USMNT pulled off a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia in the Gold Cup group stage in Austin, thanks to Antonee Richards’ goal. Defensive strength kept the visitors at bay, but pundits slammed coach Mauricio Pochettino for a timid display. The U.S. secured passage to the knockout stage as doubts linger about their attacking style.
Ashley Westwood, the head coach of Hong Kong since August 2024, is steering the national team toward a 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification. Drawing on experience from coaching in England, India, Malaysia, and Afghanistan, and his I-League win with Bengaluru FC, Westwood brings global know-how and focus to Hong Kong’s football ambitions.
Minnesota roared back in Game 2, crushing Golden State 117-93 as Julius Randle paced the Timberwolves and the bench piled up points. The Warriors looked lost without Stephen Curry, leaving the series even at 1-1 as the action heads to San Francisco.
Lionel Messi's participation in the crucial CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Inter Miami and Vancouver Whitecaps remains uncertain. Inter Miami is weighing Messi’s fitness, with Manager Javier Mascherano keeping plans secret. Vancouver Whitecaps are actively preparing for either outcome as the stakes run high.
LeBron James marked a significant achievement by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA's second-most experienced player in terms of regular-season games played, during the Lakers' 112-97 win over the Mavericks. Luka Dončić shone with 45 points in his return to Dallas, but the Lakers, led by James' impressive performance, secured their third place in the Western Conference.
Manchester United heads to Bucharest to face FCSB in a decisive Europa League match. With both teams striving for a win to boost their standings, fans can expect an intense game. United has a successful track record against Romanian teams but faces a resilient FCSB at home.
Philippe Clement's tenure as Rangers manager is under intense scrutiny after a string of disappointing results. In a heartfelt apology to fans, Clement acknowledged key failures, including a Scottish Cup loss. Despite some successes, his failure to close the gap with Celtic and increasing fan discontent have put his position in jeopardy.
The Los Angeles Lakers overcame a substantial first-half deficit to beat the Portland Trail Blazers 110-102, powered by LeBron James' impressive 36-point display. Despite missing Luka Dončić who was resting, the Lakers showcased their resilience. The Portland Trail Blazers struggled offensively, with Jeremy Grant missing all nine of his attempts.
José Mourinho's Fenerbahce gained a decisive 3-0 advantage against Anderlecht in the first leg of the Europa League playoffs. Goals came from former Premier League stars Dusan Tadic, Edin Dzeko, and Youssef En-Nesyri. Yet, Mourinho remains cautious about the second leg. In other notable matches, records were set by young talents Jorthy Mokio and Michael Noonan.
In a gripping FA Cup fourth-round match, Manchester City edged out Leyton Orient with a 2-1 victory. Orient took an early lead with a stunning goal by Jamie Donley, but City's resilience shone as they equalized in the second half with a goal from Abdukodir Khusanov. Kevin De Bruyne secured the win late, illustrating City's readiness for their upcoming Champions League showdown.
In a tightly fought contest, Sunrisers Eastern Cape emerged victorious against the Joburg Super Kings with a 14-run win at St George's Park in Gqeberha. The triumph, led by captain Aiden Markram, marks the team's fourth consecutive victory in the SA20 tournament, propelling them to second on the leaderboard. Key players played pivotal roles in this exciting encounter, with momentum now a primary focus as they advance.
Manchester United's refusal to cover Marcus Rashford's 14 million euro net salary is hindering AC Milan's transfer ambitions. While Rashford desires a new challenge and AC Milan is eager to secure him on loan, United's financial stance poses significant barriers. The 27-year-old, largely benched under coach Ruben Amorim, has made 7 goals in limited playtime, yet faces obstacles in moving to his preferred club.