Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago.David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-west-indies-2026-odi-t20i-auqib-nabi-mayank-yadav-1789573587522">Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads</a>Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears."I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday."That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way."The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference."I still have little flashbacks here and there of it."Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically.He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56."It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said."The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life."I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added."I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank."Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds.But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly."It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said."I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago. David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban. Also Read - Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life. He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears. "I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday. "That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way. "The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. "I still have little flashbacks here and there of it." Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically. He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56. "It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said. "The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life. "I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added. "I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank." Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds. But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly. "It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said. "I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

AUS vs SA: Steve Smith still gets 'little flashbacks' from sandpaper gate

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India.&nbsp;The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-hockey-team-cleared-play-asian-champions-trophy-india-2026-1789388102868">Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM</a>&nbsp;Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir.&nbsp;Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).&nbsp;"Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement.&nbsp;Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border.&nbsp;Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns. 

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India. The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border. Also read| Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir. Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF). "Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement. Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border. Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns.&nbsp;

Hockey: Pakistan urges AHF to move Asian Champions Trophy out of India over security concerns

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024."We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rift-in-france-football-dembele-hits-back-after-mbappe-s-chosen-one-remark-1789461966788">Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark</a>The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators.Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion.Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3.Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals.Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer"."It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career.His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine".The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. "We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia. Also Read - Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators. Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion. Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3. Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals. Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer". "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career. His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season. Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature. After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine". The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Messi set to play in farewell match on October 6 in Argentina vs Benin friendly

The Los Angeles Dodgers, seeking a third straight World Series crown, booked their playoff berth Monday with a 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds. With a 91-59 record and 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Dodgers are now assured of at least a wild card series place, as they pursue a historic three-peat as MLB champions.The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-asian-games-south-korea-slams-worst-ever-accommodation-1789384715965">‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games</a>Over in the American League, the Tampa Bay Rays have already qualified.The free-spending Dodgers beat the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays last year.Having added outfielder Kyle Tucker in the off-season and two-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Tarik Skubal last month, the Dodgers are favorites to complete their hat-trick.They could become the first National League club to win the World Series three years in a row and the first since the Yankees from 1998-2000.But reaching the playoffs for a 14th straight season has not been all plain sailing.Having reached the All-Star break leading Arizona by 11.5 games in the NL West division -- by far the largest margin for any division leader -- the Dodgers suffered a slump in form.Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani has been derailed by injuries, and is not expected to pitch again this season, while his batting form has also dipped.But a recent season-best run of eight straight victories restored the Dodgers' substantial lead at the top of the NL West.Their closest rivals for a top-two seed are the NL East's Atlanta Braves.Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernandez each hit home runs in the Dodgers' comfortable Monday night victory in Cincinnati.

The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, seeking a third straight World Series crown, booked their playoff berth Monday with a 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds. With a 91-59 record and 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Dodgers are now assured of at least a wild card series place, as they pursue a historic three-peat as MLB champions. The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action. Also Read - ‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games Over in the American League, the Tampa Bay Rays have already qualified. The free-spending Dodgers beat the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays last year. Having added outfielder Kyle Tucker in the off-season and two-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Tarik Skubal last month, the Dodgers are favorites to complete their hat-trick. They could become the first National League club to win the World Series three years in a row and the first since the Yankees from 1998-2000. But reaching the playoffs for a 14th straight season has not been all plain sailing. Having reached the All-Star break leading Arizona by 11.5 games in the NL West division -- by far the largest margin for any division leader -- the Dodgers suffered a slump in form. Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani has been derailed by injuries, and is not expected to pitch again this season, while his batting form has also dipped. But a recent season-best run of eight straight victories restored the Dodgers' substantial lead at the top of the NL West. Their closest rivals for a top-two seed are the NL East's Atlanta Braves. Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernandez each hit home runs in the Dodgers' comfortable Monday night victory in Cincinnati.

The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.

Dodgers beat Reds for playoff berth in bid for third consecutive World Series

Accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games starting this week in Japan is the "worst ever", South Korean officials told AFP on Monday (Sep 14), also warning of "a serious shortage" of rooms. Beds in shipping container-style huts are too short for players to stretch out, a South Korean basketball chief said, while officials from the Philippines resorted to Airbnb. There is no dedicated athletes' village at the Games, with organisers instead relying on a cruise ship, temporary wooden cabins and hotels in a bid to cut costs.&nbsp;The Games in the city of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture officially open on Saturday, but football and basketball are already under way.&nbsp;Jung Jae-yong, vice president of the Korea Basketball Association, told AFP he was deeply unhappy with the cabins where the men's basketball team are staying.&nbsp;"Based on my experience, this is the worst it has ever been," he said. “Athletes who are over two metres tall cannot even stretch their legs out on the beds. It's unreasonable.”&nbsp;Byeon Jun-hyeong, from the basketball team, posted a video on social media showing a leaking sink and soaked floor in his hut. He posted the caption, "Please help us".&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bali-international-oval-cricket-indonesia-flagship-venue-1789286817192">Bali International Oval set to become Indonesia’s flagship cricket venue</a>&nbsp;The huts are set to be home to 2,000 athletes and officials over the more than two weeks of the Games. Indian sports chiefs are so worried about the cabins that they built replicas to help get their athletes used to them.&nbsp;The vice president Jung accused organisers of failing to respond to South Korea's concerns.&nbsp;"The organisers have still not said anything," said Jung. "We are very concerned and discussing extensively with the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee what to do about this."&nbsp;Hundreds of athletes were briefly evacuated from their accommodation last week as record rainfall lashed Nagoya, with more rain has been forecast in the coming days.<h2>‘Serious shortage’</h2>More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected at the Games -- a bigger number than the Olympics. Local organisers were initially expecting 15,000 and argued last month that they had "neither the manpower nor the budget" to deal with ballooning numbers.&nbsp;The Olympic Council of Asia later said that everyone would get a place to stay.&nbsp;Star cricketers have voiced fears about a lack of top-notch hotels.&nbsp;A South Korean Olympic committee official told AFP that, with the Games just days away, there are problems.&nbsp;"At the moment there is a serious shortage of accommodation not only for the entire South Korean delegation to the Asian Games, but for delegations from around the world in the Aichi-Nagoya area," the official said. "We are doing everything we can to resolve the issue and ensure there are no such problems."&nbsp;Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino told AFP that all his country's athletes had been given a room.&nbsp;But "some officials, like coaches, were moved to different hotels and Airbnb".&nbsp;Asian Games organisers did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment. The Italian cruise ship Costa Serena is due to arrive in Nagoya on Tuesday. Between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes will stay on the vessel. The rest will be in hotels, including in Tokyo, where swimming, diving and equestrian events will take place.

South Korean officials brand accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya the "worst ever," citing short beds, leaking huts, and a severe room shortage.

Accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games starting this week in Japan is the "worst ever", South Korean officials told AFP on Monday (Sep 14), also warning of "a serious shortage" of rooms. Beds in shipping container-style huts are too short for players to stretch out, a South Korean basketball chief said, while officials from the Philippines resorted to Airbnb. There is no dedicated athletes' village at the Games, with organisers instead relying on a cruise ship, temporary wooden cabins and hotels in a bid to cut costs. The Games in the city of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture officially open on Saturday, but football and basketball are already under way. Jung Jae-yong, vice president of the Korea Basketball Association, told AFP he was deeply unhappy with the cabins where the men's basketball team are staying. "Based on my experience, this is the worst it has ever been," he said. “Athletes who are over two metres tall cannot even stretch their legs out on the beds. It's unreasonable.” Byeon Jun-hyeong, from the basketball team, posted a video on social media showing a leaking sink and soaked floor in his hut. He posted the caption, "Please help us". Also read| Bali International Oval set to become Indonesia’s flagship cricket venue The huts are set to be home to 2,000 athletes and officials over the more than two weeks of the Games. Indian sports chiefs are so worried about the cabins that they built replicas to help get their athletes used to them. The vice president Jung accused organisers of failing to respond to South Korea's concerns. "The organisers have still not said anything," said Jung. "We are very concerned and discussing extensively with the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee what to do about this." Hundreds of athletes were briefly evacuated from their accommodation last week as record rainfall lashed Nagoya, with more rain has been forecast in the coming days. ‘Serious shortage’ More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected at the Games -- a bigger number than the Olympics. Local organisers were initially expecting 15,000 and argued last month that they had "neither the manpower nor the budget" to deal with ballooning numbers. The Olympic Council of Asia later said that everyone would get a place to stay. Star cricketers have voiced fears about a lack of top-notch hotels. A South Korean Olympic committee official told AFP that, with the Games just days away, there are problems. "At the moment there is a serious shortage of accommodation not only for the entire South Korean delegation to the Asian Games, but for delegations from around the world in the Aichi-Nagoya area," the official said. "We are doing everything we can to resolve the issue and ensure there are no such problems." Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino told AFP that all his country's athletes had been given a room. But "some officials, like coaches, were moved to different hotels and Airbnb". Asian Games organisers did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment. The Italian cruise ship Costa Serena is due to arrive in Nagoya on Tuesday. Between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes will stay on the vessel. The rest will be in hotels, including in Tokyo, where swimming, diving and equestrian events will take place.

South Korean officials brand accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya the "worst ever," citing short beds, leaking huts, and a severe room shortage.

‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games

Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar called on Sunday for the award-winning directors of an Israeli-made Gaza documentary to be stripped of citizenship, accusing them of "treason against the state".&nbsp;In "NAZA", Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor spoke to 24 different Israeli military or intelligence whistleblowers who outlined the AI-powered targeting systems used to bombard Gaza that have killed tens of thousands of civilians.&nbsp;The 80-minute documentary won a special jury prize at this year's Venice Film Festival.Zohar accused the directors of being willing to "harm their homeland in order to receive applause from antisemites around the world".&nbsp;"I will act immediately to revoke the Israeli citizenship of these despicable creators for treason against the state," he added on X.&nbsp;Other Israeli ministers also took aim at the directors, who won an Oscar in 2025 for their film "No Other Land" about Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;"You are a disgrace and an embarrassment to the entire people of Israel. Go away!" far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on X.&nbsp;"I am certain that your friends, that is to say our enemies Hamas in Gaza, will welcome you with open arms," continued the far-right minister.&nbsp;The revocation of nationality is legally possible in Israel, although it is rarely applied.In 2022, the Supreme Court confirmed that the state may strip people of their nationality if they have failed to show "loyalty", for example by committing acts of espionage or treason.&nbsp;The law was also expanded in 2023 to apply to people convicted of "terrorism".&nbsp;The law requires the interior minister to submit the revocation request, the justice minister to approve it and judges to validate it.&nbsp;Abraham said "the Israeli intelligence officers we spoke with talked to us about how this mass killing is systemic: not by accident, but by design, actions of murder and policies that are based on the total dehumanisation of Palestinians".&nbsp;The Israeli military has criticised the use of anonymous testimonies in the film, saying on Friday the identities of the whistleblowers "cannot be verified".&nbsp;Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians.&nbsp;Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.&nbsp;Militants also took 251 hostages to Gaza.&nbsp;Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, according to the territory's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

Naza, directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (co-directors of the Oscar-winning No Other Land), the 2026 documentary premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. 

Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar called on Sunday for the award-winning directors of an Israeli-made Gaza documentary to be stripped of citizenship, accusing them of "treason against the state". In "NAZA", Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor spoke to 24 different Israeli military or intelligence whistleblowers who outlined the AI-powered targeting systems used to bombard Gaza that have killed tens of thousands of civilians. The 80-minute documentary won a special jury prize at this year's Venice Film Festival. Zohar accused the directors of being willing to "harm their homeland in order to receive applause from antisemites around the world". "I will act immediately to revoke the Israeli citizenship of these despicable creators for treason against the state," he added on X. Other Israeli ministers also took aim at the directors, who won an Oscar in 2025 for their film "No Other Land" about Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank. "You are a disgrace and an embarrassment to the entire people of Israel. Go away!" far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on X. "I am certain that your friends, that is to say our enemies Hamas in Gaza, will welcome you with open arms," continued the far-right minister. The revocation of nationality is legally possible in Israel, although it is rarely applied. In 2022, the Supreme Court confirmed that the state may strip people of their nationality if they have failed to show "loyalty", for example by committing acts of espionage or treason. The law was also expanded in 2023 to apply to people convicted of "terrorism". The law requires the interior minister to submit the revocation request, the justice minister to approve it and judges to validate it. Abraham said "the Israeli intelligence officers we spoke with talked to us about how this mass killing is systemic: not by accident, but by design, actions of murder and policies that are based on the total dehumanisation of Palestinians". The Israeli military has criticised the use of anonymous testimonies in the film, saying on Friday the identities of the whistleblowers "cannot be verified". Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians. Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Militants also took 251 hostages to Gaza. Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, according to the territory's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

Naza, directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (co-directors of the Oscar-winning No Other Land), the 2026 documentary premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.&nbsp;

Israeli minister calls to strip Gaza film directors of citizenship

Alexander Zverev held off Ben Shelton to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing the second Grand Slam of his career just months after winning the French Open. The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. Zverev expunged the bitter memory of his 2020 US Open defeat, when he was two points from victory before falling to Dominic Thiem in five sets.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-aryna-sabalenka-smashes-racquet-after-us-open-final-defeat-to-rybakina-1789287174441">Aryna Sabalenka smashes racquet after US Open final defeat to Rybakina</a>It would be six years -- with two major finals disappointments -- before he would break through this season."I think God has seen how hard we worked, how much we suffered, how much pain we went through and I think 2026 is the outcome of all the years that happened before," Zverev said at the trophy presentation.The 23-year-old Shelton was one month shy of his first birthday when Andy Roddick hoisted the 2003 US Open trophy in the last major triumph for a US man.Hopes were high that Shelton could end the drought after his epic five-set quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, and a come-from-behind win over compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals.But Zverev's all-court excellence proved too much for Shelton, despite the support of a star-studded Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd trying to will the American to victory.With their backing, Shelton surged in the third set, eliminating the errors that Zverev had ruthlessly exploited.Serving to extend the set, Zverev fell behind 0-40. Shelton fired long on his first set point but on the second Zverev's forehand volley went wide. Shelton had his first break of the match and they were headed to a fourth set.Zverev, however, responded immediately and decisively, breaking Shelton in the first game of the fourth set and rolling home.He lifted his arms in triumph after Shelton fired a serve return long on match point and finally received his own huge cheer from the crowd -- but not before some prompting.Zverev said he didn't initially realize he'd won because he had lost track of the score."I knew I broke him twice, but I thought it was 5-1 instead of 6-2, which helped me in a way, because I didn't really get nervous serving out the match," Zverev said."In that moment I was in the zone a lot. I didn't hear noise at all. Then also, of course, when the crowd is loud, it's impossible to hear the umpire, so I didn't hear that she said, 'Game, set, match.'"Zverev had followed up his French Open victory with a runner-up finish at Wimbledon.But his New York prospects had looked bleak as he labored through two five-setters to start the tournament.Now the 29-year-old ranked second in the world has a chance to challenge for the number one ranking with Italian Jannik Sinner currently sidelined by a knee injury.With this win, Zverev said he might consider himself the best player in the world "right, right now.""If everyone is healthy, I think Jannik is still ahead."<h2>Very few chances</h2>Shelton had entered to a massive ovation but from the start the sharpness that carried him past Alcaraz and Tiafoe was lacking.Zverev, with utter calm and a superb serve, quickly asserted his authority with a break in the first game, Shelton double faulting on break point.Eight games later the American double faulted on set point.Shelton rallied from 0-30 down to force the second-set tiebreaker, but was helpless as Zverev roared to a 5-0 lead and took a two-sets-to-none lead with a service winner.Shelton gave it all he had in the third, hitting the deck as he chased one blistering Zverev forehand. Although he capitalized on uncharacteristic errors from the German to extend the match there was no stopping Zverev in the final set."I made too many errors when I had the ball there on my strings," Shelton said. "I wasn't amazing attacking on my forehand today. I wasn't great in transition."It's not easy," he added. "Playing a guy like him there's very few chances."

The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. 

Alexander Zverev held off Ben Shelton to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing the second Grand Slam of his career just months after winning the French Open. The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. Zverev expunged the bitter memory of his 2020 US Open defeat, when he was two points from victory before falling to Dominic Thiem in five sets. Also Watch - Aryna Sabalenka smashes racquet after US Open final defeat to Rybakina It would be six years -- with two major finals disappointments -- before he would break through this season. "I think God has seen how hard we worked, how much we suffered, how much pain we went through and I think 2026 is the outcome of all the years that happened before," Zverev said at the trophy presentation. The 23-year-old Shelton was one month shy of his first birthday when Andy Roddick hoisted the 2003 US Open trophy in the last major triumph for a US man. Hopes were high that Shelton could end the drought after his epic five-set quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, and a come-from-behind win over compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals. But Zverev's all-court excellence proved too much for Shelton, despite the support of a star-studded Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd trying to will the American to victory. With their backing, Shelton surged in the third set, eliminating the errors that Zverev had ruthlessly exploited. Serving to extend the set, Zverev fell behind 0-40. Shelton fired long on his first set point but on the second Zverev's forehand volley went wide. Shelton had his first break of the match and they were headed to a fourth set. Zverev, however, responded immediately and decisively, breaking Shelton in the first game of the fourth set and rolling home. He lifted his arms in triumph after Shelton fired a serve return long on match point and finally received his own huge cheer from the crowd -- but not before some prompting. Zverev said he didn't initially realize he'd won because he had lost track of the score. "I knew I broke him twice, but I thought it was 5-1 instead of 6-2, which helped me in a way, because I didn't really get nervous serving out the match," Zverev said. "In that moment I was in the zone a lot. I didn't hear noise at all. Then also, of course, when the crowd is loud, it's impossible to hear the umpire, so I didn't hear that she said, 'Game, set, match.'" Zverev had followed up his French Open victory with a runner-up finish at Wimbledon. But his New York prospects had looked bleak as he labored through two five-setters to start the tournament. Now the 29-year-old ranked second in the world has a chance to challenge for the number one ranking with Italian Jannik Sinner currently sidelined by a knee injury. With this win, Zverev said he might consider himself the best player in the world "right, right now." "If everyone is healthy, I think Jannik is still ahead." Very few chances Shelton had entered to a massive ovation but from the start the sharpness that carried him past Alcaraz and Tiafoe was lacking. Zverev, with utter calm and a superb serve, quickly asserted his authority with a break in the first game, Shelton double faulting on break point. Eight games later the American double faulted on set point. Shelton rallied from 0-30 down to force the second-set tiebreaker, but was helpless as Zverev roared to a 5-0 lead and took a two-sets-to-none lead with a service winner. Shelton gave it all he had in the third, hitting the deck as he chased one blistering Zverev forehand. Although he capitalized on uncharacteristic errors from the German to extend the match there was no stopping Zverev in the final set. "I made too many errors when I had the ball there on my strings," Shelton said. "I wasn't amazing attacking on my forehand today. I wasn't great in transition. "It's not easy," he added. "Playing a guy like him there's very few chances."

The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title.&nbsp;

US Open 2026: Zverev trumps local boy Shelton for maiden title at Flushing Meadows

The A-list witches of Warner Bros.' "Practical Magic 2" cast away Sony's "Spider-Man" from its weeks-long perch atop the North American box office, industry estimates showed Sunday.&nbsp;Nearly three decades after the beloved original, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return to star in "Practical Magic 2," whose estimated $30 million debut ended Spidey's six-week run in first place.&nbsp;The film resurrects the story of sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, modern day witches who face a curse that sees any man they fall in love with doomed to an early death.&nbsp;The witch sisters summoned another $16 million outside of North America, for a total global estimate of $46 million.&nbsp;The original 1998 film hardly enchanted critics upon its debut, but went on to conjure a cult following that had kept hopes of a sequel alive ever since.&nbsp;"Critics' reviews are weak like they were the first time, but the audience score is very good," said industry watcher David A. Gross.&nbsp;The "cast is what drives these movies' success, and Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Maisie Williams and Joey King are strong."&nbsp;But it wasn't all bad news for Sony's "Spider-Man: Brand New Day."&nbsp;After swinging from victory to victory, the Tom Holland and Zendaya-led blockbuster caught second place this weekend, bringing in another $8.4 million, for a global total of $2.45 billion over its seven weeks in cinemas.&nbsp;Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" sailed into a close third place, drawing another $7.4 million domestically, for an epic $1.64 billion over its nine-week global box office journey.&nbsp;"Runner," an action comedy led by Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, debuted in fourth place, with the heroes fighting a cartel to get a sick young girl a lifesaving organ transplant.&nbsp;It brought in $6.4 million domestically for Angel Studios.&nbsp;"Coyote vs Acme" took fifth place, with Will Forte and an animated Wile E. Coyote snaring another $5.6 million for Falling Forward Films.&nbsp;<h2>Rounding out the top 10 were:</h2>"Buddy" ($3.5 million)"Insidious: Out of the Further" ($3.4 million)"Hope" ($3.3 million)"The Uprising" ($3.3 million)"By Any Means" ($2.5 million)

Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock's Practical Magic 2 has managed to cast a spell on the US box office and even displaced Spider-Man: Brand New Day from the top spot. The film has amassed $46 million at the box office so far. 

The A-list witches of Warner Bros.' "Practical Magic 2" cast away Sony's "Spider-Man" from its weeks-long perch atop the North American box office, industry estimates showed Sunday. Nearly three decades after the beloved original, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return to star in "Practical Magic 2," whose estimated $30 million debut ended Spidey's six-week run in first place. The film resurrects the story of sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, modern day witches who face a curse that sees any man they fall in love with doomed to an early death. The witch sisters summoned another $16 million outside of North America, for a total global estimate of $46 million. The original 1998 film hardly enchanted critics upon its debut, but went on to conjure a cult following that had kept hopes of a sequel alive ever since. "Critics' reviews are weak like they were the first time, but the audience score is very good," said industry watcher David A. Gross. The "cast is what drives these movies' success, and Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Maisie Williams and Joey King are strong." But it wasn't all bad news for Sony's "Spider-Man: Brand New Day." After swinging from victory to victory, the Tom Holland and Zendaya-led blockbuster caught second place this weekend, bringing in another $8.4 million, for a global total of $2.45 billion over its seven weeks in cinemas. Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" sailed into a close third place, drawing another $7.4 million domestically, for an epic $1.64 billion over its nine-week global box office journey. "Runner," an action comedy led by Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, debuted in fourth place, with the heroes fighting a cartel to get a sick young girl a lifesaving organ transplant. It brought in $6.4 million domestically for Angel Studios. "Coyote vs Acme" took fifth place, with Will Forte and an animated Wile E. Coyote snaring another $5.6 million for Falling Forward Films. Rounding out the top 10 were: "Buddy" ($3.5 million) "Insidious: Out of the Further" ($3.4 million) "Hope" ($3.3 million) "The Uprising" ($3.3 million) "By Any Means" ($2.5 million)

Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock's Practical Magic 2 has managed to cast a spell on the US box office and even displaced Spider-Man: Brand New Day from the top spot. The film has amassed $46 million at the box office so far.&nbsp;

Practical Magic 2 breaks Spidey spell over North American box office

Erling Haaland fired 10-man Manchester City to a memorable 1-0 victory over Manchester United despite Phil Foden's first-half red card to extend a perfect start to Enzo Maresca's reign. Foden kicked out at United captain Bruno Fernandes on 23 minutes to give the visitors a mountain to climb. But a new-look City were up to the challenge as the near £250 million ($340 million) midfield pairing of Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernandez proved their worth.&nbsp;Haaland's winner was laced with controversy as Fernandez was deemed not to be interfering with play when he attempted to head in before the ball reached the Norwegian. Defeat compounds a miserable Premier League start for United as they are already eight points adrift of City and defending champions Arsenal.&nbsp;By contrast, victory was a huge statement for Maresca to quell fears of a major drop-off from City following Pep Guardiola's trophy-laden decade in charge. A fervent pre-match atmosphere was fuelled just as much by United fans' anger towards their own club as it was by the usual animosity between the supporters.&nbsp;A crackdown on ticket touting in recent months has resulted in widespread condemnation from supporters' groups after many innocent people faced the threat of sanction.&nbsp;A normal array of banners and flags in the Stretford End was replaced by just one bearing the message: "The way you treat us is a disgrace."&nbsp;The visitors had made the better start in the opening quarter but looked to have been completely undone by Foden's ill discipline.&nbsp;City will argue Fernandes should also have seen red as he fouled Foden and then kicked him in the back. But there was little case for Foden's defence as he retaliated by throwing both legs up into Fernandes's midriff. Kobbie Mainoo blocked Rayan Cherki's goalbound effort before Youri Tielemans nearly sliced Antoine Semenyo's cross into his own net as City continued to be the more threatening.&nbsp;Marcus Rashford was inches away from his first United goal since December 2024 when his free-kick came crashing back off the post with United's best effort before the break.<h2>Donnarumma to the rescue</h2>The woodwork came to City's rescue again just after half-time when Mainoo curled onto the post from distance and the ball rebounded kindly into Gianluigi Donnarumma's grasp. But the City sucker punch arrived on the hour mark.&nbsp;Haaland adjusted his body brilliantly to sweep in Josko Gvardiol's deflected cross. A VAR review deemed Haaland was onside and that Fernandez was not interfering as he stooped to try and head in himself.&nbsp;City came close to landing the telling blow when Fernandez's effort was turned onto the post by Senne Lammens.&nbsp;Haaland also should have had a second when he got onto Fernandez's wicked low free-kick delivery.&nbsp;City, though, were not made to pay for failing to add a second as United lacked the composure and quality to make the man advantage count until the final minute of stoppage time.&nbsp;Fernandes's reverse ball perfectly picked out Bryan Mbeumo but he was denied by a fine save from Donnarumma.&nbsp;Maresca scampered down the touchline in delight at full-time.&nbsp;After a battle for the title went down to the final week of last season, Arsenal and City look a class apart from the competition once more.&nbsp;Both are locked on 12 points with Chelsea, Liverpool and United already cut adrift.

Erling Haaland scored a 59th-minute winner as 10-man Manchester City defeated Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford following Phil Foden's early red card.

Erling Haaland fired 10-man Manchester City to a memorable 1-0 victory over Manchester United despite Phil Foden's first-half red card to extend a perfect start to Enzo Maresca's reign. Foden kicked out at United captain Bruno Fernandes on 23 minutes to give the visitors a mountain to climb. But a new-look City were up to the challenge as the near £250 million ($340 million) midfield pairing of Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernandez proved their worth. Haaland's winner was laced with controversy as Fernandez was deemed not to be interfering with play when he attempted to head in before the ball reached the Norwegian. Defeat compounds a miserable Premier League start for United as they are already eight points adrift of City and defending champions Arsenal. By contrast, victory was a huge statement for Maresca to quell fears of a major drop-off from City following Pep Guardiola's trophy-laden decade in charge. A fervent pre-match atmosphere was fuelled just as much by United fans' anger towards their own club as it was by the usual animosity between the supporters. A crackdown on ticket touting in recent months has resulted in widespread condemnation from supporters' groups after many innocent people faced the threat of sanction. A normal array of banners and flags in the Stretford End was replaced by just one bearing the message: "The way you treat us is a disgrace." The visitors had made the better start in the opening quarter but looked to have been completely undone by Foden's ill discipline. City will argue Fernandes should also have seen red as he fouled Foden and then kicked him in the back. But there was little case for Foden's defence as he retaliated by throwing both legs up into Fernandes's midriff. Kobbie Mainoo blocked Rayan Cherki's goalbound effort before Youri Tielemans nearly sliced Antoine Semenyo's cross into his own net as City continued to be the more threatening. Marcus Rashford was inches away from his first United goal since December 2024 when his free-kick came crashing back off the post with United's best effort before the break. Donnarumma to the rescue The woodwork came to City's rescue again just after half-time when Mainoo curled onto the post from distance and the ball rebounded kindly into Gianluigi Donnarumma's grasp. But the City sucker punch arrived on the hour mark. Haaland adjusted his body brilliantly to sweep in Josko Gvardiol's deflected cross. A VAR review deemed Haaland was onside and that Fernandez was not interfering as he stooped to try and head in himself. City came close to landing the telling blow when Fernandez's effort was turned onto the post by Senne Lammens. Haaland also should have had a second when he got onto Fernandez's wicked low free-kick delivery. City, though, were not made to pay for failing to add a second as United lacked the composure and quality to make the man advantage count until the final minute of stoppage time. Fernandes's reverse ball perfectly picked out Bryan Mbeumo but he was denied by a fine save from Donnarumma. Maresca scampered down the touchline in delight at full-time. After a battle for the title went down to the final week of last season, Arsenal and City look a class apart from the competition once more. Both are locked on 12 points with Chelsea, Liverpool and United already cut adrift.

Erling Haaland scored a 59th-minute winner as 10-man Manchester City defeated Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford following Phil Foden's early red card.

Erling Haaland powers 10-man Manchester City to derby win over United

Manchester United celebrated their return to the Champions League with a 4-0 thrashing of Sabah on Thursday, as Cesc Fabregas's Como impressed on their debut in Europe's premier club competition. Harry Kane and Michael Olise, with a brace, both scored in the week that they were nominated for the Ballon d'Or as Bayern Munich were made to work before Bodo/Glimt's second-half collapse in a 5-0 rout.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-announce-26-member-squad-for-friendlies-including-against-india-1789015050304">Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India</a>Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford."I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans," Sesko told TNT Sports."It means a lot to them, especially when they see so many goals. I think it was great for us in general to give us more motivation for the upcoming games."There was one moment of concern after Cunha had given Michael Carrick's team a 27th-minute lead from Patrick Dorgu's cross, as United's defensive frailties almost came back to haunt them.But Joy-Lance Mickels headed wide for the Champions League debutants when free at the back post from less than five yards out.The Azerbaijanis wilted at the end of the first period as Youri Tielemans teed up Fernandes and then Sesko ran onto Bryan Mbeumo's through ball before rounding goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov before sliding the ball home.Midway through the second half, Martinez pounced on a bobbling ball that ricocheted off Pokatilov and a defender from substitute Joshua Zirkzee's backheel as United went into cruise control.Carrick even had the luxury of bringing on youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey for their Champions League bows as he sought to rest legs ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby."I think the confidence boost is definitely big. It's important to recover good and focus on the derby," added Sesko.<h2>Eight in a row for Kane</h2>Goals from Croatia midfielder Martin Baturina, Greece forward Tasos Douvikas and Senegal's Assane Diao put Como in control against RB Leipzig.Serbia midfielder Andrija Maksimovic pulled a goal back for Leipzig before Maximo Perrone sealed a 4-1 victory late on a dream night in northern Italy.Kane scored for the eighth Champions League game in a row as he powered home a header from Olise's free-kick, with Bayern eventually overcoming a spirited Bodo/Glimt.Jamal Musiala had given them the lead shortly after a goalless first half and after Kane's goal, Alphonso Davies shot into the bottom corner when Olise's corner was only half cleared.It was Musiala's first goal since he collapsed on the pitch during pre-season due to a neurological condition."Scoring a goal -- pure happiness," Musiala told DAZN."I just want to perform well again... I just want to get back to my level step by step, playing with a sense of ease, joy, and fun on the pitch."Olise got in on the act with a sumptuous finish seven minutes from time before Odin Bjortuft was dismissed for the Norwegians.Olise then completed the rout with his second.Lens twice came from behind to beat 10-man Slavia Prague 3-2 with injury-time goals from Florian Thauvin and Ruben Aguilar.Danijel Sturm had twice given Slavia the lead, firstly just after Mikulas Konecny was dismissed and then with just two minutes remaining, but the Czechs were unable to hold on.Earlier on, there were 1-1 draws between Fenerbahce and Roma, and between PSV Eindhoven and Shakhtar Donetsk.Fenerbahce coach Ismail Kartal quit after the match in Istanbul, during which he was targeted by a bottle thrown from the crowd.But his president Aziz Yildirim said he had rejected the resignation.

Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Manchester United celebrated their return to the Champions League with a 4-0 thrashing of Sabah on Thursday, as Cesc Fabregas's Como impressed on their debut in Europe's premier club competition. Harry Kane and Michael Olise, with a brace, both scored in the week that they were nominated for the Ballon d'Or as Bayern Munich were made to work before Bodo/Glimt's second-half collapse in a 5-0 rout. Also Read - Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford. "I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans," Sesko told TNT Sports. "It means a lot to them, especially when they see so many goals. I think it was great for us in general to give us more motivation for the upcoming games." There was one moment of concern after Cunha had given Michael Carrick's team a 27th-minute lead from Patrick Dorgu's cross, as United's defensive frailties almost came back to haunt them. But Joy-Lance Mickels headed wide for the Champions League debutants when free at the back post from less than five yards out. The Azerbaijanis wilted at the end of the first period as Youri Tielemans teed up Fernandes and then Sesko ran onto Bryan Mbeumo's through ball before rounding goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov before sliding the ball home. Midway through the second half, Martinez pounced on a bobbling ball that ricocheted off Pokatilov and a defender from substitute Joshua Zirkzee's backheel as United went into cruise control. Carrick even had the luxury of bringing on youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey for their Champions League bows as he sought to rest legs ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby. "I think the confidence boost is definitely big. It's important to recover good and focus on the derby," added Sesko. Eight in a row for Kane Goals from Croatia midfielder Martin Baturina, Greece forward Tasos Douvikas and Senegal's Assane Diao put Como in control against RB Leipzig. Serbia midfielder Andrija Maksimovic pulled a goal back for Leipzig before Maximo Perrone sealed a 4-1 victory late on a dream night in northern Italy. Kane scored for the eighth Champions League game in a row as he powered home a header from Olise's free-kick, with Bayern eventually overcoming a spirited Bodo/Glimt. Jamal Musiala had given them the lead shortly after a goalless first half and after Kane's goal, Alphonso Davies shot into the bottom corner when Olise's corner was only half cleared. It was Musiala's first goal since he collapsed on the pitch during pre-season due to a neurological condition. "Scoring a goal -- pure happiness," Musiala told DAZN. "I just want to perform well again... I just want to get back to my level step by step, playing with a sense of ease, joy, and fun on the pitch." Olise got in on the act with a sumptuous finish seven minutes from time before Odin Bjortuft was dismissed for the Norwegians. Olise then completed the rout with his second. Lens twice came from behind to beat 10-man Slavia Prague 3-2 with injury-time goals from Florian Thauvin and Ruben Aguilar. Danijel Sturm had twice given Slavia the lead, firstly just after Mikulas Konecny was dismissed and then with just two minutes remaining, but the Czechs were unable to hold on. Earlier on, there were 1-1 draws between Fenerbahce and Roma, and between PSV Eindhoven and Shakhtar Donetsk. Fenerbahce coach Ismail Kartal quit after the match in Istanbul, during which he was targeted by a bottle thrown from the crowd. But his president Aziz Yildirim said he had rejected the resignation.

Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Champions League: Manchester United make winning return; Bayern win vs Bodo

Holders Paris Saint-Germain made a smooth start to their bid for a third consecutive Champions League title as Ferran Torres scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 rout of Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona kicked off their campaign by scoring five goals against Feyenoord, while Arsenal impressed with a 1-0 win at Napoli. PSG, who are hoping to become only the fourth club to win three European Cups in a row, visit Manchester City and host Barca in their next two European games.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ballon-dor-2026-nominees-messi-ferran-torres-shortlist-1788965614180">Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Messi, Ferran Torres shortlisted</a>"It is the Champions League, we always play against tough teams, but we have to be focused first in Ligue 1 because we didn't start in the right way," said Torres, with PSG yet to win a domestic game this season.But they wasted little time in picking apart Yaya Toure's Slovan at the Parc des Princes.Ousmane Dembele hammered in a rebound and then nodded in a deflected cross to put Luis Enrique's men two goals ahead inside 22 minutes.Torres tapped home Dembele's cross just after the half-hour mark and drilled in his second less than two minutes after the restart.Spain's World Cup final hero completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, shanking a shot with his knee that spun into the bottom corner.Suleiman Camara crashed in a consolation for Slovan, but Fabian Ruiz had the final say for PSG when he pounced on a mishit clearance.Liverpool made it successive victories after winning at Ipswich in the Premier League last week by beating Atletico 2-1 at Anfield.Atletico grabbed a 17th-minute lead as Julian Alvarez, starting for the first time this season after failing to force a move away from the club, played in Marcos Llorente to dink the ball over Alisson in the Liverpool goal.Llorente has now scored five times in three visits to Anfield, after netting a double at Liverpool last season and in Atletico's dramatic last-16 victory in 2020.Liverpool hit back five minutes before the break through Dominik Szoboszlai, courtesy of a clever backheeled pass from Ronald Araujo.Alexis Mac Allister then hammered the hosts in front five minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike from outside the box, and Atletico could not find a response."I've loved it. The atmosphere has been incredible and I feel lucky, lucky to experience it," said Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola after his Champions League coaching debut.<h2>Odegaard sinks Napoli</h2>Arsenal missed several first-half chances at the Stadio Armando Diego Maradona, with Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret making an excellent save to keep out Mikel Merino's header.Piero Hincapie fired over a golden chance from just three yards out as the English champions continued to push after half-time, but last season's runners-up finally forged ahead with 15 minutes left.Martin Odegaard, who scored the winner against Chelsea at the weekend, played a clever one-two with Christos Tzolis on the edge of the area and crashed a shot in off the far post.Barcelona made an excellent start to their latest bid to end a 12-year wait to lift the trophy, as Raphinha continued his superb form by scoring twice in a 5-1 thumping of Feyenoord.Hansi Flick's men, who lost to Atletico in the quarter-finals last season, have won all five of their matches in all competitions so far this season, scoring five goals in four of them."We controlled the game, we are dominant and this is fantastic to see. This is our style and how we want to play," said Flick.Raphinha put Barca into a third-minute lead before a brilliant long-range strike from summer signing Karim Adeyemi.Brazilian Raphinha, playing up front this season after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Torres, made it eight goals already for the campaign in the second half.Lamine Yamal netted a free-kick which crept through the wall, and although Sem Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord, Gabriel Jesus came off the bench and then headed in his first Barca goal.Ermedin Demirovic scored a first-half hat-trick as Stuttgart eased to a 3-1 home win over Norwegian champions Viking, playing in the competition for the first time in 34 years.Sporting, quarter-finalists last season for the first time since 1983, fought back to see off Galatasaray 3-1 in Lisbon.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain rout Slovan Bratislava, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona scored five goals against Feyenoord and Arsenal beat Napoli 1-0.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain made a smooth start to their bid for a third consecutive Champions League title as Ferran Torres scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 rout of Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona kicked off their campaign by scoring five goals against Feyenoord, while Arsenal impressed with a 1-0 win at Napoli. PSG, who are hoping to become only the fourth club to win three European Cups in a row, visit Manchester City and host Barca in their next two European games. Also Read - Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Messi, Ferran Torres shortlisted "It is the Champions League, we always play against tough teams, but we have to be focused first in Ligue 1 because we didn't start in the right way," said Torres, with PSG yet to win a domestic game this season. But they wasted little time in picking apart Yaya Toure's Slovan at the Parc des Princes. Ousmane Dembele hammered in a rebound and then nodded in a deflected cross to put Luis Enrique's men two goals ahead inside 22 minutes. Torres tapped home Dembele's cross just after the half-hour mark and drilled in his second less than two minutes after the restart. Spain's World Cup final hero completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, shanking a shot with his knee that spun into the bottom corner. Suleiman Camara crashed in a consolation for Slovan, but Fabian Ruiz had the final say for PSG when he pounced on a mishit clearance. Liverpool made it successive victories after winning at Ipswich in the Premier League last week by beating Atletico 2-1 at Anfield. Atletico grabbed a 17th-minute lead as Julian Alvarez, starting for the first time this season after failing to force a move away from the club, played in Marcos Llorente to dink the ball over Alisson in the Liverpool goal. Llorente has now scored five times in three visits to Anfield, after netting a double at Liverpool last season and in Atletico's dramatic last-16 victory in 2020. Liverpool hit back five minutes before the break through Dominik Szoboszlai, courtesy of a clever backheeled pass from Ronald Araujo. Alexis Mac Allister then hammered the hosts in front five minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike from outside the box, and Atletico could not find a response. "I've loved it. The atmosphere has been incredible and I feel lucky, lucky to experience it," said Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola after his Champions League coaching debut. Odegaard sinks Napoli Arsenal missed several first-half chances at the Stadio Armando Diego Maradona, with Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret making an excellent save to keep out Mikel Merino's header. Piero Hincapie fired over a golden chance from just three yards out as the English champions continued to push after half-time, but last season's runners-up finally forged ahead with 15 minutes left. Martin Odegaard, who scored the winner against Chelsea at the weekend, played a clever one-two with Christos Tzolis on the edge of the area and crashed a shot in off the far post. Barcelona made an excellent start to their latest bid to end a 12-year wait to lift the trophy, as Raphinha continued his superb form by scoring twice in a 5-1 thumping of Feyenoord. Hansi Flick's men, who lost to Atletico in the quarter-finals last season, have won all five of their matches in all competitions so far this season, scoring five goals in four of them. "We controlled the game, we are dominant and this is fantastic to see. This is our style and how we want to play," said Flick. Raphinha put Barca into a third-minute lead before a brilliant long-range strike from summer signing Karim Adeyemi. Brazilian Raphinha, playing up front this season after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Torres, made it eight goals already for the campaign in the second half. Lamine Yamal netted a free-kick which crept through the wall, and although Sem Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord, Gabriel Jesus came off the bench and then headed in his first Barca goal. Ermedin Demirovic scored a first-half hat-trick as Stuttgart eased to a 3-1 home win over Norwegian champions Viking, playing in the competition for the first time in 34 years. Sporting, quarter-finalists last season for the first time since 1983, fought back to see off Galatasaray 3-1 in Lisbon.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain rout Slovan Bratislava, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona scored five goals against Feyenoord and Arsenal beat Napoli 1-0.

Champions League: PSG start title defence with rout of Slovan; Liverpool, Barca, Arsenal win

North America's largest film festival kicks off Thursday in Toronto with a jam-packed line-up of more than 200 films and high-wattage stars including John Malkovich, Penelope Cruz, Chris Rock and K-pop superstar Lisa.&nbsp;Hot on the heels of Venice and Telluride, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) draws hundreds of thousands of attendees to screenings and red-carpet events for some of the year's most anticipated premieres.&nbsp;Underdog stories take center stage in the program for the festival's 51st edition, which will host the world premiere of "I Play Rocky."&nbsp;Directed by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly ("Green Book"), the film tells the unlikely story of how a then-little-known Sylvester Stallone (played by Anthony Ippolito) took on Hollywood to bring to the screen -- and star in -- a movie that would change his life.&nbsp;Opening night is reserved for the world premiere of "Being Heumann," a biographical drama directed by Oscar winner Sian Heder ("CODA") that highlights the tenacity of US activist Judy Heumann, who fought for the rights of people with disabilities.&nbsp;The Apple TV production stars Ruth Madeley in the title role and Oscar nominee Mark Ruffalo.&nbsp;Another biopic debuting at this year's TIFF is "Villeneuve: The Rise of a Legend," which chronicles the ascent of Canadian racing star Gilles Villeneuve from his humble beginnings in Quebec to the pinnacle of Formula 1.<h2>- Chris Rock behind the camera -</h2>&nbsp;TIFF offers something for every taste, including several films expected to be in the awards conversation this season.&nbsp;US comedian Chris Rock is bringing Hollywood satire "Misty Green" to the festival in a film that marks his return as writer-director. It stars Rosalind Eleazar as an actress who has fallen on hard times and is now seeking a second chance.&nbsp;The cast also includes Oscar winner Daniel Kaluuya, Oscar nominees Adam Driver and Anna Kendrick, and Rock himself.&nbsp;Another programming highlight is "Wild Horse Nine," which follows two CIA agents on Easter Island during the tense final days of Salvador Allende's government in Chile.&nbsp;Directed by Martin McDonagh ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), the movie debuted in Venice and screened at Telluride, but stars John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell are expected in Toronto to boost their Oscar campaigns.&nbsp;Also making their way to Toronto from the Telluride festival in Colorado are "Elsinore," starring Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman, and the musical comedy "The Debut," the latest directorial effort from Jesse Eisenberg.&nbsp;British megastar Helen Mirren will arrive in Canada's largest city for the world premiere of psychological thriller "A Talent for Murder," in which she plays author Patricia Highsmith, who is pressured by her agent to write one final Tom Ripley novel.&nbsp;Director Zack Snyder ("Watchmen," "300") will present "The Last Photograph," a blend of action and drama starring Stuart Martin and Fra Fee, which follows a former DEA agent on a mission in the South American jungle to locate two missing nephews.&nbsp;Arriving directly from Venice are "Bunker," a psychological thriller starring real-life husband and wife Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz as a couple in crisis, and "Bucking Fastard," the latest film from German director Werner Herzog.&nbsp;On the documentary side, Lisa, the K-pop star known for her work with the girl group Blackpink — will launch the intimate "Always Lalisa," which showcases the start of her solo career and her first steps as an actress in "The White Lotus."&nbsp;The Toronto International Film Festival runs until September 20.

Directed by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly ("Green Book"), the film tells the unlikely story of how a then-little-known Sylvester Stallone (played by Anthony Ippolito) took on Hollywood to bring to the screen -- and star in -- a movie that would change his life.

North America's largest film festival kicks off Thursday in Toronto with a jam-packed line-up of more than 200 films and high-wattage stars including John Malkovich, Penelope Cruz, Chris Rock and K-pop superstar Lisa. Hot on the heels of Venice and Telluride, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) draws hundreds of thousands of attendees to screenings and red-carpet events for some of the year's most anticipated premieres. Underdog stories take center stage in the program for the festival's 51st edition, which will host the world premiere of "I Play Rocky." Directed by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly ("Green Book"), the film tells the unlikely story of how a then-little-known Sylvester Stallone (played by Anthony Ippolito) took on Hollywood to bring to the screen -- and star in -- a movie that would change his life. Opening night is reserved for the world premiere of "Being Heumann," a biographical drama directed by Oscar winner Sian Heder ("CODA") that highlights the tenacity of US activist Judy Heumann, who fought for the rights of people with disabilities. The Apple TV production stars Ruth Madeley in the title role and Oscar nominee Mark Ruffalo. Another biopic debuting at this year's TIFF is "Villeneuve: The Rise of a Legend," which chronicles the ascent of Canadian racing star Gilles Villeneuve from his humble beginnings in Quebec to the pinnacle of Formula 1. - Chris Rock behind the camera - TIFF offers something for every taste, including several films expected to be in the awards conversation this season. US comedian Chris Rock is bringing Hollywood satire "Misty Green" to the festival in a film that marks his return as writer-director. It stars Rosalind Eleazar as an actress who has fallen on hard times and is now seeking a second chance. The cast also includes Oscar winner Daniel Kaluuya, Oscar nominees Adam Driver and Anna Kendrick, and Rock himself. Another programming highlight is "Wild Horse Nine," which follows two CIA agents on Easter Island during the tense final days of Salvador Allende's government in Chile. Directed by Martin McDonagh ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), the movie debuted in Venice and screened at Telluride, but stars John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell are expected in Toronto to boost their Oscar campaigns. Also making their way to Toronto from the Telluride festival in Colorado are "Elsinore," starring Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman, and the musical comedy "The Debut," the latest directorial effort from Jesse Eisenberg. British megastar Helen Mirren will arrive in Canada's largest city for the world premiere of psychological thriller "A Talent for Murder," in which she plays author Patricia Highsmith, who is pressured by her agent to write one final Tom Ripley novel. Director Zack Snyder ("Watchmen," "300") will present "The Last Photograph," a blend of action and drama starring Stuart Martin and Fra Fee, which follows a former DEA agent on a mission in the South American jungle to locate two missing nephews. Arriving directly from Venice are "Bunker," a psychological thriller starring real-life husband and wife Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz as a couple in crisis, and "Bucking Fastard," the latest film from German director Werner Herzog. On the documentary side, Lisa, the K-pop star known for her work with the girl group Blackpink — will launch the intimate "Always Lalisa," which showcases the start of her solo career and her first steps as an actress in "The White Lotus." The Toronto International Film Festival runs until September 20.

Directed by Oscar winner Peter Farrelly ("Green Book"), the film tells the unlikely story of how a then-little-known Sylvester Stallone (played by Anthony Ippolito) took on Hollywood to bring to the screen -- and star in -- a movie that would change his life.

Toronto International Film Festival: 200+ movies, and star-studded gathering

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