A small airplane from Guatemala involved in fighting an outbreak of flesh-eating larvae crashed in southern Mexico on Friday, killing three people, authorities said.&nbsp;The aircraft came down in the southernmost Chiapas state while releasing sterile screwworm flies to combat a pest that prompted the United States to suspend livestock imports from Mexico last month.&nbsp;Two Guatemalan pilots and a Mexican crew member were killed in the crash, aviation authorities said.&nbsp;Mexico and the United States are working together to try to contain the outbreak of the screwworm fly, whose larvae can kill cattle.&nbsp;President Donald Trump's administration complained in April that Mexico was restricting US-contracted planes involved in the effort to operating six days a week instead of seven.&nbsp;Washington also accused Mexican authorities of imposing "substantial import duties" on aviation parts, equipment and sterile fly shipments.&nbsp;Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called the US livestock import suspension "unfair" and said she hoped that it would be lifted soon.

The aircraft came down in the southernmost Chiapas state while releasing sterile screwworm flies to combat a pest that prompted the United States to suspend livestock imports from Mexico last month.

A small airplane from Guatemala involved in fighting an outbreak of flesh-eating larvae crashed in southern Mexico on Friday, killing three people, authorities said. The aircraft came down in the southernmost Chiapas state while releasing sterile screwworm flies to combat a pest that prompted the United States to suspend livestock imports from Mexico last month. Two Guatemalan pilots and a Mexican crew member were killed in the crash, aviation authorities said. Mexico and the United States are working together to try to contain the outbreak of the screwworm fly, whose larvae can kill cattle. President Donald Trump's administration complained in April that Mexico was restricting US-contracted planes involved in the effort to operating six days a week instead of seven. Washington also accused Mexican authorities of imposing "substantial import duties" on aviation parts, equipment and sterile fly shipments. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called the US livestock import suspension "unfair" and said she hoped that it would be lifted soon.

The aircraft came down in the southernmost Chiapas state while releasing sterile screwworm flies to combat a pest that prompted the United States to suspend livestock imports from Mexico last month.

Three killed after small plane crashes in southern Mexico

Jannik Sinner will face Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open final after ending Novak Djokovic's latest tilt at a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in the last four on Friday.The world number one held off a battling Djokovic with an impressive 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3) win on Court Philippe Chatrier to reach his first Roland Garros final."It was such a special occasion for me playing against Novak in the semi-final," said the three-time Grand Slam champion, who is now on a 20-match winning streak in majors.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/sports/6-june-2025-the-french-open-2025-semi-final-live-score-updates-jannik-sinner-vs-novak-djokovic-1749227531884">FULL HIGHLIGHTS | French Open 2025 Semi-Final: Sinner overcomes Djokovic in straight sets to enter final</a>"I had to step up and play the best tennis I could. I'm very happy."Djokovic battled hard in a dramatic contest that lasted three hours and 16 minutes, but three missed set points late in the third set ultimately put paid to his hopes of a comeback.Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament, will be hoping to gain revenge on Alcaraz after losing to the Spaniard in five sets in the semi-finals last year.The Italian will be playing in a maiden Slam final not on hard courts after edging 5-4 ahead in his head-to-head record with Djokovic with his fourth successive victory over the 38-year-old.Djokovic's exit ensures that a sixth successive major title will be lifted by either Sinner or world number two Alcaraz, in what appears increasingly likely to be a permanent changing of the guard.It will be the first Grand Slam final to be played between two men born in the 2000s.Alcaraz has won his last four matches against Sinner, including in the Italian Open final in May when Sinner returned from a three-month doping ban."Sunday is going to be very difficult, I know my head-to-head lately doesn't look great against Carlos but let's see what I can do," said the 23-year-old.Djokovic was bidding to become the first man to win a Slam with victories over all of the world's top three players after beating Alexander Zverev in the quarters.Instead, he will turn his attentions to his seventh attempt to break out of a tie with Margaret Court on 24 major titles at Wimbledon next month.Sublime Sinner The top seed broke in the fifth game as Djokovic followed a netted backhand with an air-shot as a Sinner return skipped off the clay.Sinner wrapped up an ultimately comfortable opening set with a hold to love, finished off by a backhand winner.Djokovic was the better player at the start of the second set, but could not find a way through against an opponent who had not dropped serve since his opening-round win over France's Arthur Rinderknech.The Djokovic errors started to rack up in crucial points, although the three-time champion dug deep and broke Sinner when he was serving for a two-set lead.Djokovic could not back up his break, though, despite leading 40-15 in the next game, and then received treatment from the trainer on his right leg.Sinner closed out the set at the second time of asking courtesy of another battling hold that featured two aces, one from a second serve.Djokovic called for the physio for lengthier treatment ahead of the third set.He missed a break point in the fourth game, but refused to give in and eventually edged 5-4 in front on serve to put some pressure on Sinner.A cacophony of noise greeted a brilliant rally that saw Djokovic bring up two set points.Sinner fended them both off, and then a third, before Djokovic became incensed by a line call that didn't go his way as the set headed towards a tie-break.The end appeared nigh when Djokovic dumped the simplest of overheads into the net to gift Sinner a 3-0 edge in the breaker.Sinner, who like Alcaraz has never lost a Grand Slam final, completed the job on his second match point as Djokovic netted.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.

The world number one held off a battling Djokovic with an impressive 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3) win on Court Philippe Chatrier to reach his first Roland Garros final.

Jannik Sinner will face Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open final after ending Novak Djokovic's latest tilt at a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in the last four on Friday. The world number one held off a battling Djokovic with an impressive 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3) win on Court Philippe Chatrier to reach his first Roland Garros final. "It was such a special occasion for me playing against Novak in the semi-final," said the three-time Grand Slam champion, who is now on a 20-match winning streak in majors. Also Read - FULL HIGHLIGHTS | French Open 2025 Semi-Final: Sinner overcomes Djokovic in straight sets to enter final "I had to step up and play the best tennis I could. I'm very happy." Djokovic battled hard in a dramatic contest that lasted three hours and 16 minutes, but three missed set points late in the third set ultimately put paid to his hopes of a comeback. Sinner, who is yet to drop a set in the tournament, will be hoping to gain revenge on Alcaraz after losing to the Spaniard in five sets in the semi-finals last year. The Italian will be playing in a maiden Slam final not on hard courts after edging 5-4 ahead in his head-to-head record with Djokovic with his fourth successive victory over the 38-year-old. Djokovic's exit ensures that a sixth successive major title will be lifted by either Sinner or world number two Alcaraz, in what appears increasingly likely to be a permanent changing of the guard. It will be the first Grand Slam final to be played between two men born in the 2000s. Alcaraz has won his last four matches against Sinner, including in the Italian Open final in May when Sinner returned from a three-month doping ban. "Sunday is going to be very difficult, I know my head-to-head lately doesn't look great against Carlos but let's see what I can do," said the 23-year-old. Djokovic was bidding to become the first man to win a Slam with victories over all of the world's top three players after beating Alexander Zverev in the quarters. Instead, he will turn his attentions to his seventh attempt to break out of a tie with Margaret Court on 24 major titles at Wimbledon next month. Sublime Sinner The top seed broke in the fifth game as Djokovic followed a netted backhand with an air-shot as a Sinner return skipped off the clay. Sinner wrapped up an ultimately comfortable opening set with a hold to love, finished off by a backhand winner. Djokovic was the better player at the start of the second set, but could not find a way through against an opponent who had not dropped serve since his opening-round win over France's Arthur Rinderknech. The Djokovic errors started to rack up in crucial points, although the three-time champion dug deep and broke Sinner when he was serving for a two-set lead. Djokovic could not back up his break, though, despite leading 40-15 in the next game, and then received treatment from the trainer on his right leg. Sinner closed out the set at the second time of asking courtesy of another battling hold that featured two aces, one from a second serve. Djokovic called for the physio for lengthier treatment ahead of the third set. He missed a break point in the fourth game, but refused to give in and eventually edged 5-4 in front on serve to put some pressure on Sinner. A cacophony of noise greeted a brilliant rally that saw Djokovic bring up two set points. Sinner fended them both off, and then a third, before Djokovic became incensed by a line call that didn't go his way as the set headed towards a tie-break. The end appeared nigh when Djokovic dumped the simplest of overheads into the net to gift Sinner a 3-0 edge in the breaker. Sinner, who like Alcaraz has never lost a Grand Slam final, completed the job on his second match point as Djokovic netted. 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.

The world number one held off a battling Djokovic with an impressive 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3) win on Court Philippe Chatrier to reach his first Roland Garros final.

French Open 2025: Sinner sets up maiden Roland Garros final against defending champions Alcaraz

Ange Postecoglou was sacked as Tottenham manager on Friday, just 16 days after the Australian ended the club'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.But the Australian paid the price for Tottenham's worst domestic season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1976-77."Following a review of performances and after significant reflection, the Club can announce that Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties," a statement on Tottenham's official X account said.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-lorenzo-musetti-retire-vs-carlos-alcaraz-in-french-open-men-s-singles-semis-1749227176471">Why did Lorenzo Musetti retire vs Carlos Alcaraz in French Open men's singles semis?</a>Exactly two years after he was hired from Celtic, Postecoglou's eventful spell in north London was brought to a ruthless end by chairman Daniel Levy.Tottenham lost 22 of their 38 Premier League games to finish 17th in the table, above only relegated trio Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton."The Board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the club for a change to take place," the statement said."Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club's greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph."It is crucial that we are able to compete on multiple fronts and believe a change of approach will give us the strongest chance for the coming season and beyond."This has been one of the toughest decisions we have had to make and is not a decision that we have taken lightly, nor one we have rushed to conclude."We have made what we believe is the right decision to give us the best chance of success going forward, not the easy decision."Postecoglou had forcefully defended his track record during the season and bristled at the constant questions over his future after his trophy success.&nbsp;'Forever connected' with Spurs &nbsp;He clashed with Tottenham fans during a defeat at Chelsea when he cupped his ear to them in a defiant gesture after a goal that was eventually disallowed.That blunder encapsulated his turbulent time in north London, but the 59-year-old bowed out gracefully."My overriding emotion is one of pride. The opportunity to lead one of England's historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime," he said in a statement released moments after his sacking."That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream."Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget. We are forever connected."Tottenham were ravaged by injuries and in the latter stages of the campaign Postecoglou focused on keeping his key players fit and fresh for the Europa League.The gamble paid off but even securing Tottenham's first trophy since the 2008 League Cup was not enough to save him.He becomes the fifth manager sacked by Levy in the past six years.Brentford boss Thomas Frank and Fulham manager Marco Silva are reportedly the two leading candidates to replace Postecoglou.The Australian enjoyed success at Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory early in his managerial career before taking charge of Australia, where he won the 2015 Asian Cup.Postecoglou moved to Japan with Yokohama F-Marinos and won the J League in his second season, in 2019.His breakthrough in European football came at Celtic, where he won five trophies, including two Scottish titles, in two seasons.Postecoglou made a blistering start to his Tottenham career, earning rave reviews for his 'Angeball' style of attacking play.However, a string of defeats at the end of the season blew a golden opportunity to qualify for the Champions League.In September 2024, Postecoglou boldly stated that he "always wins things" in his second year.He delivered on that pledge but even the euphoria from the Europa League win could not save him from the axe.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.

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.

Ange Postecoglou was sacked as Tottenham manager on Friday, just 16 days after the Australian ended the club'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. But the Australian paid the price for Tottenham's worst domestic season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1976-77. "Following a review of performances and after significant reflection, the Club can announce that Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties," a statement on Tottenham's official X account said. Also Read - Why did Lorenzo Musetti retire vs Carlos Alcaraz in French Open men's singles semis? Exactly two years after he was hired from Celtic, Postecoglou's eventful spell in north London was brought to a ruthless end by chairman Daniel Levy. Tottenham lost 22 of their 38 Premier League games to finish 17th in the table, above only relegated trio Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton. "The Board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the club for a change to take place," the statement said. "Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club's greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph. "It is crucial that we are able to compete on multiple fronts and believe a change of approach will give us the strongest chance for the coming season and beyond. "This has been one of the toughest decisions we have had to make and is not a decision that we have taken lightly, nor one we have rushed to conclude. "We have made what we believe is the right decision to give us the best chance of success going forward, not the easy decision." Postecoglou had forcefully defended his track record during the season and bristled at the constant questions over his future after his trophy success. 'Forever connected' with Spurs He clashed with Tottenham fans during a defeat at Chelsea when he cupped his ear to them in a defiant gesture after a goal that was eventually disallowed. That blunder encapsulated his turbulent time in north London, but the 59-year-old bowed out gracefully. "My overriding emotion is one of pride. The opportunity to lead one of England's historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime," he said in a statement released moments after his sacking. "That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream. "Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget. We are forever connected." Tottenham were ravaged by injuries and in the latter stages of the campaign Postecoglou focused on keeping his key players fit and fresh for the Europa League. The gamble paid off but even securing Tottenham's first trophy since the 2008 League Cup was not enough to save him. He becomes the fifth manager sacked by Levy in the past six years. Brentford boss Thomas Frank and Fulham manager Marco Silva are reportedly the two leading candidates to replace Postecoglou. The Australian enjoyed success at Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory early in his managerial career before taking charge of Australia, where he won the 2015 Asian Cup. Postecoglou moved to Japan with Yokohama F-Marinos and won the J League in his second season, in 2019. His breakthrough in European football came at Celtic, where he won five trophies, including two Scottish titles, in two seasons. Postecoglou made a blistering start to his Tottenham career, earning rave reviews for his 'Angeball' style of attacking play. However, a string of defeats at the end of the season blew a golden opportunity to qualify for the Champions League. In September 2024, Postecoglou boldly stated that he "always wins things" in his second year. He delivered on that pledge but even the euphoria from the Europa League win could not save him from the axe. 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.

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.

Ange Postecoglou 'relieved of his duties' despite ending Tottenham Hotspur trophy drought

Carlos Alcaraz took his Roland Garros title defence all the way as he booked his spot in the final after eighth seed Lorenzo Musetti retired injured in the fourth set of their semi-final on Friday.&nbsp;The Spaniard led 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-0, 2-0 after two hours and 25 minutes of play under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier when Musetti quit with a thigh issue.&nbsp;Second seed Alcaraz will defend his crown on Sunday against either world number one Jannik Sinner or 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, who meet later on Friday.&nbsp;"It's been three intense weeks, and now I have one step to make," he said. "I'll give everything on Sunday, I've been playing great tennis this tournament."&nbsp;He now leads 23-year-old Musetti 6-1 in their head-to-head series, winning all three of their clay-court battles this season after victories in the final at Monte Carlo and semi-finals of the Italian Open.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-french-open-2025-aryna-sabalenka-coco-gauff-final-when-and-where-to-watch-details-inside-1749202091610">French Open 2025: Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff Final: When and where to watch. Details inside</a>&nbsp;The 22-year-old is now into his second French Open showpiece match, and fifth major final overall.&nbsp;Just as in the Monte Carlo final in April, it was the Tuscan who clinched the first set in the latest edition of the budding Alcaraz-Musetti rivalry.&nbsp;Both players battled through an even opener that offered up occasional sparks of brilliance, but every time a sniff of a break opportunity appeared, the server upped his game to nullify it.&nbsp;Musetti eventually pounced at 5-4, drawing first blood in Alcaraz's fifth service game by concluding a brutal baseline rally with a hammered crosscourt forehand winner.&nbsp;He then secured three set points when Alcaraz dragged a shot long, before the Spaniard dumped a forehand into the tramlines to give Musetti the lead.&nbsp;The Italian began the second set with a trademark sweeping backhand down the line on the very first point as his confidence grew.&nbsp;Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz roared back to break Musetti to love in the third game, sealing it with a perfectly-weighted backhand drop-shot.&nbsp;However, Musetti immediately riposted to level the set at 2-2.&nbsp;Alcaraz produced two break points five games later, but Musetti held his nerve to wipe both out before celebrating the crucial hold with a double fist pump towards his box.&nbsp;The Monte Carlo and Rome champion did manage to get the break he needed on Musetti's next service game, but again the world number seven frustrated him by immediately hitting back to force a tie-break.&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.

Reigning French Open champion Alcaraz marches into final as Musetti retires

Carlos Alcaraz took his Roland Garros title defence all the way as he booked his spot in the final after eighth seed Lorenzo Musetti retired injured in the fourth set of their semi-final on Friday. The Spaniard led 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-0, 2-0 after two hours and 25 minutes of play under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier when Musetti quit with a thigh issue. Second seed Alcaraz will defend his crown on Sunday against either world number one Jannik Sinner or 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, who meet later on Friday. "It's been three intense weeks, and now I have one step to make," he said. "I'll give everything on Sunday, I've been playing great tennis this tournament." He now leads 23-year-old Musetti 6-1 in their head-to-head series, winning all three of their clay-court battles this season after victories in the final at Monte Carlo and semi-finals of the Italian Open. Also read | French Open 2025: Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff Final: When and where to watch. Details inside The 22-year-old is now into his second French Open showpiece match, and fifth major final overall. Just as in the Monte Carlo final in April, it was the Tuscan who clinched the first set in the latest edition of the budding Alcaraz-Musetti rivalry. Both players battled through an even opener that offered up occasional sparks of brilliance, but every time a sniff of a break opportunity appeared, the server upped his game to nullify it. Musetti eventually pounced at 5-4, drawing first blood in Alcaraz's fifth service game by concluding a brutal baseline rally with a hammered crosscourt forehand winner. He then secured three set points when Alcaraz dragged a shot long, before the Spaniard dumped a forehand into the tramlines to give Musetti the lead. The Italian began the second set with a trademark sweeping backhand down the line on the very first point as his confidence grew. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz roared back to break Musetti to love in the third game, sealing it with a perfectly-weighted backhand drop-shot. However, Musetti immediately riposted to level the set at 2-2. Alcaraz produced two break points five games later, but Musetti held his nerve to wipe both out before celebrating the crucial hold with a double fist pump towards his box. The Monte Carlo and Rome champion did manage to get the break he needed on Musetti's next service game, but again the world number seven frustrated him by immediately hitting back to force a tie-break. 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.

The Spaniard led 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-0, 2-0 after two hours and 25 minutes of play under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier when Musetti quit with a thigh issue.

England fast bowler Jofra Archer could make his long-awaited Test return as soon as next month's second match against India, selector Luke Wright said on Thursday. A 14-man squad will travel to Headingley for the first of a five-match series, with Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton and Jacob Bethell all included after missing England's rout of Zimbabwe in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge last month.&nbsp;Archer was not considered for the first Test against India due to a broken thumb suffered while fielding in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-shubman-gill-gautam-gambhir-underline-factors-surrounding-jasprit-bumrah-availability-for-england-tests-1749199817348">Gill, Gautam underline factors surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for England Tests</a>&nbsp;It was the latest in a long line of injuries -- mainly to his elbow and back -- that have kept him out of Test action for more than four years.&nbsp;Despite his lengthy absence from red-ball internationals, express quick Archer is still regarded as a potential match-winner when England look to regain the Ashes in Australia during a 2025/26 tour.&nbsp;England now have a plan to get Archer ready for the second Test against India at Edgbaston in early July that would see the Barbados-born 30-year-old featuring for Sussex's 2nd XI, followed by a County Championship game against Durham starting on June 22.&nbsp;If Archer comes through both matches with a clean bill of health, he could yet add to his tally of 13 Test caps after launching his international career in spectacular style in 2019 when he helped England win the 50-over World Cup and starred in a drawn Ashes series.&nbsp;"If things go well, he should be available for the second Test," Wright told reporters. "He's got to keep ticking off every day and getting no sort of setbacks, but if all goes well and Jofra gets through that Durham game, then he's available potentially for selection for that second Test.&nbsp;"We'll watch him in that game for Sussex and see where he's at. He's such a talent, it doesn't take him too long to get up to speed."&nbsp;England, with Gus Atkinson absent following a hamstring strain sustained during the Zimbabwe game, are expected to opt for a pace attack of Carse, Woakes and Josh Tongue in the first Test against India.&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.

ENG vs IND 2025: Boost for England as Jofra Archer in line for Test return after four years

England fast bowler Jofra Archer could make his long-awaited Test return as soon as next month's second match against India, selector Luke Wright said on Thursday. A 14-man squad will travel to Headingley for the first of a five-match series, with Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton and Jacob Bethell all included after missing England's rout of Zimbabwe in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge last month. Archer was not considered for the first Test against India due to a broken thumb suffered while fielding in the Indian Premier League. Also read | Gill, Gautam underline factors surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for England Tests It was the latest in a long line of injuries -- mainly to his elbow and back -- that have kept him out of Test action for more than four years. Despite his lengthy absence from red-ball internationals, express quick Archer is still regarded as a potential match-winner when England look to regain the Ashes in Australia during a 2025/26 tour. England now have a plan to get Archer ready for the second Test against India at Edgbaston in early July that would see the Barbados-born 30-year-old featuring for Sussex's 2nd XI, followed by a County Championship game against Durham starting on June 22. If Archer comes through both matches with a clean bill of health, he could yet add to his tally of 13 Test caps after launching his international career in spectacular style in 2019 when he helped England win the 50-over World Cup and starred in a drawn Ashes series. "If things go well, he should be available for the second Test," Wright told reporters. "He's got to keep ticking off every day and getting no sort of setbacks, but if all goes well and Jofra gets through that Durham game, then he's available potentially for selection for that second Test. "We'll watch him in that game for Sussex and see where he's at. He's such a talent, it doesn't take him too long to get up to speed." England, with Gus Atkinson absent following a hamstring strain sustained during the Zimbabwe game, are expected to opt for a pace attack of Carse, Woakes and Josh Tongue in the first Test against India. 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.

Archer was not considered for the first Test against India due to a broken thumb suffered while fielding in the Indian Premier League.

Former South Africa coach Rob Walter has been named as New Zealand's new coach across all three formats of the game. The 49-year-old South African takes up the Black Caps job from the middle of June and will lead the side on their upcoming tour of Zimbabwe.&nbsp;Walter was an early favourite for the job after he quit his South African post leading their One-Day and T20 sides in April.&nbsp;It was revealed that Walter never stopped living in New Zealand during his time with South Africa, commuting from his home in Hawke's Bay, where he lives with his wife Heather and their two sons.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-final-fit-again-scott-boland-hunts-for-place-in-playing-xi-ahead-of-josh-hazlewood-says-want-to-make-1749179729020">WTC Final: Fit-again Scott Boland hunts for place in Playing XI ahead of Josh Hazlewood, says ‘want to make...’</a>&nbsp;"The Black Caps have been a successful and highly-regarded team on the world scene for some time now, and it's a real privilege to be given the chance to add to that," Walter said. "It's an amazing opportunity to work with such a talented group of players and support staff through a period of time in which so many global events, as well as massive bilateral series, will be contested."&nbsp;Walter's contract means he will lead the Black Caps to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, as well as three major ICC tournaments, including the 2027 World Cup.&nbsp;NZ Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink said Walter was a world-class coach with an outstanding pedigree.&nbsp;"His success in New Zealand's domestic game, combined with his recent achievements on the global stage with South Africa, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the Black Caps."&nbsp;Walter previously coached the Otago Volts in New Zealand's domestic competitions from 2016 until 2021, before moving to Hawke's Bay and briefly coaching the Central Stags.&nbsp;In January 2023, he took up the job as South Africa's head coach in white ball formats, leading South Africa to the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and semifinals of the 2023 World Cup, and the 2025 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;He replaces Gary Stead, New Zealand's most successful coach, who leaves his role at the end of the month.&nbsp;Stead hoped to stay on as the Black Caps' Test coach, but New Zealand Cricket opted for one coach across all three formats. He won the World Test Championship in 2021 and made three white ball finals during his seven-year tenure.&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.

New Zealand Cricket appoint new head coach ahead of packed ICC calendar

Former South Africa coach Rob Walter has been named as New Zealand's new coach across all three formats of the game. The 49-year-old South African takes up the Black Caps job from the middle of June and will lead the side on their upcoming tour of Zimbabwe. Walter was an early favourite for the job after he quit his South African post leading their One-Day and T20 sides in April. It was revealed that Walter never stopped living in New Zealand during his time with South Africa, commuting from his home in Hawke's Bay, where he lives with his wife Heather and their two sons. Also read | WTC Final: Fit-again Scott Boland hunts for place in Playing XI ahead of Josh Hazlewood, says ‘want to make...’ "The Black Caps have been a successful and highly-regarded team on the world scene for some time now, and it's a real privilege to be given the chance to add to that," Walter said. "It's an amazing opportunity to work with such a talented group of players and support staff through a period of time in which so many global events, as well as massive bilateral series, will be contested." Walter's contract means he will lead the Black Caps to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, as well as three major ICC tournaments, including the 2027 World Cup. NZ Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink said Walter was a world-class coach with an outstanding pedigree. "His success in New Zealand's domestic game, combined with his recent achievements on the global stage with South Africa, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the Black Caps." Walter previously coached the Otago Volts in New Zealand's domestic competitions from 2016 until 2021, before moving to Hawke's Bay and briefly coaching the Central Stags. In January 2023, he took up the job as South Africa's head coach in white ball formats, leading South Africa to the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and semifinals of the 2023 World Cup, and the 2025 Champions Trophy. He replaces Gary Stead, New Zealand's most successful coach, who leaves his role at the end of the month. Stead hoped to stay on as the Black Caps' Test coach, but New Zealand Cricket opted for one coach across all three formats. He won the World Test Championship in 2021 and made three white ball finals during his seven-year tenure. 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.

Walter's contract means he will lead the Black Caps to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, as well as three major ICC tournaments, including the 2027 World Cup.

Japan's Studio Ghibli turns 40 this month with two Oscars and legions of fans young and old won over by its complex plots and fantastical hand-drawn animation.&nbsp;But the future is uncertain, with latest hit "The Boy and the Heron" likely -- but not certainly -- the final feature from celebrated co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, now 84.&nbsp;The studio behind the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away" has become a cultural phenomenon since Miyazaki and the late Isao Takahata established it in 1985.&nbsp;Its popularity has been fuelled of late by a second Academy Award in 2024 for "The Boy and the Heron", starring Robert Pattinson, and by Netflix streaming Ghibli movies around the world.&nbsp;In March, the internet was flooded with pictures in its distinctively nostalgic style after the release of OpenAI's newest image generator -- raising questions over copyright.&nbsp;The newly opened Ghibli Park has also become a major tourist draw for central Japan's Aichi region.&nbsp;Julia Santilli, a 26-year-old from Britain living in northern Japan, "fell in love with Ghibli" after watching the 2001 classic "Spirited Away" as a child.&nbsp;"I started collecting all the DVDs," she told AFP.&nbsp;Ghibli stories are "very engaging and the artwork is stunning", said another fan, Margot Divall, 26.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I probably watch 'Spirited Away' about 10 times a year still."&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;-'Whiff of death' - &nbsp;</h2>Before Ghibli, most cartoons in Japan -- known as anime -- were made for children.&nbsp;But Miyazaki and Takahata, both from "the generation that knew war", included darker elements that appeal to adults, Miyazaki's son Goro told AFP.&nbsp;"It's not all sweet -- there's also a bitterness and things like that which are beautifully intertwined in the work," he said, describing a "whiff of death" in the films.&nbsp;For younger people who grew up in peacetime, "it is impossible to create something with the same sense, approach and attitude", Goro said.&nbsp;Even "My Neighbor Totoro", with its cuddly forest creatures, is in some ways a "scary" movie that explores the fear of losing a sick mother, he explained.&nbsp;Susan Napier, a professor at Tufts University in the United States and author of "Miyazakiworld: A Life in Art", agrees.&nbsp;"In Ghibli, you have ambiguity, complexity and also a willingness to see that the darkness and light often go together" unlike good-versus-evil US cartoons, she said.&nbsp;The post-apocalyptic "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" -- considered the first Ghibli film despite its release in 1984 -- has no obvious villain, for example.&nbsp;The movie featuring an independent princess curious about giant insects and a poisonous forest felt "so fresh" and a change from "a passive woman... having to be rescued", Napier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>- Natural world - &nbsp;</h2>Studio Ghibli films also depict a universe where humans connect deeply with nature and the spirit world.&nbsp;A case in point was 1997's "Princess Mononoke", distributed internationally by Disney.&nbsp;The tale of a girl raised by a wolf goddess in a forest threatened by humans is "a masterpiece -- but a hard movie", Napier said.&nbsp;It's a "serious, dark and violent" film appreciated more by adults, which "was not what US audiences had anticipated with a movie about a princess".&nbsp;Ghibli films "have an environmentalist and animistic side, which I think is very appropriate for the contemporary world with climate change", she added.&nbsp;Miyuki Yonemura, a professor at Japan's Senshu University who studies cultural theories on animation, said watching Ghibli movies is like reading literature.&nbsp;"That's why some children watch Totoro 40 times," she said, adding that audiences "discover something new every time".&nbsp;<h2>- French connection - &nbsp;</h2>Miyazaki and Takahata -- who died in 2018 -- could create imaginative worlds because of their openness to other cultures, Yonemura said.&nbsp;Foreign influences included writer Antoine de Saint-Exupery and animator Paul Grimault, both French, and Canadian artist Frederic Back, who won an Oscar for his animation "The Man Who Planted Trees".&nbsp;Takahata studying French literature at university "was a big factor", Yonemura said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Both Miyazaki and Takahata read a lot," she said. "That's a big reason why they excel at writing scripts and creating stories."&nbsp;Miyazaki has said he was inspired by several books for "Nausicaa", including the 12th-century Japanese tale "The Lady who Loved Insects", and Greek mythology.&nbsp;Studio Ghibli will not be the same after Miyazaki stops creating animation, "unless similar talent emerges", Yonemura said.&nbsp;Miyazaki is "a fantastic artist with such a visual imagination" while both he and Takahata were "politically progressive", Napier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The more I study, the more I realise this was a unique cultural moment," she said.&nbsp;"It's so widely loved that I think it will carry on," said Ghibli fan Divall.&nbsp;"As long as it doesn't lose its beauty, as long as it carries on the amount of effort, care and love," she said.

The studio behind the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away" has become a cultural phenomenon since Miyazaki and the late Isao Takahata established it in 1985.

Japan's Studio Ghibli turns 40 this month with two Oscars and legions of fans young and old won over by its complex plots and fantastical hand-drawn animation. But the future is uncertain, with latest hit "The Boy and the Heron" likely -- but not certainly -- the final feature from celebrated co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, now 84. The studio behind the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away" has become a cultural phenomenon since Miyazaki and the late Isao Takahata established it in 1985. Its popularity has been fuelled of late by a second Academy Award in 2024 for "The Boy and the Heron", starring Robert Pattinson, and by Netflix streaming Ghibli movies around the world. In March, the internet was flooded with pictures in its distinctively nostalgic style after the release of OpenAI's newest image generator -- raising questions over copyright. The newly opened Ghibli Park has also become a major tourist draw for central Japan's Aichi region. Julia Santilli, a 26-year-old from Britain living in northern Japan, "fell in love with Ghibli" after watching the 2001 classic "Spirited Away" as a child. "I started collecting all the DVDs," she told AFP. Ghibli stories are "very engaging and the artwork is stunning", said another fan, Margot Divall, 26. "I probably watch 'Spirited Away' about 10 times a year still." -'Whiff of death' - Before Ghibli, most cartoons in Japan -- known as anime -- were made for children. But Miyazaki and Takahata, both from "the generation that knew war", included darker elements that appeal to adults, Miyazaki's son Goro told AFP. "It's not all sweet -- there's also a bitterness and things like that which are beautifully intertwined in the work," he said, describing a "whiff of death" in the films. For younger people who grew up in peacetime, "it is impossible to create something with the same sense, approach and attitude", Goro said. Even "My Neighbor Totoro", with its cuddly forest creatures, is in some ways a "scary" movie that explores the fear of losing a sick mother, he explained. Susan Napier, a professor at Tufts University in the United States and author of "Miyazakiworld: A Life in Art", agrees. "In Ghibli, you have ambiguity, complexity and also a willingness to see that the darkness and light often go together" unlike good-versus-evil US cartoons, she said. The post-apocalyptic "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" -- considered the first Ghibli film despite its release in 1984 -- has no obvious villain, for example. The movie featuring an independent princess curious about giant insects and a poisonous forest felt "so fresh" and a change from "a passive woman... having to be rescued", Napier said. - Natural world - Studio Ghibli films also depict a universe where humans connect deeply with nature and the spirit world. A case in point was 1997's "Princess Mononoke", distributed internationally by Disney. The tale of a girl raised by a wolf goddess in a forest threatened by humans is "a masterpiece -- but a hard movie", Napier said. It's a "serious, dark and violent" film appreciated more by adults, which "was not what US audiences had anticipated with a movie about a princess". Ghibli films "have an environmentalist and animistic side, which I think is very appropriate for the contemporary world with climate change", she added. Miyuki Yonemura, a professor at Japan's Senshu University who studies cultural theories on animation, said watching Ghibli movies is like reading literature. "That's why some children watch Totoro 40 times," she said, adding that audiences "discover something new every time". - French connection - Miyazaki and Takahata -- who died in 2018 -- could create imaginative worlds because of their openness to other cultures, Yonemura said. Foreign influences included writer Antoine de Saint-Exupery and animator Paul Grimault, both French, and Canadian artist Frederic Back, who won an Oscar for his animation "The Man Who Planted Trees". Takahata studying French literature at university "was a big factor", Yonemura said. "Both Miyazaki and Takahata read a lot," she said. "That's a big reason why they excel at writing scripts and creating stories." Miyazaki has said he was inspired by several books for "Nausicaa", including the 12th-century Japanese tale "The Lady who Loved Insects", and Greek mythology. Studio Ghibli will not be the same after Miyazaki stops creating animation, "unless similar talent emerges", Yonemura said. Miyazaki is "a fantastic artist with such a visual imagination" while both he and Takahata were "politically progressive", Napier said. "The more I study, the more I realise this was a unique cultural moment," she said. "It's so widely loved that I think it will carry on," said Ghibli fan Divall. "As long as it doesn't lose its beauty, as long as it carries on the amount of effort, care and love," she said.

The studio behind the Oscar-winning "Spirited Away" has become a cultural phenomenon since Miyazaki and the late Isao Takahata established it in 1985.

Studio Ghibli marks 40 years, but future looks uncertain

Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal.&nbsp;Yamal bagged a brace while Williams scored and provided an assist as the two wingers cut France's makeshift defence to ribbons.&nbsp;Mikel Merino and Pedri were also on the scoresheet for the Euro 2024 champions.&nbsp;Kylian Mbappe netted a second-half penalty, but Spain were 5-1 up and cruising, before Les Bleus suddenly woke up as their opponents took their foot off the pedal.&nbsp;France's three late goals -- a Rayan Cherki screamer, a Spain own goal and a stoppage time strike from Randal Kolo Muani -- were not enough.&nbsp;Yamal, still just 17, said Spain "deserved to win."&nbsp;"It was a great game -- at the end it was a little too close, but we played very well," he added.&nbsp;Spain held on to book an all-Iberian Nations League final against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal on Sunday in Munich, while France will face hosts Germany in Stuttgart for the bronze medal, earlier in the day.&nbsp;A smiling goalscorer Merino told DAZN: "It was a crazy game. Not the best game for the coaches -- nobody wants to concede so many goals -- but an amazing game for the fans."We're going to remember this one for a long time."&nbsp;Returning to Germany where they won the European Championship in dominant fashion a year ago, Spain seem an even more complete team, despite their late fadeout.France coach Didier Deschamps said "it's a mixed bag."&nbsp;"Not everything can be thrown in the rubbish bin... but I'm not leaving with a smile," he added.<h2>France dangerous, Spain efficient</h2>France were more dangerous in the opening stages, with Deschamps electing to channel his attack through Ousmane Dembele rather than Mbappe.&nbsp;Dembele, fresh from Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League triumph, created an early chance for Mbappe, but the Real Madrid superstar wasted it, electing to pass rather than shoot when one-on-one with the 'keeper.&nbsp;Minutes later, Spain escaped again as Theo Hernandez's long-range effort shaved the top of the crossbar.Spain made France pay soon after, when Williams and Oyarzabal, La Roja's two goalscorers in the Euro 2024 final, linked up with 22 minutes played.&nbsp;After a tear down the right, Yamal threaded it to Oyarzabal, who held off three defenders with his back to goal before finding Williams, who rifled his shot into the top of the net.&nbsp;Spain grabbed full hold of the match just three minutes later when Oyarzabal dinked the French defence, allowing Merino to collect and hammer past an off-balance Maignan.&nbsp;France had the better chances later in the half, with Dembele finding space in the box three times only to blast straight at a grateful Unai Simon.&nbsp;Just before half-time, the narrowest of offsides robbed Spain of what would have been an incredible third.&nbsp;In a clearly rehearsed free-kick play, Yamal found Martin Zubimendi behind the lines, who cut it back for Huijsen.&nbsp;The second-half played out line the first, with France missing two big chances before Spain again scored a quick-fire double.&nbsp;With 54 minutes played, Yamal won and converted a penalty, taking the ball from Williams before calmly slotting home.&nbsp;France were reeling but Spain's starlets had no sympathy, Williams setting up Pedri for a fourth just one minute later.&nbsp;Mbappe won and converted a penalty with 59 minutes played but Yamal stepped up again to snuff out French hopes of an unlikely comeback, scoring Spain's fifth with just over 20 minutes remaining.&nbsp;Spain made four changes a their thoughts turned to Sunday, allowing France to score two late consolation goals.&nbsp;Substitute Cherki scored a long-range effort on debut and then France forced Spain into conceding an own goal through Daniel Vivian.&nbsp;Kolo Muani's header came in the fourth minute of stoppage time to cut the deficit to one, but France had left their comeback too late, as Spain held on.&nbsp;&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.

Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal.

Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal. Yamal bagged a brace while Williams scored and provided an assist as the two wingers cut France's makeshift defence to ribbons. Mikel Merino and Pedri were also on the scoresheet for the Euro 2024 champions. Kylian Mbappe netted a second-half penalty, but Spain were 5-1 up and cruising, before Les Bleus suddenly woke up as their opponents took their foot off the pedal. France's three late goals -- a Rayan Cherki screamer, a Spain own goal and a stoppage time strike from Randal Kolo Muani -- were not enough. Yamal, still just 17, said Spain "deserved to win." "It was a great game -- at the end it was a little too close, but we played very well," he added. Spain held on to book an all-Iberian Nations League final against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal on Sunday in Munich, while France will face hosts Germany in Stuttgart for the bronze medal, earlier in the day. A smiling goalscorer Merino told DAZN: "It was a crazy game. Not the best game for the coaches -- nobody wants to concede so many goals -- but an amazing game for the fans. "We're going to remember this one for a long time." Returning to Germany where they won the European Championship in dominant fashion a year ago, Spain seem an even more complete team, despite their late fadeout. France coach Didier Deschamps said "it's a mixed bag." "Not everything can be thrown in the rubbish bin... but I'm not leaving with a smile," he added. France dangerous, Spain efficient France were more dangerous in the opening stages, with Deschamps electing to channel his attack through Ousmane Dembele rather than Mbappe. Dembele, fresh from Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League triumph, created an early chance for Mbappe, but the Real Madrid superstar wasted it, electing to pass rather than shoot when one-on-one with the 'keeper. Minutes later, Spain escaped again as Theo Hernandez's long-range effort shaved the top of the crossbar. Spain made France pay soon after, when Williams and Oyarzabal, La Roja's two goalscorers in the Euro 2024 final, linked up with 22 minutes played. After a tear down the right, Yamal threaded it to Oyarzabal, who held off three defenders with his back to goal before finding Williams, who rifled his shot into the top of the net. Spain grabbed full hold of the match just three minutes later when Oyarzabal dinked the French defence, allowing Merino to collect and hammer past an off-balance Maignan. France had the better chances later in the half, with Dembele finding space in the box three times only to blast straight at a grateful Unai Simon. Just before half-time, the narrowest of offsides robbed Spain of what would have been an incredible third. In a clearly rehearsed free-kick play, Yamal found Martin Zubimendi behind the lines, who cut it back for Huijsen. The second-half played out line the first, with France missing two big chances before Spain again scored a quick-fire double. With 54 minutes played, Yamal won and converted a penalty, taking the ball from Williams before calmly slotting home. France were reeling but Spain's starlets had no sympathy, Williams setting up Pedri for a fourth just one minute later. Mbappe won and converted a penalty with 59 minutes played but Yamal stepped up again to snuff out French hopes of an unlikely comeback, scoring Spain's fifth with just over 20 minutes remaining. Spain made four changes a their thoughts turned to Sunday, allowing France to score two late consolation goals. Substitute Cherki scored a long-range effort on debut and then France forced Spain into conceding an own goal through Daniel Vivian. Kolo Muani's header came in the fourth minute of stoppage time to cut the deficit to one, but France had left their comeback too late, as Spain held on. 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.

Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal.

Nations League: Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams dazzle as Spain beat France in nine-goal thriller

Brazil were held to a lackluster goalless draw against Ecuador in coach Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup qualifying debut with the team on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;The five-times World Cup winners are still in the hunt to qualify for next year's tournament but will have their work cut out after a performance that produced just a handful of shots on goal.&nbsp;The Brazilians are in fourth place in the South American qualifiers with three matches remaining.&nbsp;They face Paraguay on Tuesday in Sao Paolo, when a win and some favorable results from other teams will see them through. &nbsp;&nbsp;Sixty-five-year-old &nbsp;Ancelotti recently joined Brazil from a celebrated stint at Real Madrid.Long-suffering Brazil fans are hoping he could breathe new life into a side coming off a string of disappointing results and performances unworthy of their storied past.&nbsp;The Italian coach replaced Dorival Junior, who was sacked at the end of March after the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of reigning champions and bitter rivals Argentina.<h2>Yamal, Williams dazzle as Spain beat France in nine-goal thriller</h2>Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal.&nbsp;Yamal bagged a brace while Williams scored and provided an assist as the two wingers cut France's makeshift defence to ribbons.&nbsp;Mikel Merino and Pedri were also on the scoresheet for the Euro 2024 champions.Kylian Mbappe netted a second-half penalty, but Spain were 5-1 up and cruising, before Les Bleus suddenly woke up as their opponents took their foot off the pedal.&nbsp;France's three late goals -- a Rayan Cherki screamer, a Spain own goal and a stoppage time strike from Randal Kolo Muani -- were not enough.Yamal, still just 17, said Spain “deserved to win.”&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.

Brazil were held to a lackluster goalless draw against Ecuador in coach Carlo Ancelotti World Cup qualifying debut with the team on Thursday.

Brazil were held to a lackluster goalless draw against Ecuador in coach Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup qualifying debut with the team on Thursday. The five-times World Cup winners are still in the hunt to qualify for next year's tournament but will have their work cut out after a performance that produced just a handful of shots on goal. The Brazilians are in fourth place in the South American qualifiers with three matches remaining. They face Paraguay on Tuesday in Sao Paolo, when a win and some favorable results from other teams will see them through. Sixty-five-year-old Ancelotti recently joined Brazil from a celebrated stint at Real Madrid. Long-suffering Brazil fans are hoping he could breathe new life into a side coming off a string of disappointing results and performances unworthy of their storied past. The Italian coach replaced Dorival Junior, who was sacked at the end of March after the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of reigning champions and bitter rivals Argentina. Yamal, Williams dazzle as Spain beat France in nine-goal thriller Spain starlets Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams dazzled as La Roja beat France 5-4 in a thriller in Stuttgart on Thursday, to set up a Nations League final with Portugal. Yamal bagged a brace while Williams scored and provided an assist as the two wingers cut France's makeshift defence to ribbons. Mikel Merino and Pedri were also on the scoresheet for the Euro 2024 champions. Kylian Mbappe netted a second-half penalty, but Spain were 5-1 up and cruising, before Les Bleus suddenly woke up as their opponents took their foot off the pedal. France's three late goals -- a Rayan Cherki screamer, a Spain own goal and a stoppage time strike from Randal Kolo Muani -- were not enough. Yamal, still just 17, said Spain “deserved to win.” 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.

Brazil were held to a lackluster goalless draw against Ecuador in coach Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup qualifying debut with the team on Thursday.

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Brazil draw against Ecuador on coach Carlo Ancelotti's debut

Aryna Sabalenka ended Iga Swiatek's French Open reign with a devastating third-set performance on Thursday to tee up a Roland Garros final against Coco Gauff after the American knocked out French hero Lois Boisson.The Belarusian snapped Swiatek's French Open winning streak at 26 matches with a 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-0 success to reach her first final in the clay-court Grand Slam."Iga is the toughest opponent, especially on the clay and at Roland Garros," said Sabalenka after becoming the first player to defeat Swiatek in a deciding set at the French Open."I'm proud that I was able to get this win."World number two Gauff ended the dream run of 361st-ranked wildcard Boisson with a 6-1, 6-2 victory in the second semi-final on Court Philippe Chatrier.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/sports/5-june-2025-french-open-2025-semi-final-today-live-updates-aryna-sabalenka-vs-iga-swiatek-and-lois-boisson-vs-coco-gauff-1749120058587">HIGHLIGHTS | French Open 2025 Updates: Gauff vs Sabalenka in women's singles final</a>Gauff and Sabalenka are level at 5-5 in their head-to-head record and have won one each of their two meetings at major tournaments.Sabalenka edged a topsy-turvy first set that featured eight breaks of serve in a tie-break, before Swiatek hit back to level the match.The finale turned out to be a complete anti-climax, as Swiatek made 12 unforced errors in the third set and won only six points."I'm glad that I found my serve. It was a bit easier with the serve," added the 27-year-old Sabalenka. "What can I say, 6-0 -- it couldn't be much more perfect than that!"Sabalenka is targeting a fourth Grand Slam title and first not on hard courts, after winning last year's US Open and the Australian Open back-to-back in 2023 and 2024.Swiatek has still not reached a WTA final since lifting the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen 12 months ago.She showed signs of a revival on the Paris clay where she has dominated since winning as a teenager in 2020, but her game deserted her in the deciding set as she slipped to only the third French Open defeat of her career."I love playing here, so for sure I'm happy that I was fortunate enough to play so many great tournaments here," Swiatek said.Sabalenka has now won their last two meetings, and five of 13 in total.This was the first time the pair, the dominant players in women's tennis of the past few years, have gone head-to-head at a Grand Slam tournament since Swiatek's win in the 2022 US Open semi-finals en route to the title.Sabalenka will be the favourite to lift the trophy when she takes on Gauff, to whom she lost in the 2023 US Open final.Swiatek, who was bidding to become the first woman to win four successive French Opens in over a century, will drop to seventh in the world rankings next week.<h2>Gauff too strong &nbsp;</h2>Boisson had got the better of third seed Jessica Pegula and world number six Mirra Andreeva in the previous two rounds but the test provided by Gauff proved to be a step too far.The home crowd were silenced by a ruthless opening set from the second seed.Boisson briefly raised the French fans from their slumber by breaking back in the second set, only to immediately surrender it straight back.Gauff clinically finished the job after just 69 minutes on court to book her spot in a second French Open final."When you guys were chanting her name, I was thinking my name," Gauff told the crowd in her on-court interview."Obviously there's still a lot of work to do, but for now I'll enjoy this one and then prepare for the final tomorrow."The 21-year-old suffered an emotional defeat by Swiatek in the 2022 final, but will believe she can finally win the tournament in which she has made at least the quarter-finals in five straight editions.Boisson had been hoping to become only the second Frenchwoman to win the title in the Open era after Mary Pierce, but went out in a blaze of 33 unforced errors. 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.

Sabalnka defeated three-time defending champion Iga Swiatek with scores of 7-6, 4-6, 6-0 and will now face Coco Gauff in the women's singles final who beat Lois Boisson 6-1, 6-2.

Aryna Sabalenka ended Iga Swiatek's French Open reign with a devastating third-set performance on Thursday to tee up a Roland Garros final against Coco Gauff after the American knocked out French hero Lois Boisson. The Belarusian snapped Swiatek's French Open winning streak at 26 matches with a 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-0 success to reach her first final in the clay-court Grand Slam. "Iga is the toughest opponent, especially on the clay and at Roland Garros," said Sabalenka after becoming the first player to defeat Swiatek in a deciding set at the French Open. "I'm proud that I was able to get this win." World number two Gauff ended the dream run of 361st-ranked wildcard Boisson with a 6-1, 6-2 victory in the second semi-final on Court Philippe Chatrier. Also Read - HIGHLIGHTS | French Open 2025 Updates: Gauff vs Sabalenka in women's singles final Gauff and Sabalenka are level at 5-5 in their head-to-head record and have won one each of their two meetings at major tournaments. Sabalenka edged a topsy-turvy first set that featured eight breaks of serve in a tie-break, before Swiatek hit back to level the match. The finale turned out to be a complete anti-climax, as Swiatek made 12 unforced errors in the third set and won only six points. "I'm glad that I found my serve. It was a bit easier with the serve," added the 27-year-old Sabalenka. "What can I say, 6-0 -- it couldn't be much more perfect than that!" Sabalenka is targeting a fourth Grand Slam title and first not on hard courts, after winning last year's US Open and the Australian Open back-to-back in 2023 and 2024. Swiatek has still not reached a WTA final since lifting the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen 12 months ago. She showed signs of a revival on the Paris clay where she has dominated since winning as a teenager in 2020, but her game deserted her in the deciding set as she slipped to only the third French Open defeat of her career. "I love playing here, so for sure I'm happy that I was fortunate enough to play so many great tournaments here," Swiatek said. Sabalenka has now won their last two meetings, and five of 13 in total. This was the first time the pair, the dominant players in women's tennis of the past few years, have gone head-to-head at a Grand Slam tournament since Swiatek's win in the 2022 US Open semi-finals en route to the title. Sabalenka will be the favourite to lift the trophy when she takes on Gauff, to whom she lost in the 2023 US Open final. Swiatek, who was bidding to become the first woman to win four successive French Opens in over a century, will drop to seventh in the world rankings next week. Gauff too strong Boisson had got the better of third seed Jessica Pegula and world number six Mirra Andreeva in the previous two rounds but the test provided by Gauff proved to be a step too far. The home crowd were silenced by a ruthless opening set from the second seed. Boisson briefly raised the French fans from their slumber by breaking back in the second set, only to immediately surrender it straight back. Gauff clinically finished the job after just 69 minutes on court to book her spot in a second French Open final. "When you guys were chanting her name, I was thinking my name," Gauff told the crowd in her on-court interview. "Obviously there's still a lot of work to do, but for now I'll enjoy this one and then prepare for the final tomorrow." The 21-year-old suffered an emotional defeat by Swiatek in the 2022 final, but will believe she can finally win the tournament in which she has made at least the quarter-finals in five straight editions. Boisson had been hoping to become only the second Frenchwoman to win the title in the Open era after Mary Pierce, but went out in a blaze of 33 unforced errors. 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.

Sabalnka defeated three-time defending champion Iga Swiatek with scores of 7-6, 4-6, 6-0 and will now face Coco Gauff in the women's singles final who beat Lois Boisson 6-1, 6-2.

French Open 2025: Sabalenka, Gauff set up Roland Garros title showdown in women's singles

Athletes at next year's Asian Games in Japan will stay on a "floating village" cruise ship and in converted shipping containers, an organising official told AFP, defending the cost-cutting move.&nbsp;The plan will see 4,600 athletes and officials housed on the ship for the duration of the Games, which are being held in Nagoya and the wider Aichi area from September 19 to October 4, 2026.&nbsp;Organisers will lease a luxury cruise liner that will be docked at Nagoya's port.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-scores-winner-against-germany-as-portugal-reach-nations-league-final-1749095076349">Ronaldo scores winner against Germany as Portugal reach Nations League final</a>&nbsp;A further 2,400 people will stay in temporary shelters made from shipping containers a short bus ride away, with the two locations accommodating about half of the 15,000 athletes and officials expected at the Games.&nbsp;The rest will be in other accommodation, including in Tokyo where the swimming competition will take place.&nbsp;&nbsp;Local organisers were keen to avoid the cost of building a traditional athletes' village, but Asian Olympic chiefs&nbsp;warned that any alternative must make sure athletes can meet and mingle together.&nbsp;Kazuhiro Yagi, vice-secretary general of the Aichi-Nagoya Games organising committee, told AFP that they had listened to athletes' opinions and wanted to "provide a service that satisfies them".&nbsp;"The cruise ship and container houses are in different locations, but they are only about 10 minutes apart by shuttle bus," he said. "I don't think it will be a problem at all with regards to being able to interact with other athletes.&nbsp;"There is an aquarium and various other entertainment facilities in the area. I think they'll be able to take a break, relax and come together."&nbsp;The 2023 Games in China's Hangzhou had about 12,000 athletes, making it the biggest Asian Games in history, with more competitors than the Olympics.<h2>Lack of recognition</h2>&nbsp;The Asian Games are back in Japan for the first time since Hiroshima in 1994.&nbsp;The country has held several major sports events since then including the pandemic-delayed Olympics in 2021,&nbsp;football's World Cup in 2002 and the Rugby World Cup in 2019.&nbsp;Yagi admits that there "still isn't enough awareness" that the Aichi-Nagoya Games are happening, and says more needs to be done to spread the word.&nbsp;"I don't think there is anyone in Japan who hasn't heard of the Olympics or Paralympics, but my personal feeling is that maybe only half the population knows the Asian Games," he said. "Young people weren't born when it was last held here 32 years ago, so I'd like them to find out that it's a great event."&nbsp;The Asian Games feature an eclectic mix of events, with bridge, kabaddi and dragon boat racing rubbing shoulders with traditional Olympic sports such as athletics, swimming, gymnastics and&nbsp;football.<h3>eSports for elderly</h3>&nbsp;The Aichi-Nagoya Games has added mixed martial arts to the programme and Yagi hopes its debut will showcase Asia's diverse martial arts traditions and attract new fans.&nbsp;"We want to appeal to the needs of young people, so including new events is essential," he said. "We want to include mixed martial arts so that we can get the younger generation interested in sport."&nbsp;Esports proved a huge hit on its full Asian Games debut in Hangzhou, with fans packing into the futuristic 4,500-seat arena to watch star gamers like South Korea's Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok.&nbsp;Aichi-Nagoya will be the first time Japan has hosted an eSports competition on such a large scale, and Yagi thinks its benefits will be felt by more than just young people.&nbsp;"Esports can help elderly people who don't get a chance to exercise much," he said. "You use your fingers and make detailed movements, which I have heard is good for combating dementia.&nbsp;“I think this is a good chance for people of a wide range of ages to find out more about eSports.”&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.

Japan floating village to house thousands of Asian Games athletes

Athletes at next year's Asian Games in Japan will stay on a "floating village" cruise ship and in converted shipping containers, an organising official told AFP, defending the cost-cutting move. The plan will see 4,600 athletes and officials housed on the ship for the duration of the Games, which are being held in Nagoya and the wider Aichi area from September 19 to October 4, 2026. Organisers will lease a luxury cruise liner that will be docked at Nagoya's port. Also read | Ronaldo scores winner against Germany as Portugal reach Nations League final A further 2,400 people will stay in temporary shelters made from shipping containers a short bus ride away, with the two locations accommodating about half of the 15,000 athletes and officials expected at the Games. The rest will be in other accommodation, including in Tokyo where the swimming competition will take place. Local organisers were keen to avoid the cost of building a traditional athletes' village, but Asian Olympic chiefs warned that any alternative must make sure athletes can meet and mingle together. Kazuhiro Yagi, vice-secretary general of the Aichi-Nagoya Games organising committee, told AFP that they had listened to athletes' opinions and wanted to "provide a service that satisfies them". "The cruise ship and container houses are in different locations, but they are only about 10 minutes apart by shuttle bus," he said. "I don't think it will be a problem at all with regards to being able to interact with other athletes. "There is an aquarium and various other entertainment facilities in the area. I think they'll be able to take a break, relax and come together." The 2023 Games in China's Hangzhou had about 12,000 athletes, making it the biggest Asian Games in history, with more competitors than the Olympics. Lack of recognition The Asian Games are back in Japan for the first time since Hiroshima in 1994. The country has held several major sports events since then including the pandemic-delayed Olympics in 2021, football's World Cup in 2002 and the Rugby World Cup in 2019. Yagi admits that there "still isn't enough awareness" that the Aichi-Nagoya Games are happening, and says more needs to be done to spread the word. "I don't think there is anyone in Japan who hasn't heard of the Olympics or Paralympics, but my personal feeling is that maybe only half the population knows the Asian Games," he said. "Young people weren't born when it was last held here 32 years ago, so I'd like them to find out that it's a great event." The Asian Games feature an eclectic mix of events, with bridge, kabaddi and dragon boat racing rubbing shoulders with traditional Olympic sports such as athletics, swimming, gymnastics and football. eSports for elderly The Aichi-Nagoya Games has added mixed martial arts to the programme and Yagi hopes its debut will showcase Asia's diverse martial arts traditions and attract new fans. "We want to appeal to the needs of young people, so including new events is essential," he said. "We want to include mixed martial arts so that we can get the younger generation interested in sport." Esports proved a huge hit on its full Asian Games debut in Hangzhou, with fans packing into the futuristic 4,500-seat arena to watch star gamers like South Korea's Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok. Aichi-Nagoya will be the first time Japan has hosted an eSports competition on such a large scale, and Yagi thinks its benefits will be felt by more than just young people. "Esports can help elderly people who don't get a chance to exercise much," he said. "You use your fingers and make detailed movements, which I have heard is good for combating dementia. “I think this is a good chance for people of a wide range of ages to find out more about eSports.” 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.

The plan will see 4,600 athletes and officials housed on the ship for the duration of the Games, which are being held in Nagoya and the wider Aichi area from September 19 to October 4, 2026.

Japan’s ‘floating village' to house thousands of Asian Games athletes

Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Germany in Munich on Wednesday, sending Portugal through to the Nations League final and breaking his run of bad fortune against the Germans.&nbsp;Ronaldo's 68th-minute tap in, a record-extending 137th international goal, sealed a first win over Germany after five losses, the 40-year-old's longest streak against any national side without tasting victory.&nbsp;After a stuttering first half, Florian Wirtz produced a moment of magic to give Germany the lead three minutes after halftime, starting and finishing a clever burst through the middle and heading in the opener.&nbsp;Portugal's Francisco Conceicao ran 35 metres to score a brilliant solo goal, levelling things up with half an hour remaining.&nbsp;Conceicao's goal was a fitting tribute to his father Sergio, who scored a hat-trick the last time Portugal beat Germany in a 3-0 win in 2000.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2025-novak-djokovic-downs-zverev-to-set-up-semi-clash-with-jannik-sinner-roland-garros-1749094536991">French Open 2025: Djokovic downs Zverev to set up semi clash with Sinner</a>&nbsp;The stage was then set for Ronaldo, who had missed two solid chances earlier, to land the telling blow, turning in a Nuno Mendes pass from close range.&nbsp;&nbsp;Portugal, winners of the inaugural Nations League in 2019, will now face either European champions Spain or France in Sunday's final at the same venue.&nbsp;Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva celebrated Ronaldo's relentless desire to play and win.&nbsp;"It's never easy -- I don't know how old he is, I think he's like 40 -- to still be hungry to go on every day," said Silva.&nbsp;"We're very happy to have him with us."&nbsp;The loss is a setback for Julian Nagelsmann's Germany, who had lost just one of their previous 17 games.&nbsp;"It was a deserved defeat," Nagelsmann told DAZN. “We gave the game away in the first half. Defensively we lacked the ruthlessness that we've had in recent games.”&nbsp;Portugal had four players backing up from winning Saturday's&nbsp;Champions League&nbsp;final -- and the ensuing celebrations -- but it was Germany who struggled to find rhythm early.&nbsp;&nbsp;The match started 10 minutes late due to a violent storm which left hailstones scattered across the turf.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aleksandar Pavlovic mislaid several passes while Portugal's approach of pressing Jonathan Tah almost paid dividends, with the defender insecure in possession.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ronaldo, greeted by Portuguese cheers and German boos every time he came near the ball, almost scored the opener six minutes in, but his shot&nbsp;was claimed by old La Liga sparring partner Marc-Andre ter Stegen, playing his first match for Germany since September 2024.&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.&nbsp;

Ronaldo scores winner against Germany as Portugal reach Nations League final

Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Germany in Munich on Wednesday, sending Portugal through to the Nations League final and breaking his run of bad fortune against the Germans. Ronaldo's 68th-minute tap in, a record-extending 137th international goal, sealed a first win over Germany after five losses, the 40-year-old's longest streak against any national side without tasting victory. After a stuttering first half, Florian Wirtz produced a moment of magic to give Germany the lead three minutes after halftime, starting and finishing a clever burst through the middle and heading in the opener. Portugal's Francisco Conceicao ran 35 metres to score a brilliant solo goal, levelling things up with half an hour remaining. Conceicao's goal was a fitting tribute to his father Sergio, who scored a hat-trick the last time Portugal beat Germany in a 3-0 win in 2000. Also read | French Open 2025: Djokovic downs Zverev to set up semi clash with Sinner The stage was then set for Ronaldo, who had missed two solid chances earlier, to land the telling blow, turning in a Nuno Mendes pass from close range. Portugal, winners of the inaugural Nations League in 2019, will now face either European champions Spain or France in Sunday's final at the same venue. Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva celebrated Ronaldo's relentless desire to play and win. "It's never easy -- I don't know how old he is, I think he's like 40 -- to still be hungry to go on every day," said Silva. "We're very happy to have him with us." The loss is a setback for Julian Nagelsmann's Germany, who had lost just one of their previous 17 games. "It was a deserved defeat," Nagelsmann told DAZN. “We gave the game away in the first half. Defensively we lacked the ruthlessness that we've had in recent games.” Portugal had four players backing up from winning Saturday's Champions League final -- and the ensuing celebrations -- but it was Germany who struggled to find rhythm early. The match started 10 minutes late due to a violent storm which left hailstones scattered across the turf. Aleksandar Pavlovic mislaid several passes while Portugal's approach of pressing Jonathan Tah almost paid dividends, with the defender insecure in possession. Ronaldo, greeted by Portuguese cheers and German boos every time he came near the ball, almost scored the opener six minutes in, but his shot was claimed by old La Liga sparring partner Marc-Andre ter Stegen, playing his first match for Germany since September 2024. 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.

Portugal, winners of the inaugural Nations League in 2019, will now face either European champions Spain or France in Sunday's final at the same venue.

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