Carlos Alcaraz saved three championship points as he produced an astonishing fightback from two sets down to beat Jannik Sinner in a French Open final for the ages on Sunday.&nbsp;Reigning champion Alcaraz rallied from the brink of defeat to overcome world number one Sinner 4-6, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (10/2) to clinch his fifth Grand Slam title after five hours and 29 minutes.&nbsp;The 22-year-old Spaniard is now unbeaten in five Grand Slam finals after snapping Sinner's 20-match winning run at the majors.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm pretty sure you'll be champion not once, but many many times. It's a privilege to share the court with you in every tournament. Making history with you," Alcaraz said, addressing Sinner after the final.&nbsp;Alcaraz pulled off his first ever comeback from two sets down to stun Sinner in the longest Roland Garros final in history. It easily eclipsed the 1982 final in Paris when Mats Wilander triumphed in four sets over Guillermo Vilas in 4hr 42min.&nbsp;Alcaraz becomes the third youngest man to win five Grand Slams -- after Bjorn Borg and compatriot Rafael Nadal -- following an incredible duel between the two stars of a new generation.&nbsp;Sinner fell agonisingly short of a third successive Grand Slam crown after last year's US Open title and back-to-back Australian Open triumphs.&nbsp;"It's easier to play than talking now," said a devastated Sinner. &nbsp;"We tried our best today, we gave everything we had.&nbsp;"I won't sleep very well tonight but it's OK."&nbsp;He suffered his fifth straight loss to Alcaraz in what was their first meeting in a Grand Slam final -- and the first championship match at a major between two men born in the 2000s.&nbsp;Alcaraz leads 8-5 overall having also beaten Sinner to win in Rome, where the Italian returned to competition in May after a three-month doping ban.&nbsp;Alcaraz put the pressure on Sinner by carving out three break points to start Saturday's final, but the Italian resisted and soon had a chance of his own.&nbsp;He couldn't take advantage and found himself having to fend off two more break points at 1-1, producing clutch serves to grind out another tough hold.&nbsp;Alcaraz's persistence paid off in the fifth game when he broke to nudge 3-2 ahead, only for the Spaniard to immediately hand the lead back.&nbsp;The unshakeable Sinner threatened to break again at 4-3, with a brief lapse from Alcaraz eventually enabling Sinner to snatch the first set.&nbsp;Sinner hit the accelerator to start the second set, surging 3-0 in front. After facing seven break points in the opener, he tightened up considerably on serve.&nbsp;&nbsp;But Alcaraz brought up his first break point of the second set with Sinner serving for a two-set lead, duly pouncing on the opportunity to check his rival's momentum.&nbsp;&nbsp;With the swagger back in his step at a crucial juncture, Alcaraz sought to bring the crowd into the contest but Sinner remained unflustered in the tie-break.&nbsp;The first five points went with serve before Sinner whipped a forehand down the line and Alcaraz then steered an attempted drop-shot wide.&nbsp;A tame return into the net presented Sinner with four set points. Alcaraz saved two before Sinner unleashed a blistering cross-court forehand to move to within a set of the trophy.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Carlos Alcaraz scripts marvellous comeback to beat Sinner for French Open crown

Carlos Alcaraz saved three championship points as he produced an astonishing fightback from two sets down to beat Jannik Sinner in a French Open final for the ages on Sunday. Reigning champion Alcaraz rallied from the brink of defeat to overcome world number one Sinner 4-6, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (10/2) to clinch his fifth Grand Slam title after five hours and 29 minutes. The 22-year-old Spaniard is now unbeaten in five Grand Slam finals after snapping Sinner's 20-match winning run at the majors. "I'm pretty sure you'll be champion not once, but many many times. It's a privilege to share the court with you in every tournament. Making history with you," Alcaraz said, addressing Sinner after the final. Alcaraz pulled off his first ever comeback from two sets down to stun Sinner in the longest Roland Garros final in history. It easily eclipsed the 1982 final in Paris when Mats Wilander triumphed in four sets over Guillermo Vilas in 4hr 42min. Alcaraz becomes the third youngest man to win five Grand Slams -- after Bjorn Borg and compatriot Rafael Nadal -- following an incredible duel between the two stars of a new generation. Sinner fell agonisingly short of a third successive Grand Slam crown after last year's US Open title and back-to-back Australian Open triumphs. "It's easier to play than talking now," said a devastated Sinner. "We tried our best today, we gave everything we had. "I won't sleep very well tonight but it's OK." He suffered his fifth straight loss to Alcaraz in what was their first meeting in a Grand Slam final -- and the first championship match at a major between two men born in the 2000s. Alcaraz leads 8-5 overall having also beaten Sinner to win in Rome, where the Italian returned to competition in May after a three-month doping ban. Alcaraz put the pressure on Sinner by carving out three break points to start Saturday's final, but the Italian resisted and soon had a chance of his own. He couldn't take advantage and found himself having to fend off two more break points at 1-1, producing clutch serves to grind out another tough hold. Alcaraz's persistence paid off in the fifth game when he broke to nudge 3-2 ahead, only for the Spaniard to immediately hand the lead back. The unshakeable Sinner threatened to break again at 4-3, with a brief lapse from Alcaraz eventually enabling Sinner to snatch the first set. Sinner hit the accelerator to start the second set, surging 3-0 in front. After facing seven break points in the opener, he tightened up considerably on serve. But Alcaraz brought up his first break point of the second set with Sinner serving for a two-set lead, duly pouncing on the opportunity to check his rival's momentum. With the swagger back in his step at a crucial juncture, Alcaraz sought to bring the crowd into the contest but Sinner remained unflustered in the tie-break. The first five points went with serve before Sinner whipped a forehand down the line and Alcaraz then steered an attempted drop-shot wide. A tame return into the net presented Sinner with four set points. Alcaraz saved two before Sinner unleashed a blistering cross-court forehand to move to within a set of the trophy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Trailing after the first two sets, Alcaraz rocked Sinner with perhaps the greatest comeback in tournament history to script a remarkable win at Roland Garros this year.

England completed a series win over the West Indies with a game to spare after chasing down a target of 197 in the second T20 international in Bristol on Sunday.&nbsp;Former captain Jos Buttler led the way with 47 and current skipper Harry Brook made 34 as the hosts reached 112-2 inside 13 overs. But the duo were dismissed in consecutive overs, with England still needing 85 more runs to win. But that was the cue for two of the newer team members to lay down a marker.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2025-australia-batting-freak-steve-smith-admits-not-picking-up-willow-after-champions-trophy-exit-explains-how-it-clicked-into-place-1749395984799">Batting freak Smith admits not picking up willow after Champions Trophy exit, explains how it ‘clicked into place’</a>&nbsp;Jacob Bethell's rapid 26 off 10 balls, including three sixes, and Tom Banton's 30 not out helped complete a four-wicket win with nine balls remaining as England went 2-0 up ahead of Tuesday's series finale in Southampton.&nbsp;West Indies were struggling at 121-4 off 16 overs before adding 75 runs in the final four overs of their innings.&nbsp;Luke Wood gave England the ideal start when his swinging yorker had Evin Lewis lbw with the first ball of the match, but West Indies captain Shai Hope (49) and Johnson Charles (47) repaired some of the early damage in a stand of 90.&nbsp;Rovman Powell added late impetus with 34 off 15 balls, and former captain Jason Holder struck 29 off nine.&nbsp;Adil Rashid bowled the penultimate over as England again only selected two seamers, but the veteran leg-spinner conceded 31 runs and finished with figures of 1-59 -- his most-expensive T20 return.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

England complete massive run chase in 2nd T20I to pocket series against West Indies

England completed a series win over the West Indies with a game to spare after chasing down a target of 197 in the second T20 international in Bristol on Sunday. Former captain Jos Buttler led the way with 47 and current skipper Harry Brook made 34 as the hosts reached 112-2 inside 13 overs. But the duo were dismissed in consecutive overs, with England still needing 85 more runs to win. But that was the cue for two of the newer team members to lay down a marker. Also read | Batting freak Smith admits not picking up willow after Champions Trophy exit, explains how it ‘clicked into place’ Jacob Bethell's rapid 26 off 10 balls, including three sixes, and Tom Banton's 30 not out helped complete a four-wicket win with nine balls remaining as England went 2-0 up ahead of Tuesday's series finale in Southampton. West Indies were struggling at 121-4 off 16 overs before adding 75 runs in the final four overs of their innings. Luke Wood gave England the ideal start when his swinging yorker had Evin Lewis lbw with the first ball of the match, but West Indies captain Shai Hope (49) and Johnson Charles (47) repaired some of the early damage in a stand of 90. Rovman Powell added late impetus with 34 off 15 balls, and former captain Jason Holder struck 29 off nine. Adil Rashid bowled the penultimate over as England again only selected two seamers, but the veteran leg-spinner conceded 31 runs and finished with figures of 1-59 -- his most-expensive T20 return. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Jacob Bethell's rapid 26 off 10 balls, including three sixes, and Tom Banton's 30 not out helped complete a four-wicket win with nine balls remaining as England went 2-0 up ahead of Tuesday's series finale in Southampton.

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti has said that Monday's World Cup qualifier against Moldova would be his last. Spalletti had come in for criticism after the Italian side lost 3-0 to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifying match last week.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-kylian-mbappe-scores-and-assists-in-france-win-over-germany-for-nations-league-bronze-1749399594385">Mbappe scores and assists in France’s win over Germany for Nations League bronze</a>&nbsp;"We spoke with the president of the Italian federation on Saturday, and I was told that I would be relieved of my duties as coach of the national team," Spalletti told a press conference on Sunday. "I'm not happy about it. Given the relationship we have, I had absolutely no intention of leaving. Especially when things aren't going well, I would have preferred to stay and do my job.&nbsp;"But this is a dismissal, and I have to accept it. I've always seen this role as a service to the country, and I want to facilitate the future of the national team. I think it's right to strive for the best."&nbsp;Spalletti, 66, took over from Roberto Mancini as Italy coach in August 2023.&nbsp;In his time as head of the Nazionale, the team won 11 times, drew six and lost six.&nbsp;Spalletti's dismissal came only hours after he had been stoutly defended by the same man who then fired him, Federation president Gabriele Gravina.&nbsp;Gravina, who is not without his own critics,&nbsp; said earlier on Sunday Spalletti "was an extraordinary person," adding he "believed in the team and (Spalletti's) project", which he declared was "amazing."&nbsp;"He is a noble soul. The attacks on him are not merited," said Gravina.&nbsp;Gravina had conceded the manner of the defeat to Norway was "unacceptable", though he intimated Spalletti would be responsible for leading the recovery.&nbsp;"We have to face difficult times with our heads held high, and we have to get back up immediately."&nbsp;Two names have popped up on a regular basis as to who would replace him. AS Roma's experienced Claudio Ranieri, 73, most famous for guiding Leicester City to the unlikeliest of Premier League titles in 2016, is one of them.&nbsp;The other is Stefano Pioli, presently the coach of Saudi outfit Al-Nassr, but prior to that, the 59-year-old won the 2022 Serie A crown with AC Milan.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Luciano Spalletti to step down as Italy coach after Norway hammering, says Moldova game to be his last

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti has said that Monday's World Cup qualifier against Moldova would be his last. Spalletti had come in for criticism after the Italian side lost 3-0 to Norway in their opening World Cup qualifying match last week. Also read | Mbappe scores and assists in France’s win over Germany for Nations League bronze "We spoke with the president of the Italian federation on Saturday, and I was told that I would be relieved of my duties as coach of the national team," Spalletti told a press conference on Sunday. "I'm not happy about it. Given the relationship we have, I had absolutely no intention of leaving. Especially when things aren't going well, I would have preferred to stay and do my job. "But this is a dismissal, and I have to accept it. I've always seen this role as a service to the country, and I want to facilitate the future of the national team. I think it's right to strive for the best." Spalletti, 66, took over from Roberto Mancini as Italy coach in August 2023. In his time as head of the Nazionale, the team won 11 times, drew six and lost six. Spalletti's dismissal came only hours after he had been stoutly defended by the same man who then fired him, Federation president Gabriele Gravina. Gravina, who is not without his own critics, said earlier on Sunday Spalletti "was an extraordinary person," adding he "believed in the team and (Spalletti's) project", which he declared was "amazing." "He is a noble soul. The attacks on him are not merited," said Gravina. Gravina had conceded the manner of the defeat to Norway was "unacceptable", though he intimated Spalletti would be responsible for leading the recovery. "We have to face difficult times with our heads held high, and we have to get back up immediately." Two names have popped up on a regular basis as to who would replace him. AS Roma's experienced Claudio Ranieri, 73, most famous for guiding Leicester City to the unlikeliest of Premier League titles in 2016, is one of them. The other is Stefano Pioli, presently the coach of Saudi outfit Al-Nassr, but prior to that, the 59-year-old won the 2022 Serie A crown with AC Milan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Spalletti, 66, took over from Roberto Mancini as Italy coach in August 2023.

Kylian Mbappe bagged a goal and an assist as France beat Germany 2-0 in the Nations League bronze-medal match in Stuttgart on Sunday.&nbsp;Mbappe wove his magic in a heavily changed France squad.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mauricio-pochettino-plays-down-spurs-return-rumours-after-tough-start-to-life-as-us-coach-1749369583451">Mauricio Pochettino plays down Spurs return rumours after tough start to life as US coach</a>&nbsp;Germany dominated the opening half but Mbappe provided the breakthrough just before half-time, carving a shot through a crowded penalty box to bring up his 50th goal in France colours. Late in the second, with the hosts desperately looking for an equaliser, Mbappe snatched a poor Germany pass on the halfway line and rampaged forward, before setting up Michael Olise.&nbsp;&nbsp;The French showed their incredible depth, while Mbappe again demonstrated his finishing and pace.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Germany, who lost two straight straight matches for the first time since 2023, questions remain over how much they have truly improved under Julian Nagelsmann.&nbsp;In the lead-up to Sunday's encounter, France coach Didier Deschamps admitted the Nations League clash with old rivals Germany "isn't the most important game for us," with a clear focus on next year's World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Deschamps made eight changes from the semi-final loss to Spain, with only captain Mbappe, goalie Mike Maignan and midfield veteran Adrien Rabiot keeping their starting spots.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nagelsmann also rotated heavily, making four changes, including bringing striker Niclas Fuellkrug back into the starting XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Germans had a wealth of chances in the opening half. Karim Adeyemi won a penalty, but it was overturned by VAR for diving with. Florian Wirtz hit the post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mbappe struck just before half-time. The Real Madrid man collected a pass which floated over the 1.77-metre tall Joshua Kimmich's head, took a touch and hammered a shot home with his preferred right foot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nagelsmann replaced rookie striker Nick Woltemade with Deniz Undav at half-time. The move seemed to have paid immediate dividends. Undav had the ball in the net, but his effort was chalked off for a foul in the build-up by Fuellkrug.&nbsp;Germany dominated possession and field position, but that left them vulnerable on the break to France's lightning-fast forwards, led by Mbappe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marcus Thuram hit the post on 58 minute. Then Mbappe and substitute Olise, who plays in Germany for Bayern Munich, combined to seal the match for France.&nbsp;&nbsp;The French captain pounced on a poor Robin Koch clearance on the halfway line and ran goalwards, squaring for the onrushing Olise to tap home with six minutes remaining.&nbsp;&nbsp;Later on Sunday, reigning Nations League and Euros champions Spain face Portugal in Munich to decide this year's crown.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Mbappe scores and assists in France’s win over Germany for Nations League bronze

Kylian Mbappe bagged a goal and an assist as France beat Germany 2-0 in the Nations League bronze-medal match in Stuttgart on Sunday. Mbappe wove his magic in a heavily changed France squad. Also read | Mauricio Pochettino plays down Spurs return rumours after tough start to life as US coach Germany dominated the opening half but Mbappe provided the breakthrough just before half-time, carving a shot through a crowded penalty box to bring up his 50th goal in France colours. Late in the second, with the hosts desperately looking for an equaliser, Mbappe snatched a poor Germany pass on the halfway line and rampaged forward, before setting up Michael Olise. The French showed their incredible depth, while Mbappe again demonstrated his finishing and pace. For Germany, who lost two straight straight matches for the first time since 2023, questions remain over how much they have truly improved under Julian Nagelsmann. In the lead-up to Sunday's encounter, France coach Didier Deschamps admitted the Nations League clash with old rivals Germany "isn't the most important game for us," with a clear focus on next year's World Cup. Deschamps made eight changes from the semi-final loss to Spain, with only captain Mbappe, goalie Mike Maignan and midfield veteran Adrien Rabiot keeping their starting spots. Nagelsmann also rotated heavily, making four changes, including bringing striker Niclas Fuellkrug back into the starting XI. The Germans had a wealth of chances in the opening half. Karim Adeyemi won a penalty, but it was overturned by VAR for diving with. Florian Wirtz hit the post. Mbappe struck just before half-time. The Real Madrid man collected a pass which floated over the 1.77-metre tall Joshua Kimmich's head, took a touch and hammered a shot home with his preferred right foot. Nagelsmann replaced rookie striker Nick Woltemade with Deniz Undav at half-time. The move seemed to have paid immediate dividends. Undav had the ball in the net, but his effort was chalked off for a foul in the build-up by Fuellkrug. Germany dominated possession and field position, but that left them vulnerable on the break to France's lightning-fast forwards, led by Mbappe. Marcus Thuram hit the post on 58 minute. Then Mbappe and substitute Olise, who plays in Germany for Bayern Munich, combined to seal the match for France. The French captain pounced on a poor Robin Koch clearance on the halfway line and ran goalwards, squaring for the onrushing Olise to tap home with six minutes remaining. Later on Sunday, reigning Nations League and Euros champions Spain face Portugal in Munich to decide this year's crown. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

For Germany, who lost two straight straight matches for the first time since 2023, questions remain over how much they have truly improved under Julian Nagelsmann.

USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino has played down rumors linking him with the vacant managerial position at his former club Tottenham Hotspur, following the sacking of Ange Postecoglou on Friday.&nbsp;Argentine Pochettino was in charge of Spurs for five years from 2014 and took the team to the Champions League final but never won a trophy with the North London club.&nbsp;Despite having signed a two year contract in September to lead the USA at the 2026 World Cup, which they are co-hosting with Canada and Mexico, Pochettino's name has appeared in bookmakers' lists of favorites for the Spurs job and in several UK reports.&nbsp;But asked on Saturday about the links, in his post-match press conference following the USA's 2-1 home friendly defeat to Turkey, Pochettino played down the talk.&nbsp;"After I left in 2019, every time that I was free, and the place of the position of the manager or head coach in Tottenham Hotspur (was vacant), my name is appearing on the list," Pochettino said.&nbsp;"If you have seen the rumors, I think there are 100 coaches in the list. I think, don’t be worried about that," he added.&nbsp;Pochettino has talked in the past about his remaining affection for Spurs and has never ruled out the possibility of returning to the club at some &nbsp;point.&nbsp;But he suggested the timing was not right for a second chance with his old team."If something happened, you for sure you will see, but we cannot talk about this type of thing, because I think today, it’s not real. It's not realistic. And look at where I am, where we are," he said in the stadium press room in Hartford, Connecticut.&nbsp;"And the thing is, the answer is so clear, no? But we're talking about it because it’s my club, like Newells or Espanyol," he added.&nbsp;Postecoglou was fired just 16 days after the Australian ended Tottenham's 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League.&nbsp;Postecoglou led Tottenham to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao to clinch the north Londoners' first European prize in 41 years and secure a place in next season's Champions League.&nbsp;The former Celtic boss paid the price for Tottenham's worst domestic season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1976-77.&nbsp;The USA have now lost three games in a row, following losses to Panama and Canada in March's CONCACAF Nations League but Pochettino was upbeat about his team's encouraging display after question marks about the attitude of his team in recent games."This attitude I want to continue for the future until we arrive to the World Cup … that is the only way we can improve," he said.&nbsp;"If I decide in September (to have a) different roster, what I want is the same level of commitment, attitude, not to complain (about) this and that," he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentine Mauricio Pochettino was in charge of Spurs for five years from 2014 and took the team to the Champions League final but never won a trophy with the North London club.

USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino has played down rumors linking him with the vacant managerial position at his former club Tottenham Hotspur, following the sacking of Ange Postecoglou on Friday. Argentine Pochettino was in charge of Spurs for five years from 2014 and took the team to the Champions League final but never won a trophy with the North London club. Despite having signed a two year contract in September to lead the USA at the 2026 World Cup, which they are co-hosting with Canada and Mexico, Pochettino's name has appeared in bookmakers' lists of favorites for the Spurs job and in several UK reports. But asked on Saturday about the links, in his post-match press conference following the USA's 2-1 home friendly defeat to Turkey, Pochettino played down the talk. "After I left in 2019, every time that I was free, and the place of the position of the manager or head coach in Tottenham Hotspur (was vacant), my name is appearing on the list," Pochettino said. "If you have seen the rumors, I think there are 100 coaches in the list. I think, don’t be worried about that," he added. Pochettino has talked in the past about his remaining affection for Spurs and has never ruled out the possibility of returning to the club at some point. But he suggested the timing was not right for a second chance with his old team. "If something happened, you for sure you will see, but we cannot talk about this type of thing, because I think today, it’s not real. It's not realistic. And look at where I am, where we are," he said in the stadium press room in Hartford, Connecticut. "And the thing is, the answer is so clear, no? But we're talking about it because it’s my club, like Newells or Espanyol," he added. Postecoglou was fired just 16 days after the Australian ended Tottenham's 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League. Postecoglou led Tottenham to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao to clinch the north Londoners' first European prize in 41 years and secure a place in next season's Champions League. The former Celtic boss paid the price for Tottenham's worst domestic season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1976-77. The USA have now lost three games in a row, following losses to Panama and Canada in March's CONCACAF Nations League but Pochettino was upbeat about his team's encouraging display after question marks about the attitude of his team in recent games. "This attitude I want to continue for the future until we arrive to the World Cup … that is the only way we can improve," he said. "If I decide in September (to have a) different roster, what I want is the same level of commitment, attitude, not to complain (about) this and that," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentine Mauricio Pochettino was in charge of Spurs for five years from 2014 and took the team to the Champions League final but never won a trophy with the North London club.

Mauricio Pochettino plays down Spurs return rumours after tough start to life as US coach

Spain's Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos of Argentina won their first Grand Slam men's doubles title on Saturday after edging British duo Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski in three sets.&nbsp;Granollers, 39, and Zeballos, 40, had lost three previous major finals together but finally secured their first victory with a 6-0, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 win.&nbsp;Granollers had finished on the losing side in each of his previous five doubles finals, including at Roland Garros in 2014 with former partner Marc Lopez.&nbsp;Salisbury fell short in his bid for a fifth Grand Slam triumph in men's doubles after winning four times with Rajeev Ram. Skupski won at Wimbledon in 2023.<h2>Coco Gauff wins maiden French Open title</h2>Coco Gauff battled back from a set down to beat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a Grand Slam final for the second time with a dramatic victory in the French Open.&nbsp;The second-ranked American dug deep to claim a 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-4 victory and her second major title after also defeating Sabalenka at the 2023 US Open.&nbsp;The 21-year-old more than made amends for her emotional 2022 final loss to Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros, outlasting Sabalenka over two hours and 38 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;"I was going through a lot of things when I lost in this final three years ago. A lot of dark thoughts, so it just means a lot to be here," said Gauff.&nbsp;"I didn't think honestly that I could do it."&nbsp;"I also felt like this is one I really wanted, because I do think this was one of the tournaments that, when I was younger, that I felt I had the best shot of winning," added Gauff.&nbsp;"I just felt like if I went through my career and didn't get at least one of these, I would feel regrets and stuff."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Granollers, 39, and Zeballos, 40, had lost three previous major finals together but finally secured their first victory with a 6-0, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 win.

Spain's Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos of Argentina won their first Grand Slam men's doubles title on Saturday after edging British duo Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski in three sets. Granollers, 39, and Zeballos, 40, had lost three previous major finals together but finally secured their first victory with a 6-0, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 win. Granollers had finished on the losing side in each of his previous five doubles finals, including at Roland Garros in 2014 with former partner Marc Lopez. Salisbury fell short in his bid for a fifth Grand Slam triumph in men's doubles after winning four times with Rajeev Ram. Skupski won at Wimbledon in 2023. Coco Gauff wins maiden French Open title Coco Gauff battled back from a set down to beat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a Grand Slam final for the second time with a dramatic victory in the French Open. The second-ranked American dug deep to claim a 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-4 victory and her second major title after also defeating Sabalenka at the 2023 US Open. The 21-year-old more than made amends for her emotional 2022 final loss to Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros, outlasting Sabalenka over two hours and 38 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. "I was going through a lot of things when I lost in this final three years ago. A lot of dark thoughts, so it just means a lot to be here," said Gauff. "I didn't think honestly that I could do it." "I also felt like this is one I really wanted, because I do think this was one of the tournaments that, when I was younger, that I felt I had the best shot of winning," added Gauff. "I just felt like if I went through my career and didn't get at least one of these, I would feel regrets and stuff." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Granollers, 39, and Zeballos, 40, had lost three previous major finals together but finally secured their first victory with a 6-0, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5 win.

French Open: Marcel Granollers, Horacio Zeballos win first Grand Slam doubles title

England kept their World Cup qualifying on track with an ugly 1-0 win while Austria and the Netherlands made belated starts to their campaigns with victories on Saturday.&nbsp;Harry Kane's 72nd international goal ensured England avoided the ultimate embarrassment of failing to beat Andorra. Even so, Thomas Tuchel's side were booed off in Barcelona after struggling to impress against a team ranked 173rd in the world.&nbsp;Tuchel is the first England manager to win his first three competitive games without conceding a goal.&nbsp;But given the paucity of opposition provided by Andorra, Latvia and Albania in the Group K qualifiers, that achievement rings a little hollow after this miserable display."I'm not happy with the performance. We completely lost the momentum and couldn't get it back. We ended up in a place that was not good enough in terms of urgency," Tuchel said.&nbsp;"We can just admit it that it's not what we expect from us. I was most worried in the last 20 minutes because I didn't like the attitude we ended the game with.&nbsp;"I didn't like the lack of urgency. It did not match the occasion. It is still a World Cup qualifier."&nbsp;England pulled five points clear after three matches in Group K as second-placed Albania drew 0-0 at home with Serbia. Rey Manaj of Albania wasted a penalty in first-half added time.&nbsp;Serbia was one of three teams playing their first qualifying match Saturday after they had been involved in Nations League playoffs.&nbsp;Netherlands made their debut with a crisp 2-0 win over Finland in Helsinki.&nbsp;Memphis Depay scored after six minutes. Denzil Dumfries, one week after his unhappy experience playing for Inter Milan in the Champions League final, added the second after 23 &nbsp;minutes.&nbsp;Netherlands jumped to third in Group G, overtaking Lithuania and Malta who drew 0-0. The Dutch are one point behind Finland and three behind leaders Poland who did not play.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marcel Sabitzer and Michael Gregoritsch scored as Austria beat Romania 2-1 in Vienna. Florin Tanase headed an added-time reply for the visitors who had squandered several &nbsp;chances in the closing stages.&nbsp;Bosnia-Herzegovina lead Group H on nine points after Edin Dzeko scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory home over San Marino. Romania, Cyprus and Austria all have three points.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England kept their World Cup qualifying on track with an ugly 1-0 win while Austria and the Netherlands made belated starts to their campaigns with victories on Saturday.

England kept their World Cup qualifying on track with an ugly 1-0 win while Austria and the Netherlands made belated starts to their campaigns with victories on Saturday. Harry Kane's 72nd international goal ensured England avoided the ultimate embarrassment of failing to beat Andorra. Even so, Thomas Tuchel's side were booed off in Barcelona after struggling to impress against a team ranked 173rd in the world. Tuchel is the first England manager to win his first three competitive games without conceding a goal. But given the paucity of opposition provided by Andorra, Latvia and Albania in the Group K qualifiers, that achievement rings a little hollow after this miserable display. "I'm not happy with the performance. We completely lost the momentum and couldn't get it back. We ended up in a place that was not good enough in terms of urgency," Tuchel said. "We can just admit it that it's not what we expect from us. I was most worried in the last 20 minutes because I didn't like the attitude we ended the game with. "I didn't like the lack of urgency. It did not match the occasion. It is still a World Cup qualifier." England pulled five points clear after three matches in Group K as second-placed Albania drew 0-0 at home with Serbia. Rey Manaj of Albania wasted a penalty in first-half added time. Serbia was one of three teams playing their first qualifying match Saturday after they had been involved in Nations League playoffs. Netherlands made their debut with a crisp 2-0 win over Finland in Helsinki. Memphis Depay scored after six minutes. Denzil Dumfries, one week after his unhappy experience playing for Inter Milan in the Champions League final, added the second after 23 minutes. Netherlands jumped to third in Group G, overtaking Lithuania and Malta who drew 0-0. The Dutch are one point behind Finland and three behind leaders Poland who did not play. Marcel Sabitzer and Michael Gregoritsch scored as Austria beat Romania 2-1 in Vienna. Florin Tanase headed an added-time reply for the visitors who had squandered several chances in the closing stages. Bosnia-Herzegovina lead Group H on nine points after Edin Dzeko scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory home over San Marino. Romania, Cyprus and Austria all have three points. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England kept their World Cup qualifying on track with an ugly 1-0 win while Austria and the Netherlands made belated starts to their campaigns with victories on Saturday.

UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Harry Kane saves England as Netherlands, Austria open campaign with wins

Coco Gauff battled back from a set down to beat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a Grand Slam final for the second time with a dramatic victory in the French Open showpiece on Saturday. The second-ranked American dug deep to claim a 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-4 victory and her second major title after also defeating Sabalenka at the 2023 US Open.&nbsp;The 21-year-old more than made amends for her emotional 2022 final loss to Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros, outlasting Sabalenka over two hours and 38 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ashi-chouksey-aiming-high-one-shot-at-a-time-1749279464833">Exclusive | Ashi Chouksey: Aiming high, one shot at a time</a>&nbsp;"I was going through a lot of things when I lost in this final three years ago. I'm just happy to be here," said Gauff. "I didn't think, honestly, that I could do it... I think I was lying to myself that I definitely could do it."&nbsp;It was a second straight Grand Slam final loss for Sabalenka after her defeat by Madison Keys at the Australian Open in January.&nbsp;Gauff was rock solid after falling a set down, while Sabalenka made 70 unforced errors in windy conditions in a match which followed a very similar pattern to Gauff's victory at Flushing Meadows two years ago.&nbsp;"Obviously it hurts so much, especially after such a tough two weeks when I played such great tennis in these terrible conditions," said Sabalenka, whose unforced error tally in the final was the highest by any player in a women's match this tournament. "To show such terrible tennis in the final, it does really hurt."&nbsp;Belarusian Sabalenka was aiming to become the only current women's player to win three of the four Grand Slam events after her US Open triumph last year and back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024.&nbsp;But Gauff instead moved 6-5 ahead in their head-to-head record, proving the more consistent player in the first women's Slam final between the world's top two since Caroline Wozniacki beat Simona Halep in Melbourne in 2018.&nbsp;Only Gauff, Swiatek, Naomi Osaka and Maria Sharapova have won multiple Slam titles before turning 22 in the last 20 years.<h2>Marathon first set</h2>&nbsp;The 27-year-old Sabalenka quickly asserted herself, racing ahead by taking four of the first five games.&nbsp;The top seed led 4-1 with a double-break in her semi-final win over Swiatek before being forced into a tie-break.&nbsp;She gifted Gauff a glimmer of hope too, throwing away the sixth game from 40-0 up with two double-faults and a tame backhand into the bottom of the net.&nbsp;Gauff made it 12 points in a row and levelled the set on her fifth break point of the eighth game when Sabalenka fired another groundstroke long.&nbsp;She could not build on that momentum and immediately gave the break straight back.&nbsp;But Sabalenka failed to serve out the set in a tense game, missing two set points -- the first with another double-fault -- as Gauff eventually extended the opener by taking her fifth break point.&nbsp;Both players continued to struggle on serve in the breeze, Sabalenka breaking for the fourth time in the set but again unable to close it out.&nbsp;The first tie-break in the opening set of a women's French Open final since 1998 saw Sabalenka finally clinch the set after 77 minutes with a run of four straight points.&nbsp;It was the longest set in a women's Grand Slam final since the Williams sisters faced off at Wimbledon in 2002 and longer than last year's final between Swiatek and Jasmine Paolini.&nbsp;Gauff started the second set on the front foot, though, moving into a 4-1 lead with a double-break.&nbsp;Unlike Sabalenka in the first set, Gauff saw it out with few problems, sending the match into a decider on her first set point with a confident smash at the net.&nbsp;The US star also struck first blood in the third, breaking in game three as Sabalenka sent down her fifth double-fault.&nbsp;Sabalenka managed to drag it back to 3-3, but was immediately broken to love as Gauff edged towards the title.&nbsp;Gauff was denied on her first match point by a booming Sabalenka return onto the baseline and then had to save a break point.&nbsp;But she got over the line at the second time of asking, falling to the clay in celebration.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Coco Gauff stuns world no 1 Sabalenka to win maiden French Open crown

Coco Gauff battled back from a set down to beat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a Grand Slam final for the second time with a dramatic victory in the French Open showpiece on Saturday. The second-ranked American dug deep to claim a 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-4 victory and her second major title after also defeating Sabalenka at the 2023 US Open. The 21-year-old more than made amends for her emotional 2022 final loss to Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros, outlasting Sabalenka over two hours and 38 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. Also read | Exclusive | Ashi Chouksey: Aiming high, one shot at a time "I was going through a lot of things when I lost in this final three years ago. I'm just happy to be here," said Gauff. "I didn't think, honestly, that I could do it... I think I was lying to myself that I definitely could do it." It was a second straight Grand Slam final loss for Sabalenka after her defeat by Madison Keys at the Australian Open in January. Gauff was rock solid after falling a set down, while Sabalenka made 70 unforced errors in windy conditions in a match which followed a very similar pattern to Gauff's victory at Flushing Meadows two years ago. "Obviously it hurts so much, especially after such a tough two weeks when I played such great tennis in these terrible conditions," said Sabalenka, whose unforced error tally in the final was the highest by any player in a women's match this tournament. "To show such terrible tennis in the final, it does really hurt." Belarusian Sabalenka was aiming to become the only current women's player to win three of the four Grand Slam events after her US Open triumph last year and back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024. But Gauff instead moved 6-5 ahead in their head-to-head record, proving the more consistent player in the first women's Slam final between the world's top two since Caroline Wozniacki beat Simona Halep in Melbourne in 2018. Only Gauff, Swiatek, Naomi Osaka and Maria Sharapova have won multiple Slam titles before turning 22 in the last 20 years. Marathon first set The 27-year-old Sabalenka quickly asserted herself, racing ahead by taking four of the first five games. The top seed led 4-1 with a double-break in her semi-final win over Swiatek before being forced into a tie-break. She gifted Gauff a glimmer of hope too, throwing away the sixth game from 40-0 up with two double-faults and a tame backhand into the bottom of the net. Gauff made it 12 points in a row and levelled the set on her fifth break point of the eighth game when Sabalenka fired another groundstroke long. She could not build on that momentum and immediately gave the break straight back. But Sabalenka failed to serve out the set in a tense game, missing two set points -- the first with another double-fault -- as Gauff eventually extended the opener by taking her fifth break point. Both players continued to struggle on serve in the breeze, Sabalenka breaking for the fourth time in the set but again unable to close it out. The first tie-break in the opening set of a women's French Open final since 1998 saw Sabalenka finally clinch the set after 77 minutes with a run of four straight points. It was the longest set in a women's Grand Slam final since the Williams sisters faced off at Wimbledon in 2002 and longer than last year's final between Swiatek and Jasmine Paolini. Gauff started the second set on the front foot, though, moving into a 4-1 lead with a double-break. Unlike Sabalenka in the first set, Gauff saw it out with few problems, sending the match into a decider on her first set point with a confident smash at the net. The US star also struck first blood in the third, breaking in game three as Sabalenka sent down her fifth double-fault. Sabalenka managed to drag it back to 3-3, but was immediately broken to love as Gauff edged towards the title. Gauff was denied on her first match point by a booming Sabalenka return onto the baseline and then had to save a break point. But she got over the line at the second time of asking, falling to the clay in celebration. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Gauff beat Sabalenka 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 to win her first clay Slam of her career.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he would not play in the upcoming Club World Cup on Saturday, dismissing rumours he was set to transfer to one of the participating clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final against Spain in Munich, the Portugal captain said suggestions he was set to take part in the newly expanded competition were wide of the mark.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-backs-champions-league-winner-to-bag-coveted-ballon-d-or-award-psg-inter-milan-ousmane-dembele-1749299192325">Ronaldo backs Champions League winner to bag coveted Ballon d’Or</a>&nbsp;"I will not be at the Club World Cup," the Portugal veteran said, but added he had "been contacted" by several participating teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June.&nbsp;In May, the Portuguese posted on social media "the chapter is over" as reports emerged he could switch to another club, potentially Saudi side Al Hilal, one of the teams who will be at the tournament in the United States in June.&nbsp;Ronaldo said he was not interested in making a short-term decision which would allow him to play in the competition.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ange-postecoglou-waves-goodbye-to-tottenham-fans-pens-my-overriding-emotion-is-one-of-pride-1749273417387">Ange Postecoglou waves goodbye to Tottenham Hotspur fans, pens ‘my overriding emotion is one of pride</a>&nbsp;"Some teams reached out to me. Some made sense and others did not, but you can't try and do everything, you can't catch every ball."&nbsp;The forward said the decision on his future was "almost final".&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Portuguese great Cristiano Ronaldo drops bombshell on his Club World Cup availability

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he would not play in the upcoming Club World Cup on Saturday, dismissing rumours he was set to transfer to one of the participating clubs. Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final against Spain in Munich, the Portugal captain said suggestions he was set to take part in the newly expanded competition were wide of the mark. Also read | Ronaldo backs Champions League winner to bag coveted Ballon d’Or "I will not be at the Club World Cup," the Portugal veteran said, but added he had "been contacted" by several participating teams. Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June. In May, the Portuguese posted on social media "the chapter is over" as reports emerged he could switch to another club, potentially Saudi side Al Hilal, one of the teams who will be at the tournament in the United States in June. Ronaldo said he was not interested in making a short-term decision which would allow him to play in the competition. Also read | Ange Postecoglou waves goodbye to Tottenham Hotspur fans, pens ‘my overriding emotion is one of pride "Some teams reached out to me. Some made sense and others did not, but you can't try and do everything, you can't catch every ball." The forward said the decision on his future was "almost final". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June.

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo said Saturday the individual honour should be awarded to a player who won the Champions League.&nbsp;Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final in Munich between Portugal and Spain, the veteran said "trophies" should determine who wins the Ballon d'Or.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-2026-fifa-world-cup-qualifiers-norway-thrash-italy-belgium-held-by-north-macedonia-1749262913402">2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Norway thrash Italy; Belgium held by North Macedonia</a>&nbsp;"In my opinion, whoever wins it should be on a team that has won trophies. The Ballon d'Or winner should be in a team that has won the Champions League," the 40-year-old forward told reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;First awarded in 1956 by French magazine France Football, the Ballon d'Or is awarded to the player considered the best over the previous season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain's 5-0 thumping of Inter Milan in the Champions League final last Saturday led to growing calls for Ousmane Dembele to win this season's gong.&nbsp;Spain starlet Lamine Yamal's superb display in Thursday's 5-4 Nations League semi-final win over France, however, had some arguing the teenager should be awarded the Ballon d'Or, which would make the 17-year-old the youngest winner in its history.&nbsp;France coach Didier Deschamps backed Dembele for the award, saying, "Considering the season Ousmane is having, he deserves it and that's all I wish for him".&nbsp;At a press conference in Stuttgart on Saturday, France captain Kylian Mbappe told reporters he backed Dembele.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Does anyone really need me to explain? Right now we're talking about Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele, but I'm voting for Dembele."&nbsp;Ronaldo said he "cannot tell you who deserves it" this season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ronaldo's five wins are bettered only by Argentinian Lionel Messi, who has won the award eight times.&nbsp;The duo had a monopoly on the award for a decade from Ronaldo's first win in 2008 to his last in 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;The current holder is Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Ronaldo backs Champions League winner to bag coveted Ballon d’Or

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo said Saturday the individual honour should be awarded to a player who won the Champions League. Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final in Munich between Portugal and Spain, the veteran said "trophies" should determine who wins the Ballon d'Or. Also read | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Norway thrash Italy; Belgium held by North Macedonia "In my opinion, whoever wins it should be on a team that has won trophies. The Ballon d'Or winner should be in a team that has won the Champions League," the 40-year-old forward told reporters. First awarded in 1956 by French magazine France Football, the Ballon d'Or is awarded to the player considered the best over the previous season. Paris Saint-Germain's 5-0 thumping of Inter Milan in the Champions League final last Saturday led to growing calls for Ousmane Dembele to win this season's gong. Spain starlet Lamine Yamal's superb display in Thursday's 5-4 Nations League semi-final win over France, however, had some arguing the teenager should be awarded the Ballon d'Or, which would make the 17-year-old the youngest winner in its history. France coach Didier Deschamps backed Dembele for the award, saying, "Considering the season Ousmane is having, he deserves it and that's all I wish for him". At a press conference in Stuttgart on Saturday, France captain Kylian Mbappe told reporters he backed Dembele. "Does anyone really need me to explain? Right now we're talking about Lamine Yamal and Ousmane Dembele, but I'm voting for Dembele." Ronaldo said he "cannot tell you who deserves it" this season. Ronaldo's five wins are bettered only by Argentinian Lionel Messi, who has won the award eight times. The duo had a monopoly on the award for a decade from Ronaldo's first win in 2008 to his last in 2017. The current holder is Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final in Munich between Portugal and Spain, the veteran said "trophies" should determine who wins the Ballon d'Or.&nbsp;

Italy crashed to a 3-0 loss away to Norway as the four-time champions made a disastrous start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign Friday, while Belgium had to settle for a draw in North Macedonia.&nbsp;Alexander Sorloth, Antonio Nusa and Erling Haaland all scored in the first half in pouring rain in Oslo as Norway made it a night to forget for Italy, who missed out on the last two World Cups.&nbsp;"I have no explanation. Our supporters don't deserve this kind of match. We need to do some soul-searching. It's unacceptable," Italy captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma told Rai Sport.&nbsp;Italy are playing catch-up with Norway, the Group I leaders with a maximum nine points after wins over Moldova and Israel in March when the Azzurri were still involved in the UEFA Nations League.&nbsp;Israel are second on six points after a 3-1 win over Estonia in Tallinn, where Norway will head for their next game on Monday. Italy return home to face Moldova in Reggio Emilia in their second game.&nbsp;Belgium kicked off their qualifying bid in Group J with a 1-1 draw against North Macedonia.&nbsp;Maxim De Cuyper gave Belgium the lead after Romelu Lukaku's shot was blocked but former Leeds man Ezgjan Alioski volleyed in the equaliser with four minutes to play in Skopje.&nbsp;North Macedonia are unbeaten through three matches but trail Wales, who top the pile on seven points following a 3-0 home win over Liechtenstein.&nbsp;Joe Rodon, Harry Wilson and Kieffer Moore struck in Cardiff to keep Wales unbeaten since the appointment last year of Craig Bellamy, whose side head to Brussels next week.&nbsp;"We could have made it a lot more (goals), and we'd like to make it a lot more," Bellamy told BBC Wales.&nbsp;"I'm looking forward to Monday (against Belgium)."&nbsp;Croatia hammered Gibraltar 7-0 in their opening match in Group J.&nbsp;Substitutes Franjo Ivanovic and Andrej Kramaric both scored twice, with Marco Pasalic, Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic also on target in the Algarve.&nbsp;Czech Republic are the pacesetters in the section with three wins from three after a 2-0 victory at home to Montenegro. Adam Hlozek and Patrik Schick got the goals for the hosts.&nbsp;The 12 group winners qualify automatically for next year's expanded 48-team tournament, while the runners-up head into the play-offs which will decide the final four qualifiers from Europe.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italy crashed to a 3-0 loss away to Norway as the four-time champions made a disastrous start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign Friday, while Belgium had to settle for a draw in North Macedonia.

Italy crashed to a 3-0 loss away to Norway as the four-time champions made a disastrous start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign Friday, while Belgium had to settle for a draw in North Macedonia. Alexander Sorloth, Antonio Nusa and Erling Haaland all scored in the first half in pouring rain in Oslo as Norway made it a night to forget for Italy, who missed out on the last two World Cups. "I have no explanation. Our supporters don't deserve this kind of match. We need to do some soul-searching. It's unacceptable," Italy captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma told Rai Sport. Italy are playing catch-up with Norway, the Group I leaders with a maximum nine points after wins over Moldova and Israel in March when the Azzurri were still involved in the UEFA Nations League. Israel are second on six points after a 3-1 win over Estonia in Tallinn, where Norway will head for their next game on Monday. Italy return home to face Moldova in Reggio Emilia in their second game. Belgium kicked off their qualifying bid in Group J with a 1-1 draw against North Macedonia. Maxim De Cuyper gave Belgium the lead after Romelu Lukaku's shot was blocked but former Leeds man Ezgjan Alioski volleyed in the equaliser with four minutes to play in Skopje. North Macedonia are unbeaten through three matches but trail Wales, who top the pile on seven points following a 3-0 home win over Liechtenstein. Joe Rodon, Harry Wilson and Kieffer Moore struck in Cardiff to keep Wales unbeaten since the appointment last year of Craig Bellamy, whose side head to Brussels next week. "We could have made it a lot more (goals), and we'd like to make it a lot more," Bellamy told BBC Wales. "I'm looking forward to Monday (against Belgium)." Croatia hammered Gibraltar 7-0 in their opening match in Group J. Substitutes Franjo Ivanovic and Andrej Kramaric both scored twice, with Marco Pasalic, Ante Budimir and Ivan Perisic also on target in the Algarve. Czech Republic are the pacesetters in the section with three wins from three after a 2-0 victory at home to Montenegro. Adam Hlozek and Patrik Schick got the goals for the hosts. The 12 group winners qualify automatically for next year's expanded 48-team tournament, while the runners-up head into the play-offs which will decide the final four qualifiers from Europe. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italy crashed to a 3-0 loss away to Norway as the four-time champions made a disastrous start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign Friday, while Belgium had to settle for a draw in North Macedonia.

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Norway thrash Italy; Belgium held by North Macedonia

Jos Buttler produced a captain's innings in his first T20 appearance since giving up the post as he and the recalled Liam Dawson guided England to a 21-run victory over the West Indies at Chester-le-Street on Friday.&nbsp;Buttler, who helped new white-ball skipper Harry Brook seal a 3-0 sweep in the preceding one-day international series, underlined his standing as one of the world's best white-ball batsmen with a blistering 96 off just 59 balls in a total of 188-6.&nbsp;Veteran left-arm spinner Dawson, returning to England duty after almost three years in the international wilderness, followed up with a T20 international best 4-20 as the West Indies were held to 167-9 while going 1-0 down in a three-match series.&nbsp;Earlier, Buttler took centre stage following the early loss of opener Ben Duckett with an array of reverse sweeps, ramps and more traditional straight drives while hitting six fours and four sixes.&nbsp;But he fell four shy of a century when lbw to paceman Alzarri Joseph, whose four overs cost an expensive 51 runs.&nbsp;Brook gave Dawson the new ball and the 35-year-old responded by having Johnson Charles, who misread a slower delivery, stumped by Buttler.&nbsp;England bowled 12 overs of spin, with Adil Rashid and Jacob Bethell in the wickets.&nbsp;Brook said his decision to opt for so much slow bowling was influenced by next year's T20 World Cup being staged in India and Sri Lanka, where the pitches are renowned for aiding spinners.&nbsp;"The next World Cup is going to be in Sri Lanka and India. We're not completely set on this structure for the team but it's worth a go and it worked this time," said Brook, a 26-year-old Yorkshire batsman.&nbsp;Dawson, repeatedly overlooked by England for spinners with inferior county records, also snared Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Rovman Powell as the West Indies slumped to defeat.&nbsp;"He bowled beautifully," said Brook. "He's got so many skills."&nbsp;The West Indies were frustrated by the absence of a left-arm spinner of their own, with Akeal Hosein yet to arrive following delays related a change in UK visa requirements for Trinidad and Tobago.&nbsp;Cricket West Indies said "attempts to expedite the visa process" had been unsuccessful but a team spokesperson confirmed Friday the 32-year-old could arrive ahead of Tuesday's finale in Southampton.&nbsp;"He was missed, he's one of our frontline players. It's an unfortunate situation," said West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder.&nbsp;Nevertheless, he added: "We had a team that was good enough to beat England but we fell a little short, particularly with the bat."&nbsp;The series continues at Bristol on Sunday.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jos Buttler produced a captain innings in his first T20 appearance since giving up the post as he and the recalled Liam Dawson guided England to a 21-run victory over the West Indies at Chester-le-Street on Friday.

Jos Buttler produced a captain's innings in his first T20 appearance since giving up the post as he and the recalled Liam Dawson guided England to a 21-run victory over the West Indies at Chester-le-Street on Friday. Buttler, who helped new white-ball skipper Harry Brook seal a 3-0 sweep in the preceding one-day international series, underlined his standing as one of the world's best white-ball batsmen with a blistering 96 off just 59 balls in a total of 188-6. Veteran left-arm spinner Dawson, returning to England duty after almost three years in the international wilderness, followed up with a T20 international best 4-20 as the West Indies were held to 167-9 while going 1-0 down in a three-match series. Earlier, Buttler took centre stage following the early loss of opener Ben Duckett with an array of reverse sweeps, ramps and more traditional straight drives while hitting six fours and four sixes. But he fell four shy of a century when lbw to paceman Alzarri Joseph, whose four overs cost an expensive 51 runs. Brook gave Dawson the new ball and the 35-year-old responded by having Johnson Charles, who misread a slower delivery, stumped by Buttler. England bowled 12 overs of spin, with Adil Rashid and Jacob Bethell in the wickets. Brook said his decision to opt for so much slow bowling was influenced by next year's T20 World Cup being staged in India and Sri Lanka, where the pitches are renowned for aiding spinners. "The next World Cup is going to be in Sri Lanka and India. We're not completely set on this structure for the team but it's worth a go and it worked this time," said Brook, a 26-year-old Yorkshire batsman. Dawson, repeatedly overlooked by England for spinners with inferior county records, also snared Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Rovman Powell as the West Indies slumped to defeat. "He bowled beautifully," said Brook. "He's got so many skills." The West Indies were frustrated by the absence of a left-arm spinner of their own, with Akeal Hosein yet to arrive following delays related a change in UK visa requirements for Trinidad and Tobago. Cricket West Indies said "attempts to expedite the visa process" had been unsuccessful but a team spokesperson confirmed Friday the 32-year-old could arrive ahead of Tuesday's finale in Southampton. "He was missed, he's one of our frontline players. It's an unfortunate situation," said West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder. Nevertheless, he added: "We had a team that was good enough to beat England but we fell a little short, particularly with the bat." The series continues at Bristol on Sunday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jos Buttler produced a captain's innings in his first T20 appearance since giving up the post as he and the recalled Liam Dawson guided England to a 21-run victory over the West Indies at Chester-le-Street on Friday.

Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson star as England beat West Indies in T20 opener at Chester-le-Street

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