şəkildə yaxşılaşdırılması istiqamətində işlər davam etdirilir. Qürurverici haldır ki, struktur dəyişiklikləri nəticəsində Azərbaycan futbol klubları arasında ilk qadın klub meneceri məhz “Kəpəz”də fəaliyyət göstərir. Səbinə Hənifəyeva bu işin öhdəsindən yüksək səviyyədə və layiqincə gəlir. Klub da onun fəaliyyətini yüksək qiymətləndirir.
– Bu mövsüm komanda Premyer Liqada qalmaq uğrunda mübarizə aparır. Növbəti mövsüm üçün plan nədir?
– Mövsümün əvvəlində hədəflərimiz daha fərqli idi. Təəssüf ki, start istədiyimiz kimi alınmadı. Sonradan müəyyən dəyişikliklər etdik. Azər Bağırov komandaya qayıtdıqdan sonra yeni transferlər reallaşdırıldı. Yusif İmanov, Rauf Hüseynli, Mate Abuladze, Veysəl Rzayev, Rəhman Hacıyev və Camal Cəfərov baş məşqçimizin istəyi ilə komandaya cəlb olundular. Bir sıra oyunçularla isə yollar ayrıldı. Mövsümün qalan hissəsində əsas hədəf sabitliyi qorumaqdır. Kubokda isə bacardığımız qədər irəliləmək istəyirik. Komandamıza inanırıq. Baş məşqçimiz, yerli futbolçularımız və ümumilikdə kollektivin hər bir üzvünün qarşıya qoyulan hədəflərə çatmaq üçün maksimum çalışacağına əminik. Növbəti mövsümdə isə daha rəqabətədavamlı kollektiv formalaşdırmaq və turnir cədvəlində yuxarı pillələr uğrunda mübarizə aparmaq niyyətindəyik. Addımlarımız mərhələli və real plan əsasında atılır.
– Veysəl Rzayevin vəziyyəti necədir və onunla bağlı plan nədir?
– Klubun İnfrastruktur rəhbəri Ruslan Məmmədov, baş məşqçimiz Azər Bağırov və komanda üzvləri mütəmadi olaraq Veysəl Rzayevi ziyarət edirlər. Əsas məqsədimiz onun tam sağalaraq ayağa qalxmasıdır. Ümid edirik ki, Veysəl tezliklə yaşıl meydanlara qayıdacaq.
– Cefferson Bentu ilə bağlı vəziyyət nə yerdədir?
– Təəssüf ki, Cefferson Bentu klub qarşısında olan öhdəliklərini yerinə yetirməyib və qış fasiləsindən sonra komandanın düşərgəsinə qayıtmayıb. Bununla bağlı artıq FIFA-ya müraciət etmişik. FIFA-nın qaydalarına uyğun olaraq hüquqi proses başlanılıb. Onun gedişi seleksiya planlarımızda dəyişiklik etməyə məcbur etdi. Bu səbəbdən baş məşqçi Azər Bağırovun istəyi ilə Mate Abuladze komandaya dəvət olundu.
– Akademiyanın inkişafı ilə bağlı hansı planlar var?
– Akademiya klubun gələcəyidir. Seçim mexanizmi gücləndirilir. Ötən ay növbəti seleksiya məşqləri keçirilib və bu seleksiya nəticəsində aşağı yaş qrupları üzrə komandalara uşaqlar cəlb olunub. Məşqçilərin ixtisasartırması və kateqoriyalarının yüksəldilməsi prioritetdir. Texniki bazanın təkmilləşdirilməsi istiqamətində də işlər görülür. Məqsədimiz əsas komandaya mütəmadi olaraq akademiya yetirmələri qazandırmaqdır. Qış təlim-məşq toplanışı çərçivəsində keçirdiyimiz iki yoxlama görüşündə “Kəpəz”in 10-dan çox yetirməsi şans qazanıb. Bu hal klubumuzda uzun illər qeydə alınmırdı. Bu fakt əsas komanda ilə akademiya arasında əlaqələrin möhkəmləndiyini və sistemli işin artıq nəticə verməyə başladığını göstərir.
– Uzun illərdir milli komandaya dəvət olmur. Bu ənənənin bərpası üçün nə edilir?
– Bu istiqamətdə işlər aparılır. Artıq akademiyamızın futbolçuları aşağı yaş qrupları üzrə milli komandalara dəvət almağa başlayıblar. Bu, görülən işlərin real nəticəsidir. Ümid edirik ki, yaxın illərdə onları əsas milli komandanın heyətində də görəcəyik. Gələcəkdə Akademiyaya performans və fiziki hazırlıq üzrə mütəxəssislərin cəlb olunması da nəzərdə tutulub. Məqsədimiz futbolçuların fərdi inkişafını daha peşəkar səviyyəyə qaldırmaqdır.
– Maliyyə sabitliyi və sponsorluq məsələləri ilə bağlı hansı addımlar atılıb?
– Bildiyiniz kimi, ilk dəfədir ki, “Kəpəz”in titul sponsoru var. Bu münasibətlə “Unibank”a təşəkkür edirik. Onlarla yeni layihələr üzərində işləyirik və əməkdaşlığımızı daha da genişləndirməyi planlaşdırırıq. Ümumilikdə büdcə planlaması daha sistemli şəkildə qurulub. Paralel olaraq yeni tərəfdaşların cəlb olunması istiqamətində danışıqlar aparılır. Məqsədimiz uzunmüddətli və qarşılıqlı faydalı əməkdaşlıqlar qurmaqdır. Klubun brend dəyərinin artırılması sponsor marağını da yüksəldir.
– Akademiya üçün yeni layihələr nəzərdə tutulurmu?
– Akademiya yeni məşq inventarları və forma dəsti ilə təmin olunub. Futbolçuların məşq etdiyi stadionda mövcud olan natamam işlər mərhələli şəkildə aradan qaldırılır. Ərazidə hasarların hörülməsi artıq yekunlaşdırılıb. Stadion ərazisində yeni sanitar qovşağı inşa olunub və qızlar və oğlanlar üçün ayrıca nəzərdə tutulub. Bundan əlavə, Akademiyanın məşq meydançasında işıqlandırma sisteminin qurulmasına başlanılıb. Uzun illər işıqlandırmanın olmaması səbəbindən axşam saatlarında məşq keçmək mümkün deyildi və bu, futbolçuların inkişafına mənfi təsir göstərirdi. Yeni sistemin quraşdırılması ilə bu problem aradan qaldırılacaq və məşqlər daha əlverişli şəraitdə, daha geniş zaman intervalında keçiriləcək. Bundan başqa, Akademiya üçün oyun vaxtı istifadə ediləcək soyunub-geyinmə otağının tikintisi və əlavə sanitar qovşağın inşası nəzərdə tutulub. Yaxın gələcəkdə süni meydançanın dəyişdirilməsi də planlarımız sırasındadır.
– Akademiyadan əsas komandaya keçid mexanizmi necə qurulacaq?
– Perspektivli futbolçular artıq əsas komandanın məşqlərinə cəlb olunur. Məşqçilər heyəti ilə koordinasiya gücləndirilib. İdarə Heyətinin sədri Adil Vəliyevlə keçirilən görüşdə baş məşqçimiz Azər Bağırovun qarşısına akademiya ilə bağlı konkret tapşırıqlar qoyulub və o da planlarının klub strategiyası ilə tam uyğun olduğunu bildirib. Baş məşqçimiz mütəmadi olaraq aşağı yaş qruplarının məşqlərini və matçlarını izləyir. Yoxlama oyunlarında akademiya üzvlərinə şans verilməsi də bu sistemli yanaşmanın tərkib hissəsidir.
– Azarkeşlərlə bağlı hansı planlar var?
– “Kəpəz” azarkeşsiz təsəvvür olunmur. “Xəmsə” və “Kəpəz Ultras” kimi uzun illər tribunada və komandanın yanında olan və yeni yaradılan “Zona 20” kimi üç böyük azarkeş qrupumuz var. Onlar nəticədən asılı olmayaraq hər zaman klubun yanındadırlar. Bu dəstək klubumuz üçün böyük stimuldur. Ev oyunlarını Gəncədə keçirəcəyimiz vaxt onların dəstəyinə daha çox ehtiyacımız olacaq və inanırıq ki, arena tam dolacaq.
– “Kəpəz”in veteranlarla bağlı nə deyə bilərsiz?
– Veteranlar “Kəpəz”in tarixidir. Klubun ən böyük uğurları onların adları ilə bağlıdır. Onların dəstəyinə hər zaman ehtiyacımız var. Veterlarla arasında Akademiyamızda fəaliyyət göstərənləri də var. Onlar klubumuzun aşağı yaş qruparndan ibarət komandalarda məşqçilər heyətində yer alıblar. Bundan başqa, klubun nəzdnində “Gəncə futbol əfsanələri” şurası da yaradılıb. Bu şuraya komandanın formasını geyinən bütün veteranlar üzv seçilib. Onlarla bağlı da planlarımız var. Bu ayın sonunda görüşümüz olacaq. Ev oyunlarımızı doğma stadionumuzda keçirəndə onlar üçün də xüsusi tribuna ayrılacaq və “Kəpəz”in matçlarını izləmələri üçün şərait yaradılacaq.
– Qarşıda sizi 2 çətin matç gözləyir. “Neftçi” və “Sabah” oyunları ilə bağlı gözləntiləriniz?
– Rəqibdən asılı olmayaraq baş məşqçi və futbolçularımızın hədəfi əzmkar oyun göstərib, qələbə qazanmaqdır. “Neftçi” ənənəsi olan köklü bir komandadır. Güclü heyətə malikdirlər. Onlarla oyunumuz hər zaman gərgin idman mübarizəsi şəraitində keçib. “Sabah” da artıq tarix yazmağa başlayır. Ötən mövsüm Azərbaycan kubokunu qazanmaları bunun sübutudur. Hazırda isə Premyer Liqada turnir cədvəlinin ilk pilləsində qərarlaşıblar və uğurlu mövsüm keçirirlər. Bütün bunlara rəğmən bildirdiyim kimi hədəfimiz hər oyunda layiqli mübarizə aparıb, maksuimum nəticə qazanmaqdır.
Şahin Cəfərov
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının XX turunun “Zirə” – “Karvan-Yevlax” oyunundan (1:0) sonra qonaq komandanın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb…
– Çox maraqlı oyun oldu. Meydanda mübarizə getdi. Hər iki komanda yaxşı oyun sərgilədi. Bilirik ki, “Zirə” yaxşı komandadır, amma bu gün biz də yaxşı oynadıq. Standart vəziyyətdən qol buraxdıq. Hesabı bərabərləşdirməyə çalışsaq da, alınmadı. Rəqibi təbrik edirəm, növbəti matça hazırlaşacağıq.
– Qavi Tompson meydandan çıxanda qərara etiraz etdi…
– Hər futbolçu oyunu alınmayanda stressdə olur. Qavinin də davranışı normaldır. Emosional idi. Daha sonra hərəkətini başa düşdü
– Artıq neçənci dəfədir ki, ilk hissədə əvəzetməyə gedirsiz. Bu, nə ilə bağlıdır?
– “Sumqayıt”la matçda Raufun oyunu pis alınmırdı. Müdafiədə problemlər var idi, məcburiyyətdən onu əvəzlədik. Bu gün də hesabda geridə idik. Qavi yarımmüdafiəçidir, Kinqs isə hücumameyillidir. Biz futbolçuların zəif çıxışına görə yox, hücumda effektiv olmaq dəyişiklik üçün edirik. Taktiki gedişlərdir.
– Birinci hissədə potensial penalti epizodu var idi. Epizoda baxdız, fikirləriniz nədir?
– Baxdım. VAR-da oturanlar da baxırlar. Dirsək var idi, amma necə dəyərləndirirlər, bilmirəm. Hakimlər bizdən daha biliklidir.
– Ötən oyunda da rəqibinizə aşkar qırmızı vərəqə verilməmişdi. Sizcə, sonuncu pillədə olduğunuza görə, hakimlər sizə qeyri-ciddi yanaşırlar?
– Mübarizə aparırıq, əziyyət çəkirik. Hər oyuna qələbə üçün çıxırıq, amma belə epizodlar bizi məyus edir. Hakimlər daha diqqətli olmalıdırlar. Hansısa səhv bizi Premyer Liqadan sala bilər. İstəyim odur ki, hakimlər bizim matçlarda çox diqqətli olsunlar.
Şahin Cəfərov
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının XX turunun “Zirə” – “Karvan-Yevlax” oyunundan (1:0) sonra meydan sahibi komandanın baş məşqçisi Rəşad Sadıqov jurnalistlərin suallarını cavablandırıb.
Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, mütəxəssis əvvəlcə görüşlə bağlı fikirlərini bölüşüb…
– Gərgin oyun olacağını bilirdik. Rəqibimiz hər oyuna “ölüm-qalım” mübarizəsi ilə çıxır. Hər xal onlar üçün çox önəmlidir. Bilirdik ki, qarşımızda möhkəm komanda olacaq. Müdafiə davranışları fərqli idi, daha kompakt oynadılar. Oyunboyu yaxşı hücumlarımız var idi. 2-ci və ya 3-cü qolu vursaydıq, matç daha rahat keçərdi. Amma vacib olan odur ki, qalib gəldik. Rəqibə qol epizodu vermədik. Futbolçularımı təbrik edirəm. Çox vacib və stressli görüşdə qələbə qazandıq.
– Anatoli Nuriyevin transferi necə alındı?
– Bəyəndiyim futbolçulardan idi. “Sabah”a müraciət etdik və buna “hə” dedilər. Nuriyevin keçidinə razı oldular. Bizim üçün vacib transfer idi. Buna görə “Sabah”a təşəkkür edirəm. Yaxından və yaxşı tanıdığım oyunçudur. Son vaxtlarda az oynayıb. Amma zamanla daha yaxşı formaya düşəcək.
– Bu heyət hədəflərə çatmağa imkan verəcək?
– İstədiyimiz ən azından avrokuboklara düşməkdir. İki komanda çempionluq, digər beş komanda isə avrokuboklara vəsiqə üçün mübarizə aparır. Komandaların yaxşı heyətləri var, yaxşı performans göstərirlər. İstədiyimizi nə qədər reallaşdıracağıq, onu zaman göstərəcək. Ən vacib olan zədəlilərimizin az olması, futbolçuların yaxşı formada olmasıdır.
Şahin Cəfərov
Manchester City entertained Salford City at the Etihad Stadium earlier today as they hoped to secure a good result at home in the FA Cup. Pep Guardiola’s men made a bright start to the game and got their noses ahead in the sixth minute due to Alfie Dorrington’s unfortunate own goal. The Mancunian giants went into the half-time break 1-0 up on the scoreline.
Marc Guehi doubled his side’s advantage in the 81st minute. The contest ended with Man City securing a solid 2-0 win at the Etihad.
Let’s take a look at how each Manchester City player fared during the clash against Salford City.
Trafford made one solid save at the back and kept an important clean sheet this afternoon.
RB: Abdukodir Khusanov – 6.5/10
He did what was required when defending inside his half.
CB: John Stones – 6/10
Stones looked a bit shaky on the defensive end of the field and did enough to secure the clean sheet.
CB: Max Alleyne – 6.5/10
Alleyne dealt with the danger when the opposition were on the front foot.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 14: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, looks on prior to the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester City and Salford City at Etihad Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)
LB: Rayan Ait-Nouri – 6.5/10
He performed his defensive duties well and was good on the ball.
CM: Rico Lewis – 6/10
Lewis put in a hard-working performance at the centre of the park.
CM: Nico Gonzalez – 6.5/10
He retained possession well in midfield but failed to make a difference in the final third.
RW: Phil Foden – 6/10
Foden failed to get a foothold in the game and was replaced after the hour mark.
CAM: Tijjani Reijnders – 6/10
He managed to shine at times but lacked quality on the offensive end of the field.
LW: Rayan Cherki – 6/10
Cherki caused some headaches for his marker but failed to register a goal.
ST: Omar Marmoush – 6.5/10
He got himself into some dangerous areas in the final third but failed to find the back of the net.
Substitutes:
RW: Ryan McAidoo – 6.5/10
He put in a good shift on the defensive end of the field.
CB: Marc Guehi – 7/10
Guehi managed to score in the 81st minute.
RW: Antoine Semenyo – 6.5/10
He was a constant menace in the final third.
CM: Nico O’Reilly – 7/10
O’Reilly was solid at the back.
CM: Rodri – 6/10
Mainz 05 head coach Urs Fischer made clear that his entire team maintained his full support despite last night’s lopsided result against Borussia Dortmund. After all, the 4-0 away defeat to BVB hardly constituted the end of the world. The loss snapped Mainz’s three-match Bundesliga winning streak. Thanks to the points picked up under Fischer, however, the Rheinhessen still sit comfortably above the relegation fray.
A 1.51 xG to Dortmund’s 2.32 meant that the scoreline remained misleading. Fischer declared himself satisfied with the squad’s performance, emphasizing as much repeatedly at the post-match press conference. The coach effectively conceded that nothing more could have been done; not after he and his staff had prepared as best as possible.
“I saw a really good first half from my team,” Fischer remarked at the press conference. “It was evenly matched over the first 45 minutes. We obviously need to learn how to defend better on set-pieces. We needed to use our bodies more effectively and get the positioning down better. We studied Dortmund’s set plays extensively, but, in the end the set-pieces were the differences. One has to defend better in those situations.
The veteran back-up whom Fischer personally selected as his new No. 1 played a particularly poor match. Batz deflected the 2-0 into his own net and found himself too easily dominated on the 3-0. Fischer defended the 35-year-old, who did still make some solid saves from open play. Batz denied Felix Nmecha, Maximilian Beier and Julian Brandt in quick succession during a BVB onslaught phase between the 52nd and 57th minute.
“Of course the goalkeeper needs to do a better job of creating space for himself,” Fischer said. “But one also needs help from one’s teammates.“
The Mainz head coach noted that he would not deny his players a scheduled day off. The team can still enjoy some carnival festivities in the city early next week. It’s not uncommon for dissatisfied coaches to call the team back and schedule snap scrimmages whenever poor performances place league standing in jeopardy. Fischer nevertheless doesn’t assess the current situation as quite so serious.
“There’s still life beyond football,” Fischer said. “We will analyze this game objectively, just as we have analyzed the other games. There are certainly a few things to address, look at, and improve upon. [After the carnival celebrations], focus will shift to a very difficult home game against Hamburger SV.“
Liverpool’s evolving midfield picture has become a central talking point, and on Transfer Market Metrics for Anfield Index, Dave Davis and Phil Barter explored the data, profiles and tactical implications surrounding two emerging names, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton. Their discussion blended statistical analysis with squad building context, offering insight into why both players are firmly on the club’s radar.
The conversation opened with the emotional backdrop of potential change. Davis admitted concern about the direction of travel, raising the prospect of local representation diminishing within the squad. Barter shared that sentiment, saying, “I’m with you with a bit of sadness because I think Curtis Jones is a great player… I’ve enjoyed seeing him develop from this scrawny kid who wanted to be the best 10 in the world to a very versatile midfielder who’s got a very good skill set.”
He added pointedly, “I don’t agree with the current situation. I personally think it’s not quite a Liverpool thing, should we say? It’s not behaviour I recognise of my club.”
That framing matters because any incoming profile, including Adam Wharton, would not represent a direct replacement. As Barter clarified, “This isn’t like for like… I’m not saying Curtis goes to bring in Wharton because they’re different players.”
Wharton’s appeal lies in deep progression and tempo setting. Barter highlighted how perception can differ from performance data. “People talk about Wharton being the next coming of Fabinho… but there is something in the numbers where you look at it, you go, he’s all right. Like, you know, 27 player impact at Palace.”
Creatively, he noted limitations, “His assist is the 50th percentile. XG doesn’t create a lot of XG, 20th percentile.”
Yet his orchestration stands out. “He’s what’s classified as an orchestrator… he can open up doors with a long pass.”
The speed of execution is key. Barter stressed, “Passing within five seconds of receiving it forward… you cannot get your head around how important that is.”
He expanded on its tactical value, explaining that quick distribution accelerates attacking phases, “Make the right decision quickly and deliver the decision with quality is an outstanding quality… that’s worth its weight in gold.”
This aligns with Liverpool’s reported recruitment messaging, which Davis summarised as prioritising “technical quality being the most important part of differentiation.”
While Wharton offers technical orchestration, Elliot Anderson brings a broader physical and defensive output. Davis noted external interest, stating, “Liverpool have absolutely looked at him, but both Manchester clubs have done more groundwork.”
Photo: IMAGO
Barter contextualised Anderson’s defensive numbers, “Forest don’t have a lot of ball… so his defensive metrics are going to look better because you’ve got more opportunity to do defensive work.”
Even so, his attacking contribution remains credible, “He still comes out like 85th percentile for shot assists, 83rd percentile for touches in the box.”
Defensively, the data is striking, “Defensive actions, 98th percentile and successful defensive action 100%.”
Passing reliability also compares favourably. Barter observed, “His passing is at 82. That’s more like a Liverpool centre mid than Wharton.”
Ultimately, the debate centred on partnership and balance rather than superiority. Barter summarised the stylistic split, “If you want him to orchestrate your midfield, he’s a good player to do that. If you want him to shut the shop up, not quite sure.”
On Anderson, he added, “He’s got the physical side of it as well… the running.”
Importantly, he sees compatibility, “I think they could play together to be honest with you.”
Davis closed by reinforcing recruitment pragmatism, stating that either arrival would excite supporters given their “outstanding Premier League experience,” but squad balance, especially physicality in deeper zones, remains decisive.
Ohio State superfan LeBron James has made it a habit over the years to gift the Buckeye athletic teams various gear for different occasions. And it looks like King James has done it again.
The Los Angeles Lakers took the floor on Thursday evening in a matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. The Lakers would win the game by a score of 124 to 104. LeBron made a bit of history during the game, becoming the oldest player ever to record a triple-double when he scored 28 points, had 12 assists, and added 10 rebounds in the game, all while wearing his fandom on his feet. That's right, James's footwear of choice was a Scarlet and Gray combo with the Block O displayed prominently on the heel.
The next day, Ohio State hoops announced "Special new kicks for the squad. The Ohio State Lebron 23 PE's." There was no official announcement, but it seems reasonable to say that the Buckeye basketball team might be seen wearing these when they take on Virginia in the Nashville Hoops Showdown on Saturday evening. Take a look for yourself.
Special new kicks for the squad 😮💨
— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) February 13, 2026
The Ohio State Lebron 23 PE’s 🔥 pic.twitter.com/qYqCc3RtHp
Like him or not, Lebron is always hooking the football and basketball teams up at Ohio State. Here's to hoping some new kicks can give the Buckeyes the extra mojo they need to get a win against Virginia.
Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State basketball gifted new shoes before it takes on Virginia
As a reminder that Michigan was found guilty of committing infractions related to the advanced sign-stealing saga by former staffer Connor Stalions, his appeal to overturn the punishment handed down to him was denied by the NCAA Division I Infractions Appeals Committee this week.
Stalions was found guilty of "directing and arranging for individuals to attend the games and film signal callers of future University of Michigan football opponents,” according to an NCAA press release last August for a multi-year advanced scouting scheme. The release cited "overwhelming evidence."
The result was an "eight-year show-cause order, restricting him from all athletically related activities during the show-cause period."
Stalions appealed the following violations according to the NCAA press release:
He also tried to make a case that:
The NCAA Division I Infractions Appeals Committee has denied the appeal of Connor Stalions. The committee “affirmed” the appealed findings of violations and application of aggravating factors. pic.twitter.com/CdlDNp8JPw
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) February 12, 2026
The NCAA wasn't having it and shot down the arguments and appeal, meaning Stalions will still have the show-cause penalty in place, and reiterating that yes, Michigan did indeed commit violations and receive punishment because of it, despite what Michigan man argues on forums and social media.
Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion. Follow Phil Harrison on X.
This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Connor Stalions has appeal on sign-stealing scandal rejected by NCAA
First Round (Feb. 17)
Second Round (Feb. 19)
Note: Top 8 seeds receive first-round bye
First Round (Feb. 17)
Second Round (Feb. 19)
Note: Top 8 seeds receive first-round bye
First Round (Feb. 11)
Second Round (Feb. 14)
Second Round (Feb. 14)
Note: Top 8 seeds receive first-round bye
First Round (Feb. 11)
Second Round (Feb. 14)
Having joined Liverpool in 2023, he is under contract until June 2028.
This Liverpool player dreams of Real Madrid
Dominik Szoboszlai is reportedly considering a potential move to Real Madrid one day. According to Marco Rossi, the Hungary national team coach, the Liverpool attacking midfielder has always dreamed of wearing the Spanish club's iconic shirt.
Signed by Liverpool in 2023 from RB Leipzig for €70 million, the 25-year-old Hungarian quickly established himself as a key figure. Despite a challenging season for the Reds, he has posted impressive numbers, tallying nine goals and seven assists in 34 matches.
Under contract until June 2028, Szoboszlai remains a crucial part of the squad. However, his coach's statements have reignited speculation about a possible future in Madrid, even though no official contact has been reported so far.
MILAN, Italy (AP) — Nikita Volodin's career had stalled in Russia. Then came a move to Germany, which made him an Olympic medal contender.
Volodin teamed up with German skater Minerva Hase in 2022, after nearly four years out of elite-level competition skating in ice shows.
He'd come close to giving up on dreams of skating success before Hase's coach arranged a tryout with the German, whose 2022 Olympics had been derailed by a positive COVID test for her previous partner.
“I tried to forget it,” Volodin said of his ambitions after his first practice at the Olympic rink last week. “But now I’m standing here and I can skate on Olympic ice and it’s wonderful.”
Volodin is one of at least 30 Winter Olympians who were born in Russia or used to compete for Russia, and who now represent other countries. Some had family ties, many didn't.
They outnumber by more than two to one the 13 “individual neutral athletes with Russian passports," as Olympic organizers refer to Russians given permission to compete during the war in Ukraine.
Days after the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing ended, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine which soon led to Russian athletes being excluded from a range of sports. Many winter sports didn't allow neutral athletes in international events until last year, so a change of nationality was a way to continue competing.
At least 10 athletes at the Milan Cortina Olympics switched allegiance from Russia since 2022. One, speedskater Kristina Silaeva, has confirmed she switched because of the restrictions on Russian athletes.
“I’m just not ready to wait. An athlete’s time is short, and it isn’t clear when the next international competitions will be if I stay. I can’t miss the peak of my career,” Silaeva told Russian broadcaster Match TV after her move to Kazakhstan in 2023.
Silaeva had to give up Russian citizenship but it's “not such a big problem” to get it back later, she added.
Volodin’s change doesn’t seem to have been directly prompted by the sports restrictions on Russia since there was no realistic prospect of him skating for Russia at the time. Hase, who was seeking a new partner after placing 16th in the 2022 Olympics, has said the pair won't discuss politics in public.
Hase and Volodin soon proved a good match on the ice, where his height and strength were crucial for the lifts and throws in pairs skating.
After his arrival, the clock was ticking.
Unlike many skating events, such as the European championships Hase and Volodin won last year, the Olympics require all competitors to be citizens of the country they represent.
Volodin worked through a crash course in the German language with help from Hase to be eligible for naturalization after three years. He got his passport last year.
“I love to wear this Team D (for Deutschland, or Germany) clothing, it’s very beautiful. I feel part of Team D because I’m very well integrated for three years," he said. "I obviously feel part of this team and I try to do my best.”
Regardless of restrictions on its team, Russia has long exported winter sports talent. Nationality switches among figure skaters, not just from Russia, are especially common in pairs and ice dance.
Russia's depth of talent has long encouraged athletes to move abroad to pursue sporting dreams. The parents of U.S. figure skating star Ilia Malinin were both born in Russia during Soviet times, represented Uzbekistan after it became independent, then coached in Virginia, where their son was born.
There were naturalized Russians on the host team in South Korea for the 2018 Winter Olympics and a Russia-born player, Denis Osipov or Dannisi Aoxibofu, joined Americans and Canadians on China's men's hockey team in 2022.
___
AP Winter Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics
Over the past few years, the New Orleans Saints have taken a few shots in the draft on high-upside players with low floors, to try and see how they may pan out in their system and whether or not they can develop. One such example came back during Day 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft, when a wide receiver prospect fell beyond his projected draft range and into the sixth round.
That player was, of course, wide receiver A.T. Perry, a Wake Forest product who has exceptional size at 6-foot-5 and 205 pounds. While his production with the Demon Deacons was highly impressive, the transition to the NFL has been a bit of a difficult one for him.
In 2023, he had a tough time getting on the field initially for the Saints, and finally got some reps in the latter half, playing 10 games and starting three in a decimated wide receiver room. In that span, he picked up 12 receptions for 246 yards and 4 touchdowns, pretty impressive.
However, injuries and inability to climb the depth chart led to him being released in October of 2024, and he would head to the Denver Broncos. After not being able to get off their practice squad ever since, he has decided to head to a new team, signing a reserve/futures contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, as was announced on their team website.
It will be pretty interesting to see how that pans out, and if he can make an impact in training camp to earn a roster spot, or a practice squad spot at least. He has the size and the prior production; he just needs to find the right opportunity to get playing time at a decent rate.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Steelers sign former Saints WR A.T. Perry on early free agent deal
Irish Premiership leaders Larne's 18-league-game unbeaten run came to an end after Portadown were the 2-1 victors against the 10-man Inver Reds at Shamrock Park as Coleraine drew with Carrick Rangers to close the gap at the top of the table to five points.
Jack Scott's strike had given the home side an early lead, but the returning Andy Ryan fired home a leveller for Larne.
However, Portadown went ahead again shortly after when Eamon Fyfe fired past Rohan Ferguson before things went from bad to worse for Gary Haveron's side when Cricky Gallagher was given his marching orders.
Coleraine failed to take full advantage of the Portadown victory after Will Patching's goal was cancelled out by Mikey Place at Taylors Avenue.
Two goals from Aaron McEneff helped Glentoran come from behind to beat Ballymena United 2-1 at the Oval.
At Seaview, Crusaders scored twice in the second half to draw 2-2 against Bangor with Linfield the 3-0 winners against bottom of the table Glenavon at Mourneview Park.
On Friday night, Dungannon Swifts completed an impressive comeback to beat Cliftonville 3-2 at Stangmore Park after Adam Glenny netted a penalty in the 89th minute.
League leaders Larne started the brightest but found themselves a goal down within 20 minutes after Jack Scott fired the home side ahead.
Josh Ukek used his skill and speed to get to the byline and pulled the ball back and the Larne defence were unable to deal with it. The ball then popped up for Scott, who tapped it home from a few yards out.
In the 42nd minute, Ryan scored an excellent goal for the away side after Leroy Millar nodded the ball down for the striker to expertly roll the ball into the bottom corner.
It looked as though the sides would enter the break level but for some more great work by Ukek.
Ukek once more used his pace to beat his man and squared the ball for Fyfe, who fired the ball into the net.
Early in the second half, Larne's task was made even more difficult after Gallagher received a second yellow card for a foul on Josh Carson after being cautioned for a tackle on Shay McCartan in the first half.
Larne never gave up but, from that point on, Portadown looked the more likely to score next and almost did so through a Baris Altintop header that was saved on the line and a Ukek effort that Ferguson palmed over the crossbar.
The result puts to an end a four-match losing streak in the league for Niall Currie's side.
Joel Cooper was prominent in the opening exchanges as the visitors started on the front foot. He rattled a long-range volley off the crossbar inside the opening five minutes before having his clever finish from a Ben Wylie pass ruled out for offside minutes later.
Patching curled a 25-yard free-kick the wrong side of the post soon after but made amends with the game's opening goal midway through the opening half.
Having already gone close with a previous effort, he curled a corner-kick direct into the far corner of the Carrick Rangers net past a helpless Lorcan Donnelly.
Carrick Rangers levelled just before the break thanks to Mikey Place's first goal for the club. The former Ballymena United man spotted a gap in the away defence and strolled through to plant a low shot under the body of Coleraine keeper Ryan Schofield.
The home side started the second half brightly and Danny Gibson had a goal ruled out for offside moments after the restart.
Joe Crowe should have scored when left unmarked at the back post, but he was left holding his head in his hands as his volley went well wide of the target.
Coleraine pressed late for a winner, but substitute Jamie McGonigle was denied by a smart save from Lorcan Donnelly at his near post in added time.
Glentoran almost took the lead inside the opening five minutes when Danny Amos overlapped on the left flank before crossing to Jordan Jenkins, whose well-struck volley was brilliantly saved by Ballymena keeper Brad Wade.
United's English stopper was busy in the opening 25 minutes, making further saves from MJ Kamson Kamara, Jordan Jenkins and Ross Clarke as Glentoran pressed for an early opener.
Aaron Jarvis brought a good save from Andrew Mills in Ballymena's first meaningful attack before the visitors took the lead on 33 minutes.
Joel Thompson headed down a cross to Matthew Clarke who nodded the ball into the path of Igor Rutkowski, who swivelled before finding the net with a deflected shot.
The Glens levelled on the strike of half-time when they were awarded a penalty after referee Ian McNabb spotted an infringement in the penalty area and McEneff kept his cool to send Wade the wrong way from the penalty spot.
McEneff showed he was equally as deadly from further out six minutes into the second half as he took a pass from Cammy Palmer before cutting inside and curling a delightful shot up and over Wade from 25 yards.
Substitute James Douglas almost added a third for Glentoran late on but his shot following a counter-attack was diverted behind by Wade.
The first attempt on goal went the way of the hosts after just three minutes when Elliot Dunlop went clear down the left before firing in a right-footed effort, but it was straight at Gareth Deane who gathered comfortably.
Then, in the 24th minute, Adam Brooks found himself through on goal, he rounded the goalkeeper superbly, but with the open net was at his mercy, he shot into the near side netting.
On the half-hour-mark, Finley Thorndike waltzed past at least three defenders inside the Bangor box and it looked like he would score a stunner, but somehow, he placed his shot wide of the right post from only six yards.
The hosts paid the price when they went behind just before the break. Mark Haughey was upended inside the box and referee Ben McMaster didn't hesitate in awarding the penalty. Harry Lynch stepped up and fired low into the bottom left-hand corner of the goal.
Bangor added a second five minutes after the restart. A corner from the right was flicked on and in came Ben Cushnie at the back post to poke home.
The Crues were thrown a lifeline on 55 minutes when Thomas Maguire crossed from the right, Nixon rose well to head on target but Deane parried. However, Nixon was on hand to rattle home the rebound.
The comeback was complete 12 minutes from time when Fraser Bryden smashed home his 19th goal of the season from the spot after Deane had collided with Maguire inside the area.
After an even opening at Mourneview Park, Linfield created the first chance of the afternoon when Isaac Baird held off John Mountney and slid the ball through to Josh Archer, whose low effort at the near post was well saved by Jacob Carney.
Minutes later, Michael O'Connor's men responded when Peter Campbell snapped at a first-time effort after the Blues failed to clear, but the winger's strike lacked the power to trouble Chris Johns.
Just after the half-hour mark, the champions broke the deadlock when Kyle McClean picked out Fitzpatrick on the edge of the area, and the forward shifted onto his right before drilling into the far bottom corner.
Shortly after, Carney was alert to deny Fitzpatrick a second, stretching to turn the striker's curling effort behind from the corner of the box.
After the restart, Linfield doubled their advantage when Baird laid the ball into the path of the advancing Fitzpatrick, who fired first time beyond Carney from 20 yards to claim his 15th league goal of the season.
Midway through the second half, the contest was effectively over when Jordan McMullan failed to clear Baird's low cross into the six-yard area, allowing Sam Taylor to apply a simple finish and seal the three points for David Healy's side.
Bayern Munich restored their six-point Bundesliga lead with a 3-0 victory at lowly Werder Bremen on Saturday, while Eintracht Frankfurt ended a run of nine winless matches with a 3-0 triumph over Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Borussia Dortmund cut the gap to Bayern to three points after a 4-0 win against Mainz on Friday, but the German record champions hit back thanks to Harry Kane and Leon Goretzka.
Kane broke the deadlock from the spot in the 22nd minute and completed his brace just three minutes later after Goretzka's pressure forced Bremen to lose the ball.
The midfielder, who will leave at the end of the season, added a goal to his name in the 70th.
Goals from Nathaniel Brown in the 24th and Ayoube Amaimouni-Echghouyab in the 34th put Frankfurt on track to claim the three points against Gladbach.
Ansgar Knauff added a third in the 75th as Frankfurt finally celebrated their first victory across all competitions since December 13.
Third-placed Hoffenheim bounced back from a defeat to Bayern in a 3-0 win against Freiburg, while Bayer Leverkusen are back into the Champions League spots after prevailing 4-0 against St Pauli.
Elsewhere, SV Hamburg claimed a 3-2 comeback win against Union Berlin. Later on Saturday, VfB Stuttgart host Cologne.
Norman Powell is currently eligible for the same four-year, $128.5 million maximum extension he hoped to get from the Clippers, with a 2026-27 starting salary of $28.7 million. If Powell can’t agree to an extension with the Heat by June 30, 2026, he would become an unrestricted free agent this upcoming offseason. “This is definitely a place that I want to be,” Powell said of the Heat. “It’s been nothing but great. Coming here getting adjusted. The organization has been amazing. I love where I’m at. I love the setup. I love the mentality. I love the approach.”
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Norman Powell on free agency: Miami is 'definitely' a place I want to be
Marc Stein: The NBA announces that the Lakers’ LeBron James, as we’ve seen in recent years, will not be present for today's NBA All-Star Media Day and will hold a separate press conference Sunday before participating in the All-Star Game.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LeBron James to skip All-Star media day, will hold separate press conference Sunday
Jorge Sierra: LeBron James is averaging 22.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 7.1 apg on 50.2 FG% this year. Only seven others have done it in a season: Once: MJ, Bird, Jalen Johnson (so far). Twice: Oscar, Magic. Three times: Wilt. Six times: Jokic. The oldest to do it was Wilt at 31.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LeBron James is averaging 22.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 7.1 apg …
This was just another step in the process of how James has taken care of his body, a step that shows the lengths he takes in the maintenance of his body that has helped him have an illustrious 23-year career, longer than any player before him. “Obviously I didn’t know it would be 23 years. I didn’t know that, but I know I didn’t want to have no six- or seven-year career. I can’t become legendary in six or seven years,” James told The Times. “I always had a mission. When I knew I could play this game at a high level, like, going to Chicago and playing with MJ [Michael Jordan] and all those guys when I was a sophomore [in high school]. And then when I went up to Cleveland and played against the Cavs when I was a junior and I was like, ‘Oh … I belong. I belong.’ I knew I still had to learn and I still had to continue to get my body right, continue to learn the game and nuances.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “Obviously I didn’t know it would be 23 years. I …
He is known to invest over $1.5 million annually for a comprehensive approach to keeping his body fine-tuned. He talked about the biohacking he uses to maintain elite performances and longevity at the age of 41. He talked about using Normatec leg compression boots, hyperbaric chambers to restore oxygen, cryotherapy, red-light therapy and any other cutting-edge technologies. He talked about prioritizing sleep and nutrition, such as avoiding artificial sugars and fried foods. When he missed the first 14 games this season because of sciatica, James cut back on drinking wine, one of his passions, in order to get his body back to full health. “Obviously it’s gotten even more detailed as me and Mike have built a program,” James said. “It’s been 22 years of our program.”
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: When he missed the first 14 games this season because …
Jason Kidd has watched how James is averaging 22.0 points per game on 50.2% shooting this season, 7.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds and can’t help but marvel at how James continues to be a highly effective player with so many miles on his body. “Physically, LeBron, he’s had some injuries, but he’s taken care of his body, he’s always prepared himself for the marathon,” Kidd said. “But I think it’s the mental side. I think that’s the hardest part is to wake up and say, ‘Do I need to go play against a 20-year-old or a 19-year-old?’ He’s won championships, he’s been MVP, he’s been the face of the league. He’s a billion-dollar company. “So, it’s the mental side. Understanding that he loves competition and he loves the game of basketball. So I think for him to do it at 41 is incredible.”
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “So, it’s the mental side. Understanding that he loves …
On the positive side, the advanced stats love Chet Holmgren. He has the single lowest game score among All-Stars (as we saw earlier, he is near the bottom in points and assists), and yet by DARKO is among the top 2% of players in the league. Most of that comes from his defense. He’s contested the fifth most shots in the NBA, is second in blocks, and opponents shoot 7% worse when he’s the closest defender. He’s even better defending the paint; on shots within six feet of the basket, opponents shoot 14% worse against Chet than they otherwise would against an average defender. Plus, he protects the basket without fouling. It helps that he plays on the best defense in the league, but he is also a big part of what makes the Thunder so great.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: On the positive side, the advanced stats love Chet …
Malika Andrews: What's the best part of playing with Victor Wembanyama? Stephon Castle: It's just like a sense of stability having him on the court on both ends. Playing defense, you can pressure a lot more knowing he's going to be right behind you to clean up any shot or change any shot. And then offensively, teams can't guard him one-on-one. They're sending multiple bodies at him. It just opens up the court for the other four players so much.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Stephon Castle on Victor Wembanyama: Teams can't guard him one-on-one
Following the Vincent card’s appearance in 1990-91 Series One packs, Hoops opted to produce a different version of the card that was later issued in the Series Two release. The second version uses a completely different photo of Vincent dribbling, with Michael Jordan no longer appearing in the image. Collectors searching for the original version will notice that many eBay sellers title the listing with an “a” after the #233 card number, while the revised variation is typically labeled “#233b.” Even though the Jordan cameo card was only included in Series One, it was produced in large quantities because it was released during the “Junk Wax Era” — a period in the late ’80s and early ’90s when card manufacturers flooded the market with new products and inflated print runs. As a result, PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) has graded close to 7,000 copies of the card, with around 640 earning PSA 10 grades.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Following the Vincent card’s appearance in 1990-91 …
After historic snow postponed the Clash at Bowman Gray several days into the week, NASCAR has enjoyed optimal weather for Speedweek at Daytona. However, there is a real threat of thunderstorms on Sunday, and it's all about when -- not if -- the bad weather will arrive.
In a proactive move, NASCAR has moved up the start of the 68th running of the Daytona 500 a full hour to 1:30pm EST. The NASCAR RaceDay pre-race show has also moved up an hour, beginning at 11:30am EST. The event will be broadcast live on FOX.
The 500 has been shortened by rain on four occasions -- 1965, 1966, 2003, and 2009. In recent years, the race has been pushed to Monday on several occasions, with that last happening in 2024.
Most forecasts project that thunderstorms will arrive after 5pm EST. The runtime for the 500-mile race is usually around 3.5 hours.
Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing will lead the field to the green flag, with Joe Gibbs Racing's Chase Briscoe joining him on the front row.
The grand marshal is comedian and actor Nate Bargatze, award winning actor Kurt Russell will be in the pace car, the honorary starter is Bart Simpson (yes the one you're thinking), and Miranda Lambert will headline the pre-race concert.
Read Also:
Official starting lineup for the 2026 Daytona 500
To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.
The 2025-26 season has officially reached the All-Star break and the Philadelphia 76ers, like everybody else, will be looking for some much-needed relaxation to prepare for the stretch run of the season. The Sixers will have just as good a chance as anybody else in the wide-open Eastern Conference.
Philadelphia is led by Joel Embiid--who is in the midst of a serious resurgence--and All-Star starter Tyrese Maxey to lead them back into the playoff race. The expectation is that once Paul George will returns from his 25-game suspension, he will look to help the Sixers get the job done in the final 10 games leading into the postseason.
Here is a look at the Eastern Conference standings:
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: NBA East standings update: Where do Sixers sit at the All-Star break?
Manchester City moved into the FA Cup fifth round, yet their route there carried tension, disruption, and reminders of football’s levelling capacity. Pep Guardiola’s much rotated side secured progression against League Two Salford, though the scoreline told only part of a story shaped by resistance and resilience.
City arrived buoyed by history and expectation. Seven time winners, fresh from scoring ten against Exeter in the previous round, they began with the authority such pedigree demands.
The breakthrough arrived early, inside six minutes, when Alfie Dorrington diverted the ball beyond his own goalkeeper under pressure. It handed Manchester City immediate control, at least on the scoreboard.
Yet rhythm never truly followed. Guardiola had made nine changes, rotating personnel across defensive and attacking lines, and cohesion understandably faltered. Passing sequences lacked their usual tempo, attacking patterns felt improvised rather than choreographed.
Further disruption came when Max Alleyne departed through injury in the 22nd minute. Defensive reshuffling blunted City’s structural comfort and handed Salford encouragement.
Salford, beaten 8-0 by Manchester City in this competition last season, displayed both courage and tactical discipline. They regrouped impressively after the early concession and created genuine first half danger.
Ben Woodburn forced James Trafford into a sharp save with a driven strike, a moment that stirred belief among the visitors. Shortly before the interval, Brandon Cooper rose from a corner but headed narrowly wide.
The chances carried symbolic weight. Salford were no longer participants, they were competitors.
After the restart, Dutch midfielder Kelly N’Mai came close again, driving into Trafford’s chest following a swift attacking transition. For spells, City were stretched, their dominance territorial rather than decisive.
Photo: IMAGO
Recognising the need for sharper energy, Guardiola turned to his bench. Antoine Semenyo, Marc Guehi, and Nico O’Reilly were introduced to accelerate tempo and restore attacking thrust.
The tactical shift was immediate. Movement improved, pressing gained bite, and Manchester City began to pen Salford deeper inside their own half.
The decisive moment arrived in the 81st minute. Goalkeeper Matthew Young parried a dangerous cross into traffic, and Marc Guehi reacted instinctively, converting from close range to score his first goal for the club.
It proved the tie settling contribution. Composure replaced anxiety inside the Etihad.
Progression preserved a formidable FA Cup statistic. This victory marked Manchester City’s 17th consecutive home win in the competition, a run stretching back to their 2015 fourth round defeat against Middlesbrough.
Across that sequence, City have scored 77 goals while keeping 11 clean sheets, evidence of sustained domestic cup authority. Yet this performance felt more functional than fluent.
Guardiola’s side are pursuing a fourth consecutive FA Cup final appearance, ambitions that demand sharper execution than displayed here.
Despite uneven collective rhythm, individual positives emerged.
John Stones completed his first start since November without physical setback, an encouraging development given his defensive importance across multiple competitions.
James Trafford, deputising for Gianluigi Donnarumma, delivered composed goalkeeping when required. His saves against Woodburn and N’Mai reinforced his readiness ahead of the upcoming Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.
Guehi’s maiden Manchester City goal added another encouraging subplot, his defensive authority complemented by decisive attacking contribution.
Salford, meanwhile, depart with credit. Co-owned by Gary Neville and David Beckham, the League Two club matched elite opposition for long stretches and will draw confidence as they pursue promotion ambitions.
Cup football often measures character as much as quality. Manchester City advanced, tested yet intact, their FA Cup pursuit alive and their standards quietly reminded.
Liverpool close out Saturday’s FA Cup action as they host Brighton & Hove Albion, with the visitors aiming to win their first ever FA Cup title this season.
The hosts last lifted the trophy four years ago and will view this as a prime opportunity to salvage silverware from what has otherwise been a disappointing league campaign this season.
Here’s everything you need to know about this fourth round clash.
8pm UK time, Saturday 14th February
TNT Sports 1
Streaming available via Discovery+
Liverpool: Conor Bradley (out), Giovanni Leoni (out), Wataru Endo (out), Alexander Isak (out), Jeremie Frimpong (out).
Brighton: Stefanos Tzimas (out), Adam Webster (out), Solly March (out), Yasin Ayari (out).
Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Szoboszlai, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones; Salah, Wirtz, Chiesa; Ekitike
Brighton (4-2-3-1): Steele; Veltman, Dunk, Boscagli, De Cuyper; Hinshelwood, Baleba; Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma; Welbeck
Liverpool come into this tie on the back of an impressive 1-0 victory away at Sunderland, becoming the first side to inflict defeat on Sunderland at the Stadium Of Light this season.
However, inconsistency has continued to blight Liverpool this season and they currently find themselves outside the Champions League places.
Pressure is building on Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler. His side have only won one of their last 13 league games and their last outing was a 1-0 defeat away at Aston Villa on Wednesday.
In fact Brighton’s last victory came in early January in the last round of the FA Cup when they knocked out Manchester United, winning 2-1 at Old Trafford.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot said: “We have three clear priorities, FA Cup, Champions League qualification and Champions League.
“We are also aware of the limited options so the load management is important, the last thing we need is another injury, so that is always the tough thing for a manager, to make the best decision every time. It wouldn’t be the first time a player gets injured if they have to play three in seven. The most important thing is we train today, listen to the players, see how they feel and make the best decisions.”
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said: “We all know this game is a game of results. We need a result and I think the club and supporters are waiting for this one result. We are all fighting for this and are convinced if we keep having the performances like we did at Aston Villa we will get the results we all need and we all deserve.”
Como head coach Cesc Fabregas did not hold back in his criticism of striker Alvaro Morata, who was sent off at the end of Como’s surprise 2-1 defeat at home against relegation-threatened Fiorentina on Saturday afternoon: ‘Those who can’t live with it should play another sport’.
Goals from Nicolo Fagioli and Moise Kean gave Fiorentina, who had been in the relegation zone before kick-off, enough to hold onto at the Stadio Sinigaglia, despite a second-half own goal from Fabiano Parisi.
You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas cut a frustrated figure during his post-match interview with DAZN, criticising his players for their lack of awareness, and Morata for his lack of self-control in the final minutes, which led to his sending off.
“I’m annoyed that I wasn’t able to help the boys understand the importance of the game. I showed them my experience as a footballer during the week, maybe too much, but it wasn’t enough. We’re a young team,” Fabregas said after full-time.
“It wasn’t a football match in the second half. Leaving that aside, the game has to be won with the right motivation and energy. I feel bad as a coach, because I wasn’t able to convey this to my players today. Maybe it was in our heads. We made a mistake in our attitude, we have to show more desire and be better in attack if we want to play our game.
“I didn’t like the first half very much, the second half, I repeat, wasn’t a game of football.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Luca Ranieri of ACF Fiorentina disputes with Alvaro Morata of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas believes that Como’s congested fixture schedule is a benefit after a game like today’s.
“In 72 hours, we’ll play in San Siro and then against Torino, and this is a good thing to look forward to after this game,” he said.
Fabregas did not hold back when asked to comment on Morata’s late sending off. The Spaniard was shown two yellow cards in quick succession for tussles with Rolando Mandragora and then with Marin Pongracic.
“Provocation is part of football, those who can’t live with that should play another sport,” Fabregas said.
“I expect much more from an experienced player like him. We can’t make excuses, though, and we can’t allow for what other people do on the pitch to affect us.”
Bayern Munich extended their lead at the top to six points after beating Werder Bremen 3-0 at the Weserstadion on Saturday afternoon.
Harry Kane scored twice in the first half, while Leon Goretzka added another in the second as Bayern secured their third win in a row.
The only worrying sign for Vincent Kompany will the potential injury to Manuel Neuer, who was replaced due to a calf problem, with Jonas Urbig replacing him.
It took a while for the visitors to control the game. In the 18th minute, Lennart Karl produced a moment of sublime quality, as he danced around the box, juggled past players, before he drew a foul. After a thorough VAR check, the referee pointed to the spot.
Harry Kane stepped up and scored to put Bayern ahead. The England captain converted his ninth penalty of the season to continue his phenomenal scoring form.
Moments later, Harry Kane doubled the lead with a world-class finish. From 22 yards out, he placed the ball superbly beyond the reach of the Bremen keeper, to bring up the milestone of 500 senior career goals in 743 games for both club and country.
Kane has now scored 41 goals for Bayern this season, including 26 in the league.
In the 29th minute of the game, Kane produced an outrageous pass to put Luis Diaz through on goal, but the keeper came out quickly to narrow the angle and prevent the danger.
Bremen created some half-chances in the first half, and the best of the lot fell to Felix Agu, whose right-footed shot from the left side of the box narrowly missed the target.
The second half started brightly for the home side. Marco Grull tested Urbig, who replaced Neuer, with a header that hit the post.
Bayern controlled possession, and Kane was involved once again, as he threaded a magnificent through pass to Serge Gnabry, putting him one-on-one with the goalie, but the German winger could not find the net.
Moments later, Jens Stage’s close-range attempt was blocked by Urbig, showcasing why he is the perfect long-term replacement for Neuer.
In the 70th minute, Alphonso Davies played a lovely squared pass from the left to find Leon Goretzka, who superbly slotted home with great placement. Goreztka will become a free agent in the summer and has been linked with a move to Arsenal.
In the dying minutes of the game, Luis Diaz did remarkably well to receive a pass from Nicolas Jackson and placed it in the path of Jamal Musiala, whose low shot was saved by the keeper.
Possession: Werder Bremen – 34.9% ; Bayern Munich – 65.1%
Shots: Werder Bremen – 14 ; Bayern Munich – 11
Shots on target: Werder Bremen – 3 ; Bayern Munich – 8
Total passes: Werder Bremen – 384 ; Bayern Munich – 718
Edoardo Bove has returned to the field for the first time since the cardiac arrest playing for Fiorentina in December 2024, making his debut for Watford.
The 23-year-old came off the bench for the closing minutes of today’s 2-2 English Championship draw away to Preston North End.
Edoardo Bove presented as new Watford player
The midfielder came up through the Roma youth academy and was on loan at Fiorentina when he suddenly collapsed during their Serie A match with Inter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
He was revived on the field and rushed to the local hospital, where after tests, he received an implanted cardiac defibrillator.
FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 1: Edoardo Bove of ACF Fiorentina is taken by ambulance during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 1, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Italian rules mean that any athlete with this type of implant is banned from participating in professional sport, which is why Christian Eriksen was forced to leave Inter after a similar situation when representing Denmark at EURO 2024.
Last month, Bove terminated his contract with Roma by mutual consent, and signed for Watford as a free agent.
We continue our Northwestern football position reviews with the special teams unit, highlighted by Wildcat mainstays like Luke Akers and Jack Olsen.
Northwestern’s 2025 special teams unit highlighted the end of an era. After five years with Northwestern and three seasons as a starter, kicker Jack Olsen will spend his final year of eligibility with defending College Football Playoff finalist Miami. Meanwhile, punter Luke Akers is out of eligibility following three complete seasons of handling a variety of roles for the Wildcats. Both Olsen and Akers culminated their Northwestern careers with All-Big Ten honorable mentions for the first time in their careers, recording their statistically best seasons to date.
Though Olsen and Akers are major departures, their replacements are evident going into the 2026 season. Northwestern acquired Bowling Green transfer Jackson Kleather, who went 19-for-22 on attempts and recorded a long of 56 yards. First-year Nikola Dugandzic, best known as 247Sports’ No. 1 punting prospect for his class, was expected to compete with Akers for the starting punter spot. He lost the battle, exclusively playing on the kickoff unit this season, but he’ll be favored to take Akers’ place in 2026.
While Northwestern had good seasons on the kicking and punting front, that gets negated by some of the horrors Wildcat fans experienced in the return game.
Running back Joseph Himon II led the ‘Cats in kick return yards for the second consecutive year, while wide receiver Drew Wagner led in punt return yards as his responsibilities on the offensive end grew. Redshirt first-year receiver Chase Farrell was also involved in the return game, notably muffing a punt during Northwestern’s contest against Minnesota.
Farrell’s mistake wasn’t the most haunting Northwestern special teams memory of the season — that honor probably goes to the 95-yard punt return touchdown scored by Nebraska’s Kenneth Williams, which ultimately could have been the deal-breaker in a one-score loss for the Wildcats. Giving up a 93-yard kick return to Minnesota’s Koi Perch wasn’t ideal, either. And then there was the fake punt orchestrated by USC, which led to an ensuing touchdown drive by the Trojans.
It’s worth noting that in 2026, Northwestern’s Paul Creighton will exclusively serve as special teams coach. Last season, he balanced that role with coaching the tight ends, a unit now led by Bob Bicnkell. Creighton will have the offseason to work with a new kicking unit and fix the problems haunting Northwestern on kick and punt returns.
Stats: 19-for-21 field goals, 90.5%, 41 long, 24-for-25 extra points
Olsen’s last season with Northwestern was his best season yet. After missing much of the 2024 season with an injury and converting just 10 attempts that year, Olsen posted a career-best 90.5% field goal percentage in 2025 — his first season above the 80% threshold. With Northwestern often struggling in the red zone, Olsen was often called upon and delivered for the most part on his career-high 21 attempts. Some of his most notable highlights include kicking the game-winner against Minnesota to send the Wildcats bowling and a season-best 41-yarder in the fourth quarter to put Northwestern up 16-14 during an upset win against Penn State. His 3-for-3 day against the Nittany Lions earned him Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week honors for Oct. 13, 2025.
The only significant blemishes toward Olsen’s 2025 stat line include a blocked attempt against UCLA that kept the ‘Cats scoreless in the second half, as well as his first-ever extra point miss against Central Michigan in the GameAbove Sports Bowl – his final game in a NU uniform. But overall, he posted a very successful 2025 campaign, leaving little to complain about.
Stats: 36 punts, 45.0 average, 59 long, 3-for-3 field goals, 100%, 34 long, 2-2 extra points, 40.8 NET
Despite preseason speculation that top freshman punting prospect Dugandzic would threaten Akers’ starter status, the graduate student held strong as the main man on kickoff and punting duties. After playing the kicker role in Olsen’s absence and even balancing that with punting at certain points in 2024 (which he struggled to do at times), Akers was almost exclusively a punter in 2025 for a much more straightforward season. His career-high 45-yard average ranked third in the conference, a statistic that helped propel him to conference honorable mention status.
Akers took every Northwestern punt in 2025, but split time with Dugandzic and Henry Heims on the kickoff. Still, Akers initiated 40 of the Wildcats’ 69 kickoffs as the team’s best option, averaging 62.48 yards per kick and recording 22 touchbacks. He also made some brief appearances as a kicker, scoring the ‘Cats’ only points in a 23-3 blowout at Tulane and converting two field goals after coming in for Olsen against Western Illinois. But overall, his legacy at Northwestern will be the four seasons he spent as a very solid punter, culminating in his statistically strongest year yet.
Stats: 21 kickoffs, 59.33 average, 36 NET
As the No. 1-ranked punter in the high school class of 2025, Dugandzic was touted amongst the Wildcats’ most anticipated recruits coming into the season. However, the 6’5 first-year did not take a single punt, as Northwestern opted to use him exclusively on the kickoff across five games. Dugandzic earns his grade due to his lack of appearances relative to expectations. That said, he’ll likely be the next player up after Akers’ graduation, as Northwestern did not sign a punter in its 2030 recruiting class or bring anyone in from the transfer portal in that position.
Stats: Eight kickoffs, 59.88 average
Helms was Northwestern’s primary kickoff specialist in 2023, but redshirted the 2024 season. In his 2025 return, the redshirt sophomore made eight kickoffs, but appeared in all 13 games primarily serving as Olsen’s holder during field goal attempts.
Penn State’s first ever trip to Oregon for a basketball game comes with the Lions trying to make it two straight conference wins.
On their Pacific Northwest road trip, the Lions knocked off Washington the other night and now they’ll face the Ducks, who are currently in last place in the Big Ten with just one conference win.
A win would get the Lions to three conference wins, push them safely out of the basement of the league, and would mark the first time since back in the first week of December that Penn State won back-to-back games.
Scouting the Opposition
It’s been a nightmare season for Dana Altman’s Ducks. Oregon won a game in the NCAA tournament last year and back in their Pac-12 days, they were a March regular highlighted by their 2017 trip to the Final Four. For the first time in Altman’s career, he’s coaching a team that has lost 10 straight games. Oregon did put a scare into Purdue in Mackey Arena last week, but ultimately fell in the closing moments to the highly touted Boilermakers. The Ducks also lost at Indiana, allowing Lamar Wilkerson to score 41 points.
Nate Bittle, a 7’0 center, leads the Ducks as he averages 16.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, while 6’10 forward Kwame Evans, Jr. chips in 12.8 points and 7.0 rebounds. Guards Takai Simpson and Jackson Shelstad are perimeter shooters to monitor.
What to Watch For
Handling the Size: As noted, Bittle and Evans are front court scorers who will garner a lot of attention. Penn State’s size and depth will be tested by that front court.
Rested or Ready to get home?: It’s been a long trip for the Lions, who have never played in the state of Oregon and who have only played the Ducks twice – losing a close one last year at the BJC. The Lions have some momentum after earning their first road win of the year the other night and it will be interesting to see what kind of mentality they play with on Saturday.
A Streak?: Because…something good could happen. Paraphrasing the movie Major League II, the Lions won a game, and if they win today, and win next week at home against Rutgers, it’s an actual streak. It has happened before. In all seriousness, Penn State’s first half conference schedule was a bear and there are winnable games at hand for the Lions.
Prediction
Let’s not get too crazy. Penn State has played well in spurts of late – outside of that Michigan debacle. However, Oregon is at home and even though both of these teams are already in play out the string mode, I think that homecourt advantage helps the 6.5 point favored Ducks to a win.
Oregon 74, Penn State 67
Bayern Munich went up to Werder Bremen and ground out a 3-0 win in a performance that is worthy of a Heidenheim. The Bavarians weren’t convincing, but they got the job done, and Harry Kane is the architect of this gritty win. Thanks to his brace, he has inflicted an unwelcome stat for the home side:
Updated graphic at full-time: Bayern's Harry Kane has scored 4 more goals than the entire Bremen team 🤪#SVWFCBpic.twitter.com/JwE69nd0YV
— DW Sports (@dw_sports) February 14, 2026
This puts Kane 15 goals behind Robert Lewandowski’s single-season goal record with 12 matches left to go. With the rate that the former Tottenham Hotspur man is going, he could very well challenge the record or even break it outright. Bremen on the other hand played surprisingly well against the Rekordmeister but showed exactly why they’re languishing in the relegation zone.
Bayern’s final two matches of the month are a home game against Eintracht Frankfurt and a much anticipated and supposedly tricky top of the table clash between Bayern and Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker.
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…
Sign up for a user account and get:
Why Jeremy Swayman is starting goalie for Team USA over Connor Hellebuyck today originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The United States men's hockey team is rolling out a different starter in net for their second game of the Winter Olympics.
Connor Hellebuyck got the opening start in a win. In game two against Denmark, it'll be Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins.
It's not a demotion for Hellebuyck, even though he's been moved to the backup role on Saturday.
Rather, it's strategy.
MORE: Chloe Kim's silver medal has some controversy
This is all about what comes next.
The U.S. starts the front end of a back-to-back on Saturday with the Denmark matchup.
They come right back on Sunday and take on Germany.
Team USA has chosen not to ask one goalie to start on consecutive days, and so that means Swayman gets the nod Saturday so that Hellebuyck can go on Sunday.
MORE: Controversy and cursing with Canada curling
Jake Oettinger has yet to dress, and that will remain true at least on Saturday.
It's also key for the U.S. to get Swayman in-game experience at these Olympics in case he needs to be called upon later.
For now, he'll just try to help the United States hold off a Denmark team that is overmatched on paper.
Canada vs. Germany box score: Full stats from 2026 Olympic women's hockey quarterfinal game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After going 3-1 in the preliminary round, Canada began its knockout stage with a blowout win against Germany.
Of course, the Canadians were heavy favorites in the quarterfinal, as many expect a collision course with Team USA in the finals. The United States dominated Italy in its quarterfinal game Friday, and Canada matched the Americans with a strong showing against Germany on Saturday.
The big news for Canada was that captain Marie-Philip Poulin was back in the lineup following her absence in the last two games. Poulin’s presence is a huge boost, as she is the most trusted player on Canada’s roster.
However, Canada relied on everyone against Germany, with five goals spread out between five different players. Here’s how Canada’s box score looked in the quarterfinal vs. Germany.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | F | |
| Germany | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| Canada | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Player | Position | G | A | P | +/- | TOI |
| Daryl Watts | F | 0 | 2 | 2 | +2 | 14:19 |
| Marie-Philip Poulin | F | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 12:41 |
| Sarah Fillier | F | 1 | 1 | 2 | +2 | 15:09 |
| Emily Clark | F | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 12:56 |
| Blayre Turnbull | F | 1 | 0 | 1 | +1 | 14:19 |
| Laura Stacey | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | +1 | 13:19 |
| Emma Maltais | F | 0 | 1 | 1 | +1 | 14:02 |
| Sarah Nurse | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | +1 | 16:14 |
| Brianne Jenner | F | 1 | 0 | 1 | +1 | 17:35 |
| Julia Gosling | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12:55 |
| Kristin O'Neill | F | 0 | 1 | 1 | +1 | 12:55 |
| Jenn Gardiner | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10:41 |
| Natalie Spooner | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 10:41 |
| Jocelyne Larocque | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 15:46 |
| Renata Fast | D | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 18:23 |
| Ella Shelton | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | +1 | 18:43 |
| Erin Ambrose | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | +1 | 17:27 |
| Claire Thompson | D | 1 | 0 | 1 | +1 | 17:59 |
| Sophie Jaques | D | 0 | 1 | 1 | +1 | 17:41 |
| Kati Tabin | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | +1 | 13:41 |
| Goalie | Team | Shots faced | Saves | Goals allowed | Save percentage |
| Emerance Maschmeyer | CAN | 11 | 10 | .909 | 1.000 |
| Player | Position | G | A | P | +/- | TOI |
| Anne Bartsch | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 8:21 |
| Nina Christoff | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4:08 |
| Franziska Feldmeier | F | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 15:07 |
| Katharina Hackelsmiller | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Nicola Hadraschek | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 22:07 |
| Celina Haider | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 14:04 |
| Mathilda Heine | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3:19 |
| Laura Kluge | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 19:49 |
| Emily Nix | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -2 | 21:01 |
| Jule Schiefer | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12:08 |
| Svenja Voigt | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 14:16 |
| Luisa Welcke | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 18:33 |
| Lilli Welcke | F | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 19:41 |
| Daria Gleissner | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 20:41 |
| Ronja Hark | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 21:03 |
| Hanna Hoppe | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 14:19 |
| Katarina Jobst-Smith | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 28:00 |
| Charlott Schaffrath | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12:00 |
| Tara Schmitz | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Carina Strobel | D | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | 22:22 |
| Goalie | Team | Shots faced | Saves | Goals allowed | Save percentage |
| Sandra Abstreiter | GER | 43 | 38 | 5 | .884 |
To the say the Magic have had an up-and-down season would be an understatement.
Orlando has gone on four separate wining streaks of three games, but has also suffered two different losing streaks of four games. Between Dec. 20 and Jan. 11, it alternated between wins and losses for 13 consecutive games before it won two in a row again.
And yet, Jamahl Mosley‘s squad (28-25) entered the NBA All-Star break No. 7 and only 1.5 games behind No. 6 Philadelphia (30-24).
Although the team has said it’s not where it wants to be, there’s still time left to make a postseason push and avoid the Play-In Tournament to outright earn a playoff spot as a top-six seed.
“They’ve been dealing with injuries, guys have been in-and-out of the lineups … So, that’s always tough,” former Magic guard Gary Harris (now with the Bucks) told the Orlando Sentinel before Wednesday’s game against Milwaukee. “You know how the season goes. There are ups and downs.
“They’re still figuring it out, but they have a good team over there,” he added.
Before turning the page on the first 53 games of the season, it’s worth examining where the Magic stand and what’s next:
On Wednesday, Desmond Bane became the ninth player in Magic history to have multiple games with more than seven 3-pointers made in a single season.
It marked just the fourth loss of the season in which he made at least three 3s in a game and the first when he made four or more. Orlando is 12-4 when he makes three or more 3-pointers and 9-3 when he scores 25-plus points.
But Bane’s addition alone hasn’t made enough of a difference for the Magic from distance. Although Orlando has shot 34.2% from beyond the arc this season (it shot 31.8% last year), the team’s percentage was still tied for a league-worst (tied with Sacramento, Portland and Dallas), according to NBA.com.
Despite generating the 10th-most “wide-open” 3-pointers in the league (20.8 per night) — shots where the nearest defender is six-plus feet away — the Magic only made 36% of those attempts, according to league-tracking data, which ranks 26th.
Orlando ended the 2023-24 campaign third in defensive rating (110.8). Last season, it improved and finished second (109.1).
This season, however, the team’s defensive rating (114.0) has plunged to 14th in the league, according to NBA.com.
So what’s changed?
It hasn’t helped that Jalen Suggs (missed 20 games) and Franz Wagner (25) — two of the team’s top defenders — have missed a combined 45 games due to various injuries.
When Suggs and Wagner do share the court, however, Orlando’s defensive rating looks more like it did last season. With the pair on the court for only 431 total minutes this season, the team’s defensive rating was 109.1, which resulted in a plus-9.5 net rating, according to databallr.com, an advanced NBA analytics site.
Unfortunately for the Magic, they have played 1,104 total minutes with Suggs and Wagner both off the court this season. The team’s defensive rating in those minutes was 118.6, which resulted in a minus-4.8 net rating, according to databallr.com.
As a whole, Orlando has averaged fewer steals (8.7 this season vs. 8.9 last season), fewer deflections (17.1 vs. 17.7) and fewer blocks (5.2 vs. league-leading 6.0) per night, according to NBA.com.
In addition, the Magic have allowed 51.4 points in the paint per game this season (the 10th-most) compared to 45.7 last season (the third-fewest).
Despite its 3-point shooting near the bottom of the league, Orlando has seen an increase in scoring.
The Magic have averaged 115.1 points per night (which ranks 19th league-wide) and have scored 100-plus points 47 times (28-19 record), 110-plus points 35 times (25-10), 120-plus points 20 times (17-3) and 130-plus points five times (5-0) across the first 53 games this season.
Last year, the Magic averaged 105.4 points per night (which ranked 28th) and scored 100-plus points 54 times (37-17 record), 110-plus points 33 times (26-7), 120-plus points 10 times (9-1) and 130-plus points just twice (2-0) across the 82-game regular season.
After Orlando traded Tyus Jones to the Hornets (who later sent him to the Mavericks), the franchise moved roughly $1.4 million below the league’s luxury tax threshold.
Two days later, the team signed veteran guard Jevon Carter to a rest-of-season prorated minimum-salary contract, which carries a cap hit of $871,000, according to spotrac.com.
The moves leave Orlando with an estimated $552,768 in tax room and one standard contract roster spot still open. Because prorated contracts are based on the amount of the day days left in a season, the Magic will likely have to wait until early March if it wants to fill its last standard spot and still remain below the tax line, according to thirdapron.com.
Converting two-way forward Jamal Cain, who’s played 19 NBA games this season, to a standard contract could be a simple solution.
The Magic return from league break Thursday at Sacramento to open a four-game West Coast road trip. They’ll then return to Kia Center for a four-game homestand starting Feb. 26 vs. Houston.
From there, Orlando won’t have any road trip or homestand longer than two games across the final 21 contests of the regular season. And for the second year in a row, the team will play four of its final six games on the road.
The Magic have 19th toughest strength of schedule remaining, according to tankathon.com, but nothing will come easy.
Jason Beede can be reached at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com
Magic at Kings
When: 10 p.m., Thursday, Golden 1 Center
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Florida
This victory extended City's winning run in FA Cup home ties to 17, since they were knocked out by Championship club Middlesbrough in the fourth round in 2015.
That streak includes 77 goals and 11 clean sheets, but this was a scrappy performance by a club looking to reach a fourth FA Cup final in a row.
Salford, co-owned by former Manchester United stars Gary Neville and David Beckham, were in the tie right up until Guehi doubled the hosts' advantage in the 81st minute, and will take heart from this performance as they look to secure promotion to League One.
While Guardiola's side failed to hit top gear, there were still a couple of positives to take from this performance.
John Stones emerged from his first start since November unscathed, while Trafford - starting in place of regular number one Gianluigi Donnarumma - made a couple of decent saves as he looks to seal a place in the starting XI against Arsenal in next month's Carabao Cup final.
There was also Guehi's first Manchester City goal to celebrate, with the centre-half pouncing to help to ease some home nerves late on.
Here are the results of this week’s survey questions, and we have already seen at least some of the results to what we asked you to make a call on.
In last night’s game vs. Wisconsin, Denham Wojcik played 8 minutes in relief of Jeremy Fears. To the best of my memory, no other player had any time playing the point. In our survey, more than half said they would prefer to see those non-Fears minutes split by Wojcik, Teng, and Fort.
When asked to predict the week that the Women’s Basketball Team would have, we had some very even splits between beating um (still possible), losing both (still possible), and winning both (impossible). We will find out tomorrow which group gets this one right.
Ten-man West Ham edged into the FA Cup fifth round as Crysencio Summerville clinched a 1-0 win at third tier Burton on Saturday.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side were taken to extra-time before Summerville ended the underdogs' stubborn resistence with his sixth goal in his last seven games in all competitions.
West Ham's Freddie Potts was sent off soon after Summerville's strike in the first period of extra-time, but the Premier League strugglers held on to survive a gruelling fourth round clash.
With their team three points from safety in the Premier League, the Hammers' erratic display will hardly ease fans' fears about their chances of avoiding relegation.
West Ham supporters flew a plane over the Pirelli Stadium with a banner calling for David Sullivan and Karen Brady to sell the club, while supporters inside the stadium chanted "sack the board".
The east Londoners had been in better form of late, winning three of their last five league games and holding Manchester United to a draw on Tuesday.
Nuno made 10 changes as he prioritised West Ham's fight for top-flight survival.
With West Ham and Burton sitting in the relegation zones in their respective divisions, 47 spots separated the two sides in the English football pyramid.
But West Ham's start was so slow that they didn't manage a touch in the Burton penalty area for the first 20 minutes.
They were under duress through Tyrese Shade's low strike, which forced a good stop from West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola.
Thirty seven minutes were on the clock by the time West Ham finally had a shot -- a Callum Wilson curler that was held by Bradley Collins.
West Ham were marginally better after the interval.
Collins saved a towering Konstantinos Mavropanos header before Wilson's blast was tipped over by the Burton keeper.
Soungoutou Magassa was denied by Collins but West Ham made the breakthrough five minutes into extra-time.
It was a moment of magic in a contest largely devoid of inspiration as Summerville made a dynamic break down the left flank before smashing a deflected strike into the top corner from the edge of the area.
West Ham substitute Potts was dismissed for a reckless lunge on Julian Larsson in the 101st minute.
Jack Armer and Kyran Lofthouse should have equalised but both wasted chances to force a penalty shoot-out.
Later on Saturday, Manchester City host fourth tier neighbours Salford, the club owned by former Manchester United stars Gary Neville and David Beckham.
Liverpool meet Brighton at Anfield, while Aston Villa face Newcastle and Burnley host third tier Mansfield.
smg/dmc
The Virginia Cavaliers take on the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Nashville Hoops Showdown, a brand-new mid-February showcase that gives teams one last shot at a non-conference win to boost their tournament resumes.
Virginia is currently rolling, while Ohio State needs another win to get on the right side of the bubble.
So often this time of year, the more desperate team is the one to pick, which is why my Virginia vs. Ohio State predictions have the Buckeyes prevailing.
Find out more in my college basketball picksfor Saturday, February 14.
Virginia vs Ohio State best bet: Ohio State moneyline (+160)
The Ohio State Buckeyes are currently listed among the first four teams out in most major bracketology projections, thanks to their 1-7 record in Quad 1 games.
ACC power Virginia Cavaliers offers an ideal opportunity to improve that mark. Virginia has won five straight games but hasn't looked good, going 1-4 ATS. They needed an 11-1 closing run at Florida State last time out to avoid the upset.
The Buckeyes can score inside, ranking No. 18 nationally in two-point percentage. Virginia has shown some shakiness on the interior lately. Bad Boston College and Syracuse teams shot 55% against them.
Boston College forward Jayden Hastings hit 5-of-6 shots against UVA, nearly doubling his season scoring average. Syracuse wing Naithan George scored 8-of-9 inside. Royal will follow the ACC players' blueprint and have a big day inside. He's topped 14 points in four of his last five games.
Mobley is Ohio State's most prolific three-point shooter, and UVA's perimeter defense will make sure he's guarded when he steps outside. That should open up some passing lanes for him to find Royal and company inside. He has 15 assists in his last five games.
Chance Mallory has the highest free-throw rate on UVA, with .57 free throws per shot attempted from the field. Ohio State ranks No. 284 in the country at defensive free-throw rate, meaning Mallory should get plenty of chances at the line.
Ohio State is a middle-of-the-pack rebounding team on offense and a bad one on the defensive end. Thijs De Ridder has one of the highest offensive rebounding rates at UVA and has 39 rebounds in the last five games.
Virginia has hit the team total Under in its last four games. Find more college basketball betting trends for Virginia vs. Ohio State.
| Location | Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, TN |
| Date | Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 8:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | FOX |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Wayne Rooney has noticed a real shift in Mikel Arteta’s demeanor this season, suggesting the Arsenal manager is noticeably more composed than in previous years.
Known for his passion on the touchline, Arteta has adopted a more measured approach this campaign. The Spaniard seems to have settled into a calmer rhythm, both during matches and when speaking to the media.
That steadiness appears to be reflected in Arsenal’s performances. The Gunners are playing some of their best football under Arteta and are still in the hunt across all competitions.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Rooney said: “I think Mikel Arteta looks a lot calmer as well on the bench. I know he still gets excited at times but there’s a calmness about him this year.”
“And you’re seeing that go into the players as well,” he added.
Wayne Rooney says he’s been impressed with how Mikel Arteta has changed this season, noting that the Arsenal boss seems to have learned from past mistakes.
Rooney is hoping that Arteta can finally lead Arsenal to the title, and he thinks this could be the year they do it.
Speaking about Arteta, Rooney told No Tippy Tappy Football: “Yeah, I think he’s learnt. I’ve been really impressed with Arteta this season.
“Obviously, over the last four or five seasons, they’ve had a certain level of consistency, but I think it was after the, what games did they lose last week?
“They lost to United. After they lost to United, I was really impressed by how he came out and spoke to the media and what he’d been saying to his players.
“A year ago, I don’t think he would have come out with that calmness and almost to put those games in the past, really.
“I think he’s learned from where they’ve been over the last few years, and not getting over the line. I think this is his year to do that.”
Rooney still considers Arsenal to be the frontrunners for the Premier League title this season, noting their consistency compared to Manchester City.
Speaking on No Tippy Tappy Football, Rooney said: “I think Arsenal look strong. City have been a bit in and out, and you’ve obviously got great players, great manager.”
“So they’re definitely still in the tight race, but I think Arsenal look strong and consistent throughout the season.
“I think it’ll be difficult to see them slipping up and City winning every game. So, I still think Arsenal are hot favourites.”
Read more:
Newport County were condemned to their 12th away defeat of the season as they were beaten 1-0 at promotion-chasing MK Dons to leave the threat of relegation looming even larger with just 15 games remaining.
The win extended MK Dons' unbeaten league run to seven matches, while Newport's winless streak stretched to five.
Harrogate's point at Chesterfield only worsened matters leaving County five points adrift at the bottom of League Two.
The Exiles were behind within a minute of this contest and once again it was self-inflicted.
Newport keeper Jordan Wright's poor clearance fell to the feet of former Exiles forward Aaron Collins who stroked the ball into the back of the net.
The Dons' domination only grew as they looked a particular threat from set-pieces with Wright atoning for his early error by bailing out Christian Fuchs' side countless times in the first half.
County introduced Harrison Biggins and Nathaniel Opoku at half-time, but the pattern of the match barely shifted, and MK Dons soon had a golden chance to double their lead.
Former Cardiff City striker Callum Paterson won a penalty after being caught by Wright, but the Newport keeper redeemed himself again by denying Paterson his 15th goal of the season.
Newport finally mustered their first touches inside the MK Dons penalty area in the 70th minute, when Biggins fired over from Anthony Glennon's cross.
But with zero shots on target and just three away league wins all campaign, their miserable form on the road continued.
Victory for MK Dons strengthens their impressive record at Stadium MK, where they have now collected 31 points from 16 home matches. They remain fifth, just one point off the automatic promotion places, as they continue their push for a League One return at the fourth attempt.
For Newport, the misery goes on. Bottom of the table, winless in five, and with no sign of respite as Fuchs' men now face another daunting trip on Tuesday night as they travel to play-off chasers Salford City.
Manchester United have now emerged as one of the favourites for Joao Gomes.
It is the worst‑kept secret that United are preparing for a major midfield overhaul this summer.
Having signed only two central midfielders, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, in the past seven years, it is little wonder why the Red Devils must spend heavily to reinforce the centre of the park, a need made all the more urgent by Casemiro’s confirmed summer exit.
With that in mind, several top midfielders have already been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
One of them is Wolves’ Gomes. The Wanderers’ all‑action midfielder has earned plaudits for his tenacity, elite ball‑winning, relentless pressing and reliable ball‑carrying, qualities that make him one of the finest central midfielders currently in the Premier League.
Yet despite his brilliance, Gomes may not be able to save Wolves from relegation. It would take something extraordinary for the West Midlands side to avoid the drop. Should they go down, Gomes is not expected to go down with them; a move elsewhere looks inevitable.
And if he does leave, reports now suggest his next destination could be either United or Napoli, but not Flamengo.
Recently, the Brazilian has been linked with a return home to Flamengo. However, those rumours have now been dismissed by South American transfer expert Julio Miguel Neto, who stated:
“Joao Gomes’ representatives have no intention of negotiating a return for the midfielder to Brazilian football.
“His most likely destination is Napoli in Italy, with Manchester United also having made enquiries.
“The club itself has not made any moves for the midfielder.
“Speaking after the victory against Vitoria, Filipe Luis (Flamengo coach) stressed that the squad is already well covered in that position.”
Ultimately, the battle may come down to which of the two European heavyweights wants Wolves’ “pitbull” more.
United fans will hope it is their club that wins the race. The chance to remain in the Premier League could also persuade Gomes to snub Napoli.
A proven Premier League talent, the Wolves number eight has everything required to become a long‑term, cost‑effective and dynamic replacement for Casemiro at Old Trafford.
Featured image Naomi Baker via Getty Images
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
Mikel Arteta believes the FA Cup presents another “opportunity” for silverware as Arsenal host Wigan at the Emirates Stadium in the fourth round.
The Gunners are looking to bounce back following a 1–1 draw against Brentford in the Premier League, a result that saw their lead at the top reduced to four points. However, Arteta feels the start of a new competition can provide his squad with fresh momentum.
“It’s an opportunity for the team again with another competition, and the history we have with that competition is amazing,” Arteta said. “We’ll play at home again, so I’m really excited to recover and get back out there.
“Every three days, we’re used to playing in different competitions, home or away. We know what each competition means to the club and to ourselves, and we go step by step.”
Arsenal’s recent FA Cup form has been less convincing since lifting the trophy in 2020, but Arteta played down past results, insisting his side must deliver on the day to progress.
“We haven’t been good enough on that day. In this competition, you have to be excellent when it matters,” he added. “The shirt you wear or the badge you represent is irrelevant – you have to prove it. We’re going to have to do that against Wigan on Sunday.”
But the situation remains stalled despite the player’s desire.
Seattle Sounders: Georgi Minoungou pushes for a move
Georgi Minoungou is eager to leave the Seattle Sounders to join Hammarby. The Burkinabè winger is drawn to the Swedish club's sporting project and wants to make the switch right away, according to Expressen.
Hammarby has submitted an offer reportedly worth one million euros in an effort to convince the American club. Georgi Minoungou sees a move to Sweden as a great opportunity and is ready to take the leap this winter. However, Seattle is holding firm and blocking the deal.
The American club prefers to wait until the summer transfer window, believing they could secure a higher fee in a few months. This stance is stalling negotiations, despite the player’s determination. Hammarby, meanwhile, remains optimistic and continues to work behind the scenes in hopes of unlocking the situation before the transfer window closes.
Men's T20 World Cup, Group D, Ahmedabad
New Zealand 175-7 (20 overs): Chapman 48 (26); Jansen 4-40
South Africa 178-3 (17.1 overs): Markram 86* (44), Miller 24* (17)
South Africa won by seven wickets
Aiden Markram scored a blistering unbeaten 86 as South Africa raced to a seven-wicket win over New Zealand to maintain their 100% record at the T20 World Cup.
Set 176, the Proteas surged to 83-1 after the powerplay as their captain, assisted by Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, brutally took down the Black Caps bowlers.
Markram brought up his half century from 19 balls - the joint-fastest of the tournament - with a straight six and with just seven overs of the chase gone, the outcome was never in doubt.
New Zealand managed to slow the run-rate but it was much too late and South Africa got over the line with 17 deliveries to spare, Markram finishing with eight fours and four sixes in his 44-ball knock.
Victory puts the Proteas on the brink of qualification for the Super 8s and New Zealand still highly likely to join them if they beat Canada in their final Group D game.
Black Caps openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert had come out swinging after their side batted first.
Allen hit four fours and two sixes for his 17-ball 31 before Marco Jansen (4-40) crucially took three wickets in quick succession to bring South Africa back into the game.
The seamer sent back Seifert for 13 in his first over before dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Allen in the space of four balls in the final over of the powerplay.
Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell rebuilt the innings and New Zealand were scoring at around 10-an-over for more than half the innings.
They were 138-5 when Chapman fell to the last ball of the 14th over, having made 48 from 26 balls, with their opponents able to drag it back from there and restrict New Zealand to 175-7.
It appeared short at the halfway stage and within a few balls of the reply, that was confirmed.
Markram and De Kock got after opening bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson from the off, then gave Jacob Duffy the same treatment when he came on.
Ferguson bowled De Kock with a slower ball but there was no slowing the Proteas as Markram continued his charge, first alongside Rickelton then Dewald Brevis, who both made 21.
Markram was able to watch from the non-striker's end as David Miller finished the job in style - launching Ferguson into the stands for a monstrous six.
South Africa will official qualify for the Super 8s if the United Arab Emirates fail to beat Afghanistan on Monday.
Alabama football has another wide receiver for its 2026 roster.
Tyler Henderson, a former NJCAA first-team All-American for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, is joining the Crimson Tide, according to his Instagram.
Looks like Alabama has another WR.
— Colin Gay (@_ColinGay) February 14, 2026
NJCAA All-American Tyler Henderson commits to Alabama. Had 1,299 yards and 12 touchdowns on 67 catches.
Originally signed with Kennesaw State. Alabama has 11 WRs on its 2026 roster. @tuscaloosanews@tloading4kpic.twitter.com/DmTdOPK00M
Henderson, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound receiver out of Vicksburg, Mississippi, had 67 catches for 1,299 yards and 12 touchdowns as a sophomore. In 21 career games with the Bulldogs, Henderson had 100 catches for 1,616 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Henderson is the fourth wide receiver in the 2026 class to join the Alabama roster after the December early signing period, joining New Jersey three-star Amari Sabb, Alabama three-star Aubrey Walker and Georgia three-star Maurice Mathis Jr.
Henderson is one of 11 receivers on the Alabama roster heading into the 2026 season, joining Sabb, Walker, Mathis, Cederian Morgan, NC State transfer Noah Rogers, MJ Chirgwin, Rico Scott, Derek Meadows, Ryan Williams and Lotzeir Brooks.
With Henderson on the roster, Alabama has three junior college players in its 2026 recruiting class along with cornerback Nick Sherman and offensive lineman Tyrell Miller.
Alabama will open the 2026 season against East Carolina Saturday, Sept. 5.
Colin Gay covers Alabama football for The Tuscaloosa News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at cgay@gannett.com or follow him @_ColinGay on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: 2026 JUCO WR Tyler Henderson joins Alabama football
The resident penalty taker of Bayern Munich strikes (it into the back of net) again.
Penalties and Harry Kane are a match made in heaven (read: Allianz Arena). The star has taken virtually every single penalty for Bayern since he joined. He is a prolific scorer from the spot and his technique leaves no room for doubt in his abilities.
But what is surprising is the numbers behind this.
According to Deutsche Welle, as of now, following the win against Werder Bremen, Kane has taken and subsequently converted a whopping TWENTY TWO penalties in the Bundesliga.
That’s right.
Further, it is interesting to note that Kane has also converted every single penalty for Bayern in the Champions League. The only time he has missed from the spot was in the DFB-Pokal against Wehen Wiesbaden last August.
Kane prefers to shoot towards the left and the right in his penalties, but has picked a preference towards the left corner of late, as noted in the last few games where he’s had ample penalty scoring opportunities.
Call him a penalty merchant, but one thing’s for sure. He’s one of the finest strikers Bayern’s had, and that to me, is good enough.
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…
Sign up for a user account and get:
Why Michael Jordan once wore No. 12 as his Bulls jersey number originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
As far as jersey numbers go, Michael Jordan is most known for his famous 23.
Then there's 45, the post-baseball digits that MJ wore with the Chicago Bulls.
But least known among his NBA jersey numbers is a one-night special: 12.
On Feb. 14, 1990, Michael wore 12, and he didn't even have his name on his back.
It's one of those things that comes up around this time, in this case the 26th anniversary, and it's still quite the story.
MORE: These highlights of 12-year old LeBron James are spectacular
Just reaching the peak of his powers with the Bulls, Jordan's jersey was stolen.
Apparently, there was no time to make a fresh 23.
Instead, the Bulls had a No. 12 lying around, nameless, not knowing it was about to be worn by one of the all-time greats.
Jordan didn't let his new number down, either.
All he did that night was drop 49 points. Apparently, his prowess wasn't just contained in 23.
The bummer, though, is that the Bulls actually lost, 135-129. The Orlando Magic got the game to overtime before pulling it out in the extra session.
MORE: This is a mind-blowing Bronny James stat
MJ actually shot 21-for-43 in a game when he decided he simply had to keep putting shots up.
The Magic got 34 points and 11 rebounds from Terry Catledge, along with 16 points and 19 rebounds from Sidney Green.
Yep, it was an odd night all around.
Jordan's 23 was back for the Bulls' next game. There was never even a jersey that said JORDAN 12 on the back. It was just 12, with an all-time great anonymous beneath those unusual digits.
The Arizona Wildcats saw their 23-game winning streak snapped by Kansas last time out. Now they’ll try to avoid back-to-back losses against a Texas Tech Red Raiders squad that’s every bit as formidable as the Jayhawks.
Both teams are stacked with star power and offensive firepower, but this matchup could ultimately hinge on who controls the game.
That’s why my Texas Tech vs. Arizona predictions are calling for a big night from JT Toppin.
Read more in my college basketball picks for Saturday, February 14.
Texas Tech vs Arizona best bet: JT Toppin Over 20.5 points (-105)
JT Toppin will lead the Texas Tech Red Raiders' interior attack against an Arizona Wildcats team that allowed Kansas to attempt 54 shots inside the three-point arc last game.
Toppin has scored 20 or more in seven of his 11 Big 12 games, including a 31-point night against the suffocating Houston defense.
Arizona plays fast, at No. 23 in tempo nationally, which means four more possessions per game than Tech averages at its No. 170 pace.
That translates to more scoring opportunities for Toppin. Arizona has also struggled on the defensive boards recently, and more than half of Toppin's makes come at the rim.
One of the four Big 12 games in which Toppin didn't hit 20 points was the Kansas loss, which sophomore point guard Christian Anderson missed. Toppin managed just 10 points and didn't go to the free-throw line.
When Toppin is at his best, it's because Anderson, who has 37 assists in the last four games, has gotten him the ball.
If Toppin is scoring and Anderson is distributing, Texas Tech is tough to beat. Even against No. 1 Arizona, a double-digit margin of victory is a tough ask against the Red Raiders.
Tech may not get the upset, but they won't get run out of the gym.
Toppin should have his way inside against Arizona's Motiejus Krivas and Tobe Awaka. Kansas big man Flory Bidunga scored 23 on 8-of-11 shooting against them in the last game.
With the Wildcats bigs struggling in that matchup, look for Arizona to turn to Peat and Burries to try to score outside the paint and on drives.
Burries hit four treys against Kansas and is 11 for his last 22 from three, while Peat and his ability to get to the charity stripe should help him clear his scoring total.
Texas Tech has hit the moneyline in 14 of its last 18 games. Find more college basketball betting trends for Texas Tech vs. Arizona.
| Location | McKale Memorial Center, Tucson, AZ |
| Date | Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 6:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
When we do these mock drafts, we always utilize an online mock draft simulator. This makes the picks much more realistic and plausible for the Pittsburgh Steelers. And you never see a guy fall to No. 21 that really takes us by surprise. Until today. This time around, the gods of the 2026 NFL draft smiled on the Steelers in a huge way and it changed the entire direction of these seven picks.
If Love lasts this far in the draft, there's no way the Steelers can pass on him. And this is with all due respect to Jaylen Warren. Love's game is comparable to that of Falcons' running back Bijan Robinson and would completely change the face of the Pittsburgh offense.
The Steelers could lose three safeties in the offseason, making safety a top need. Caleb Downs gets all the praise for being the top safety in this draft, but Thienemen has no holes in his game and has a very high ceiling in the NFL.
Dunker is a classic, old-school offensive lineman with a massive frame, powerful build and nasty demeanor and a perfect fit to replace Isaac Seumalo.
Rodriquez is another one of those old-school football players who just finds himself at the football on every play. If the Steelers release Patrick Queen, this pick is a must.
Pittsburgh needs to find an elite slot cornerback, but we are hoping that could be Asante Samuel Jr., and so we go for the 6-foot-3 Moore as a boundary corner to line up with Joey Porter Jr.
Coleman doesn't get enough attention because the Missouri offense was so bad. He's got great quickness that allows him to get separation and is a player whose game translates well to replace Calvin Austin III.
We have no idea if Drew Allar will be ready for the start of the season but he's a great option for a flyer in the fourth round even if he cannot play this season.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers land elite offensive player in new mock draft update
OptionIncome is a tracking and analytics tool built specifically for income-focused option sellers, including wheel, cash-secured puts, covered calls, and spreads. Instead of juggling spreadsheets or relying on broker PnL that fails when you roll or get assigned, OptionIncome connects to your broker and automatically tracks your option selling activity at the strategy level. You can see how much option income you’re actually generating, with a breakdown by ticker or strategy, rolling PnL across the same strategy or campaign, and wheel cost basis and covered call performance.
Syntara AI monitors over 6,000 U.S. stocks and 350 cryptocurrencies in real time. When unusual price or volume activity occurs across any of these monitored tickers, it cross-checks breaking news and sentiment and notifies you instantly. Instead of generic price notifications, Syntara filters signals using customizable thresholds and delivers structured summaries explaining what’s moving the asset, potential catalysts, and risk factors. This allows traders to understand the context while the move is still developing.
Air France’s Emergency Landing, Latin America’s Aviation Surge, and the US Border Revolution are reshaping the landscape of global tourism like never before. This seismic shift in the industry is marked by Air France’s emergency landing, where a routine flight was forced to divert due to technical issues, showcasing the unyielding safety measures in place for air travel. At the same time, Latin America’s aviation surge is taking flight, with countries like Brazil and Argentina breaking records and becoming powerhouses in global tourism. But that’s not all. The US border revolution is turning heads as Canadian travelers flood U.S. states, shifting the dynamics of international travel. This change is creating a tourism boom, with destinations like Disney and luxury resorts seeing unprecedented bookings.
These dramatic developments—Air France’s emergency landing, the rise of Latin American aviation, and the US border revolution—are all intertwined in a complex web that is transforming global tourism. Whether it’s the growing dominance of Latin American airlines or the new wave of Canadian travelers, this is the future of tourism, and it’s happening now. To stay ahead of these trends and understand how they’ll impact your travel plans, you’ll need to read the full story. Keep going!
The global travel landscape is currently witnessing a series of seismic shifts that are redefining how we traverse the planet. From the adrenaline-fueled moments of an Air France emergency landing in Portugal to the unprecedented aviation boom across Latin American nations, the industry is operating at a breakneck pace. Meanwhile, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta is asserting total dominance over all global competitors, and a massive “tourism revolt” is brewing along the northern U.S. border as Canadian travelers rewrite the rules of international vacationing. From the high-stakes profit wars between Air Canada and its rivals to the shocking statistical dominance of Mexico’s urban travel scene, this report delivers an in-depth analysis of the power plays and crises shaping the future of modern exploration.
A routine flight from Paris (CDG) to São Paulo (GRU) turned into a high-pressure situation when Air France Flight AF460, operated by a modern Airbus A350-900, was forced to make an unscheduled emergency landing at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, Portugal. Technical issues mid-flight necessitated the diversion, showcasing the rigorous safety protocols of Air France. The airline confirmed that the landing was handled safely, and passengers were provided with assistance. This event highlights the critical importance of diversion airports like Porto in maintaining the safety of long-haul transatlantic corridors.
While global markets stabilize, Latin America is witnessing an unprecedented aviation “supercharge.” Regional powerhouses like LATAM, Aerolíneas Argentinas, GOL, and Azul are not just recovering—they are breaking historical aviation records. Countries like Brazil, Argentina, Costa Rica, and Panama are leading the charge. This growth is fueled by increased connectivity and a surge in demand that is also providing a significant “spillover” benefit to the U.S. travel sector. As these carriers expand their fleets and routes, the Southern Hemisphere is becoming the new engine of global tourism growth.
In the battle for the busiest skies, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has asserted total dominance. ATL has officially overtaken Chicago O’Hare, JFK, and LAX to remain the undisputed king of U.S. air traffic. The airport’s efficiency and strategic hub status for Delta Air Lines have allowed it to “crush” international competitors, proving that Atlanta is the central nervous system of global aviation. While other major hubs struggle with congestion and infrastructure delays, ATL continues to scale, setting a benchmark that other U.S. airports are finding impossible to match.
A shocking trend is emerging across northern U.S. states. Maine, Idaho, Michigan, and Minnesota are facing what experts call a “tourism revolt” as Canadian travelers flood the border. Instead of local getaways, Canadians are “hammering” America, bypassing local sites to book massive Disney vacations and luxury stays. This shift in travel patterns is being analyzed through the lens of shifting economic policies and the “Trump Effect” on cross-border commerce. The influx is creating a gold mine for U.S. hospitality but leaving some local tourism boards wondering how to reclaim their domestic audience.
The North is seeing a massive battle for profitability, and Air Canada is winning. By surpassing WestJet, Sunwing, Air Transat, and Porter, Air Canada has taken a commanding lead in the race for sky-high profits. Despite the rise of low-cost carriers like Flair, Air Canada’s diversified route network and premium service tiers have secured its financial dominance. This update reveals how the carrier is plotting a “profit-packed” future while its competitors scramble to consolidate or find niche markets to survive the aggressive competition.
Mexico remains a global juggernaut, but the internal “Urban Travel Show” has a clear winner. While Cozumel, Los Cabos, and the Riviera Maya continue to draw millions, shocking new stats reveal the true champions of Mexico tourism. Cancun remains the titan, but emerging destinations like Chetumal and Bacalar are seeing exponential growth. Mexico is successfully pivoting from being just a beach destination to a diverse urban and ecological powerhouse, outperforming nearly every other destination in the Western Hemisphere.
As we navigate this era of unprecedented transformation, the global travel sector remains a volatile battlefield of ambition and resilience. The harrowing diversion of Air France AF460 serves as a stark reminder of the industry’s unwavering commitment to safety, even as Latin American and Canadian carriers engage in a high-stakes pursuit of record-breaking profitability. From Atlanta’s absolute dominance in the U.S. skies to the “Canadian Hammer” reshaping border state economies, the traditional maps of tourism are being redrawn. Mexico continues to cement its status as an untouchable titan, proving that strategic urban and coastal development can outpace global competition. Staying informed on these seismic shifts is no longer optional—it is essential for understanding the future of our interconnected world.
The post Air France’s Emergency Landing, Latin America’s Aviation Surge, and the US Border Revolution Shake Up the Future of Tourism: Latest Travel News in Brief appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
The West of England is starting to change how it’s transport system will work. With the new Transport Vision announced by the West of England Combined Authority, the region will create a new high-capacity mass transit rail system that will provide a direct connection to Bristol Airport. This is a major project because, until now, Bristol Airport has been the only regional airport in the UK without a mass transit connection of any kind.
There are a lot of issues with the current transport system; these include heavy traffic, unreliability of buses, and the lack of rail services. With a new, purpose-built transport system the West of England will help improve the economy, make people’s daily journeys easier, and improve the overall transport system.
The West of England is the largest city-region in the UK without an integrated mass transit system. The lack of such a network has been a persistent barrier to improved regional mobility. However, the newly unveiled Transport Vision is determined to change that by establishing a mass transit system within the next four to five years.
The move aligns with the region’s goal of tackling traffic congestion and reducing the carbon footprint. The mass transit network, including rail, bus, and active travel options, is designed to connect major economic hubs and residential areas, making commuting more sustainable and convenient for residents.
The Transport Vision outlines five critical priorities to transform transportation across the region:
Travelers can look forward to a range of benefits once the mass transit network is fully operational. The most notable is the direct rail link to Bristol Airport, which will significantly reduce travel times and improve accessibility for those heading to and from the airport. Additionally, the region’s improved bus and rail networks will offer a more seamless experience for daily commuters, making travel more reliable.
The integration of active travel options, such as safe cycling lanes and the introduction of e-bikes, will provide more sustainable travel choices. For local residents, this also means better access to the surrounding countryside and key attractions, reducing reliance on cars and lowering pollution levels.
The West of England’s Transport Vision draws parallels with similar-sized cities in Europe, such as Toulouse in France and Malmö in Sweden. These cities have experienced strong economic growth by investing heavily in public transport systems that include trams, metros, buses, and trains. The aim is to replicate this success in the West of England, fostering both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
By building new homes close to these transport links and enhancing the integration of different modes of travel, the region is poised to experience a similar transformation. The reopening of the Portishead Line and new stations along the Henbury Line will also play a crucial role in improving regional connectivity.
The West of England is already making strides towards its transport goals. More than 250 new green buses are expected to enter service by the end of the year. In addition, new railway stations and service enhancements are underway to support the region’s growing demand for better transport options.
Moreover, the government has committed £752 million to fund bus and rail improvements. This funding will also help accelerate the development of mass transit plans, ensuring that the region’s vision becomes a reality in the near future.
The development of this ambitious transport network will not be a top-down process. Local residents will have opportunities to contribute their feedback, particularly through consultations on the Bus Plan, which will focus on making bus services more efficient and accessible.
The West of England Combined Authority is keen to ensure that the transport system they create is one that people can trust. By listening to the needs and preferences of the community, authorities hope to design a network that serves everyone.
How people traveling in the region will change with the new mass transit rail Bristol Airport connection and the improvements in the West of England’s Transport Vision. Better connections and the plan focusing on economic growth and the environment will help the region’s residents travel stress free and help the environment.
Traveling stress free and relying on and commuting daily to the airport will become easier. It will become transformational commuting in the West of England and the region will become a model for the UK to follow.
The post Bristol Airport to Get Direct Rail Link as Part of West of England’s New Transport Vision appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
As a potential U.S. government shutdown looms, travel industry leaders warn that TSA funding lapses could disrupt spring break, causing delays, missed flights, and economic damage.
As the U.S. nears the potential risk of another government shutdown, a crucial concern arises just ahead of one of the busiest travel periods of the year—spring break. The looming uncertainty over funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has prompted a joint statement from key industry players, including U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association. They have voiced alarm over the potentially disruptive effects of a funding lapse on the travel sector, particularly for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees and the broader travel ecosystem.
In a statement, industry leaders emphasized the vital role that TSA personnel play in ensuring smooth air travel and public safety. The risk of essential TSA workers being forced to work without pay could lead to numerous issues, including increased absenteeism, call-outs, and ultimately, longer wait times for travelers. This situation, if not addressed, could result in higher chances of flight delays and cancellations, exacerbating an already stressful travel experience.
The travel industry has previously experienced firsthand the consequences of such funding lapses. During the 43-day shutdown the previous year, TSA personnel continued to work despite not being paid, a show of resilience that the organizations commend. However, the prolonged uncertainty significantly strained the system, causing a ripple effect across the travel sector. The ripple extended beyond just airports—hotels, airlines, and countless small businesses within the travel ecosystem suffered due to disrupted operations.
These shutdowns also have an enduring economic impact. Last year, the 43-day shutdown alone resulted in a staggering loss of $6 billion in economic activity, equating to nearly $140 million per day. The disruptions affected more than 6 million travelers, many of whom experienced delays and cancellations due to the understaffing of TSA checkpoints. With major events like America’s 250th anniversary and the 2026 World Cup approaching, these disruptions not only threaten the smooth flow of travelers but also jeopardize the nation’s ability to capitalize on the economic opportunities these high-profile events will generate.
As such, the need for a resolution is urgent. The statement from U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association stresses that Congress must take immediate action to ensure that TSA is fully funded and equipped to carry out its critical security functions. The joint statement strongly advocates for the passage of the Keep America Flying Act (S. 3031/H.R. 5851), a bipartisan proposal that would guarantee TSA officers and air traffic controllers receive pay during funding lapses. This legislation, they argue, is a common-sense solution to ensure that the nation’s aviation security personnel are properly compensated and the country’s air travel operations remain uninterrupted.
The statement concludes by underscoring the importance of securing a stable and reliable funding framework for essential federal workers, not just for the benefit of travelers but for the broader economy. A failure to act quickly could have long-term ramifications, hindering the nation’s preparedness and modernization efforts, and putting at risk the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors that support millions of American jobs. The travel industry, which relies on smooth operations and certainty in funding, urges Congress to prioritize the passage of the Keep America Flying Act and prevent further disruption to the nation’s critical infrastructure.
The post U.S. Travel Industry Calls for Urgent Congressional Action to Prevent Shutdown Impact on TSA and Travel appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Carnival Cruise Line is bringing an exciting update for travellers with its new dinner menus. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the onboard dining experience and providing passengers with more flexibility and choice during their voyage. For global tourists, this change is not just about food—it adds a fresh angle to cruise holidays, turning every meal into a highlight of the journey. UK tourists and international travellers alike can expect a blend of diverse flavours, themed dinners, and innovative dishes that make cruising more enjoyable and memorable.
Carnival Cruise’s new dinner menus offer travellers a wider selection of meals than ever before. Passengers now have the freedom to choose what they want to eat each night, rather than following fixed menus. This variety includes international cuisines, plant-based options, and familiar comfort foods, designed to cater to every palate. For families, solo travellers, and couples, this flexibility ensures that dining onboard becomes a personalised experience. Cruise holidays are no longer just about the destinations visited—they now also celebrate culinary exploration at sea.
Food has become a central attraction for modern cruise holidays, and Carnival Cruise recognises this. The new menus transform dinner into more than just a meal—they become an experience. Special themed evenings, chef’s creations, and dishes inspired by ports of call allow travellers to enjoy a taste of local culture while still at sea. Each cruise voyage becomes an opportunity to explore global flavours, giving passengers an immersive and entertaining dining journey. For travellers seeking a mix of adventure and comfort, these menus enrich the cruise experience significantly.
Cruise vacations attract travellers from all over the world, and dining is often a deciding factor in choosing a cruise. Carnival Cruise’s new dinner menus make the journey more enjoyable by combining convenience with gourmet experiences. Passengers can enjoy multiple dining options without rigid schedules, allowing them to relax and focus on the travel experience. The menus also cater to dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their meals safely and comfortably. For UK tourists and global visitors, this innovation enhances the overall appeal of Carnival Cruise voyages.
Travellers planning a cruise should prepare in advance to make the most of these new dining options. Booking dining times early and communicating any dietary requirements ensures a smooth experience. Cruise enthusiasts are also encouraged to check official travel guidelines to stay safe and informed. Government resources provide valuable advice for cruise passengers, including health protocols and international travel tips. Being well-prepared allows travellers to fully enjoy Carnival Cruise’s new dinner menus and ensures that every meal at sea contributes positively to their vacation experience.
To make the most of Carnival Cruise’s new dinner menus, passengers can follow some simple strategies. Explore menu choices ahead of time, experiment with different dishes, and participate in themed dinner nights. Families can enjoy a mix of international cuisines, while solo travellers can sample smaller portions of multiple meals. Flexible dining options also allow passengers to adjust their plans around excursions and sightseeing, making the travel experience seamless. By using these menus wisely, travellers can enhance their cruise holidays with memorable culinary moments.
Carnival Cruise’s new dinner menus do more than satisfy hunger—they create cultural connections. Passengers can experience flavours inspired by destinations they visit, turning dinner into a mini exploration of global cuisines. For UK and international travellers, these menus provide a unique way to enjoy local-inspired dishes without leaving the ship. Each meal becomes an educational and enjoyable experience, offering insights into international flavours, cooking styles, and dining traditions. Cruises now serve as a platform for travellers to discover the world through taste as well as travel.
The introduction of new dinner menus marks a significant step in improving Carnival Cruise vacations. By offering more variety, flexibility, and culturally inspired meals, the cruise line ensures that dining becomes an integral part of the travel experience. For UK tourists and travellers worldwide, this update adds value and excitement to each voyage. Food on Carnival Cruise is no longer secondary—it is a highlight that complements sightseeing, excursions, and leisure time. Travellers can now enjoy meals that delight the senses while enhancing their overall cruise holiday experience.
The post Sail the Seas in Style: How Carnival Cruise’s New Dinner Menus Are Transforming Cruise Holidays for UK and International Travellers appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
As the adult-only cruise line market continues to grow, Virgin Voyages’ success is undeniable. Virgin has performed exceptionally for the upcoming 2025 season. They are awaiting 2026 with great expectations due to continued operational growth and strong bookings. They are anticipating entering the market while travel trends towards adult-only holidays are always increasing. Virgin Voyages has exceeded expectations, continuing their known exclusivity with kid-free experiences.
In 2025, Virgin Voyages achieved significant growth across various metrics, with bookings increasing by nearly 20% year-over-year. Gross ticket revenue saw a nearly 30% increase, showcasing the strong commercial demand for its ships. Virgin Voyages’ occupancy rates remained high, with its vessels operating at full capacity. This year’s achievements also included a significant boost in long-term customer interest, marking the brand as a major player in the cruise industry.
Virgin Voyages continued to shine during the Mid-Wave season. Revenue surged by almost 20% from the previous year, a clear indicator of strong market interest. In January 2026, the cruise line recorded its highest-ever booking month, signaling growing demand for its adult-only cruises. Travelers have shown increasing interest in longer voyages, especially to popular destinations such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. Additionally, bookings for Alaska cruises have tripled, indicating the growing popularity of this unique destination.
One of the standout moments for Virgin Voyages in 2025 was the debut of its latest ship, Brilliant Lady. The ship’s dual inaugural sailings from New York City and Miami were a major milestone for the brand, completing the cruise line’s four-ship fleet. This new addition further solidified Virgin Voyages’ presence in the market and set the stage for even more exciting itineraries in 2026.
As Virgin Voyages moves into 2026, the cruise line is in its strongest position yet. The continued success of its fleet and growing demand for its unique vacation experience have positioned the brand to expand its offerings further. New destinations and more diverse experiences are set to launch in 2026, continuing the company’s reputation for providing adults-only cruises with real value and unforgettable experiences.
For those planning a cruise in 2026, Virgin Voyages is offering enticing deals for its Wave booking season, which is open through February 26, 2026. These offers make it easier for travelers to experience Virgin Voyages’ unique adult-only cruises at a reduced cost:
This special offer is valid on voyages to high-demand destinations such as the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and new West Coast itineraries aboard Brilliant Lady.
Virgin Voyages is also launching a new incentive program called Sell Your Way to Seattle, designed to reward travel advisors who promote 2026 West Coast and Alaska sailings. Advisors can earn multiple entries into a prize draw for each booking made during the incentive period, making it a great opportunity for travel professionals to capitalize on the growing demand for these sought-after cruises.
Virgin Voyages’ appeal is clear: it targets adults seeking a cruise experience without the presence of children. The brand’s focus on adults-only vacations provides flexibility for travelers who no longer need to worry about school calendars. This shift in travel patterns has fostered a strong base of repeat customers and a steadier demand throughout the year.
Travel advisors have noted that Virgin Voyages’ distinct market positioning as a leader in kid-free travel is driving both customer loyalty and satisfaction. This is reflected in the high ratings the brand consistently receives across its fleet, as well as its accolades, such as being recognized as the best mega-ship ocean cruise line for three consecutive years by Travel + Leisure.
Virgin Voyages offers a truly unique cruise experience that emphasizes relaxation, luxury, and adventure—all without children on board. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious Mediterranean escape, an exploration of the Caribbean, or a voyage to Alaska’s wild beauty, Virgin Voyages caters to a diverse range of travelers.
In addition to its adult-only policy, Virgin Voyages also prides itself on its transparent pricing structure. The brand has adopted a “Voyage Fair Choices” philosophy that offers meaningful inclusions like drinks and onboard credit, making it easy for travelers to understand exactly what they are paying for.
For those booking their next cruise in 2026, the deals available during Wave season make it the perfect time to experience Virgin Voyages’ offerings.
Virgin Voyages has great offers and growing popularity which means they will lead the adult only cruise market again in 2026. If you are a first time or seasoned cruiser, it is a great time to book a cruise with Virgin Voyages.
The post Exclusive Deals for 2026: Virgin Voyages’ Wave Season Is Here with Big Savings appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Emirates is pushing the envelope in luxury travel with its upcoming Airbus A380 upgrade. Starting 14 April 2026, the airline will introduce a new three-class configuration on its flagship aircraft. This retrofit will add a premium economy cabin, enhancing the comfort and choice available to passengers on long-haul routes.
Emirates is converting its high-density two-class A380 aircraft into a much more spacious three-class design. The first upgraded aircraft will begin operations on 14 April 2026, flying between Dubai and Amman (EK903/904). By 1 June 2026, the aircraft will shift to the popular Dubai-Prague route (EK139/140). This move aims to cater to the growing demand for premium economy services, ensuring passengers have more comfortable options for long flights.
The retrofitted A380 will feature:
This brings the total seating capacity of the aircraft to 569. While the plane retains its high-capacity design, the addition of premium economy reflects Emirates’ focus on maximizing comfort and revenue per square meter.
One of the most anticipated additions is the new premium economy cabin. Passengers in this section will enjoy a seat width of 19.5 inches, with a 2-4-2 seating configuration. Each seat offers 40 inches of pitch and an 8-inch recline, perfect for those looking to enhance their travel experience without breaking the bank.
The seats will be fitted with high-end features, such as quilted leather upholstery, adjustable calf rests, and six-way adjustable headrests. Premium economy passengers will also have access to a 13.3” HD touch screen, 110V AC power outlet, and USB-A/USB-C power sockets for a modern, convenient journey.
Dining in premium economy will be a treat, with meals served on Royal Doulton china and stainless steel cutlery. A unique monthly menu will offer a variety of gourmet options. For a special touch, passengers will enjoy Chandon sparkling wine and business-class wines, accompanied by chocolates and liqueurs to make the flight feel like a celebration.
The new three-class configuration will stand apart from the airline’s other A380 models:
The new three-class configuration strikes the perfect balance, offering increased comfort for mid-tier travelers while maintaining a high seat capacity for long-haul travel.
The retrofit is a response to the growing demand for premium economy cabins on long-haul flights. Emirates is tapping into this lucrative market segment, which includes both leisure travelers seeking more comfort and business travelers who desire greater flexibility. By enhancing their fleet, Emirates not only caters to these needs but also optimizes its aircraft for better revenue generation.
This move is in line with Emirates’ larger strategy of aligning luxury offerings with passenger demand. With growing competition in the aviation sector, the airline is keen to differentiate itself by providing a more versatile travel experience without compromising on luxury.
By the end of 2026, Emirates will offer premium economy on 99 destinations, making it one of the most expansive premium economy networks in the world. The retrofit program will include not only A380 aircraft but also Boeing 777s, and the airline’s new Airbus A350s will come with the three-class configuration from the start.
New routes scheduled to receive premium economy service include high-demand destinations such as New York, Zurich, Milan, Dublin, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Entebbe, Basra, and Mauritius. These additions will make it even easier for travelers to enjoy more comfortable flights on Emirates, especially on routes with substantial leisure and corporate traffic.
The Emirates A380 upgrade is set to have a significant impact on tourism. As Dubai, Amman, and Prague become key destinations on the revamped A380 route network, the comfort and luxury of the new premium economy service will encourage more long-haul tourists to choose Emirates for their travel needs.
For tourists visiting Dubai, the city’s luxury appeal will be perfectly complemented by the enhanced A380 service. Emirates’ commitment to offering a premium experience will attract more international visitors, fueling Dubai’s status as a top tourist destination.
Similarly, the new route to Prague will serve as a gateway for more travelers from the Middle East and beyond, making this charming European city more accessible to the growing number of tourists looking for a luxurious yet affordable travel experience.
[Image Credit:Emirates]
The post Emirates A380 Transformation: New Premium Economy Seats Boost Dubai, Amman, and Prague Routes, Enhancing Luxury Travel appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
For travellers seeking unforgettable experiences, Nashville in Tennessee offers more than just its legendary country music. Known as Music City, this energetic destination has become a hotspot for nightlife enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors can enjoy lively dueling piano shows, social bars with dart boards, and unique entertainment venues that blend music, games, and local culture. The city’s after-dark scene caters to all types of travellers, from solo visitors and couples to groups of friends looking for an exciting night out in a safe, welcoming environment.
A trip to Nashville would not be complete without visiting a dueling piano bar. These venues feature two skilled pianists who take live requests, performing classic hits and contemporary favourites. The crowd is often invited to sing along, clap, and participate, creating a highly interactive atmosphere. Each show is unique, and the energy is contagious, making it a perfect way for tourists to engage with local culture while having fun. The combination of live music, enthusiastic audiences, and lively performers offers travellers a distinctive taste of Music City nightlife that is both entertaining and culturally immersive.
Beyond piano bars, Nashville is home to a variety of pubs and casual hangouts that feature games such as darts, pool, and trivia nights. These venues provide a relaxed alternative for travellers who enjoy friendly competition alongside drinks and socialising. The local bar scene encourages interaction among tourists and residents alike, giving visitors a chance to experience authentic Music City hospitality. Short walks along bustling streets often lead travellers to hidden gems, where games, music, and conversation merge to create memorable evenings. These interactive settings highlight Nashville’s playful side and ensure that nights are filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Many of Nashville’s nightlife venues also offer a selection of food and beverages, making them ideal for travellers looking to combine entertainment with dining. From classic southern dishes to innovative small plates, visitors can sample local cuisine while enjoying live performances or participating in bar games. Signature cocktails and locally brewed beers complement the culinary experience, allowing tourists to fully immerse themselves in Nashville’s vibrant food and music culture. This fusion of gastronomy and entertainment makes the city a must-visit for travellers seeking holistic cultural experiences.
To make the most of Nashville’s nightlife, travellers should plan ahead. Many dueling piano bars and popular pubs become crowded in the evening, so booking reservations or arriving early is recommended. Staying in downtown hotels provides easy walking access to multiple entertainment spots, reducing the need for transport late at night. Visitors should also familiarise themselves with local laws, including the legal drinking age of 21, and consider using rideshare or public transport for longer journeys. By planning carefully, travellers can maximise their exposure to Music City’s diverse nightlife while staying safe and comfortable throughout the evening.
While Nashville is known for its energetic atmosphere, travellers are advised to be mindful of personal safety and comfort. Well-lit streets, popular tourist areas, and hospitality venues make for safe exploration. Keeping hydrated and taking breaks during long nights ensures a pleasant experience. Travellers should also consider pacing themselves between high-energy dueling piano shows and more relaxed pub visits to fully enjoy the city without fatigue. These simple measures help ensure that nights out remain enjoyable and memorable, enhancing the overall travel experience in Music City.
Nashville nightlife offers a unique blend of music, games, culture, and social interaction. From interactive dueling piano shows to game-filled pubs, the city provides a variety of entertainment for travellers worldwide. Each night is an opportunity to engage with local culture, meet fellow visitors, and create unforgettable memories. The combination of energetic performances, friendly bars, and culinary delights makes Music City a standout destination for anyone seeking a lively, immersive travel experience. Whether a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, exploring Nashville after dark promises unforgettable moments that capture the city’s true spirit.
The post Discover the Magic of Nashville After Dark: Interactive Piano Shows, Dart-Friendly Bars, and Memorable Nights in Music City appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
ibis, the well-known budget hotel brand by Accor, has appointed Sachin Maheshwary as the new Cluster General Manager for its Mumbai properties. This strategic move reflects ibis’ commitment to strengthening its leadership presence in one of India’s most competitive and high-impact hospitality markets. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Sachin brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in operational efficiency, brand-building and guest satisfaction.
Sachin Maheshwary joins ibis at a crucial time for the brand’s operations in Mumbai, a city known for its fast-paced and dynamic hospitality landscape. As Cluster General Manager, he will oversee the operations of multiple ibis properties across the city. His role will focus on enhancing operational efficiency, improving guest experiences and ensuring sustainable growth for the brand.
Before taking on this new role with ibis, Sachin had a distinguished career with leading hospitality companies such as Accor and Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL). His extensive experience spans luxury, upscale and economy segments, making him well-suited to lead ibis’ operations in Mumbai, a market where the demand for high standards of performance and consistent guest satisfaction is ever-growing.
Tejus Jose, the Director of Operations for ibis and ibis Styles India, highlighted that Sachin’s hands-on operational understanding and collaborative leadership style make him an ideal fit for this important role. Mumbai, as one of the most competitive and demanding hospitality markets, requires a leader who can ensure the highest level of guest satisfaction while maintaining operational efficiency. Sachin’s ability to align team efforts and execute innovative strategies will be crucial in meeting these challenges.
Sachin has previously held senior leadership roles, including leading hotel pre-openings, large-scale renovations and award-winning food and beverage (F&B) initiatives. His most recent positions included serving as the General Manager of Novotel Goa Resort and Spa and Novotel Goa Candolim. During his tenure, he also took on the role of F&B Alchemist for Accor India and South Asia, where he drove culinary innovation and strengthened brand storytelling across the region.
This breadth of experience will play a key role in ensuring the continued success of ibis properties in Mumbai, where his operational insights and guest-first approach are expected to make a significant impact.
In a statement about his new role, Sachin emphasized the dynamic nature of Mumbai’s hospitality market, noting that the city’s evolving guest expectations present both exciting opportunities and challenges. His top priorities will include building strong teams, refining operational standards and delivering guest experiences that are not only efficient but also warm, personalized and value-driven.
The appointment of Sachin Maheshwary as Cluster General Manager for ibis Mumbai underscores the brand’s ongoing commitment to investing in leadership to support its growth across India’s urban markets. ibis continues to position itself as a reliable and preferred choice for travelers seeking dependable, value-led hospitality. With Sachin’s appointment, the brand aims to enhance its operational excellence and remain a top choice for budget-conscious travelers in Mumbai and beyond.
In conclusion, ibis is poised to further elevate its hospitality standards in Mumbai under the leadership of Sachin Maheshwary. His extensive experience in the hospitality industry, particularly in operations and guest experience, will be instrumental in driving growth and ensuring the continued success of the ibis brand in one of India’s most vibrant and competitive cities.
The post Budget Hotel Brand ibis by Accor Welcomes Sachin Maheshwary with over Two Decades of Hospitality Experience as the New Cluster General Manager for it’s Mumbai Property in India appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Marriott International has reported another record-breaking year of growth in the Asia Pacific outside of China (APEC) as the company has marked the third consecutive year of exceptional development activity in 2025. With 187 organic deals being signed, the company has reported that the region has experienced a 32% year-over-year increase in development signings, surpassing 28,000 rooms.
This surge in the growth of hotel developments not only signifies the rising demand for premium, luxury, and midscale accommodations but also marks the growth of the hospitality sector in emerging markets. As the Asia Pacific is considered to be a high-growth market, the company’s growth can also be attributed to the fact that it has been able to cater to the needs of the people in emerging markets as well.
In 2025, Marriott closed the year with more than 400 hotels and 86,000 rooms in its development pipeline in the APEC region. Conversions continued to be a key growth driver, accounting for 35% of total signed deals, reflecting the value Marriott brings to owners seeking speed-to-market solutions and access to its powerful global distribution system. The rise in multi-unit agreements, representing 30% of total signings, shows the growing appetite for scalable investments across markets and segments.
This impressive development activity reinforces Marriott’s role in driving hospitality growth in the region. By leveraging its diverse brand portfolio, Marriott is able to meet the increasing demand for high-quality accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, and contribute to the economic growth of emerging tourism markets.
Luxury travel was a major focus in 2025, with brands like JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, and Luxury Collection seeing strong growth. Marriott’s luxury portfolio accounted for 19% of 2025 organic room signings, underscoring sustained long-term demand for high-end accommodations. This growth within the luxury segment is an important contributor to the overall hospitality growth in the region, particularly in urban and resort destinations.
Marriott’s investment in luxury properties includes notable signings such as JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru (Malaysia), expected to open in 2027, and The Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Pottuvil, Sri Lanka, slated for 2032. These luxury additions highlight Marriott’s commitment to expanding its luxury footprint in both well-established and untapped destinations, offering deeply immersive travel experiences rooted in nature, culture, and local craftsmanship.
Marriott’s strategy of expanding in emerging destinations has been a key driver of hospitality growth in the APEC region. In 2025, the company saw strong openings in Vietnam, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, showcasing the shift in demand toward high-growth, culturally rich markets. Marriott’s Moxy Kathmandu debut in Nepal taps into the growing demand for adventure tourism and youth travelers, while the Halcyon Private Isles Maldives offers exclusive experiences on private islands for those seeking seclusion and luxury.
The company’s expansion into emerging destinations is not just about increasing room count, but about catering to evolving tourist preferences, such as wellness, adventure, and cultural immersion. By offering a variety of lifestyle brands and design-forward accommodations, Marriott is helping to shape the future of tourism in these rapidly developing areas, which in turn drives hospitality growth by attracting new segments of global travelers.
In 2025, Marriott reached a major milestone with the opening of its 700th property in the APEC region, Legacy Mekong, Can Tho, part of the Autograph Collection in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. This opening reinforces Marriott’s strategy of expanding beyond traditional gateway cities, tapping into culturally rich, high-growth emerging destinations.
With more than 730 open properties in 22 countries and 27 brands, Marriott’s hospitality growth in the region is extensive, reinforcing its commitment to diversifying its portfolio to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers. By expanding into both established and emerging markets, Marriott is capturing new demand drivers and delivering distinctive, locally inspired experiences that resonate with global travelers.
Marriott’s success in 2025 shows its potential for growth in the Asia Pacific region. Marriott has a diverse portfolio of luxury, midscale, and lifestyle brands. Its focus on emerging destinations will also play a vital role in meeting the growing need for premium accommodations in growing markets. Marriott’s focus on sustainability, community, and personalized experiences will ensure its position as a leader in the growth of tourism in the Asia Pacific region.
Marriott’s focus on meeting growing travel demands, as well as its focus on increasing its presence in luxury tourism and emerging destinations, will play a vital role in its future growth. Marriott’s strong development pipeline, as well as its diverse portfolio, will play a vital role in its ability to capture new market share, boost tourism growth, and contribute to the growth of tourism in various destinations.
Image Source: Marriott
The post Marriott Expands in Asia Pacific Region Sees Record Growth with More than One Hundred and Fifty Deals Signed, Accelerating its Hospitality Growth Across Emerging Destinations and Luxury Markets appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Alaska, USA – The sudden closure of a small-ship cruise operator has sent shockwaves through the global travel community. Known for providing intimate journeys through Alaska’s stunning Inside Passage, the operator’s exit leaves many travellers reconsidering their 2026 plans. These cruises offered close-up views of glaciers, wildlife, and remote towns unreachable by larger vessels. With this sudden shutdown, tourists must adapt quickly, exploring alternative ways to enjoy Alaska’s wilderness while still experiencing the state’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
The Alaska small-ship cruise shutdown was announced unexpectedly, leaving travellers with reservations scrambling for alternatives. These cruises were popular because they combined adventure with comfort, taking guests into quiet bays and fjords that big ships cannot access. The closure affects the 2026 travel season, a prime period for viewing wildlife, glaciers, and scenic landscapes. For tourists, this means seeking other options to explore Southeast Alaska while keeping itineraries flexible. The shutdown serves as a reminder that travel plans can change suddenly, and having backup plans is essential.
Alaska’s tourism thrives on cruise visitors, who bring revenue to small communities, tour operators, and local businesses. The small-ship cruise shutdown has a direct impact on these economies and the travel plans of global tourists. Many visitors chose these cruises for their intimate experience and personalised itineraries. With the exit of this operator, travellers will need to consider alternative cruises, land tours, or expedition-style trips. This change emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and exploring multiple ways to experience Alaska’s majestic wilderness.
Despite the shutdown, there are several ways to enjoy Alaska’s Inside Passage. Larger cruise lines continue to operate from ports like Seattle and Vancouver, although they may not reach the most secluded areas. Expedition cruises and adventure vessels provide more intimate experiences with wildlife spotting, glacier viewing, and local cultural encounters. These alternatives allow tourists to enjoy a similar adventure while adjusting to the absence of the small-ship operator. Flexibility and early booking are key to securing spots during Alaska’s limited summer season.
Alaska is not only accessible by sea. Travellers can explore the state through flights, trains, and guided tours. Cities like Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka serve as gateways to the wilderness. National parks such as Denali offer trekking, wildlife viewing, and stunning vistas. Flightseeing tours over glaciers provide unique perspectives, while kayaking and eco-lodge stays allow for closer interactions with nature. Even without small-ship cruises, tourists can design itineraries combining land and air options to maximise Alaska’s adventure potential.
Tourists should begin planning early for the 2026 Alaska travel season, which runs from May to September. Early planning ensures access to popular tours and activities while giving travellers time to arrange documents, flights, and accommodations. For those who prefer cruising, booking expedition-style or larger cruise ships in advance is advisable. Land tours, adventure excursions, and wildlife-focused experiences provide alternatives for visitors seeking personal engagement with Alaska’s landscapes. With careful preparation, travellers can still enjoy the essence of Alaska despite the small-ship cruise shutdown.
The closure of one cruise operator opens the door to exploring Alaska in new ways. Wildlife watching, hiking, and cultural encounters offer unique experiences for tourists. Visitors can explore remote villages, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about Indigenous traditions. Alaska’s Inside Passage, glaciers, and fjords remain accessible through alternative tours and personalised travel plans. Adventure tourism, from kayaking to guided trekking, continues to thrive, giving visitors opportunities to immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty. With creativity and flexibility, tourists can still experience unforgettable journeys in Alaska.
Alaska remains one of the most spectacular destinations in the world. The small-ship cruise shutdown is a challenge, but it also presents an opportunity for tourists to explore the state’s wilderness in new, adventurous ways. With proper planning and creativity, 2026 can still be a year of unforgettable Alaskan experiences.
The post 2026 Alaska Travel Update: Small-Ship Cruise Shutdown Sparks New Adventure Opportunities for Tourists in the Inside Passage and Beyond appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy S26 series will launch on 25 February 2026. Ahead of the official release, the company has shared a new teaser video revealing an interesting feature – Privacy Display.
In the teaser, Samsung shows how the new Privacy Display feature works. The Galaxy S26 series will include a special zero peeking mode. This means that when the feature is turned on, people sitting beside you will not be able to see what is on your phone screen.
The privacy display hides some of the pixels through a collaboration between the hardware and software. With a hidden side view, only the front user can view the on-screen content.
Image via Samsung Mobile US (X)
The Privacy Display feature works through a combination of hardware and software. It hides certain pixels on the screen in a smart way. When you look at the phone directly from the front, you can clearly see everything on the screen. However, if someone tries to look at your phone from the side, the screen appears dark or black. This helps protect your personal information in public places.
The teaser video shows three people sitting next to each other in a public place. The person in the middle is using her Galaxy S26 phone, while the two people sitting beside her can easily see her screen. She then turns on the Privacy Display feature.
For your eyes only.
Get ready for the next level of privacy. Can your phone do that? #GalaxyAI
Reserve now: https://t.co/dTlilFNoHy pic.twitter.com/RvxAhKIXf1
— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) February 14, 2026
Once it is activated, the side view of the screen becomes dark. The two people next to her can no longer see what is displayed. From their angle, the screen looks completely black, while the main user can still see everything clearly from the front.
Can your phone do that? No, as Samsung is going to release the Privacy Display feature with the Galaxy S26 series in February 2026. You can reserve for the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 now. Stay tuned.
The post Samsung showcases Galaxy S26’s Privacy Display switch appeared first on Sammy Fans.
Samsung is getting ready to launch the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro soon. We have already seen many leaks and rumors about these upcoming earbuds. Now, a new detail about the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro has appeared online.
According to the tipster, @TarunVats, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro has been spotted inside the Tips section of Samsung phones. This new information shows that Samsung may make it easier for users to manage their earbuds.
Samsung’s Tips section suggests that users will be able to control their Galaxy Buds directly from the phone’s main Settings app. This means you may not need to open the Galaxy Wearable app every time you want to change something. Instead, important controls could be available right inside the phone’s settings.
Image via Tarunvats
This would make things much simpler and faster. Right now, if you want to change features like sound settings, touch controls, or noise cancellation, you usually have to open the Galaxy Wearable app. With One UI 8.5, those options could appear automatically in the Settings menu when the earbuds are connected.
The Tips section also explains that Galaxy Buds settings will only show up when the earbuds are connected to the phone. There will also be a “Go to Settings” option in the Tips section, which makes it easy to find the right page quickly.
Samsung has not officially confirmed these details yet. However, this leak suggests that the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro could offer a smoother and more user-friendly experience. We can expect more information to come out as the official launch gets closer. Stay tuned.
The post Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro surfaces in Tips app with handy upgrade appeared first on Sammy Fans.
| WHO | Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad |
| WHAT | Spanish LaLiga |
| WHEN | 3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT • Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| WHERE | ESPN+, Fubo, DirecTV Stream and ESPN Deportes |
| STREAM | WATCH NOW |
The pressure is rising in the La Liga title chase, and Real Madrid have a golden opportunity to shake up the standings this weekend. Sitting on 57 points—just one behind archrival Barcelona—Los Blancos could leap into first place, at least temporarily, with a victory if Barça stumble in their own matchup.
But it won’t come easy against a red-hot Real Sociedad side battling for crucial European spots, meaning both teams have everything to play for. With Kylian Mbappe spearheading Madrid’s attack and the title race hanging in the balance, this is a showdown you won’t want to miss.
| WHO | Liverpool vs Brighton |
| WHAT | FA Cup |
| WHEN | 3:00pm ET / 11:00am PT • Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| WHERE | ESPN+ |
| STREAM | WATCH NOW |
Silverware aspirations take center stage in this fourth-round FA Cup showdown as Liverpool square off with Brighton & Hove in a win-or-go-home battle. With the Premier League title slipping from their grasp, Liverpool are placing major emphasis on this competition
On the other hand will be Brighton, currently outside the European places, who see the FA Cup as their best opportunity to go for a title this season. Expect high intensity from both sides as they fight for a spot in the next round—this is a clash you won’t want to miss.
The Saudi Pro League is entering its decisive stretch, and the battle at the top of the table is growing increasingly intense. Al Nassr are determined to fight until the end, and to do that, they need a win this Saturday against Al Fateh. Cristiano Ronaldo once again commands the spotlight.
The Portuguese forward was at the center of widespread speculation in recent weeks after declining to play for Al Nassr in their previous two Saudi Pro League matches, reportedly as a way to express his dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund over transfer market decisions.
Although Al Nassr still managed to win those matchups against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad, Ronaldo’s absence was noticeable and contributed to efforts to reach a peaceful resolution. After two weeks, the situation was finally clarified, and CR7 agreed to return to action this Saturday against Al Fateh.
As a result, head coach Jorge Jesus will once again have his biggest star available as Al Nassr look to secure another victory and remain within striking distance of the top of the standings. Al Hilal currently lead the league after defeating Al Ettifaq 2-0 on Friday, with Al Ahli three points behind them. Al Nassr sit one point behind the latter, but have played one fewer match, meaning a win on Saturday could move them even closer to the summit.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s return is undoubtedly the biggest news for Al Nassr heading into Saturday’s match. His presence allows Jorge Jesus to field his primary attacking weapons once again, making his squad one of the most dangerous in the Saudi Pro League.
The projected starting lineup for Al Nassr against Al Fateh is: Bento; Sultan Al Ghanam, Mohamed Simakan, Inigo Martinez, Nawaf Boushal; Marcelo Brozovic, Abdullah Al Khaibari; Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane; Cristiano Ronaldo.
Al Fateh find themselves in a very different position than Al Nassr. They currently sit 10th in the standings with 24 points, 29 behind league leaders Al Hilal. With the title race realistically out of reach, they will look to make a statement against Cristiano Ronaldo and company.
The projected starting lineup for Al Fateh against Al Nassr is: Fernando Pacheco; Abdulaziz Al Suwailem, Marwane Saadane, Jorge Fernandes, Saeed Baattia; Naif Masoud, Zaydou Youssouf, Sofiane Bendebka; Matias Vargas, Wesley Delgado, Fahad Aqeel Al Zubaidi.
| WHO | Inter vs Juventus |
| WHAT | Serie A |
| WHEN | 2:45pm ET / 11:45am PT • Saturday, February 14, 2026 |
| WHERE | Paramount+ and DAZN |
| FREE TRIAL | WATCH NOW |
The Serie A spotlight turns to the Derby d’Italia as league leaders Inter Milan look to extend their advantage at the top of the table, entering the showdown with 58 points and a five-point cushion that could grow even larger with a statement result.
Standing in their way are Juventus, who are feeling the heat after a 2-2 draw with Lazio left them level on points with AS Roma and holding onto a Champions League place only on goal difference. With the title race tightening and European qualification on the line, this rivalry clash could dramatically reshape the standings.
has issued his final prediction for vs , considering who he might face in a unification match at 147lbs. The pair will lock horns for Barrios’ WBC welterweight title on February 21, with Garcia looking to become a world champion at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas. His first outing at 147lbs, however, did not exactly […]
The post Devin Haney picks a winner in Mario Barrios vs Ryan Garcia world title fight appeared first on Boxing News.
İç sahada devleri dize getiren, 6 maçtır mağlubiyet yüzü görmeyen ve Türkiye Kupası'nda namağlup ilerleyen Metin Diyadin, Gençlerbirliği yönetimi tarafından şok bir kararla görevden alındı. Başarıyı ödüllendirmek yerine cezalandıran bu karar, Ankara futbolunda 'Bu nasıl saçmalık?' dedirtti.
İstatistiklerin ve mantığın devre dışı kaldığı, Türk futbolunda bile eşine az rastlanır bir karara imza atıldı. Gençlerbirliği, taraftarlarını ve futbol kamuoyunu hayretler içerisinde bırakan bir kararla Teknik Direktör Metin Diyadin ile yollarını ayırdı.
Puan tablosu ve istatistikler "devam" derken, yönetimin bu kararı "futbolun doğal akışına aykırı" olarak yorumlandı. Kırmızı-karalar, Metin Diyadin yönetiminde özellikle kendi evinde adeta bir kale inşa etmişti. İç sahada oynanan son 6 maçta mağlubiyet yüzü görmeyen takım, dev rakiplerine sahayı dar etmişti:
Trabzonspor: 4-3
Gaziantep FK: 2-1
Karagümrük: 3-0
Başakşehir: 2-1
Rizespor ve Samsunspor: Beraberlik
Diyadin’in görev süresince yakaladığı genel karne, bir kovulma gerekçesinden ziyade ödül hak eden bir tabloyu andırıyor:
Süper Lig 7 2 3 2 9 1.29
Türkiye Kupasi 3 2 1 - 7 2.33
Toplam 10 4 4 2 16 1.60
10 maçta sadece 2 kez mağlup olan, kupada yoluna namağlup devam eden ve devleri deviren bir hocanın neden gönderildiği merak konusu.
Tamamen yenilenen savunma hattı ve Onuachu odaklı hücum planıyla Trabzonspor, Fenerbahçe karşısında fiziksel üstünlüğü ele almayı hedefliyor. Onana'nın oyun kuruculuğu ve Muçi'nin yaratıcılığı, dev derbide Fırtına'nın en büyük kozu olacak.
Trabzonspor'un Fenerbahçe önünde sahaya sürdüğü 11, kağıt üzerinde oldukça fizikli, dinamik ve geçiş oyununa yatkın bir yapı vaadediyor. Fatih Tekke'nin bu akşam şifresi "yüksek tempo ve fiziksel üstünlük" üzerine kurulu gibi duruyor.
Onana
Pina, Nwaiwu, Bbatagov, Lovik
Folcarelli, Oulai
Augusto, Muci, Eskihellaç
Onachu
Onuachu'nun hava hakimiyeti ve Muçi'nin bireysel yeteneğiyle duran toplarda veya kenar ortalarında gol bulma şansı çok yüksek. Savunma hattının yeni isimlerden oluşması, arkaya atılan toplarda yerleşim hatası riskini barındırıyor. Trabzonspor taraftarına "yaslan arkana, fiziksel savaşı izle" diyen, oldukça sert ve dikine oynamayı seven bir kadro var sahada.
MAÇ ÖNCESİ AÇIKLAMA
Teknik direktör Fatih Tekke mücadele öncesi açıklamalarda bulundu.
Fatih Tekke'nin açıklamaları şöyle:
-Çok güzel bir ambiyans. Tribünler çok şükür dolu. Galip gelmek istiyoruz. Fenerbahçe ile oynadığımız maçların değerinin farkındayız. Çok zor maç.
-Her maça farklı hazırlanan bir hocası var Fenerbahçe'nin. Zor bir maç olacak. Biz her şeyle beraber son haftalarda verdiğimiz duyguyu vermek istiyoruz.
"FENERBAHÇE BEKLEYECEKMİŞ GİBİ GÖRÜNÜYOR"
-Biz maç maç gidiyoruz. Bu ligin son maçı değil. Daha çok maç var. Kazandığımız takdirde, bunu arzu ediyoruz, takibe devam etmiş olacağız. Ancak herhangi bir olumsuzlukta, futbolun içerisinde bu var. Bu tip maçları anlar belirler. Tüm detaylarıyla beraber yapabileceğimiz, hazırlanabileceğimiz tüm şekillere hazırlandık. Top bizdeyken 2-3 şekil, top rakipteyken durumlar... Sürpriz bir şey yok fakat bugün performanslar çok çok önemli. Özel dikkat etmemiz gereken şeyler var. Biraz sanki bekleyecekmiş gibi görünüyor Fenerbahçe, hızlı hücumlar ve duran toplarla gelecekler. Biz de aynı şekilde. Gayet sakiniz ve öyle olmak zorundayız. Özgüvenimiz yerinde. Genç oyuncularımız var, hata yapabilirler. Merkezden top kaybetmemeye dikkat etmeliyiz. Hafta içi olabilecek her şeye çalıştık. Taktik, oyun içinde konumlanmalar, oyunun şekli değişebilir. Ondan daha önemlisi verdiğimiz duygu. Dolayısıyla biz 1 yıldır yaptığımız şey var, her maça aynı ciddiyetle bakıyoruz. Galip gelerek taraftarımızı mutlu etmek istiyoruz.
Ederson'un oyun kurucu kaleciliğinden Kante'nin bitmek bilmeyen enerjisine, Talisca'nın sihrinden Kerem'in hızına kadar dikkat çekici 11 Trabzonspor deplasmanında sadece galibiyet değil, yeni bir futbol ekolü vaat ediyor.
Tedesco'nun, Trabzonspor karşısında çıkardığı 11 baskı ve topa sahip olma hakimiyeti vaat ediyor. Özellikle orta sahanın dinamizmi sayesinde topu geri kazanma süreniz çok kısalabilir. Ancak gerçek bir santraforun eksikliği, kapanan savunmalara karşı bazen "verimsiz bir dominasyona" yol açabilir.
Fenerbahçe'nin Trabzonspor 11'i neler vaadediyor:
Ederson
Semedo, Skriniar, Oosterwole, Mert
İsmail, Kante, Guendouzi
Asensio, Talisca, Kerem
Klasik bir "9 numara" yok. Talisca'nın "sahte 9" veya gizli forvet gibi oynaması gerekir. Bu kadar çok yıldızı bir arada oynatmak, ego yönetimini ve savunma disiplinini zorlaştırabilir. Kadroda sadece 2 yerli olması Trabzonspor gibi bir deplasmandaki stresin azalmasına yardımcı olabilir.
KADRO AÇIKLAMASI
Teknik direktör Domenico Tedesco maç öncesi kadro tercihini değerlendirdi:
-Amacımız maçı kazanmak. Bu oyuncular çok iyi idman geçirdiler. İyi hislere sahibiz. İsmail ve N'Golo bu göreve alışık. Maç için sabırsızlanıyoruz. Kazanmak için buradayız.
-Topun bizde kalmasını istiyoruz. Trabzonspor'a karşı bunu yapmak kolay değil. İlk hatları tempolu. Augusto ve Muçi şiddetli baskı yapıyor. Bekleri önde baskı yapıyor. Maçı kontrol etmeye çalışacağız ama taktik olarak esneğiz. Zaman zaman kısa, zaman zaman uzun paslar yapacağız. Bu kalitemiz var. Maça hazırız. Yapmamız gereken odaklanmak, duygusal kontrole sahip olmak ve sadece saha içine motive olmak.
Fenerbahçe bu akşam Trabzonspor'a konuk olacak. Mücadele öncesi Mert Günok açıklamalarda bulundu.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Trazonspor'a konuk olacak Fenerbahçe'de kaleci Mert Günok'tan derbi yorumu geldi.
Mert Günok'un açıklamaları şöyle:
-Bu maç şamiyonluk yolunda kritik öneme sahip. Derbi olması, iki takımın iyi bir ivme yakalamasında dolayı zor bir maç olacak. Kritik bir virajdayız. Oyuncular arasında çok konuşma oldu. Maçın önemini yeteri derecede konuştuk. Stadda konuşma zamanı. Taraftarımızın desteğini hissediyoruz, onlar da biz de şampiyonluğa inanıyoruz. İnşallah buradan 3 puanla ayrılıp yolumuza devam edeceğiz.
-Maç özelinde konuşmak yerinde yakaladığımız ivmeden bahsetmek lazım. Takım içinde gördüğüm şey aile ortamı, oyuncuların kariyer ve karakterlerine diyecek bir şey yok. Bunu da saha içine yansıtıyoruz. Ligin ikinci yarısı hep daha zorlu geçmiştir. Trabzonspor da bizi yenmek isteyecektir ama bizim galibiyete daha çok ihtiyacımız var. Zor bir maç olacak. Buradan iyi çıkarsak yolu yarılamış oluruz.
Trendyol 1. Lig'in 25. hafta müsabakasında Özbelsan Sivasspor ile İmaj Altyapı Vanspor karşılaştı. Mücadele 3-3'lük beraberlikle sona erdi.
Trendyol 1. Lig'in 25. hafta müsabakasında Özbelsan Sivasspor ile İmaj Altyapı Vanspor 3-3 berabere kaldı.
Stat: BG Grup 4 Eylül
Hakemler: Oğuzhan Çakır, Ömer Lütfü Aydın, Kerem Kalkan
Özbelsan Sivasspor: Gökhan Akkan, Murat Paluli, Appindangoye, Emirhan Başyiğit, Uğur Çiftçi (Dk. 22 Mert Çelik), Yusuf Cihat Çelik (Dk. 74 Avramovski), Charisis (Dk. 46 Özkan Yiğiter), Kamil Fidan, Okoronkwo (Dk. 84 Bekir Böke), Ethemi (Dk. 74 Aly Malle), Manaj
İmaj Altyapı Vanspor: Çağlar Şahin Akbaba, Oulare, Muhammet Ensar Çavuşoğlu, Jevsenak, Sabahattin Destici, Mehmet Özcan (Dk. 81 Bekir Can Kara), Oğulcan Çağlayan (Dk. 81 Emir Bars), Erdem Seçgin (Dk. 46 Jefferson), Traore (Dk. 41 Cedric), Hostikka (Dk. 86 Hasan Bilal), Mamah
Goller: Dk. 8 Appindangoye, Dk. 28 ve 32 Manaj (Özbelsan Sivasspor) Dk. 30 ve 68 Mamah, Dk. 90+5 Muhammet Ensar Çavuşoğlu (İmaj Altyapı Vanspor)
Sarı kartlar: Dk. 13 Sabahattin Destici, Dk. 62 Oğulcan Çağlayan, Dk. 63 Jefferson, Dk. 77 Muhammet Ensar Çavuşoğlu, Dk. 90+2 Emir Bars (İmaj Altyapı Vanspor), Dk. 37 Charisis, Dk. 57 Emirhan Başyiğit (Özbelsan Sivasspor)
Voleybol Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 22. haftasında Aras Kargo ile Aydın Büyükşehir Belediyespor karşılaştı. Aras Kargo mücadeleyi 3-0 kazandı.
Voleybol Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 22. haftasında Aras Kargo, Aydın Büyükşehir Belediyespor'u 3-0 yendi.
Salon: TVF Atatürk Voleybol
Hakemler: Yavuz Akdemir, Gizem Eller
Aras Kargo: Aslıhan Kılıç, Kalandadze, Merve Atlıer, Anthouli, Gamboa, Özge Nur Çetiner (Simay Kurt, İrem Çor, Nisan Eroğuz, Sude Taşbaş, Defne Başyolcu, Ramos)
Aydın Büyükşehir Belediyespor: Gizem Mısra Aşçı, Grajber, Seher Aksoy, Mijatovic, Fatma Şekerci, Beliz Başkır (Gizem Çerağ Düzeltir, İlarya Zararsız, Tikhomirova, Hilal Kocakara, Bilge Paşa, Nisan Barut)
Setler: 25-16, 25-12, 25-19
Süre: 89 dakika
Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 22. haftasında Fenerbahçe Medicana, İlbank'ı ağırladı. Fenerbahçe mücadeleyi 3-0 kazandı.
Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 22. haftasında Fenerbahçe Medicana, konuk ettiği İlbank'ı 3-0 yendi.
Salon: Burhan Felek Vestel
Hakemler: Uğur Ateş, Eren Mandal
Fenerbahçe Medicana: Sude Hacımustafaoğlu, Aslı Kalaç, Orro, Fedorovtseva, Korneluk, Melissa Vargas (Gülce Güçtekin, Arelya Karasoy, Bedart, Milenkovic, Fatma Beyaz)
İlbank: Cansu Aydınoğulları, Merve Tanyel, Begüm Hepkaptan, Beren Yeşilırmak, Gorecka, Damla Nur Dündar (Sinem Arıncı, Ece Morova, Ezgi Akyıldız, Elifsu Yavuz)
Setler: 25-21, 25-21, 25-20
Süre: 79 dakika (25, 28, 26)
Trendyol 1. Lig ekiplerinden Arca Çorum FK'de Hüseyin Eroğlu ile yollar ayrıldı.
Trendyol 1. Lig ekiplerinden Arca Çorum FK'de teknik direktör Hüseyin Eroğlu ile yolların ayrıldığı bildirildi.
Kulübün açıklamasında, "Teknik direktörümüz Hüseyin Eroğlu ile karşılıklı anlaşarak yollarımızı ayırmış bulunmaktayız. Göreve geldiği ilk günden bu yana kulübümüze emek veren değerli hocamız Hüseyin Eroğlu ve ekibine bundan sonraki kariyerlerinde yürekten başarılar diliyoruz. Teşekkürler Hüseyin Eroğlu." ifadelerine yer verildi.
Arca Çorum FK'de 25 Kasım 2025'te göreve gelen Eroğlu, kırmızı-siyahlı takımın başında çıktığı 11 maçta 5'er galibiyet ve mağlubiyetle 1 beraberlik elde etti.
Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 20. haftasında TOFAŞ, deplasmanda Onvo Büyükçekmece Basketbol ile karşılaştı. TOFAŞ mücadeleyi 81-91 kazandı.
Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 20. haftasında TOFAŞ, deplasmanda Onvo Büyükçekmece Basketbol'u 91-81 yendi.
Salon: Gazanfer Bilge
Hakemler: Mehmet Şahin, Ahmet Tatlıcı, Tolga Akkuşoğlu
Onvo Büyükçekmece Basketbol: Lecque 25, Van Der Vuurst 15, Can Kaan Turgut 1, Bruinsma 8, Bandaogo 5, Yiğit Özkan, Metin Türen, Pipes 8, Gavrilovic 6, Johnson 13
TOFAŞ: Perez 20, Yiğitcan Saybir 11, Blazevic 19, Besson 13, Furkan Korkmaz 2, Floyd 12, Özgür Cengiz 6, Whaley 7, Sadık Kabaca 1, Kidd, Lewis
1. Periyot: 7-19
Devre: 28-41
3. Periyot: 61-62
Beş faulle çıkanlar: 37.47 Gavrilovic, 39.59 Lecque (Onvo Büyükçekmece Basketbol)
U19 PAF Ligi derbisinde Trabzonspor ile Fenerbahçe karşılaştı. Trabzonspor mücadeleyi 3-2 kazandı.
U19 PAF Ligi 22. haftasında Trabzonspor, Fenerbahçe'yi konuk etti.Kadir Özcan Tesisleri'nde oynanan derbiyi ev sahibi takım 4-3 kazandı.
Trabzonspor puanını 40 yaparken, Fenerbahçe 26 puanda kaldı.
Shakhtar Donetsk Teknik Direktörü Arda Turan kulüp medyasına kariyerine dair açıklamalarda bulundu.
Eyüpspor'daki başarısının ardından Ukrayna kulübü Shakhtar Donetsk ile anlaşma sağlayan Arda Turan kulüp medyasına röportaj verdi.
Hocam, sekiz aydır takımla çalışıyorsunuz. Bugün sezonun ilk yarısını, kış kampını ve sezonun ikinci bölümüne dair hedefleri konuşmak istiyoruz. Bu aylar sizin için nasıldı ve en zor olan neydi?
-Açıkçası ciddi bir zorluk yaşadığımı söyleyemem. Bu da sizin ve Shakhtar ailesinin her bir üyesi sayesinde oldu. Beni bu aileye kabul ettiğiniz ve bu takımı yönetme fırsatı verdiğiniz için hepinize içtenlikle teşekkür ediyorum. Bu benim için büyük bir onur ve gurur kaynağı.
Çalışmalarımıza gelince, oldukça olumlu değerlendiriyorum. Bundan eminim. Bu Shakhtar takımı önceki takımlardan farklı. Her zaman potansiyelli genç oyuncular vardı ama geçmişte gençlerle deneyimli oyuncular arasında daha dengeli bir yapı söz konusuydu.
Şimdi kadromuzda daha fazla genç oyuncu var ve bu benim için de büyük bir deneyim. Onlarla birlikte öğreniyorum. Çok iyi maçlar oynadık. Oyuncularımdan memnunum. Daha iyi bir konumda olabilirdik, daha iyi sonuçlar alabilirdik; fakat bir teknik direktör olarak hem olumlu hem olumsuz yönleri net şekilde değerlendirebiliyorum. Daha üst sırada olabilirdik ama burada çok şey öğrendim ve çok değerli bir tecrübe kazandım. Bu yüzden bulunduğumuz noktadan memnunum.
"İKİ GOLÜ DE BEŞİKTAŞ'TAN YEDİK"
Haziran 2025’te Shakhtar’ın başına geçtiniz. O gün devraldığınız takımla bugünkü takım arasında nasıl bir fark görüyorsunuz?
-Geldiğimde büyük bir avantajım vardı. Shakhtar’ın zaten bir futbol kültürü vardı: oyun kültürü ve estetik anlayışı. Biz buna bazı şeyler eklemek istedik. Savunmaya daha fazla önem vermek, daha agresif olmak, topa sahipken ve topsuzken her oyunun fazında doğru hareket etmek istedik.
Bence bunu başardık. Ukrayna Premier Ligi’nde sadece 13 gol yedik ve bunların 7’si LNZ ve Karpaty (Lviv) maçlarında geldi. Savunma performansından genel olarak memnunum. Avrupa Ligi elemelerinde yalnızca iki gol yedik; ikisi de Beşiktaş maçında geldi ve ardından elendik.
Oyuncularımın gelişimi, ilerlemesi ve oyuna yaklaşımı beni çok mutlu ediyor. Ancak zihniyetle ilgili bazı alışkanlıkları değiştirmemiz gerekiyor. Bu kolay değil. Bazı oyuncular evlerinden çok uzakta, Ukraynalı oyuncular da zor şartlarda yaşıyor. Buna rağmen değişime çok iyi yaklaştılar. Bu yüzden onlara teşekkür ediyorum. Daha iyi savunmak, asla pes etmemek ve kritik anları daha iyi oynamak istedik. Şimdi bunları sahada görüyorum.
"FAZLA İLERİYE BAKARSAK YOLDA TÖKEZLERİZ"
Takımın gelişiminde en çok hangi alanları öne çıkarırsınız ve neleri geliştirmek istiyorsunuz?
-Savunmadaki gelişimden ve oyuncularımın adanmışlığından memnunum. Geliştirmemiz gereken şey ise doğru anlarda doğru oynamak.
Gol fırsatlarını çok kolay harcıyoruz. İyi pozisyonlar buluyoruz ama kolay geldiği için değerini bilmiyoruz. Bu üzerinde çalışmamız gereken bir konu.
Fiziksel olarak da memnunum. Sprint, yüksek tempolu koşu ve toplam mesafe istatistiklerimiz iyi. Ancak bazı oyuncular uzun süredir üst düzey antrenman alışkanlığına sahip değil. Bu yüzden gelişim zamana yayılmalı. Gün gün ilerlemeliyiz. Fazla ileriye bakarsak yolda tökezleriz. Her günü şampiyonluğa giden bir adım olarak görmeliyiz.
Sizin için en önemli oyun unsuru nedir: tempo, pres, geçişler yoksa topa sahip olma mı?
-Shakhtar için öncelik topa sahip olmaktır. Ama modern futbolda geçişler ve sağlam savunma da şart. Futbol öngörülemez bir oyun. Her senaryoya hazır olmalısınız. Sadece tek bir unsura odaklanırsanız sorun yaşarsınız.
"SHAKHTAR FORMASI BİR RUHA, BİR AĞIRLIĞA SAHİP"
Rakipleriniz sahaya çıktığında ne hissetmelerini istersiniz?
-Oyunu kontrol ettiğimizi hissetsinler. Topa bizden fazla sahip olamayacaklarını bilsinler. Sahada biz domine edeceğiz.
Shakhtar forması bir ruha, bir ağırlığa sahip. Oyuncularıma bunu hissettirmeye çalışıyorum. Lider oyuncularımızın sorumluluk almasını istiyorum. Çünkü taktik kadar kulüp kültürü de önemlidir. Bazen en iyi oyunu oynamasanız da o ruhla kazanabilirsiniz.
Ligde sezonun ilk yarısını ikinci sırada tamamladınız. Bunun temel nedeni nedir?
-Bazen fırsatları değerlendiremedik. Eğer değerlendirseydik açık ara lider olurduk. Ben ikinciliği kabul etmiyorum. Oyuncularıma da söyledim. Hedefimiz şampiyonluk.
İlk altı ay oyuncuların gelişimine odaklandık. Önümüzdeki üç ay tamamen sonuç odaklı olacak. Artık herkes sadece şampiyonluğu düşünmeli.
"KONFERANS LİGİ'Nİ KAZANMAYI HAYAL EDİYORUZ"
Avrupa kupası performansınızı nasıl değerlendiriyorsunuz?
-Elemelerde sadece iki gol yedik ama elendik. Bu içimde bir burukluk. Panathinaikos maçlarında daha iyi olduğumuzu düşünüyorum.
Belki Konferans Ligi genç oyuncuların gelişimi için daha uygun oldu. Avrupa’da büyük hayallerimiz var. Konferans Ligi’ni kazanmayı hayal ediyoruz. Bunu inkâr edemem.
Shakhtar ile bir Avrupa kupası kazanmak en büyük hayaliniz mi?
-Evet. Böyle bir dönemde kazanılacak bir kupa sadece futbol değil, spor tarihine geçecek bir başarı olur. Oyuncularımız siren sesleri altında yaşıyor. Eğer bir kupa kazanırsak bu tarihin en büyük başarılarından biri olur.
"ASIL MESELE ZOR ŞARTLARDA DEVAM EDEBİLMEK"
Savaş şartlarında takımın fiziksel ve psikolojik toparlanmasını nasıl sağlıyorsunuz?
-Kulüp elinden geleni yapıyor ama 10–15 saatlik yolculuklardan sonra tamamen toparlanmak mümkün değil. Yine de %100 sarılmayı, %100 mücadeleyi ve asla pes etmemeyi bekliyorum.
Hayatta her şey yolundayken ilerlemek kolaydır. Asıl mesele zor şartlarda devam edebilmektir.
Galatasaray'ın eski yıldızı Felipe Melo'dan Fenerbahçe itirafı geldi.
Galatasaray'ın eski yıldızı Felipe Melo, İtalyan basınından La Gazzetta dello Sport'a açıklamalarda bulundu. Melo, Şampiyonlar Ligi'ndeki Galatasaray - Juventus eşleşmesi için gelen soruya da cevap verdi.
"Şampiyonlar Ligi'nde 2013'teki gibi yine Juventus - Galatasaray maçı olacak. Siz o maçta ilk 11'de oynamıştınız."
-Juventus taraftarları, kura çekiminden sonra Galatasaray için bir paylaşım yaptığım için sosyal medyada bana saldırdı ama ne yapmalıydım? İstanbul'da kazandım ve harika zaman geçirdim. O takıma daha bağlı olmam normal. Oynadığım tüm takımları kalbimde taşıyorum ama Galatasaray'ı daha fazla.
-Mancini... Neden İtalya'da antrenörlük yapmadığını anlamıyorum. Bize yüzde yüz oynarsak turu geçeceğimiz söyledi. Kar yağışını, sadece bir tarafı temizlenmiş ve oynanamaz durumda olan sahayı hatırlıyorum. Sneijder'in son saniyede attığı gol ve Conte'nin öfkesi. Juventus güçlüydü ama biz daha güçlüydük.
GALATASARAY'A TRANSFERİ
-Conte bana güvenecekti ama Marotta'dan beni bırakmasını istedim. Paris Saint-Germain'e kiralık transfer için her şey ayarlanmıştı. Leonardo ile de konuşmuştum ama Galatasaray beş kat daha yüksek bir teklifle geldi. Parayı ve taraftarları tercih ettim. İmzalamadan önce stadyumda bir maç izledim ve aşık oldum.
"Fenerbahçe'ye hayır dediğiniz doğru mu?"
-Evet ama bir yıl sonra. Asla kabul etmezdim.
"2015'te Inter'de oynama hayalinizi gerçekleştirdiniz."
-Mancini beni gizlice aradı ve kimseyle konuşmamamı söyledi. Hayır demek imkansızdı, hayallerimi gerçekleştirmeliydim. Evimde, verona'ya attığım golün ardından Gazzetta'nın ilk sayfasını hala saklıyorum. O golün ardından karımı öpmüşüm. 2015 yılıydı, üzerinde, "Öpücük kaçışı." yazıyor.
Galatasaray sezon sonu için transfer planlarını sürdürüyor. Listedeki isimlerden birinin Nürnberg forması giyen Mohamed Ali Zoma olduğu öğrenildi.
Galatasaray'ın yaz döneminde takviye yapmayı planladığı bölgelerden biri de forvet arkası... Ve bu konuda çok sürpriz bir ismin listede bulunduğu öğrenildi. Nürnberg forması giyen Mohamed Ali Zoma'nın performansı yakından inceleniyor. İtalyan futbolcu bu sezon Bundesliga 2'de şov yapıyor.
TAM BİR JOKER
22 yaşındaki oyuncu, ligde 20 karşılaşmaya çıktı. Sahada 1.609 dakika kaldı. 8 gol ve 2 asist üretti. 1.74 boyundaki futbolcunun Nürnberg'le 30 Haziran 2029 tarihine kadar mukavelesi bulunuyor. Zoma, asıl yeri olan forvet arkası haricinde sol kanat, 10 numara ve santrfor bölgelerinde de görev yapabiliyor.
ZİRVEDE DEĞİL
Mohamed Ali Zoma'yı bazı Bundesliga kulüplerinin de takip ettiği öğrenildi. Ancak Fildişi Sahili asıllı İtalyan oyuncu, Galatasaray'ın transfer listesinde zirvede yer almıyor. Cim-Bom'un alternatifleri var. Zoma'nın durumu, diğer transfer hedeflerinde yaşanacaklara bağlı...
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği ile Çaykur Rizespor karşılaştı. Samet Akaydın'ın kendi kalesine gol atmasıyla 2-0 geriye düşen Rizespor ikinci yarıda attığı 2 gol ile maçın berabere bitmesini sağladı.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği ile Çaykur Rizespor karşılaştı. Mücadele 2-2'lik eşitlikle sona erdi.
MAÇTAN DAKİKALAR
6. dakikada Mihaila'nın ceza sahasının sol çaprazından yaptığı vuruşta top kaleci Velho'da kaldı.
9. dakikada ev sahibi ekip gole yaklaştı. Sol kanattan gelişen Gençlerbirliği atağında Tongya'nın yerden ceza sahasına çevirdiği topa Koita gelişine vurdu. Çaykur Rizespor kalecisi Fofana, bu pozisyonda gole izin vermedi.
14. dakikada Oğulcan Ülgün'ün ceza sahasının sağından içeriye çevirdiği topu Samet Akaydin, ters vuruşla kendi ağlarına gönderdi. VAR odasının uyarısı üzerine kenara gelip pozisyonu izleyen hakem Ömer Tolga Güldibi, Fıratcan Üzüm'ün pozisyonun başlangıcında faul yaptığını belirledi ve ağlara giden top gol değeri kazanmadı.
18. dakikada Gençlerbirliği öne geçti. Metehan'ın sol kanattan kullandığı köşe vuruşu sonrası Zuzek'in, arka direkte dar açıya rağmen yaptığı vuruşta Sowe'a çarpan top yön değiştirerek filelere gitti: 1-0
41. dakikada Çaykur Rizespor, Sowe ile beraberlik golüne çok yaklaştı. Mihaila'nın sol kanattan ortasında, altıpasta müsait durumda bulunan Sowe'un vuruşunda top üstten auta çıktı.
45. dakikada kırmızı-siyahlı takım farkı 2'ye çıkardı. Dele-Bashiru'nun kazandığı top sonrası başlayan atakta önündeki boşluğu iyi değerlendirerek rakip kaleye yaklaşan Tongya, pasını Koita'ya verdi. Rakibini geçerek cezasına giren ve kaleciyle karşı karşıya kalan Koita'nın şutunda top ağlarla buluştu: 2-0
77. dakikada konuk ekip farkı 1'e indirdi. Savunmanın arkasına sarkan Mebude, ceza sahasının sağından topu yerden içeriye çevirdi. Mithat Pala'nın gelişine vuruşunda meşin yuvarlak ağlara gitti: 2-1
85. dakikada Samed Onur'un sağ çaprazdan kullandığı serbest vuruşta top yandan dışarı çıktı.
87. dakikada Çaykur Rizespor beraberlik golünü buldu. Buljubasic'in sağdan ortasında, ceza sahasındaki karambolde seken top Mithat Pala'nın önünde kaldı. Mithat, kale önünden yaptığı vuruşla kendisinin ve takımının ikinci golünü kaydetti: 2-2.
Karşılaşma, 2-2'lik eşitlikle sonuçlandı.
Bu sonuçla puanını Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği 23'e, Çaykur Rizespor ise 21'e çıkardı.
Stat: Eryaman
Hakemler: Ömer Tolga Güldibi, Süleyman Özay, Samet Çiçek
Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği: Velho, Fıratcan Üzüm, Goutas, Zuzek, Thalisson, Dele-Bashiru, Oğulcan Ülgün (Dk. 38 Göktan Gürpüz), Traore (Dk. 82 Samed Onur), Tongya, Metehan Mimaroğlu (Dk. 82 Abdurrahim Dursun), Koita (Dk. 59 Niang)
Çaykur Rizespor: Fofana, Mithat Pala, Samet Akaydin, Sagnan, Hojer (Dk. 75 Zeqiri), Taylan Antalyalı (Dk. 46 Mebude), Papanikolaou (Dk. 65 Pierrot), Olawoyin (Dk. 79 Buljubasic), Laçi, Mihaila, Sowe (Dk. 46 Halil Dervişoğlu)
Goller: Dk. 18 Sowe (Kendi kalesine), Dk. 45 Koita (Gençlerbirliği), Dk. 77 ve 87 Mithat Pala (Çaykur Rizespor)
Sarı kartlar: Dk. 25 Papanikolaou, Dk. 45+3 Samet Akaydin, Dk. 62 Mithat Pala, Dk. 90+4 Halil Dervişoğlu (Çaykur Rizespor), Dk. 48 Tongya, Dk. 54 Koita, Dk. 90+5 Thalisson (Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği)
Beşiktaş, Nürnberg'de kiralık olarak forma giyen Berkay Yilmaz'ın durumunu inceliyor. Sezon sonunda Freiburg'a resmi teklif sunulabileceği öğrenildi.
Beşiktaş'ın mevcut kadrosunda asıl yeri sol bek olan tek futbolcu Rıdvan Yılmaz... Siyah-Beyazlılar, sezon sonunda bu bölgeye takviye yapacak. Ayrıca önümüzdeki sezon TFF'nin yabancı kontenjanında da düşüş yaşanacak. Bu sebeple Türk futbolcuların önemi de artmış durumda...
GAYET İYİ OYNUYOR
Kartal'ın, Nürnberg'de kiralık olarak forma giyen Berkay Yilmaz'ı takip ettiği öğrenildi. 20 yaşındaki sol bek bu sezon Bundesliga 2'de 21 karşılaşmaya çıktı. Sahada 1.890 dakika kaldı. 6 asisti bulunuyor. Sezon sonunda bonservisini elinde bulunduran Freiburg'a dönecek.
TOULOUSE VE RANGERS
Berkay'ın Freiburg'la 30 Haziran 2028 tarihine kadar mukavelesi var. 1.78 boyundaki futbolcu, Türkiye U21 Milli Futbol Takımı'nın da parçası... Tahmini piyasa değeri ise 4 milyon euro civarında... Beşiktaş'ın 2026 yazında konuyla ilgili resmi girişimlerde bulunması bekleniyor. Fakat Siyah-Beyazlılar bu transferde yalnız değil... Glasgow Rangers ve Toulouse da oyuncunun durumunu takip ediyor.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Corendon Alanyaspor ile TÜMOSAN Konyaspor karşılaştı. Süper Lig'deki son 11 maçını kazanamayan Konyaspor'da yıkım sürüyor. Konyaspor mücadeleyi 2-1 kaybetti.
Trendyol Süper Lig'in 22. haftasında Corendon Alanyaspor ile TÜMOSAN Konyaspor karşılaştı. Alanyaspor mücadeleyi 2-1 kazandı.
MAÇTAN DAKİKALAR
2. dakikada sol kanattan gelişen Alanyaspor atağında Makouta'nın ortaladığı topa iyi yüselen Ümit Akdağ kafayla vurdu. Savunmaya çarpan top Ruan'ın önüne düştü. Bu futbolcunun şutunda, top az farkla direğin yanından dışarı çıktı.
14. dakikada Alanyaspor'un merkezden geliştirdiği atakta Hagi'nin pasıyla sağ çaprazda topla buluşan Güven Yalçın'ın sert şutunda kaleci Bahadır Güngördü, topu güçlükle kurtardı.
37. dakikada Alanyaspor 1-0 öne geçti. Merkezden gelişen atakta Hwang'ın savunma arkasına attığı pasla topla buluşan Ruan'ın çaprazdan kaleye gönderdiği şutta, meşin yuvarlak filelerle buluştu.
51. dakikada sol kanattan gelişen Alanyaspor atağında Ruan'ın ceza sahası içerisine yerden gönderdiği pasla arka direkte buluşan Hagi'nin şutunda meşin yuvarlak, direğin üstünden az farkla auta çıktı.
68. dakikada Konyaspor'un sol kanattan geliştirdiği atakta Guilherme'nin ceza sahası içerisine yaptığı ortada iyi yükselen Muleka'nın kafa vuruşunda top savunmadan döndü. Topu önünde bulan Olaigbe'nin gelişine sert şutunda, savunmada Aliti'ye çarpan meşin yuvarlak kornere çıktı.
80. dakikada Alanyaspor farkı 2'ye çıkardı. Ruan'ın ceza sahası içerisinde Jin-Ho tarafından düşürülmesi sonucu kazanılan penaltıda topun başına gelen Hadergjonaj, meşin yuvarlağı ağlarla buluşturdu: 2-0
83. dakikada Konyaspor farkı 1'e indirdi. Ceza sahası önünde Muleka'nın düşürülmesi sonucu kazanılan serbest vuruşu kullanan Bardhi'nin sert şutunda top filelere gitti: 2-1
90. dakikada gelişen Konyaspor atağında Guilherme'nin ortasında, ceza sahasında iyi yükselen Bardhi'nin kafa vuruşunda top direğin üstünden az farkla dışarı çıktı.
Alanyaspor, karşılaşmadan 2-1 galip ayrıldı.
Stat: Alanya Oba
Hakemler: Ali Yılmaz, Osman Gökhan Bilir, Murat Şener
Corendon Alanyaspor: Victor, Fatih Aksoy, Aliti, Ümit Akdağ, Hadergjonaj, Makouta, Janvier (Dk. 84 Enes Keskin), Ruan, Hagi (Dk. 66 Efecan Karaca), Hwang (Dk. 84 Meschack), Güven Yalçın (Dk. 73 Mounie)
TÜMOSAN Konyaspor: Bahadır Güngördü, Andzouana, Nagalo, Adil Demirbağ, Guilherme, Deniz Türüç (Dk. 64 Bardhi), Melih İbrahimoğlu (Dk. 81 Svendsen), Berkan Kutlu (Dk. 65 Jin-Ho), Olaigbe (Dk. 90 Gonçalves), Kramer, Muleka
Goller: Dk. 37 Ruan, Dk. 79 Hadergjonaj (Penaltıdan) (Corendon Alanyaspor), Dk. 83 Bardhi (TÜMOSAN Konyaspor)
Sarı kartlar: Dk. 10 Melih İbrahimoğlu, Dk. 45+2 Adil Demirbağ, Dk. 86 Kramer, Dk. 90+5 Andzouana (TÜMOSAN Konyaspor), Dk. 75 Janvier, Dk. 90+1 Aliti (Corendon Alanyaspor)
Beşiktaş yarın Başakşehir deplasmanına çıkacak. Kalede Ersin oynar ve hata yaparsa tribünler Sergen Yalçın'ı hedef alabilir. Vasquez forma giyer ve kötü bir performans sergilerse bu kez oklar Serdal Adalı'ya dönecek.
Beşiktaş'ta Ersin Destanoğlu'nun performansı çok uzun bir süredir eleştiriliyor. 1.95 boyundaki eldiveinin sezon sonunda bitecek olan mukavelesinin de uzatılmaması bekleniyor. Mert Günok'un ayrılığı sonrasında Beşiktaş, Roma'dan Devis Vasquez'i kiralamıştı.
DAHA GÖRMEDİK!
Beşiktaş Teknik Direktörü Sergen Yalçın transfer sonrasında, "Yeni kalecinin durumunu tam olarak bilmiyoruz. Daha 1 gün oldu geleli... Daha görmedik. Onu önümüzdeki hafta görüp, değerlendireceğiz" ifadelerini kullanmıştı. Bu sözler, Vasquez'in teknik heyetten çok yönetim takviyesi olduğunu düşündürüyordu.
CİDDİ BİLİNMEZLİK
Kartal yarın Süper Lig'de Başakşehir deplasmanına çıkacak. Ersin oynar ve hata yaparsa, tribünlerin Sergen Yalçın'a tepki göstereceği konuşuluyor. Eğer Vasquez forma giyer ve beklentileri karşılayamazsa bu kez de eleştirilerin hedefi Başkan Serdal Adalı olabilir! Yani Beşiktaş kalesinde ciddi bir bilinmezlik var...
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 20-ci turunun “Zirə” – “Karvan” matçı meydan sahiblərinin 1:0 hesablı qələbəsi ilə başa çatdı.
Arena.az Zirədə baş tutmuş bu matçın yekun protokolunu və icmalını təqdim edir.
Azərbaycan Premyer Liqası
20-ci tur
14 fevral
“Zirə” – “Karvan” 1:0
Qol: Davit Volkov, 20.
Sarı vərəqələr: Vadim Abdullayev, 45+1 (qeyri-idman hərəkəti). Eltun Turabov, 74 (qeyriidman hərəkəti).
Artırılan vaxt: Birinci hissədə 1 dəqiqə, ikinci hissədə 3 dəqiqə.
Saat 17:00. Zirə İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 350 tamaşaçı.
Baş hakim: Kamranbəy Rəhimov.
Baş hakimin köməkçiləri: Akif Əmirəli, Mirnihad Seyidov.
Dördüncü hakim: Əkbər Əhmədov.
VAR: Fərid Hacıyev.
AVAR: Rəhman İmami.
Hakim-inspektor: Anar Salmanov.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Asif Əliyev.
Zirə: 97. Tyaqo Silva, 32. Qismət Alıyev (k), 8. İsmayıl İbrahimli, 19. Rüfət Abdullazadə (7. Rövlan Muradov, 68), 4. Ruan Renato, 25. Enrike Kustodio, 9. Davit Volkov, 10. Georgi Papunaşvili (29. Ceyhun Nuriyev, 68), 5. Ange Mutsinzi, 11. Junior Martins (73. Anatoli Nuriyev, 46), 17. Ayron Qomis.
Ehtiyat oyunçular: 13. Aydın Bayramov, 41. Anar Nəzirov, 70. Namiq Ələsgərov, 21. Hacıağa Hacılı, 14. Elçin Əlicanov, 26. Stefan Akka, 30. Rikardo Martins, 6. Eldar Quliyev.
Baş məşqçi: Rəşad Sadıqov.
Karvan: 99. Pedro Mateus, 6. Vadim Abdullayev (k), 33. Eltun Turabov, 13. Vüsal Məsimov (37. Mois Nqvisani, 46), 14. Uğur Cahangirov, 16. Rauf Rüstəmli (10. Samuel Durrant, 77), 5. Emin Rüstəmov, 2. Şakil Sno, 11. Kayl Spens, 19. Tompson Qavi, (8. Peter Kings, 32 / 17. Samir Abdullayev, 77), 21. İmani Barker.
Ehtiyat oyunçular: 1. Kamran İbrahimov, 25. Əmrah Bulud, 32. Elvin Yunuszadə, 42. İbrahim Qədirzadə, 4. Olavale Doyeni.
Baş məşqçi: Fizuli Məmmədov.
“Zirə”nin baş məşqçisi Rəşad Sadıqov Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 20-ci turunda “Karvan”a qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Zirədə baş tutmuş görüşü qəsəbə təmsilçisinin 1:0 hesablı qələbəsi ilə başa çatıb.
Rəşad Sadıqov matçdan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:
“Gərgin oyun keçdi. Belə olacağını gözləyirdik. Rəqibimiz hər oyuna sonuncu matç kimi çıxır. Hər xal onlar üçün çox önəmlidir. Bilirdik ki, qarşımızda möhkəm komanda olacaq. Müdafiə davranışları fərqli idi, daha kompakt oynadılar. Oyunboyu yaxşı hücumlarımız var idi. 2-ci və ya 3-cü qolu vursaydıq, matç daha rahat keçərdi. Amma vacib olan odur ki, qalib gəldik. Rəqibə qol epizodu vermədik. Futbolçularımı təbrik edirəm. Çox vacib və stressli görüşdə qələbə qazandıq.
İstəyimiz ən azından avrokuboklara düşməkdir. Çox istəyərdik ki, Avropaya gedək. Amma bu mövsüm rəqabət daha fərqlidir. İki komanda çempionluq uğrunda mübarizə aparır, digər 5 komanda avrokuboklara vəsiqə uğrunda mübarizə aparacaq. Rəqiblərimizin də yaxşı heyəti var. Yaxşı performans göstərilər. İstədiyimizi nə qədər reallaşdıracağıq, onu zaman göstərəcək. Ən vacib olan zədəlilərimizin az olması, futbolçuların yaxşı formada olmasıdır”.
Rəşad Sadıqov Anatoli Nuriyevin “Zirə”yə transferindən də söhbət açıb:
“Anatoli Nuriyevi futbolçu olaraq həmişə bəyənmişəm. “Sabah”a müraciət etdik və buna müsbət cavab verdilər, Nuriyevin keçidinə razı oldular. Bizim üçün vacib transfer idi. Buna görə “Sabah”a təşəkkür edirəm. Yaxından və yaxşı tanıdığım oyunçudur. Son vaxtlarda az oynayıb. Amma zamanla daha yaxşı formaya düşəcək”.
“Karvan”ın baş məşqçisi Füzuli Məmmədov Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasının 20-ci turunda “Zirə”yə qarşı keçirdikləri oyunu şərh edib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, sözügedən komandaların bu gün Zirədə baş tutmuş görüşü Yevlax təmsilçisinin 0:1 hesablı məğlubiyyəti ilə başa çatıb.
Füzuli Məmmədov matçdan sonra təşkil edilmiş mətbuat konfransında bunları söyləyib:
“Çox maraqlı oyun oldu. Meydanda mübarizə getdi. Hər iki komanda yaxşı oyun sərgilədi. Bilirik ki, “Zirə” yaxşı komandadır, amma bu gün biz də yaxşı oynadıq. Bir standart vəziyyətdə rəqibi buraxdıq və qapımızda qol gördük. Hesabı bərabərləşdirmək istədik. Oyunun gedişatında sistemdə dəyişiklik etdik, hücumçuların sayını artırdıq. Təəssüf ki, qol vura bilmədik. Rəqibi təbrik edirəm. Növbəti matça hazırlaşacağıq”.
Füzuli Məmmədov Qavi Tompsonun ilk hissədə əvəzlənməsinə etiraz etməsinə də münasibət bildirib:
“Hər bir fubtolçunun oyunu alınmayanda stresə düşür. Bu, normaldır. Qavi təcrübəli oyunçulardandır. Sakitləşdikdən sonra başa düşdü. Qavini dəyişdik ki, ora hücumameyilli oyunçu əlavə edək. Hesabda geridə idik. Qavi yarımmüdafiəçidir, Kinqs isə hücumameyillidir. Biz futbolçuların zəif çıxışına görə yox, hücumda effektiv olmaq üçün dəyişiklik edirik. Taktiki gedişlərdir”.
Baş məşqçi hakimlərin onların oyunlarında diqqətli olmalarının vacibliyini də vurğulayıb:
“Epizodlara VAR-da oturanlar da baxırlar. Bu gün bir epizodda dirsək zərbəsi var idi, amma necə dəyərləndirirlər, bilmirəm. Hakimlər bizdən daha biliklidirlər. O epizodda dirsək var idi. Bizim müdafiəçimizə qarşı dirsək zərbəsi oldu. Ötən oyunda da rəqibimizə aşkar qırmızı vərəqə verilməmişdi. Bütün bunlar bizə çox təsir edir. Biz çox əziyyət çəkirik. Futbolçular da əziyyət çəkirlər. Hər oyuna qalibiyyət üçün çıxırıq. Belə epizodlar bizi əzir. Bizim oyunlarda hakimlər maksimum diqqətli olmalıdırlar. Hansısa səhv bizi Premyer Liqadan sala bilər. İstəyim odur ki, hakimlər bizim matçlarda çox diqqətli olsunlar”.
Bu gün futbol üzrə Azərbaycan çempionatında (Premyer Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 20-ci turunun oyunlarına start verilib.
Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun gününün sonuncu qarşılaşması Zirədə baş tutub.
“Zirə” çempionatın aşkar autsayderi “Karvan”ı qəbul edib. Zirədə baş tutmuş görüşün baş hakimi Kamranbəy Rəhimov olub. Meydan sahibləri bu görüşü tək qolla qalib başa vurublar.
Premyer Liqa
20-ci tur
14 fevral
“Zirə” – “Karvan” 1:0
Qol: Davit Volkov, 20.
Hakimlər: Kamranbəy Rəhimov, Akif Əmirəli, Mirnihat Seyidov, Əkbər Əhmədov.
VAR: Fərid Hacıyev.
AVAR: Rəhman İmami.
Hakim-inspektor: Anar Salmanov.
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Asif Əliyev.
Zirə İdman Kompleksinin stadionu, 17:00.
Zirə: 97. Tyaqo Silva, 32. Qismət Alıyev (k), 8. İsmayıl İbrahimli, 19. Rüfət Abdullazadə, 4. Ruan Renato, 25. Enrike Kustodio, 9. Davit Volkov, 10. Georgi Papunaşvili, 5. Ange Mutsinzi, 11. Junior Martins, 17. Ayron Qomis.
Ehtiyat oyunçular: 13. Aydın Bayramov, 41. Anar Nəzirov, 70. Namik Ələskərov, 73. Anatoli Nuriyev, 21. Hacıağa Hacılı, 7. Rövlan Muradov, 14. Elçin Əlicanov, 29. Ceyhun Nuriyev, 26. Stefan Akka, 30. Rikardo Martins, 6. Eldar Quliyev.
Baş məşqçi: Rəşad Sadıqov.
Karvan: 99. Pedro Mateus, 6. Vadim Abdullayev (k), 33. Eltun Turabov, 13. Vüsal Məsimov, 14. Uğur Cahangirov, 16. Rauf Rüstəmli, 5. Emin Rüstəmov, 2. Şakil Sno, 11. Kayl Spens, 19. Tompson Qavi, 21. İmani Barker.
Ehtiyat oyunçular: 1. Kamran İbrahimov, 25. Əmrah Bulud, 32. Elvin Yunuszadə, 42. İbrahim Qədirzadə, 17. Samir Abdullayev, 37. Mois Nqvisani, 8. Peter Kinqs, 10. Samuel Durrant. 4. Olavale Doyeni.
Baş məşqçi: Füzuli Məmmədov.
Raffaele Palladino explains how he worked on revitalising the Atalanta ‘mentality’ and his surprising tweaks for today’s trip to Lazio. ‘I don’t believe in squad rotation.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 GMT.
This is an early opportunity to see these teams face off, as they will meet again in the Coppa Italia semi-final, starting with the first leg in the Capital on March 4.
It is also a battle between seventh and eighth in the Serie A table, and with Como stumbling to a defeat at home to Fiorentina earlier today, it’s an opportunity for Atalanta to go sixth.
“When I first arrived, the players were upset and we had to work on the mental aspect, revitalising their enthusiasm and finding that self-belief they had perhaps lost along the way,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.
“The rest comes as a consequence of that, as this is a team with a lot of quality, the tactical principles were already clear and similar to the ones I had worked on in the past, so we fit together very quickly.
“We’ve achieved nothing yet, this is the most delicate spell of the season, and we need to face it with the right mentality.”
Charles De Ketelaere had knee surgery for a meniscus tear and is expected to be out of action for at least a month.
Gianluca Scamacca is not fully fit either today, though Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor return from suspension, but it is Nicola Zalewski who starts rather than Giacomo Raspadori.
Is this to rest the Italian ahead of the Champions League play-off with Borussia Dortmund?
“I never rotate the squad, I don’t believe in it, I just focus on picking the best available team for that match. I am fortunate to have 20 players available who are all strong and anyone who steps in is able to give their best,” replied Palladino.
“I feel we have the best XI for the characteristics of this game, the players know what they need to do and we will aim to win, though it won’t be easy against a Lazio side in good shape.”
Delegates from Milan have been in Liverpool to visit and study Everton’s new Hill Dickinson stadium as part of their fact-finding mission for the new stadium in San Siro.
As of November, Milan and Inter have officially acquired the San Siro site, including the iconic Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, which had previously been owned by the city council. Acquiring the stadium was a fundamental step in the journey to building a new ground on the same site.
According to various reports in Italy, the Milan clubs intend to demolish the vast majority of their stadium in its current form in order to make way for a new, state-of-the-art venue capable of hosting matches at EURO 2032.
The new stadium is expected to be built nearby, but not in place of the current Stadio Meazza, which means that the construction of the new ground could begin in 2027, and the demolition of the current stadium in 2031.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, a delegation of five representatives from AC Milan have recently been in Liverpool to study Everton’s new Hill Dickinson stadium, which was officially opened in 2025.
The 52,769-capacity stadium hosted its first Premier League match on the opening day of the 2025-26 Premier League season, replacing the historic Goodison Park, which had been in operation for 133 years.
Everton is not the only stop on Milan’s fact-finding mission, though. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that there will be visits to other clubs across Europe over the coming months.
It is understood that the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Borussia Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park are also among Milan’s inspirations.
With Charles De Ketelaere out, Atalanta look to Lazar Samardzic and Nikola Krstovic against Lazio’s Daniel Maldini and Tijjani Noslin, before these teams meet in the Coppa Italia semi-final.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 GMT.
This is meant to be a head-to-head for European ambitions, although a six-point gap has opened up between these sides in seventh and eighth place.
They will face off again in the Coppa Italia semi-final on March 4, with the second leg in Bergamo in April.
La Dea lost De Ketelaere to a meniscus injury, as he had surgery on Thursday and will be out of action for at least a month.
Gianluca Scamacca is not fully fit either, but Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor return from suspension after the 2-1 win over Cremonese.
Giacomo Raspadori is rested in favour of Samardzic and Nicola Zalewski in support of Krstovic.
Lazio have had a chaotic few weeks, which saw dramatic late goals in a 3-2 win over Genoa and 2-2 draw away to Juventus.
They were in action on Wednesday, eliminating Coppa Italia holders Bologna in a penalty shoot-out at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
Alessio Romagnoli returned from his failed transfer to Al-Sadd only to immediately pick up a Serie A ban, while Pedro sprained his ankle and will be out for a month.
Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot are also injured, leaving Maurizio Sarri with few options.
Daniel Maldini starts against his former club, who he left in January, flanked by Gustav Isaksen and Noslin.
Oliver Provstgaard steps into defence, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru plugging the midfield gaps.
Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Tavares; Dele-Bashiru, Cataldi, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Noslin
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djmsiti, Ahanor; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Bernasconi; Samardzic, Zalewski; Krstovic
| 10' | Giorgio Scalvini | |||
| 12' | Honest Ahanor | |||
| 41' | |
Éderson |
| 60' | |
Nicola Zalewski (Assist: Lorenzo Bernasconi) | ||
| 74' | Lorenzo Bernasconi | |||
| Kenneth Taylor | 78' | |||
| 90' | |
Berat Djimsiti |
Fiorentina climbed out of the relegation zone with a shock win away to high-flying Como, as Nicolò Fagioli and Moise Kean’s penalty were decisive, with tension getting to Alvaro Morata.
The Lariani were fresh from a Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Napoli in a sudden death penalty shoot-out, still missing Assane Diao and Edoardo Goldaniga. Albert Gudmundsson, Daniele Rugani and Tariq Lamptey didn’t make the trip for the Viola, whose form stalled again with one point from three rounds. Curiously, these teams met in the Coppa Italia on January 27, Como emerging 3-1 winners at the Stadio Franchi.
See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.
Nico Paz tested David De Gea, but it was Fiorentina who broke the deadlock somewhat against the run of play. Niccolò Fagioli was fortunate that both a cleared cross and the rebound from his initial shot fell kindly into his path, so he then dribbled into the box and surprised Jean Butez at the near post.
Nico Paz drilled wide of the near post on a Nicolas Kuhn pull-back, firing a few more efforts off target, along with a Tasos Douvikas header over and Martin Baturina strike from a tricky angle.
Cesc Fabregas made changes at the break and they stepped up a gear, Marin Pongracic preventing a Douvikas tap-in on the Mergim Vojvoda low cross.
However, Maxi Perrone mistimed his challenge on Rolando Mandragora and gave away a penalty, which Kean converted into the near top corner. It was his first Serie A goal away from home in nine months and doubled Fiorentina’s lead.
Jesus Rodriguez dribbled past two to test De Gea, then Baturina’s strike skimmed the far post from the edge of the area.
There was a mad scramble after a Como corner, culminating in the ball grazing both Jacobo Ramon’s head and the far post from five yards.
Como had penalty appeals rejected, as Jesus Rodriguez seemed to suddenly stop so Jack Harrison had to bump into the back of him, but the touchline debate resulted in Fiorentina coach Paolo Vanoli’s dismissal.
The hosts did get one back when another strong Jesus Rodriguez cross from the left was flicked on by Alvaro Morata, as Fabiano Parisi accidentally prodded into his own net trying to anticipate Ramon.
Como could smell blood and poured forward, pumping crosses into the box, and there were more penalty appeals for potential Mandragora handball, but his arms were around Jacobo Ramon and it was incidental.
The tension was sky high and got to Alvaro Morata, who received two yellow cards in quick succession for ill-tempered tussles with first Mandragora, then Marin Pongracic.
Fagioli 26 (F), Kean pen 54 (F), Parisi og 77 (C)
Sent off: Morata 89 (C)
| 26' | |
Nicolò Fagioli |
| Marc Oliver Kempf | 49' | |||
| 54' | |
Moise Kean | ||
| Fabiano Parisi | |
77' | ||
| Jesús Rodriguez | 82' | |||
| Álvaro Morata | 88' | |||
| 88' | Rolando Mandragora | |||
| Álvaro Morata | |
89' | ||
| 90' | |
Luca Ranieri |
Luciano Spalletti is expected to reshuffle his tactics ahead of the Derby d’Italia against Inter on Saturday afternoon as Juventus will have to do without key midfielder Khephren Thuram against the Nerazzurri. Here’s who could replace the Frenchman in San Siro.
Juventus released their squad list for the derby against Inter on Saturday morning, confirming that Thuram as well as Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik are unavailable to play.
Thuram has featured in 23 of Juventus’s 24 league matches so far this season, has started in 20 of them and has provided one goal and two assists from those Serie A outings. That goal came in the reverse fixture against Inter at the Allianz Stadium during the first half of the season.
With no Thuram available on Saturday evening, it is expected that Spalletti will slightly reshuffle his tactics.
Spalletti originally deployed a 3-4-2-1 shape during his first weeks in charge of the Bianconeri, before switching to a 4-2-3-1. He reverted to the 3-4-2-1 shape for the 2-2 draw against Lazio last time out, but is likely to swap back to a four-man defence against Inter.
According to reports from some outlets on Saturday afternoon, Spalletti is likely to deploy a midfield trio of Manuel Locatelli, Weston McKennie and Fabio Miretti. That would see Francisco Conceicao, Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David as the starting attackers.
Other outlets, however, suggest that Spalletti could stick with a back three, and that Teun Koopmeiners could be brought in to partner Locatelli in the midfield of a 3-4-2-1. Lloyd Kelly would come back into the team on the left side of the back three if this were to be the case.
Scott McTominay has reportedly not been able to shake off a tendon issue, so will miss Napoli’s showdown with Roma on Sunday.
It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
McTominay had limped off at half-time during the 3-2 victory away to Genoa last week, having scored one of his team’s decisive goals.
He was then left out of the squad for the Coppa Italia quarter-final, which saw Como eliminate Napoli on penalties after a 1-1 draw on Tuesday.
It was hoped that the Scotland international and last year’s Serie A MVP would be fit enough to feature in this weekend’s clash with Roma.
However, Sky Sport Italia report the latest news from the medical staff is not reassuring, so McTominay might not even be on the bench.
It’s a blow for Antonio Conte, as Juan Jesus is also suspended, with David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour long-term injury absentees.
At least Matteo Politano seems to be back to full fitness and able to start.
With McTominay out, Eljif Elmas should again drop into midfield, leaving room for Giovane in the front three flanking Rasmus Hojlund and Antonio Vergara.
Igor Tudor’s first interview following his confirmation as the new short-term manager of Tottenham Hotspur has already won over a disillusioned fan base.
The Croatian tactician, appointed on Saturday to steer Spurs through the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign, wasted no time in establishing a new, aggressive mental framework for a squad currently languishing in 16th place.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Stepping into the high-pressure environment of North London, Tudor delivered a clear, uncompromising message that resonated with supporters tired of defensive fragility.
“We want to win,” Tudor stated during his unveiling (quotes via The Spurs Watch). “You can’t go out there aiming for a draw. We take the field to win; you don’t prepare matches to draw. My focus is clear: to bring greater consistency to our performances and compete with conviction in every match.”
??Igor Tudor:
"We want to win, you can’t go out there aiming for a draw. We take the field to win; you don’t prepare matches to draw." pic.twitter.com/YVWouUPDR4
— The Spurs Watch (@TheSpursWatch) February 14, 2026
Tudor, who has signed an interim deal until the end of the season, is tasked with halting a dismal run that has seen Spurs win only two of their last 17 league games.
His debut will be a baptism of fire: a North London derby against league leaders Arsenal next Sunday.
Tudor’s front-foot rhetoric stands in sharp contrast to the tone set by his predecessor, Thomas Frank.
The Danish manager, sacked on Wednesday after just eight months in charge, frequently drew the ire of fans for what was perceived as a defeatist outlook.
During his unveiling, Frank famously told the media, “We are going to lose games,” a sentiment intended to manage expectations but one that ultimately alienated a crowd used to the “To Dare Is To Do” motto.
He said: “I promise you one thing, one thing is 100% sure, we will lose football matches.”
Frank’s weak comments along with the mention of Arsenal set the tone of his disastrous tenure at Spurs.
He failed to win over the fans from the get go and mistakes like drinking from an Arsenal branded coffee-cup did not help.
While Frank’s pragmatism worked at Brentford, his inability to inspire a “big club” mentality at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium led to the lowest points-per-game ratio (1.12) of any Spurs manager in the Premier League era.
The post Igor Tudor appears to take subtle dig at Thomas Frank in first interview as Tottenham manager appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Kasen Brown has held talks with several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, ahead of his imminent Manchester City exit, according to The Talent Room.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The 15-year-old defender is widely regarded as one of the most talented U16 left-backs in the country, making him one of the most sought-after youth prospects in the current market.
The race for Brown’s signature has intensified following the news that he will be leaving the Manchester City academy at the end of the current season.
Reports suggest that the youngster and his representatives have already engaged in discussions with a host of top-tier English clubs.
Alongside Manchester United, both Brighton & Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest are high on the list of suitors.
Brighton, known for their world-class pathway for youth players, and Forest, who have been aggressive in their recent recruitment, are both providing compelling arguments for the defender to join their ranks.
Leeds United are also firmly in the mix, as they look to build on their reputation for developing elite young talent.
Brown’s stock rose even further this week after he received his first international call-up for the England U16s, a milestone that underscores his potential as a future star for club and country.
The most intriguing part of this saga is the potential move to Old Trafford.
Should Kasen Brown make the switch to Manchester United, he would follow in the footsteps of recent high-profile academy raids, such as Chido Obi-Martin and Ayden Heaven.
United are reportedly keen to capitalise on Brown’s availability as they continue to overhaul their youth system under the new leadership of INEOS.
For Brown, staying in Manchester while moving to City’s arch-rivals could offer the perfect blend of career progression and personal stability.
The post Manchester City starlet holds talks with Manchester United in surprise development appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Another case of CPU failure, but the user reports minimal CPU usage when it died. This time, it was the ASUS motherboard. Redditor Confirms Dead Ryzen 7 9800X3D on ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus After Leaving His System On Overnight With Nominal Load Ryzen 7 9800X3D death reports aren't uncommon, and they continuously surface on Reddit. Keep in mind that despite so many reports surfacing online, the RMA rates for the Ryzen 7 9800X3D are nearly on par with other Ryzen 9000 CPUs if we go by the data from Mindfactory. Still, it's important to examine every case of CPU failure […]
Read full article at https://wccftech.com/amd-ryzen-7-9800x3d-reportedly-dies-at-less-than-10-usage-on-asus-x870-motherboard/
Earlier this month, the developer behind the crowdfunded fantasy MMORPG Ashes of Creation, Intrepid Studios, suddenly collapsed, leaving backers and fans baffled less than two months after the game's launch on Steam Early Access. As it turns out, though, the project had been teetering on the brink of collapse for a very long time. YouTuber NefasQS, AKA Casper, has managed to interview one of the game's main investors, Jason Caramanis, who has come forward to reveal what he alleges is a massive, years-long fraud perpetrated by Steven Sharif, founder and creative director of Intrepid Studios. Caramanis is a 57-year-old multi-level […]
Read full article at https://wccftech.com/ashes-creation-investor-alleges-140-million-fraud/
The US and Taiwan have now agreed on an extensive trade framework, and by the looks of it, one of the major aspects of the agreement is to bolster supply chain expansion measures in America. TSMC & Other Taiwanese Suppliers Could See Tariff Exemptions Moving Ahead, Potentially Lowering Expansion Costs The semiconductor buildout in the US is probably the 'largest' ever by foreign entities in modern times, driven by TSMC and others' desire to diversify the chip supply chain to cater to their US customers. At the same time, tariffs have been a major concern for Taiwanese companies' investments, as […]
Read full article at https://wccftech.com/the-us-taiwan-trade-agreement-boosts-investment-climate-for-america-chip-supply-chain/
ShinyHunters hackers leaked user data after a social-engineering attack on a Figure employee and the company reportedly refused to pay a ransom.
A new study published in the journal Personal Relationships suggests that single people who feel their basic psychological needs are met tend to experience higher life satisfaction and fewer depressive symptoms. The findings indicate that beyond these universal needs, having a secure attachment style and viewing singlehood as a personal choice rather than a result of external barriers are significant predictors of a satisfying single life.
The number of single adults has increased significantly in recent years, prompting psychologists to investigate what factors contribute to a high quality of life for this demographic. Historically, relationship research has focused heavily on the dynamics of couples, often treating singlehood merely as a transitional stage or a deficit. When researchers did study singles, they typically categorized them simply as those who chose to be single versus those who did not. This binary perspective fails to capture the complexity of the single experience.
The researchers behind the new study sought to understand the specific psychological characteristics that explain why some individuals thrive in singlehood while others struggle. By examining factors ranging from broad human needs to specific attitudes about relationships, the team aimed to clarify the internal and external forces that shape single well-being.
“Much of the research on single people has focused on deficits—that singles are less happy or lonely to partnered people,” said study author Jeewon Oh, an assistant professor at Syracuse University.
“We wanted to ask instead: When do single people thrive? We wanted to identify what actually predicts a good single life from understanding their individual differences. We know that people need to feel autonomous, competent, and related to others to flourish, but it wasn’t clear whether relationship-specific factors like attachment style or reasons for being single play an important role beyond satisfying these more basic needs.”
To investigate these questions, the scientists conducted two separate analyses. The first sample consisted of 445 adults recruited through Qualtrics Panels. These participants were older, with an average age of approximately 53 years, and were long-term singles who had been without a partner for an average of 20 years. This demographic provided a window into the experiences of those who have navigated singlehood for a significant portion of their adulthood.
The second sample was gathered to see if the findings would hold true for a different age group. This group included 545 undergraduate students from a university in the northeastern United States. These participants were much younger, with an average age of roughly 19 years. By using two distinct samples, the researchers hoped to distinguish between findings that might be unique to a specific life stage and those that apply to singles more generally.
The researchers used a series of surveys to assess several psychological constructs. First, they measured the satisfaction of basic psychological needs based on Self-Determination Theory. This theory posits that three core needs are essential for human well-being: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy refers to a sense of volition and control over one’s own life choices. Competence involves feeling capable and effective in one’s activities. Relatedness is the feeling of being connected to and cared for by others.
In addition to basic needs, the study assessed attachment orientation. Attachment theory describes how people relate to close others, often based on early life experiences. The researchers looked at two dimensions: attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance. Attachment anxiety is characterized by a fear of rejection and a strong need for reassurance. Attachment avoidance involves a discomfort with intimacy and a preference for emotional distance.
The team also measured sociosexuality and reasons for being single. Sociosexuality refers to an individual’s openness to uncommitted sexual experiences, including their desires, attitudes, and behaviors regarding casual sex. For the reasons for being single, participants rated their agreement with statements categorized into domains such as valuing freedom, perceiving personal constraints, or feeling a lack of courtship ability.
The most consistent finding across both samples was the importance of basic psychological need satisfaction. Single individuals who felt their needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness were being met reported significantly higher life satisfaction and satisfaction with their relationship status. They also reported fewer symptoms of depression.
This suggests that the foundation of a good life for singles is largely the same as it is for everyone else. It relies on feeling in control of one’s life, feeling capable, and having meaningful social connections, which for singles are often found in friendships and family rather than romantic partnerships.
Attachment style also emerged as a significant predictor of well-being. The data showed that higher levels of attachment anxiety were associated with more depressive symptoms. In the combined analysis of both samples, attachment anxiety also predicted lower satisfaction with singlehood. People with high attachment anxiety often crave intimacy and fear abandonment. This orientation may make singlehood particularly challenging, as the lack of a romantic partner might act as a constant source of distress.
The study found that the specific reasons a person attributes to their singlehood matter for their mental health. Participants who viewed their singlehood as a means to maintain their freedom and independence reported higher levels of satisfaction. These individuals appeared to be single because they valued the autonomy it provided.
In contrast, those who felt they were single due to constraints experienced worse outcomes. Constraints included factors such as lingering feelings for a past partner, a fear of being hurt, or perceived personal deficits. Viewing singlehood as a forced circumstance rather than a choice was linked to higher levels of depressive symptoms.
The researchers examined whether sociosexuality would predict well-being, hypothesizing that singles who are open to casual sex might enjoy singlehood more. However, the results indicated that sociosexuality did not provide additional explanatory power once basic needs and attachment were taken into account. While the desire for uncommitted sex was correlated with some outcomes in isolation, it was not a primary driver of well-being in the comprehensive models.
These findings suggest that a “sense of choice” is a multi-layered concept. It is not just about a simple decision to be single or not. Instead, it is reflected in how much autonomy a person feels generally, whether their attachment style allows them to feel secure without a partner, and whether they interpret their single status as an alignment with their values.
“The most important takeaway is that single people’s well-being consistently depends on having their basic psychological needs met—feeling autonomous, competent, and connected to others,” Oh told PsyPost. “However, beyond that, it also matters whether someone has an anxious attachment style, and whether they feel like they are single because it fits their values (vs. due to constraints). These individual differences are aligned with having a sense of choice over being single, which may be one key to a satisfying singlehood.”
The study has some limitations. The research relied on self-reported data collected at a single point in time. This cross-sectional design means that scientists cannot determine the direction of cause and effect. For example, it is possible that people who are already depressed are more likely to perceive their singlehood as a result of constraints, rather than the constraints causing the depression.
The demographic composition of the samples also limits generalizability. The participants were predominantly White and, in the older sample, mostly women. The experience of singlehood can vary greatly depending on gender, race, cultural background, and sexual orientation. The researchers noted that future studies should aim to include more diverse groups to see if these psychological patterns hold true across different populations.
Another limitation involved the measurement of reasons for being single. The scale used to assess these reasons had some statistical weaknesses, which suggests that the specific categories of “freedom” and “constraints” might need further refinement in future research. Despite this, the general pattern—that voluntary reasons link to happiness and involuntary reasons link to distress—aligns with previous scientific literature.
Future research could benefit from following single people over time. A longitudinal approach would allow scientists to observe how changes in need satisfaction or attachment security influence feelings about singlehood as people age. It would also be valuable to explore how other personality traits, such as extraversion or neuroticism, interact with these factors to shape the single experience.
The study, “Who Lives a Good Single Life? From Basic Need Satisfaction to Attachment, Sociosexuality, and Reasons for Being Single,” was authored by Jeewon Oh, Arina Stoianova, Tara Marie Bello, and Ashley De La Cruz.
The post ADA Price in Focus as Cardano Expands Interoperability and Post-Quantum Push appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
The ADA price might not always react to governance edits or backend integrations, but beneath the surface, Cardano is stacking infrastructure at a serious pace. While traders obsess over the ADA/USD pair and short-term volatility, the ecosystem is quietly expanding its technical footprint. And not all of that work makes headlines.
Cardano’s ecosystem often gets attention for launches, debates, and big roadmap promises. But as highlighted recently, much of the heavy lifting happens out of sight. The CIP (Cardano Improvement Proposal) process, which shapes technical standards across the network, has reportedly been pushed forward this year through relentless editing, review cycles, coordination, and detail-oriented revisions.
It’s unglamorous work. Typos fixed. Drafts cleaned up. Proposals nudged across the finish line. Yet without that stewardship, the broader Cardano machine doesn’t function smoothly. Infrastructure maturity rarely shows up directly on the ADA price chart, but it lays the groundwork for long-term ecosystem stability.
Meanwhile, the ecosystem narrative is widening. As discussions around potential $XRP integration into Cardano’s DeFi landscape are now circulating publicly. The idea centers on interoperability, so that it can act as a bridge between ecosystems rather than competition between them.
Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson discusses exploring $XRP integration possibilities within Cardano’s DeFi landscape.
— XRP Update (@XrpUdate) February 13, 2026
A potential bridge between ecosystems, positive signal for broader blockchain interoperability. pic.twitter.com/KSkl69bxlO
If such integration materializes, it would signal a broader strategic posture: Cardano positioning itself as connective tissue in a multi-chain future. For ADA price prediction discussions, that kind of interoperability theme often feeds longer-term speculation, though tangible impact depends on execution and adoption.
But that’s not the only cross-chain move in play.
One of the most significant updates comes from the approval of a major interoperability integration: LayerZero joining the ecosystem. LayerZero is described as one of Web3’s most adopted omnichain messaging protocols, linking 150+ blockchains and enabling access to 400+ tokens and more than $80 billion in omnichain assets.
That’s scale. The integration is framed as the largest cross-chain connectivity expansion in Cardano’s history, opening doors to stablecoin liquidity, tokenized real-world assets, and shared DeFi infrastructure across networks. Delivery now moves into deployment, with milestones expected as progress continues.
BREAKING NEWS
— Mintern (@MinswapIntern) February 13, 2026
CARDANO IS GOING POST-QUANTUM WITH GOOGLE & MICROSOFT@IOHK_Charles says Cardano is working alongside Google, Linux, and Microsoft Research on Nightstream, a cutting-edge post-quantum cryptography project.
Built on advanced lattice-based crypto, the… pic.twitter.com/gZ0XnWUUXn
At the same time, Cardano is reportedly collaborating with Google, Linux, and Microsoft Research on a post-quantum cryptography initiative called Nightstream. Built on lattice-based cryptography, it’s designed to be quantum-resistant and AI hardware compatible, this is a long-horizon play that signals technical ambition beyond current market cycles.
In the short term, infrastructure milestones don’t guarantee immediate reactions on the ADA/USD chart. But steady interoperability expansion, governance maturation, and research-level partnerships collectively reshape how ADA price is evaluated in long-term positioning conversations.
Login
