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England coach Thomas Tuchel defended his late defensive substitutions in their 2026 World Cup loss to Argentina, stating no one was more hurt by the result and he acted purely to help the team.

England coach Thomas Tuchel has spoken once again on his tactics in the loss against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026. England, hoping to make their first FIFA World Cup Final appearance since 1966, lost the match 2-1 despite being ahead until the 85th minute. Tuchel defended his substitutions, in which he brought in defenders in place of forward players, which was seen as defensive and could not help England save the match. England finished third in the tournament with Tuchel's contract extended until Euro 2028. Tuchel speaks on tactics against Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 “You can try to kill me here. But it’s my scar, it’s not your scar,” Tuchel said in a documentary on the England app. “No one is more hurt than me, no one wanted it more. They can endlessly torture you and think: ‘If I had done different substitutions, then we would have won the match.’ You just don’t know it. Also Read - Pak batter Rizwan moves to court after being questioned by cyber crime agency “Of course you could [have made attacking changes]. No one knows what would have happened. We could have done it and maybe lost 2‑1 and could have gone: ‘Is he crazy? He finished the game against Norway with a back five, why didn’t he finish the game with five?’ I think from what I saw and the experience, the information and the level of craziness Argentina put in – change after change after change, it was just one offensive change after the other. That was my solution to the problem. “That’s what the intervention of a coach is. I try to help, you don’t implement anything for your ego or whatever. You just try to help.” What changes Tuchel had made in the Argentina game After Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute, Tuchel replaced the winger with defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute. Tuchel made two more changes after 10 minutes, replacing Reece James (defender) with Dan Burn (defender) and midfielder Declan Rice with defender Nico O'Reilly. The changes backfired as Enzo Fernandez scored the equalizer for Argentina two minutes later in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner two minutes into injury time. Tuchel then tried to wrestle back into the game, replacing defenders John Stones and Djed Spence with strikers Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford in the sixth minute of injury time, but it was too late for England.

England coach Thomas Tuchel defended his late defensive substitutions in their 2026 World Cup loss to Argentina, stating no one was more hurt by the result and he acted purely to help the team.

'They can endlessly torture you:' England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA World Cup semis

Argentina's great Lionel Messi deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or ahead of favourites Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, said fellow Argentine and Atletico Madrid’s manager Diego Simeone. Messi captained Argentina to the final of the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America in July this year, but failed to help them cross the winning line. Though he and his team finished runners-up, Messi’s individual brilliance at 39 was short of breathtaking. In what was his last World Cup, Messi scored eight goals, the most he has scored in a single edition, and assisted four times to inspire his team to back-to-back finals.&nbsp;Truly impressed with Messi’s inspirational performance at the 48-team tournament, Simeone, who was in attendance for most of Argentina’s World Cup, backed Messi to take home his record ninth Ballon d’Or.&nbsp;While both Mbappe and Yamal have vouched for themselves, arguing why they were the best of the two and deserve to win the Ballon d’Or this year, Simeone said there is no doubt in his mind that Messi stands a better chance than the two superstars.&nbsp;“Messi, without a doubt,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Atletico’s La Liga match against Osasuna. “After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi.”&nbsp;For the record, Messi had the best World Cup in North America. After scoring six goals alone in the group stage games, including his maiden World Cup hat-trick, Messi scored twice in the knockouts before assisting twice in the crucial semifinal against England at Mexico’s Estadio Azteca. His late setup helped Argentina come from 1-0 behind to beat England 2-1 and cruise into the all-important final against Spain.&nbsp;In the final in New Jersey, neither Messi nor Argentina could do anything as Spain played perhaps “the perfect football” and scored an extra-time winner to become the world champions for the second time.&nbsp;Messi announced his international retirement on August 31 this year, days after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away. The Argentina Football Association (AFA), however, has named him in Argentina’s squad for three friendlies, but confirmed that his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-set-to-play-in-farewell-match-on-october-6-in-argentina-vs-benin-friendly-1789526960174">farewell appearance</a> will be against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. While Argentina will first face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3, Messi will feature only in the October 6 fixture, which will serve as his official farewell.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, when the winner will be announced.

Diego Simeone backs 39-year-old Lionel Messi to win his ninth Ballon d'Or over Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal after his 2026 World Cup run.

Argentina's great Lionel Messi deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or ahead of favourites Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, said fellow Argentine and Atletico Madrid’s manager Diego Simeone. Messi captained Argentina to the final of the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America in July this year, but failed to help them cross the winning line. Though he and his team finished runners-up, Messi’s individual brilliance at 39 was short of breathtaking. In what was his last World Cup, Messi scored eight goals, the most he has scored in a single edition, and assisted four times to inspire his team to back-to-back finals. Truly impressed with Messi’s inspirational performance at the 48-team tournament, Simeone, who was in attendance for most of Argentina’s World Cup, backed Messi to take home his record ninth Ballon d’Or. While both Mbappe and Yamal have vouched for themselves, arguing why they were the best of the two and deserve to win the Ballon d’Or this year, Simeone said there is no doubt in his mind that Messi stands a better chance than the two superstars. “Messi, without a doubt,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Atletico’s La Liga match against Osasuna. “After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi.” For the record, Messi had the best World Cup in North America. After scoring six goals alone in the group stage games, including his maiden World Cup hat-trick, Messi scored twice in the knockouts before assisting twice in the crucial semifinal against England at Mexico’s Estadio Azteca. His late setup helped Argentina come from 1-0 behind to beat England 2-1 and cruise into the all-important final against Spain. In the final in New Jersey, neither Messi nor Argentina could do anything as Spain played perhaps “the perfect football” and scored an extra-time winner to become the world champions for the second time. Messi announced his international retirement on August 31 this year, days after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away. The Argentina Football Association (AFA), however, has named him in Argentina’s squad for three friendlies, but confirmed that his farewell appearance will be against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. While Argentina will first face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3, Messi will feature only in the October 6 fixture, which will serve as his official farewell. Meanwhile, the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, when the winner will be announced.

Diego Simeone backs 39-year-old Lionel Messi to win his ninth Ballon d'Or over Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal after his 2026 World Cup run.

Lionel Messi for 2026 Ballon d’Or over Mbappe and Yamal, says Diego Simeone

Raheem Sterling, the former England winger, has pleaded guilty to a dangerous driving charge involving a crash in his Lamborghini on May 28. Sterling, who has played for Chelsea, Manchester City, and most recently Feyenoord, was arrested following the single-vehicle collision and has been disqualified from driving until November 25 while awaiting sentencing. He heard the charges before Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Sep 15), which involved driving recklessly on the M25 and M3 motorways and possession of nitrous oxide gas (known as 'laughing gas') for wrongful inhalation, as well as failing to provide a specimen. Police body-cam footage of him sitting in the car while being questioned and arrested has also surfaced.<h2>Raheem Sterling Reckless Driving Case Timeline</h2>The former England footballer was reported by a concerned motorist while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway on May 28. He was arrested and later released. Dashcam footage provided by a witness showed Sterling's car swerving across the road.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Footballer Raheem Stirling was caught and has pled guilty after being arrested with balloon canisters in his car after a crash in his Lamborghini. <a href="https://t.co/6dIyLnW3at">pic.twitter.com/6dIyLnW3at</a>&mdash; Scarcity News (@ScarcityStudios) <a href="https://x.com/ScarcityStudios/status/2099900951037362319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Prosecutor Simon Jones told the court, as reported by The Guardian, that one witness had "genuine concerns the driver might kill someone" and described the footballer's driving as "absolutely horrendous."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-set-to-play-in-farewell-match-on-october-6-in-argentina-vs-benin-friendly-1789526960174">Messi set to play in farewell match on October 6 in Argentina vs Benin friendly</a>"As she moved past the vehicle she thought the airbag had been deployed, it was a large white deflated balloon,” Jones said. “She had no idea if the driver could see ahead."<h2>What next for Sterling?</h2>The England footballer now awaits a decision in his case and he could face up to 24 months in prison. A sentence of 12 to 18 months is more likely which eventually could end up being suspended. Sterling has 20 goals in 82 appearances for England. Throughout his club career, he scored 91 goals in 225 matches for Manchester City, winning four Premier League titles, and has also played for Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Feyenoord.

Former England winger Raheem Sterling pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after crashing his Lamborghini on May 28. Awaiting sentencing on Nov 25, he faces up to 24 months in prison.

Raheem Sterling, the former England winger, has pleaded guilty to a dangerous driving charge involving a crash in his Lamborghini on May 28. Sterling, who has played for Chelsea, Manchester City, and most recently Feyenoord, was arrested following the single-vehicle collision and has been disqualified from driving until November 25 while awaiting sentencing. He heard the charges before Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Sep 15), which involved driving recklessly on the M25 and M3 motorways and possession of nitrous oxide gas (known as 'laughing gas') for wrongful inhalation, as well as failing to provide a specimen. Police body-cam footage of him sitting in the car while being questioned and arrested has also surfaced. Raheem Sterling Reckless Driving Case Timeline The former England footballer was reported by a concerned motorist while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway on May 28. He was arrested and later released. Dashcam footage provided by a witness showed Sterling's car swerving across the road.

Former England winger Raheem Sterling pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after crashing his Lamborghini on May 28. Awaiting sentencing on Nov 25, he faces up to 24 months in prison.

Ex-England footballer Raheem Sterling pleads guilty in reckless driving and crashing his Lamborghini

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 French national football team is experiencing a rift between two of its biggest players: captain Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele. The rift was sparked by Mbappe's comments regarding his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or in the coming weeks. Mbappe, who led France in the FIFA World Cup this year and is their highest goalscorer in tournament history, backed himself to win the award. Dembele, however, wasn't amused by his captain's choice of words and hit back after his Ligue 1 match for Paris Saint-Germain against Brest on Monday (Sep 14).<h2>What Mbappe said about Dembele</h2>In an interview with France Football, Mbappe said, "there wasn't anyone better than me last season," when asked about his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-vars-involved-in-haaland-s-controversial-goal-vs-manchester-united-not-given-appointment-this-week-1789454931696">Premier League VARs, involved in Haaland's controversial goal vs Manchester United, not given appointment this week</a>He was asked about teammate Dembele as well and said: "He was always seen as a talented player. I, on the other hand, was always viewed as the chosen one. I reached the top right away, very early. Ousmane had a different trajectory, marked by injuries, but he has managed to bounce back!"<h2>How Dembele reacted to Mbappe's comments</h2>Dembele, who won the Ballon d'Or last year, appeared to respond to Mbappe's comments after PSG's 1-0 win over Brest, telling Ligue 1: "I've always been at the back of the class working hard. Throughout my career, I haven't said a word; I've worked incredibly hard. Like I said, I was never the chosen one, but I worked hard and last year I was rewarded after a fantastic year with Paris Saint-Germain. And this year, we'll see how it goes -- no pressure, taking it easy."The French forward backed Harry Kane, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Mbappe as his favourites to win the Ballon d'Or this year, but added: "I don't think this trophy is unpredictable. I think it will remain in the hands of a Paris Saint-Germain player."Dembele won the Ballon d'Or after scoring 35 goals for PSG across all competitions and winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Champions League in a historic season under Luis Enrique.Mbappe, who left PSG in 2024 for Real Madrid, finished 7th despite scoring 44 goals in all competitions for the Spanish club.

A rift has emerged in the French squad after Kylian Mbappe claimed he was "the chosen one" for the Ballon d'Or, prompting a sharp response from 2025 winner Ousmane Dembele.

The French national football team is experiencing a rift between two of its biggest players: captain Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele. The rift was sparked by Mbappe's comments regarding his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or in the coming weeks. Mbappe, who led France in the FIFA World Cup this year and is their highest goalscorer in tournament history, backed himself to win the award. Dembele, however, wasn't amused by his captain's choice of words and hit back after his Ligue 1 match for Paris Saint-Germain against Brest on Monday (Sep 14). What Mbappe said about Dembele In an interview with France Football, Mbappe said, "there wasn't anyone better than me last season," when asked about his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or. Also Read - Premier League VARs, involved in Haaland's controversial goal vs Manchester United, not given appointment this week He was asked about teammate Dembele as well and said: "He was always seen as a talented player. I, on the other hand, was always viewed as the chosen one. I reached the top right away, very early. Ousmane had a different trajectory, marked by injuries, but he has managed to bounce back!" How Dembele reacted to Mbappe's comments Dembele, who won the Ballon d'Or last year, appeared to respond to Mbappe's comments after PSG's 1-0 win over Brest, telling Ligue 1: "I've always been at the back of the class working hard. Throughout my career, I haven't said a word; I've worked incredibly hard. Like I said, I was never the chosen one, but I worked hard and last year I was rewarded after a fantastic year with Paris Saint-Germain. And this year, we'll see how it goes -- no pressure, taking it easy." The French forward backed Harry Kane, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Mbappe as his favourites to win the Ballon d'Or this year, but added: "I don't think this trophy is unpredictable. I think it will remain in the hands of a Paris Saint-Germain player." Dembele won the Ballon d'Or after scoring 35 goals for PSG across all competitions and winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Champions League in a historic season under Luis Enrique. Mbappe, who left PSG in 2024 for Real Madrid, finished 7th despite scoring 44 goals in all competitions for the Spanish club.

A rift has emerged in the French squad after Kylian Mbappe claimed he was "the chosen one" for the Ballon d'Or, prompting a sharp response from 2025 winner Ousmane Dembele.

Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark

The English Premier League (PL) Virtual Assistant Referees (VARs) who were involved in awarding a wrong goal to Manchester City's Erling Haaland against Manchester United on Sunday (Sep 13) have been stood down. This is the first time that PL officials have been stood down this season owing to an error. The decision from Matt Donohue and his assistant, Blake Antrobus, ensured that City, who were down to 10 men after Phil Foden was given a red card in the 23rd minute, came out winners against their local rivals Manchester United.<h2>VARs stood down after error in judgment during City vs. United Premier League match</h2>The incident happened in the 60th minute of the match when the goal by Haaland was disallowed by on-field referee Michael Oliver because of an offside call. VAR Donohue was called to review the decision and overturned the on-field decision, which allowed the goal. Donohue, in his decision, failed to spot Enzo Fernández's role in the goal, where he influenced play from an offside position.Howard Webb, the chief refereeing officer, reviewed the incident with his team, and Pro Ref, the official body of referees, informed Donohue and Antrobus that they do not have appointments for next week's Premier League matches.Also read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/var-blunder-refereeing-body-admits-error-over-haaland-s-manchester-derby-winner-1789371304877">Man United vs Man City: Why Haaland’s controversial goal has sparked VAR fury</a><h2>What next for Donohue and Antrobus?</h2>Pro Ref has said that the availability of Donohue and Antrobus in the Premier League will be considered after the international break.Donohue has been an EFL referee since 2018 and has taken charge of three matches this season apart from his VAR duties in the Premier League. According to his EFL profile, Donohue has completed the "Enhanced VAR Training Programme" offered by Pro Ref.Antrobus, meanwhile, is an assistant referee in the Premier League and has officiated in three matches this season.

The Premier League VAR officials have been stood down following an error that allowed Erling Haaland's controversial goal for 10-man Manchester City in their victory over Manchester United.

The English Premier League (PL) Virtual Assistant Referees (VARs) who were involved in awarding a wrong goal to Manchester City's Erling Haaland against Manchester United on Sunday (Sep 13) have been stood down. This is the first time that PL officials have been stood down this season owing to an error. The decision from Matt Donohue and his assistant, Blake Antrobus, ensured that City, who were down to 10 men after Phil Foden was given a red card in the 23rd minute, came out winners against their local rivals Manchester United. VARs stood down after error in judgment during City vs. United Premier League match The incident happened in the 60th minute of the match when the goal by Haaland was disallowed by on-field referee Michael Oliver because of an offside call. VAR Donohue was called to review the decision and overturned the on-field decision, which allowed the goal. Donohue, in his decision, failed to spot Enzo Fernández's role in the goal, where he influenced play from an offside position. Howard Webb, the chief refereeing officer, reviewed the incident with his team, and Pro Ref, the official body of referees, informed Donohue and Antrobus that they do not have appointments for next week's Premier League matches. Also read - Man United vs Man City: Why Haaland’s controversial goal has sparked VAR fury What next for Donohue and Antrobus? Pro Ref has said that the availability of Donohue and Antrobus in the Premier League will be considered after the international break. Donohue has been an EFL referee since 2018 and has taken charge of three matches this season apart from his VAR duties in the Premier League. According to his EFL profile, Donohue has completed the "Enhanced VAR Training Programme" offered by Pro Ref. Antrobus, meanwhile, is an assistant referee in the Premier League and has officiated in three matches this season.

The Premier League VAR officials have been stood down following an error that allowed Erling Haaland's controversial goal for 10-man Manchester City in their victory over Manchester United.

Premier League VARs, involved in Haaland's controversial goal vs Manchester United, not given appointment this week

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has asked for a ban on fans who disrespected the memory of his former teammate, the late Diogo Jota. Ronaldo's comments came after fans shouted 'Jota' during the Al-Hilal vs. Al-Taawoun match on Saturday (Sep 12). The fans repeatedly targeted Al-Hilal's midfielder Ruben Neves, a close friend of Jota, during his team's 6-0 win. Jota died in a car crash in July 2025 at the age of 28, leaving fans shocked across Liverpool and Portugal.<h2>Ronaldo wants ban on fans disrespecting Jota in Saudi Pro League</h2>"The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behavior," Ronaldo wrote on social media after the incident. "This is no longer football, and there have to be limits. People who behave like this should never be allowed to enter a stadium again."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-206-winner-alxeander-zverev-reveals-being-diagnosed-with-diabetes-at-age-of-4-1789367579869">US Open 2026 winner Alexander Zverev reveals being diagnosed with diabetes at age of 4</a>Neves, who played with Jota at Wolverhampton Wanderers and for Portugal, has a tattoo on his calf of him and Jota embracing. He clapped at the fans after being subjected to the chants of 'Jota, Jota'.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR FROM A FEW AL-TAAWOUN FANS TODAY, CHANTING “JOTA” AT RÚBEN NEVES 🗣️🇵🇹 NEVES RESPONDED AFTER THE MATCH: “I HOPE THEY DON’T GO TO PRAY AFTER WHAT THEY DID.” <a href="https://t.co/K1NAOlrHqL">pic.twitter.com/K1NAOlrHqL</a>&mdash; All About SPL 🔔 🇸🇦 (@Saudifutbol) <a href="https://x.com/Saudifutbol/status/2098875271717835175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"I just hope they don't go to pray later after what they did," Neves told reporters after the match.<h2>What did the clubs and league say?</h2>"The company expressed its absolute rejection of such actions targeting players or their families, or intended to cause personal offense," Al-Hilal said in a statement.Al-Taawoun's statement said: "Such conduct is completely unacceptable and does not represent Al-Taawoun, its supporters, or the values for which its terraces are known."The league also acknowledged the behavior of some fans as being "inconsistent with the values of Saudi football and the principles of sportsmanship."The statement also made its stance clear, stating that using such tragedies "for the purpose of abuse or provocation is unacceptable behavior that has no place in Saudi football."

Cristiano Ronaldo demanded a stadium ban for fans who mocked late teammate Diogo Jota during an Al-Hilal match. The league and clubs condemned the chants targeted at Jota’s friend, Rúben Neves.

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has asked for a ban on fans who disrespected the memory of his former teammate, the late Diogo Jota. Ronaldo's comments came after fans shouted 'Jota' during the Al-Hilal vs. Al-Taawoun match on Saturday (Sep 12). The fans repeatedly targeted Al-Hilal's midfielder Ruben Neves, a close friend of Jota, during his team's 6-0 win. Jota died in a car crash in July 2025 at the age of 28, leaving fans shocked across Liverpool and Portugal. Ronaldo wants ban on fans disrespecting Jota in Saudi Pro League "The league must take action and punish this kind of fan behavior," Ronaldo wrote on social media after the incident. "This is no longer football, and there have to be limits. People who behave like this should never be allowed to enter a stadium again." Also Read - US Open 2026 winner Alexander Zverev reveals being diagnosed with diabetes at age of 4 Neves, who played with Jota at Wolverhampton Wanderers and for Portugal, has a tattoo on his calf of him and Jota embracing. He clapped at the fans after being subjected to the chants of 'Jota, Jota'.

Cristiano Ronaldo demanded a stadium ban for fans who mocked late teammate Diogo Jota during an Al-Hilal match. The league and clubs condemned the chants targeted at Jota’s friend, Rúben Neves.

Cristiano Ronaldo wants fans disrespecting late teammate Jota 'never be allowed to enter a stadium again' in Saudi Pro League

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

Brazil, the five-time FIFA World Cup winner, will be playing three friendlies in the coming days, including their first-ever match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who had vowed squad changes after their Round of 16 elimination against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has announced a new-look 26-member team. Before India, Brazil will play two friendlies against Australia - on September 25 in Townsville and on September 29 in Brisbane. Brazil's next big tournament is the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 before preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup begins.<h2>Brazil names 26-member squad for friendlies, including match against India</h2>The most noticeable change Ancelotti made was an overhaul of goalkeepers, which includes three new players in Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro), while Liverpool's Alisson Becker failed to find a place.From the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, the known players missing from the new-look squad are veteran midfielder Casemiro (Inter Miami) and Fabinho. Brazil's all-time highest goalscorer, Neymar, who announced his retirement post the FIFA World Cup debacle, is also not in the squad.Among the players who made the cut are Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias and PSV Eindhoven full-back Mauro Junior.Ancelotti, however, retained experienced players such as Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, Barcelona's Raphinha, Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes, and Paris Saint-Germain skipper Marquinhos."With these three friendlies, we will start the new cycle to project the Selecao in the objectives of the coming years, which are the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup," said Ancelotti while announcing the squad.<h2>Brazil full squad for friendlies, including India:</h2>Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro)Defenders: Arthur Dias (Athletico-PR), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Jair (Nottingham Forest), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Matheuzinho (Corinthians), Mauro Junior (PSV), Vitor Reis (Manchester City), and Wesley (Roma)Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Manchester United), Breno Bidon (Corinthians), Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal), Danilo (Botafogo), Douglas Luiz (Juventus), and Gabriel Bontempo (Santos)Forwards: Endrick (Real Madrid), Estavao (Chelsea), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Pedro (Flamengo), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Samuel Lino (Flamengo), and Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti named a new-look 26-man Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India (Oct 3, Kolkata). Stars Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Marquinhos return, while Neymar, Casemiro, and Alisson miss out.

Brazil, the five-time FIFA World Cup winner, will be playing three friendlies in the coming days, including their first-ever match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who had vowed squad changes after their Round of 16 elimination against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has announced a new-look 26-member team. Before India, Brazil will play two friendlies against Australia - on September 25 in Townsville and on September 29 in Brisbane. Brazil's next big tournament is the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 before preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup begins. Brazil names 26-member squad for friendlies, including match against India The most noticeable change Ancelotti made was an overhaul of goalkeepers, which includes three new players in Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro), while Liverpool's Alisson Becker failed to find a place. From the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, the known players missing from the new-look squad are veteran midfielder Casemiro (Inter Miami) and Fabinho. Brazil's all-time highest goalscorer, Neymar, who announced his retirement post the FIFA World Cup debacle, is also not in the squad. Among the players who made the cut are Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias and PSV Eindhoven full-back Mauro Junior. Ancelotti, however, retained experienced players such as Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, Barcelona's Raphinha, Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes, and Paris Saint-Germain skipper Marquinhos. "With these three friendlies, we will start the new cycle to project the Selecao in the objectives of the coming years, which are the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup," said Ancelotti while announcing the squad. Brazil full squad for friendlies, including India: Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro) Defenders: Arthur Dias (Athletico-PR), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Jair (Nottingham Forest), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Matheuzinho (Corinthians), Mauro Junior (PSV), Vitor Reis (Manchester City), and Wesley (Roma) Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Manchester United), Breno Bidon (Corinthians), Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal), Danilo (Botafogo), Douglas Luiz (Juventus), and Gabriel Bontempo (Santos) Forwards: Endrick (Real Madrid), Estavao (Chelsea), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Pedro (Flamengo), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Samuel Lino (Flamengo), and Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti named a new-look 26-man Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India (Oct 3, Kolkata). Stars Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Marquinhos return, while Neymar, Casemiro, and Alisson miss out.

Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India

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

Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, has been nominated for the coveted Ballon d’Or this year. Besides him, Lionel Messi also received his 17th nomination, with the two leading the 30-man Ballon d’Or list revealed on Tuesday. Torres has since joined the Champions League winners, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and is one of six Spanish World Cup winners, including Rodri and teen sensation Lamine Yamal, to make the cut. Yamal finished second behind France and PSG forward Ousmane Dembele for the ultimate prize last season. &nbsp;Amongst women’s nominations, three-time winner Aitana Bonmatí failed to make the list after breaking her leg midway through the season; however, her former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who won the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, is there. &nbsp;Spanish forward Torres also won La Liga with Barcelona in May, but will now team up with Dembele, who is one of nine PSG players on the list, who have also won back-to-back Champions Leagues in the last two years. Torres’s summer move to PSG brings the French champions’ total to 10 nominees.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-makes-winning-comeback-as-real-madrid-beat-inter-milan-1788922260426">Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan</a> &nbsp;However, Fabian Ruiz is the only player to have won the Champions League and World Cup in 2026. Besides them, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the Portuguese midfield pair of Vitinha and Joao Neves have also been nominated for the top individual prize in all of football this year.<h2>Messi nominated for 17th time</h2>2022 World Cup winner and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Lionel Messi, continued to lead nominations for the 17th time for his prize, while his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo missed out. Messi inspired Argentina to back-to-back World Cup finals before losing to Spain in extra time in what was a lopsided final in New Jersey. &nbsp;Other high-profile names include England captain and talismanic striker Harry Kane, who won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. His German club teammate and French playmaker Michael Olise has also been nominated. &nbsp;Real Madrid and England midfield maverick, Jude Bellingham, also earned his nomination for a stellar World Cup, scoring seven goals – as many as Norwegian striker and fellow nominee Erling Haaland’s tally at the tournament. Only Messi (eight) and Kylian Mbappe (10) scored more goals than them. &nbsp;Bellingham’s Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé also features on the shortlist after becoming the first player to win the World Cup golden boot a second time, while also leading the tournament’s all-time tally. &nbsp;Interestingly, Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde, who earned recognition for his heroics in his maiden World Cup, has also been nominated for the Yachine Trophy (goalkeeper category).&nbsp; &nbsp;The winners will be announced in a ceremony at the London Palladium Theatre on October 26.

Lionel Messi earns his 17th Ballon d’Or nomination alongside Spain World Cup hero Ferran Torres as the 2026 30-man shortlist is revealed.

Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, has been nominated for the coveted Ballon d’Or this year. Besides him, Lionel Messi also received his 17th nomination, with the two leading the 30-man Ballon d’Or list revealed on Tuesday. Torres has since joined the Champions League winners, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and is one of six Spanish World Cup winners, including Rodri and teen sensation Lamine Yamal, to make the cut. Yamal finished second behind France and PSG forward Ousmane Dembele for the ultimate prize last season. Amongst women’s nominations, three-time winner Aitana Bonmatí failed to make the list after breaking her leg midway through the season; however, her former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who won the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, is there. Spanish forward Torres also won La Liga with Barcelona in May, but will now team up with Dembele, who is one of nine PSG players on the list, who have also won back-to-back Champions Leagues in the last two years. Torres’s summer move to PSG brings the French champions’ total to 10 nominees. Also read| Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan However, Fabian Ruiz is the only player to have won the Champions League and World Cup in 2026. Besides them, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the Portuguese midfield pair of Vitinha and Joao Neves have also been nominated for the top individual prize in all of football this year. Messi nominated for 17th time 2022 World Cup winner and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Lionel Messi, continued to lead nominations for the 17th time for his prize, while his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo missed out. Messi inspired Argentina to back-to-back World Cup finals before losing to Spain in extra time in what was a lopsided final in New Jersey. Other high-profile names include England captain and talismanic striker Harry Kane, who won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. His German club teammate and French playmaker Michael Olise has also been nominated. Real Madrid and England midfield maverick, Jude Bellingham, also earned his nomination for a stellar World Cup, scoring seven goals – as many as Norwegian striker and fellow nominee Erling Haaland’s tally at the tournament. Only Messi (eight) and Kylian Mbappe (10) scored more goals than them. Bellingham’s Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé also features on the shortlist after becoming the first player to win the World Cup golden boot a second time, while also leading the tournament’s all-time tally. Interestingly, Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde, who earned recognition for his heroics in his maiden World Cup, has also been nominated for the Yachine Trophy (goalkeeper category). The winners will be announced in a ceremony at the London Palladium Theatre on October 26.

Lionel Messi earns his 17th Ballon d’Or nomination alongside Spain World Cup hero Ferran Torres as the 2026 30-man shortlist is revealed.

Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Lionel Messi and Ferran Torres shortlisted

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lamine-yamal-ballon-dor-comments-mbappe-dembele-barcelona-1788879907390">Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims</a>Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition.Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul.The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score.Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory."It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems."Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross.Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League."Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime.It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain.<h2>Welcome win for Villa</h2>Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away.John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season.Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break.The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball.Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory."We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery.Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal.Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side.However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in.<h2>UEFA Champions League</h2>Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France.Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille.Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence.Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off.In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights. Also Read - Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010. Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition. Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul. The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score. Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory. "It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems." Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross. Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League. "Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime. It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain. Welcome win for Villa Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away. John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season. Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break. The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball. Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory. "We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery. Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal. Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side. However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in. UEFA Champions League Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France. Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille. Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence. Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off. In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan

Teen sensation and World Cup winner with Spain, Lamine Yamal, said he will not beg for the coveted Ballon d’Or after winning two crucial titles this year. After leading La Liga giants Barcelona to a league title and helping Spain clinch their second World Cup in North America in July this year, Yamal remains among the top candidates to win the highest individual prize in football. &nbsp;On Monday, Kylian Mbappe pressed his case to win his first Ballon d’Or trophy, highlighting his World Cup Golden Boot win, which also saw him become the competition's all-time top goalscorer. Although Yamal, 19, thinks the same about his performance, he is happy to leave the decision to those who vote. &nbsp;Meanwhile, he, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are the front-runners to win the award at the ceremony in London on October 26.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-matches-to-observe-a-minute-of-silence-in-soilidarity-for-nepal-flood-victims-1788840087613">Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims</a> &nbsp;"I don't think I need to (make a campaign for it), I'm not thinking about what I deserve; everyone can think what they like," Yamal told reporters. "I'm proud of everything I've done this year with my club and with the national team. We've become world champions; we've won the league again. I can't ask for anything more. &nbsp;"I think... I've shown an incredible level; it's (the media's) job, and I will not beg for anything." &nbsp;Even last year, the then-18-year-old Yamal finished second behind PSG star Dembele in Ballon d'Or voting. Meanwhile, France forward Dembele recently told France Football that Kvaratskhelia, Kane and Mbappe would be in his top three to win the award. &nbsp;"He's a friend of Kylian, right?" joked Yamal of the French winger, formerly of Barcelona. "The truth is, I don't care; I'm very happy with the year I had. When I played against both of them together, I must have annoyed them."&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🌕 Lamine Yamal on Ousmane Dembélé not including him into his top 3 for the Ballon d’Or: “He’s Kylian Mbappé’s friend, right?”. 😅 “I’m very happy with the season I had. I think every time we faced each other, I probably did something that made them dislike me! And that’s… <a href="https://t.co/jNcDbNTt3S">pic.twitter.com/jNcDbNTt3S</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2097303745461617054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At this year’s World Cup, Yamal’s Spain denied France a place in the final, with Mbappe and Dembele leading the frontline, by beating them 2-0 in the semis. &nbsp;Yamal suffered a hamstring injury in April and has only just returned to his best level. The winger appeared unhappy at the start of the season but seemed far more cheerful as he netted two goals against Rayo Vallecano and Valencia in his last two outings. &nbsp;"In the end, I'm 19, coming off winning a World Cup, having had the best holidays of my life," said Yamal. "I've never been happier at any point in my life than I am now."&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Lamine Yamal says he will not beg for the Ballon d'Or despite leading Barcelona and Spain to silverware, responding to comments from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.

Teen sensation and World Cup winner with Spain, Lamine Yamal, said he will not beg for the coveted Ballon d’Or after winning two crucial titles this year. After leading La Liga giants Barcelona to a league title and helping Spain clinch their second World Cup in North America in July this year, Yamal remains among the top candidates to win the highest individual prize in football. On Monday, Kylian Mbappe pressed his case to win his first Ballon d’Or trophy, highlighting his World Cup Golden Boot win, which also saw him become the competition's all-time top goalscorer. Although Yamal, 19, thinks the same about his performance, he is happy to leave the decision to those who vote. Meanwhile, he, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are the front-runners to win the award at the ceremony in London on October 26. Also read| Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims "I don't think I need to (make a campaign for it), I'm not thinking about what I deserve; everyone can think what they like," Yamal told reporters. "I'm proud of everything I've done this year with my club and with the national team. We've become world champions; we've won the league again. I can't ask for anything more. "I think... I've shown an incredible level; it's (the media's) job, and I will not beg for anything." Even last year, the then-18-year-old Yamal finished second behind PSG star Dembele in Ballon d'Or voting. Meanwhile, France forward Dembele recently told France Football that Kvaratskhelia, Kane and Mbappe would be in his top three to win the award. "He's a friend of Kylian, right?" joked Yamal of the French winger, formerly of Barcelona. "The truth is, I don't care; I'm very happy with the year I had. When I played against both of them together, I must have annoyed them." WATCH -

Lamine Yamal says he will not beg for the Ballon d'Or despite leading Barcelona and Spain to silverware, responding to comments from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.

‘I will not beg’: Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims

The UEFA Champions League, which decides the best football club in Europe, is back for another season. The league phase of the Champions League 2026–27 is set to begin on Tuesday (Sep 8) with 36 teams participating in 18 matches throughout the week on matchday 1 of 8. The Champions League matches, however, will observe a minute of silence throughout the week as a mark of solidarity with deadly Nepal flood victims. The announcement, made Monday (Sep 7) by UEFA, also stated that a banner will be displayed at every match carrying the message "You are not alone Nepal."<h2>UEFA Champions League matches to observe silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims</h2>"The entire European football family will stand together before this week’s matches to express our deepest condolences and our support to the people of Nepal. We wish them strength and resilience as they continue to recover from this tragedy and its aftermath," Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA’s president, said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🤍 You are not alone, Nepal. This week, flood victims will be honoured with a moment of silence ahead of all UEFA Champions League matches. 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/fGLHBehd6R">https://t.co/fGLHBehd6R</a> <a href="https://t.co/VPH9DUJQlw">pic.twitter.com/VPH9DUJQlw</a>&mdash; UEFA (@UEFA) <a href="https://x.com/UEFA/status/2096876172495732802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Nepal floods, triggered by a glacier collapse following incessant rains, have claimed the lives of more than 1,000 people, according to PTI, as rescue operations are still underway to look for survivors. More than 13,000 people have been rescued, while the search for nearly 5,000 missing people remains ongoing.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-asia-cup-final-mohsin-naqvi-trophy-controversy-india-1788794153633">Mohsin Naqvi set to attend Women's Asia Cup Final as India favourites for title</a><h2>Champions League Matchday 1 Schedule</h2>Champions League matchday 1 will be played from Tuesday (Sep 8) to Thursday (Sep 10) among 36 teams in the expanded format. Below are the match-ups:Tuesday (Sep 8):<ul><li>Club Brugge vs Aston Villa</li><li>AEK Athens vs LASK</li><li>Porto vs Manchester City</li><li>Real Madrid vs Inter Milan</li><li>Borussia Dortmund vs Villarreal</li><li>LOSC Lille vs Real Betis</li></ul>Wednesday (Sep 9):<ul><li>Barcelona vs Feyenoord</li><li>Stuttgart vs Viking</li><li>Napoli vs Arsenal</li><li>Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid</li><li>PSG vs Slovan Bratislava</li><li>Sporting CP vs Galatasaray</li></ul>Thursday (Sep 10):<ul><li>Fenerbahce vs Roma</li><li>PSV Eindhoven vs Shakhtar Donetsk</li><li>Bayern Munich vs Bodo/Glimt</li><li>Slavia Prague vs Lens</li><li>Como vs RB Leipzig</li><li>Manchester United vs Sabah</li></ul>

UEFA Champions League 2026–27 begins with 36 teams playing Matchday 1 across Sep 8–10. Matches will feature a minute of silence and support banners in solidarity with tragic Nepal flood victims.

The UEFA Champions League, which decides the best football club in Europe, is back for another season. The league phase of the Champions League 2026–27 is set to begin on Tuesday (Sep 8) with 36 teams participating in 18 matches throughout the week on matchday 1 of 8. The Champions League matches, however, will observe a minute of silence throughout the week as a mark of solidarity with deadly Nepal flood victims. The announcement, made Monday (Sep 7) by UEFA, also stated that a banner will be displayed at every match carrying the message "You are not alone Nepal." UEFA Champions League matches to observe silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims "The entire European football family will stand together before this week’s matches to express our deepest condolences and our support to the people of Nepal. We wish them strength and resilience as they continue to recover from this tragedy and its aftermath," Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA’s president, said in a statement.

UEFA Champions League 2026–27 begins with 36 teams playing Matchday 1 across Sep 8–10. Matches will feature a minute of silence and support banners in solidarity with tragic Nepal flood victims.

Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims

Premier League Matchday 3 is over, and Liverpool have their first win of the season, beating Ipswich Town 2-0. Apart from them, Crystal Palace also got their first win, beating Fulham 3-2. Manchester City, meanwhile, continue to be at the top of <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/tables/premier-league/2026-27/all-matchweeks">points table</a>, while defending champions Arsenal are second—both with three wins in three matches. Hull, who are enjoying a dream return to top-flight English football, are still third after a draw in their third match against Aston Villa. Below are the complete results from Premier League Matchday 3:<ul><li>Liverpool 2-0 Ipswich Town</li><li>Newcastle 2-2 Bournemouth</li><li>Brentford 1-1 Sunderland</li><li>Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur</li><li>Manchester City 1-0 Coventry</li><li>Crystal Palace 3-2 Fulham</li><li>Brighton 1-1 Leeds</li><li>Hull 0-0 Aston Villa</li><li>Everton 2-2 Manchester United</li><li>Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea</li></ul><h2>Who is leading the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goals/2026-27">Golden Boot race</a>?</h2>Manchester City's Erling Haaland is at the top of the goal-scoring charts with three goals. He shares the top spot with Alexander Isak (Liverpool) and Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), who also have three goals each.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rival-driver-loek-hartog-saves-fellow-racer-ollie-millroy-from-burning-car-in-daring-rescue-at-china-gt-1788757114246">Rival driver saves fellow racer from burning car in daring rescue at China GT</a><h2>Who is the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=cleanSheets&amp;season=2026&amp;position=Goalkeeper">best goalkeeper</a>?</h2>Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis continues to be at the top with three clean sheets in as many matches. Arsenal's David Raya is now second with two clean sheets in three matches.<h2>Who is leading the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goal-assists/2026-27">Golden Playmaker race</a>?</h2>Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) is currently the leader in assists with three assists. Behind him, with two assists, are Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), João Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Manchester City).<h2>Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least?</h2>Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals in three matches so far—eight each—while Manchester United and Manchester City have seven each. Hull City, remarkably, continue to be the only team that have yet to concede a goal, while Arsenal have just one against them.

Matchday 3 saw Liverpool and Palace win, while Man City lead the table. Remarkable newcomers Hull City sit third, standing out as the only Premier League side yet to concede a goal.

Premier League Matchday 3 is over, and Liverpool have their first win of the season, beating Ipswich Town 2-0. Apart from them, Crystal Palace also got their first win, beating Fulham 3-2. Manchester City, meanwhile, continue to be at the top of points table, while defending champions Arsenal are second—both with three wins in three matches. Hull, who are enjoying a dream return to top-flight English football, are still third after a draw in their third match against Aston Villa. Below are the complete results from Premier League Matchday 3: Liverpool 2-0 Ipswich Town Newcastle 2-2 Bournemouth Brentford 1-1 Sunderland Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur Manchester City 1-0 Coventry Crystal Palace 3-2 Fulham Brighton 1-1 Leeds Hull 0-0 Aston Villa Everton 2-2 Manchester United Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea Who is leading the Golden Boot race? Manchester City's Erling Haaland is at the top of the goal-scoring charts with three goals. He shares the top spot with Alexander Isak (Liverpool) and Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), who also have three goals each. Also Read - Rival driver saves fellow racer from burning car in daring rescue at China GT Who is the best goalkeeper? Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis continues to be at the top with three clean sheets in as many matches. Arsenal's David Raya is now second with two clean sheets in three matches. Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race? Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) is currently the leader in assists with three assists. Behind him, with two assists, are Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), João Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Manchester City). Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least? Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals in three matches so far—eight each—while Manchester United and Manchester City have seven each. Hull City, remarkably, continue to be the only team that have yet to concede a goal, while Arsenal have just one against them.

Matchday 3 saw Liverpool and Palace win, while Man City lead the table. Remarkable newcomers Hull City sit third, standing out as the only Premier League side yet to concede a goal.

Premier League Matchday 3: Hull City continue dream return, Manchester City & Arsenal still top two

The world of football has been dominated by two names in the last two decades - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both players have millions of fans across the globe, and their rivalry took the game to a new level. The icons, however, have never played a game together, and that could all change come December. Carlos Tevez, a former Argentine teammate of Messi who also played with Ronaldo at English Premier League club Manchester United from 2007 to 2009, may end up bringing the two stars together for his farewell match. While nothing is confirmed, Tevez sounds hopeful of doing something that could be described as a "once in a blue moon" event.<h2>Tevez hopes to bring Messi and Ronaldo together for farewell match</h2>Tevez played his last match in 2022 for Argentine club Boca Juniors and is expected to play his farewell match this December. According to <a href="https://www.tycsports.com/boca-juniors/carlos-tevez-partido-de-despedida-la-bombonera-boca-juniors-id759177.html">TyC Sports</a>, Tevez spoke to Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme, and the chief has agreed to an official farewell match at La Bombonera for the former player.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-vs-manchester-united-2-2-maitland-niles-debut-goal-1788708374662">Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton</a>The match date is not officially set, but it is likely to take place on the December 12-13 weekend or the following weekend on December 19-20. Tevez, who played for Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, Corinthians, and Argentina, is planning to invite around 60 football stars, including Messi and Ronaldo. "We will bring them together," said Tevez, while speaking on Olga streaming channel, on Messi and Ronaldo playing toegther.<h2>Tevez's career in numbers</h2>Tevez played 76 matches for Argentina and scored 13 goals from 2004 to 2015, playing several of these matches alongside Messi. He started his career at Boca Juniors in 2001 before playing for Corinthians (2005-06), West Ham United (2006-07), Manchester United (2007-09 on loan), Manchester City (2009-13), Juventus (2013-15), Boca Juniors (2015-16), Shanghai Shenhua (2017-18), and finally retiring at Boca Juniors (2018-22). In 517 appearances across his clubs, he scored 227 goals. He won two Premier League trophies with Manchester United as well as a Champions League trophy.

Legendary footballer Carlos Tevez hopes to reunite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo by inviting both to his proposed Boca Juniors farewell match at La Bombonera, marking a historic first as teammates.

The world of football has been dominated by two names in the last two decades - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both players have millions of fans across the globe, and their rivalry took the game to a new level. The icons, however, have never played a game together, and that could all change come December. Carlos Tevez, a former Argentine teammate of Messi who also played with Ronaldo at English Premier League club Manchester United from 2007 to 2009, may end up bringing the two stars together for his farewell match. While nothing is confirmed, Tevez sounds hopeful of doing something that could be described as a "once in a blue moon" event. Tevez hopes to bring Messi and Ronaldo together for farewell match Tevez played his last match in 2022 for Argentine club Boca Juniors and is expected to play his farewell match this December. According to TyC Sports, Tevez spoke to Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme, and the chief has agreed to an official farewell match at La Bombonera for the former player. Also Read - Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton The match date is not officially set, but it is likely to take place on the December 12-13 weekend or the following weekend on December 19-20. Tevez, who played for Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, Corinthians, and Argentina, is planning to invite around 60 football stars, including Messi and Ronaldo. "We will bring them together," said Tevez, while speaking on Olga streaming channel, on Messi and Ronaldo playing toegther. Tevez's career in numbers Tevez played 76 matches for Argentina and scored 13 goals from 2004 to 2015, playing several of these matches alongside Messi. He started his career at Boca Juniors in 2001 before playing for Corinthians (2005-06), West Ham United (2006-07), Manchester United (2007-09 on loan), Manchester City (2009-13), Juventus (2013-15), Boca Juniors (2015-16), Shanghai Shenhua (2017-18), and finally retiring at Boca Juniors (2018-22). In 517 appearances across his clubs, he scored 227 goals. He won two Premier League trophies with Manchester United as well as a Champions League trophy.

Legendary footballer Carlos Tevez hopes to reunite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo by inviting both to his proposed Boca Juniors farewell match at La Bombonera, marking a historic first as teammates.

Former Champions League winner Carlos Tevez hopes to unite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for farewell match

Ainsley Maitland-Niles marked his Everton debut with a superb strike, which was virtually the last kick of the game to snatch a 2-2 draw for the Toffees against Manchester United. Maitland-Niles's arrival from Lyon on the final day of the transfer window was overshadowed by Everton's failure to reinforce their attack. But the former Arsenal full-back lasered a long-range shot into the top corner in the 96th minute to punish a lackluster United performance.&nbsp;Bryan Mbeumo fired United in front inside the first minute of the second period. But an Everton side short on attacking options rallied to level through Tyrique George. Substitute Benjamin Sesko's header looked to have won United all three points. But the decision not to reinforce Michael Carrick's defence will face more scrutiny as United have conceded twice in all of their opening three games of the Premier League season.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-premier-league-referee-mike-dean-reveals-playing-games-mid-match-1788512131356">Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match</a>&nbsp;A draw maintains Everton's unbeaten start and keeps them one point ahead of United to calm the sense of unrest among the club's fans.&nbsp;A miserable end to the window could still have ramifications for the teams’ performance over the rest of the season.&nbsp;After letting Iliman Ndiaye depart in a £65 million ($88 million) move to Manchester City and Beto to leave for Fiorentina, the Toffees expected to strengthen their forward line with the signing of Monaco's Folarin Balogun.&nbsp;An issue with the USA international's medical saw the clubs frantically renegotiate the structure of a £40 million deal but Balogun turned his back on the move.&nbsp;David Moyes has been left with only one natural striker to pick from in Thierno Barry as a result and only 18 outfield players.The return of Jack Grealish on loan for the season only slightly softened the blow as Moyes faces up to the realities of a possible relegation battle rather than a challenge for European football.&nbsp;Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as United thrashed Ipswich 5-2 last weekend to get their season up and running after a dreadful 2-0 defeat at Hull.&nbsp;The United captain came closest to breaking the deadlock in a first half otherwise devoid of quality when his volley came back off the crossbar.&nbsp;A sleepy start to the second by Moyes's men proved costly as Mbeumo was allowed to bear down on goal on his favoured left foot and arrow a shot beyond Jordan Pickford.&nbsp;United failed to build on their advantage.&nbsp;The introduction of Grealish off the bench lifted the home crowd and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall twice failed to connect sweetly with clear sights of goal. But the visitors' luck ran out seven minutes from time when Hayden Hackney fed George and the former Chelsea winger blasted into the top corner from a narrow angle.&nbsp;Sesko's involvement has been limited at the start of the campaign due to an injury in pre-season, but the Slovenian looked sharp as he stooped to head in Luke Shaw's cross to restore United's lead.&nbsp;The Red Devils never looked comfortable at the back but could not have foreseen the manner of the equaliser.&nbsp;United looked to have cleared the danger with the five minutes of added time up, but the ball broke to Maitland-Niles who swept a curling shot into the top corner.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a stunning 96th-minute equalizer on his debut as Everton twice came from behind to draw 2-2 against Manchester United at Goodison Park.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles marked his Everton debut with a superb strike, which was virtually the last kick of the game to snatch a 2-2 draw for the Toffees against Manchester United. Maitland-Niles's arrival from Lyon on the final day of the transfer window was overshadowed by Everton's failure to reinforce their attack. But the former Arsenal full-back lasered a long-range shot into the top corner in the 96th minute to punish a lackluster United performance. Bryan Mbeumo fired United in front inside the first minute of the second period. But an Everton side short on attacking options rallied to level through Tyrique George. Substitute Benjamin Sesko's header looked to have won United all three points. But the decision not to reinforce Michael Carrick's defence will face more scrutiny as United have conceded twice in all of their opening three games of the Premier League season. Also read| Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match A draw maintains Everton's unbeaten start and keeps them one point ahead of United to calm the sense of unrest among the club's fans. A miserable end to the window could still have ramifications for the teams’ performance over the rest of the season. After letting Iliman Ndiaye depart in a £65 million ($88 million) move to Manchester City and Beto to leave for Fiorentina, the Toffees expected to strengthen their forward line with the signing of Monaco's Folarin Balogun. An issue with the USA international's medical saw the clubs frantically renegotiate the structure of a £40 million deal but Balogun turned his back on the move. David Moyes has been left with only one natural striker to pick from in Thierno Barry as a result and only 18 outfield players. The return of Jack Grealish on loan for the season only slightly softened the blow as Moyes faces up to the realities of a possible relegation battle rather than a challenge for European football. Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as United thrashed Ipswich 5-2 last weekend to get their season up and running after a dreadful 2-0 defeat at Hull. The United captain came closest to breaking the deadlock in a first half otherwise devoid of quality when his volley came back off the crossbar. A sleepy start to the second by Moyes's men proved costly as Mbeumo was allowed to bear down on goal on his favoured left foot and arrow a shot beyond Jordan Pickford. United failed to build on their advantage. The introduction of Grealish off the bench lifted the home crowd and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall twice failed to connect sweetly with clear sights of goal. But the visitors' luck ran out seven minutes from time when Hayden Hackney fed George and the former Chelsea winger blasted into the top corner from a narrow angle. Sesko's involvement has been limited at the start of the campaign due to an injury in pre-season, but the Slovenian looked sharp as he stooped to head in Luke Shaw's cross to restore United's lead. The Red Devils never looked comfortable at the back but could not have foreseen the manner of the equaliser. United looked to have cleared the danger with the five minutes of added time up, but the ball broke to Maitland-Niles who swept a curling shot into the top corner.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a stunning 96th-minute equalizer on his debut as Everton twice came from behind to draw 2-2 against Manchester United at Goodison Park.

Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton

Kylian Mbappe missed a late penalty as Troy Parrott scored his first goal for Real Betis in a 1-0 win over Real Madrid on Friday, ending Jose Mourinho's side's perfect start to the La Liga season.&nbsp;Madrid had won each of their first three matches under Mourinho in his second spell in charge, but Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Mbappe from the spot deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory at La Cartuja.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-premier-league-referee-mike-dean-reveals-playing-games-mid-match-1788512131356">Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match</a>&nbsp;Vinicius Junior hit the post in the first half from Arda Guler's pass across the face of goal, with Mbappe foiled twice by heroic blocks from Natan and Marc Bartra after a rapid Madrid counter-attack.&nbsp;As Madrid pushed in search of the breakthrough, Betis took a surprise lead nine minutes from time when Parrott fired home the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had produced a fine save to keep out Nelson Deossa's header.&nbsp;Republic of Ireland striker Parrott arrived in Seville last month on a five-year deal after his move from AZ Alkmaar, delivering on his home debut the sort of clinical finish Betis fans will hope to see regularly after his prolific spell in the Netherlands.&nbsp;Carlos Espi thought he had equalised with a superb acrobatic finish from a Vinicius cross, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up.&nbsp;Mbappe then brushed the crossbar with a delicate effort before being handed a glorious chance to level from the penalty spot after Natan's crunching late challenge on Vinicius.&nbsp;However, Valles saved his attempt to secure a victory that lifted Betis level with Madrid on nine points from four matches ahead of just their second Champions League appearance next week.&nbsp;"The team played a great game. Sometimes you lose and cannot explain how," said Mourinho.&nbsp;"We were really dominant, created a lot going forward and had plenty of chances. If the match had ended in a draw we would have been frustrated, so imagine how we feel after a defeat."&nbsp;Asked about the incidents in the closing stages, including Espi's disallowed goal and Mbappe's fluffed penalty, the Portuguese coach refused to be drawn into refereeing controversies.&nbsp;"Honestly, I don't know why we lost. We created a lot of chances, missed three or four of them, and their goalkeeper also made three or four exceptional saves," said Mourinho.&nbsp;"I have nothing to reproach my players for. We probably deserved to win, but deserving to win does not earn you any points."&nbsp;Barcelona can move three points clear at the top on Sunday with a fourth straight victory if they beat Valencia at Mestalla.&nbsp;Madrid begin their Champions League campaign at home to Italian champions Inter Milan next Tuesday, while Betis travel to France to face Lille.

Real Madrid's perfect La Liga start under Jose Mourinho ends with a 1-0 shock loss to Real Betis as Kylian Mbappe misses a late penalty and Troy Parrott scores.

Kylian Mbappe missed a late penalty as Troy Parrott scored his first goal for Real Betis in a 1-0 win over Real Madrid on Friday, ending Jose Mourinho's side's perfect start to the La Liga season. Madrid had won each of their first three matches under Mourinho in his second spell in charge, but Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Mbappe from the spot deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory at La Cartuja. Also read| Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match Vinicius Junior hit the post in the first half from Arda Guler's pass across the face of goal, with Mbappe foiled twice by heroic blocks from Natan and Marc Bartra after a rapid Madrid counter-attack. As Madrid pushed in search of the breakthrough, Betis took a surprise lead nine minutes from time when Parrott fired home the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had produced a fine save to keep out Nelson Deossa's header. Republic of Ireland striker Parrott arrived in Seville last month on a five-year deal after his move from AZ Alkmaar, delivering on his home debut the sort of clinical finish Betis fans will hope to see regularly after his prolific spell in the Netherlands. Carlos Espi thought he had equalised with a superb acrobatic finish from a Vinicius cross, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up. Mbappe then brushed the crossbar with a delicate effort before being handed a glorious chance to level from the penalty spot after Natan's crunching late challenge on Vinicius. However, Valles saved his attempt to secure a victory that lifted Betis level with Madrid on nine points from four matches ahead of just their second Champions League appearance next week. "The team played a great game. Sometimes you lose and cannot explain how," said Mourinho. "We were really dominant, created a lot going forward and had plenty of chances. If the match had ended in a draw we would have been frustrated, so imagine how we feel after a defeat." Asked about the incidents in the closing stages, including Espi's disallowed goal and Mbappe's fluffed penalty, the Portuguese coach refused to be drawn into refereeing controversies. "Honestly, I don't know why we lost. We created a lot of chances, missed three or four of them, and their goalkeeper also made three or four exceptional saves," said Mourinho. "I have nothing to reproach my players for. We probably deserved to win, but deserving to win does not earn you any points." Barcelona can move three points clear at the top on Sunday with a fourth straight victory if they beat Valencia at Mestalla. Madrid begin their Champions League campaign at home to Italian champions Inter Milan next Tuesday, while Betis travel to France to face Lille.

Real Madrid's perfect La Liga start under Jose Mourinho ends with a 1-0 shock loss to Real Betis as Kylian Mbappe misses a late penalty and Troy Parrott scores.

La Liga Shocker: Real Madrid surrender top spot after shocking Betis defeat

Former English Premier League (PL) referee Mike Dean has made some startling claims about quirky things he used to do during his 22-year officiating career. Dean revealed engaging in secret games, such as staying in the centre circle and going without blowing his whistle for as long as possible. His claims, however, have been refuted by the professional referee organization as "improbable" to do without being noticed. Dean was considered one of the most effective referees in England's top-flight football, where he officiated 553 matches and issued a record 114 red cards.<h2>Former PL referee Mike Dean makes startling claims about secret games during matches</h2>Dean, who retired from officiating in 2022, followed it with a brief stint as a video assistant referee. He was on Jamie Vardy's Having a Party podcast earlier this week, where he talked about getting into secret games during matches he officiated.

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"We used to say, 'We’ll kick off now. Right, see how long we can go without blowing a whistle.' I’ve done that a few times in the Premier League, before VAR obviously – [I] went 20, 25 minutes without blowing a whistle," he said.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-vvs-laxman-back-as-india-men-s-head-coach-for-shreyas-iyer-led-side-1788495953574">Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Iyer-led side</a>"I used to do another thing. I used to stand in the centre circle – see how long I could stay in the centre circle before I had to leave. That was just me joking about. I got about 15 minutes once," he added.The refereeing organization, Pro Ref, officials are puzzled by Dean's claims. The organization sees Dean's claim of a referee staying in the centre circle for about 15 minutes as highly improbable to do without being noticed, even in the pre-VAR era.Dean's career as a VAR referee came to a halt in 2023 after he failed to intervene in an error during a PL match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea in 2022.

Ex-PL referee Mike Dean claimed he played secret games during matches, like avoiding his whistle or remaining in the center circle. Referee body Pro Ref dismissed the claims as highly improbable.

Former English Premier League (PL) referee Mike Dean has made some startling claims about quirky things he used to do during his 22-year officiating career. Dean revealed engaging in secret games, such as staying in the centre circle and going without blowing his whistle for as long as possible. His claims, however, have been refuted by the professional referee organization as "improbable" to do without being noticed. Dean was considered one of the most effective referees in England's top-flight football, where he officiated 553 matches and issued a record 114 red cards. Former PL referee Mike Dean makes startling claims about secret games during matches Dean, who retired from officiating in 2022, followed it with a brief stint as a video assistant referee. He was on Jamie Vardy's Having a Party podcast earlier this week, where he talked about getting into secret games during matches he officiated.

Ex-PL referee Mike Dean claimed he played secret games during matches, like avoiding his whistle or remaining in the center circle. Referee body Pro Ref dismissed the claims as highly improbable.

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences.<h2>How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled</h2>Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, <a href="https://x.com/le_Parisien/status/2095120200974614532">reported French newspaper Le Parisien</a> on its X handle.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-retirement-argentina-football-matches-to-halt-in-tribute-to-legend-1788417815400">Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend</a>"Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French).Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym."Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added.According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay.<h2>Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan?</h2>The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences. How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, reported French newspaper Le Parisien on its X handle. Also Read - Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend "Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French). Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym. "Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added. According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay. Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan? The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities foil plan of 18-year-old jailed criminal to kidnap footballer Kylian Mbappe

It has been three days since Lionel Messi, arguably the biggest football star, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DctWzhYxElg/?hl=en">announced his international retirement</a> and hung up his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has now announced a tribute plan for the magical footballer. As part of the tribute to Leo Messi for his service to the Argentina national football team, all matches in the country on the coming weekend of Sep 5-6 will be paused in the 10th minute. Stadiums equipped with video scoreboards will showcase various photos of Messi's journey before kickoff, alongside a one-minute applause during the pause.<h2>Football matches will come to a halt in Argentina in tribute to Messi</h2>In a statement released on Wednesday (Sep 2), the AFA said: "For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-brazil-football-friendly-tickets-go-on-sale-and-coach-khaild-jamil-wants-support-from-the-fans-1788410106751">India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans'</a>Stadiums equipped with video boards "must play a tribute video before kickoff," added the statement.Messi, on August 31, in an Instagram post, announced his retirement and wrote: "It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come."<h2>Messi's Argentina career in numbers</h2>Messi started his career with the Argentina senior national side in 2005 and went on to play 207 matches, scoring 125 goals—the highest for an Argentine player. He also featured in six FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), playing 34 matches and winning 23—the most for any player in history.He finished his FIFA World Cup career with 21 goals—the second-most by a player behind France's Kylian Mbappé (22). He won the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and played his last match in the 2026 edition, with Argentina losing to Spain in the final.

Argentina matches will pause in the 10th minute on Sep 5–6 for a minute's applause as part of an AFA tribute honoring Lionel Messi following his international retirement.

It has been three days since Lionel Messi, arguably the biggest football star, announced his international retirement and hung up his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has now announced a tribute plan for the magical footballer. As part of the tribute to Leo Messi for his service to the Argentina national football team, all matches in the country on the coming weekend of Sep 5-6 will be paused in the 10th minute. Stadiums equipped with video scoreboards will showcase various photos of Messi's journey before kickoff, alongside a one-minute applause during the pause. Football matches will come to a halt in Argentina in tribute to Messi In a statement released on Wednesday (Sep 2), the AFA said: "For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team." Also Read - India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans' Stadiums equipped with video boards "must play a tribute video before kickoff," added the statement. Messi, on August 31, in an Instagram post, announced his retirement and wrote: "It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come." Messi's Argentina career in numbers Messi started his career with the Argentina senior national side in 2005 and went on to play 207 matches, scoring 125 goals—the highest for an Argentine player. He also featured in six FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), playing 34 matches and winning 23—the most for any player in history. He finished his FIFA World Cup career with 21 goals—the second-most by a player behind France's Kylian Mbappé (22). He won the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and played his last match in the 2026 edition, with Argentina losing to Spain in the final.

Argentina matches will pause in the 10th minute on Sep 5–6 for a minute's applause as part of an AFA tribute honoring Lionel Messi following his international retirement.

Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend

India are set to play Brazil in a historic friendly football match on October 3 in Kolkata at the city's iconic Salt Lake Stadium, also known as the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. It is the first time India will face five-time FIFA World Cup champion Brazil in a football match. Apart from Brazil, India will also face Panama on September 26 and Uruguay—a two-time FIFA World Cup winner—on October 6. The matches, according to India football head coach Khalid Jamil, "will be a turning point for Indian football." Tickets for the much-anticipated India vs Brazil football match have gone live for sale on the District app.<h2>What India vs Brazil means for football in the country</h2>At the FIFA World Cup 2026, India were criticised for not being able to qualify despite having far greater resources than some participating nations, including Cape Verde. These matches against high-profile teams, coach Jamil said, are "a very good thing happening for Indian football" ahead of next year's 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-linkedin-fielding-coach-vacancy-pakistan-cricket-shakeup-1788356845017">PCB turns to LinkedIn to hire new fielding coach after Test shake-up</a>"We are playing Brazil for the first time in history. We must think positively. We must focus on only one thing: India must go ahead. Our main target is next year, 2027, Asian Cup qualification. Before that, we are playing with strong teams. This is a very good thing happening for Indian football,” Jamil said to news agency PTI in an interview on Wednesday (Sep 2)."This is history for India. If anybody talks negatively, he must stop. We need support from the fans. I feel that if the crowd supports India 100 per cent, the players will be motivated and will perform well. It is very useful for the players and for everyone. It is a motivation. It is one step, and then the next step is that we need to play more matches to gain confidence," he added.<h2>Where to buy India vs Brazil match tickets</h2>The India vs Brazil match is scheduled to be played on October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, starting at 7:00 PM IST. The gates will open at 4:00 PM IST for ticket holders, who can <a href="https://www.district.in/events/fifa-international-friendly-india-vs-brazil-buy-tickets">make purchases via the District app</a>. Below are the ticket prices for various stands, which start at INR 999 and go up to INR 15,000:

India vs Brazil Football Friendly Seat Layout

<ul><li>VIP Left / VIP Right: Rs 15,000</li><li>A2 (Left) / A2 (Right): Rs 9,000</li><li>A3 (Left) / A3 (Right), C2 (Left) / C2 (Right): Rs 7,000</li><li>B2, C3 (Left) / C3 (Right), D2: Rs 6,000</li><li>A1 (Left) Gold / A1 (Right) Gold, B3, D3: Rs 4,500</li><li>C1 (Left) Gold / C1 (Right) Gold, A1 (Left) Silver / A1 (Right) Silver: Rs 3,500</li><li>B1 Gold, D1 Gold: Rs 2,500</li><li>C1 (Left) Silver / C1 (Right) Silver: Rs 2,000</li><li>B1 Silver, D1 Silver: Rs 999–Rs 1,500</li></ul>

India will play Brazil for the first time in a historic friendly on Oct 3 in Kolkata, alongside games vs Panama and Uruguay. Head coach Khalid Jamil called it a turning point for Indian football.

India are set to play Brazil in a historic friendly football match on October 3 in Kolkata at the city's iconic Salt Lake Stadium, also known as the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. It is the first time India will face five-time FIFA World Cup champion Brazil in a football match. Apart from Brazil, India will also face Panama on September 26 and Uruguay—a two-time FIFA World Cup winner—on October 6. The matches, according to India football head coach Khalid Jamil, "will be a turning point for Indian football." Tickets for the much-anticipated India vs Brazil football match have gone live for sale on the District app. What India vs Brazil means for football in the country At the FIFA World Cup 2026, India were criticised for not being able to qualify despite having far greater resources than some participating nations, including Cape Verde. These matches against high-profile teams, coach Jamil said, are "a very good thing happening for Indian football" ahead of next year's 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification. Also Read - PCB turns to LinkedIn to hire new fielding coach after Test shake-up "We are playing Brazil for the first time in history. We must think positively. We must focus on only one thing: India must go ahead. Our main target is next year, 2027, Asian Cup qualification. Before that, we are playing with strong teams. This is a very good thing happening for Indian football,” Jamil said to news agency PTI in an interview on Wednesday (Sep 2). "This is history for India. If anybody talks negatively, he must stop. We need support from the fans. I feel that if the crowd supports India 100 per cent, the players will be motivated and will perform well. It is very useful for the players and for everyone. It is a motivation. It is one step, and then the next step is that we need to play more matches to gain confidence," he added. Where to buy India vs Brazil match tickets The India vs Brazil match is scheduled to be played on October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, starting at 7:00 PM IST. The gates will open at 4:00 PM IST for ticket holders, who can make purchases via the District app. Below are the ticket prices for various stands, which start at INR 999 and go up to INR 15,000:

India will play Brazil for the first time in a historic friendly on Oct 3 in Kolkata, alongside games vs Panama and Uruguay. Head coach Khalid Jamil called it a turning point for Indian football.

India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans'

Premier League side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-equal-british-transfer-record-enzo-fernandez-1788287462735">Manchester City broke the bank to get Enzo Fernandez</a> from Chelsea before the transfer deadline on Tuesday (Sep 1). Fernandez now joins Enzo Maresca, his former boss at Chelsea, at City, where Maresca takes over from Pep Guardiola. City spent nearly $169 million (£125 million)—a British record—to bring Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium. Along with him, they also acquired Iliman Ndiaye from Everton (nearly $87 million / £65 million), Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest ($156 million / £116 million), and Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille ($116 million / £86 million).<h2>Fernandez shares thoughts on joining City</h2>The Argentine international has signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, which means he will call the Etihad home until 2031. Reacting to the transfer, Fernandez, 25, said via his new club's statement: "Manchester City are the most successful club in England in recent times. Every player wants to be part of a club like this because everyone knows how well-run City are. I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies. This is a club built for success."On his goals at City, Fernandez said: "If you look across the squad, City have quality in every area. I want to learn from my new teammates and become a better player. &nbsp;"I pride myself on continually improving my game. Anyone who’s worked with me will know how hard I train every single day and how much I put into matches. I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that will continue now I’m here."<h2>How Chelsea and Fernandez drifted apart</h2>Fernandez had been looking for a way out of Stamford Bridge since March and initially wanted to join Real Madrid. Maresca's unceremonious exit from Chelsea earlier this year also fuelled his plans. He was suspended for two games in March by the club for speaking out after their Champions League exit at the hands of eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. He came back after the World Cup but was booed by fans at training. He featured in the club's first game of the season against Fulham but didn't take the field in the next two games. He scored 31 goals during his overall tenure at Chelsea after joining from Benfica in 2023 for nearly $144 million (£106.7 million).

Manchester City signed Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea in a British record $169 million deal on a five-year contract, reuniting him with Enzo Maresca after his relationship with Chelsea deteriorated.

Premier League side Manchester City broke the bank to get Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea before the transfer deadline on Tuesday (Sep 1). Fernandez now joins Enzo Maresca, his former boss at Chelsea, at City, where Maresca takes over from Pep Guardiola. City spent nearly $169 million (£125 million)—a British record—to bring Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium. Along with him, they also acquired Iliman Ndiaye from Everton (nearly $87 million / £65 million), Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest ($156 million / £116 million), and Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille ($116 million / £86 million). Fernandez shares thoughts on joining City The Argentine international has signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, which means he will call the Etihad home until 2031. Reacting to the transfer, Fernandez, 25, said via his new club's statement: "Manchester City are the most successful club in England in recent times. Every player wants to be part of a club like this because everyone knows how well-run City are. I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies. This is a club built for success." On his goals at City, Fernandez said: "If you look across the squad, City have quality in every area. I want to learn from my new teammates and become a better player. "I pride myself on continually improving my game. Anyone who’s worked with me will know how hard I train every single day and how much I put into matches. I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that will continue now I’m here." How Chelsea and Fernandez drifted apart Fernandez had been looking for a way out of Stamford Bridge since March and initially wanted to join Real Madrid. Maresca's unceremonious exit from Chelsea earlier this year also fuelled his plans. He was suspended for two games in March by the club for speaking out after their Champions League exit at the hands of eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. He came back after the World Cup but was booed by fans at training. He featured in the club's first game of the season against Fulham but didn't take the field in the next two games. He scored 31 goals during his overall tenure at Chelsea after joining from Benfica in 2023 for nearly $144 million (£106.7 million).

Manchester City signed Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea in a British record $169 million deal on a five-year contract, reuniting him with Enzo Maresca after his relationship with Chelsea deteriorated.

Enzo Fernandez reacts after joining 'built for success' Manchester City in record deal

Premier League giants Manchester City have agreed to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in a £125 million ($167 million) deal on deadline day, equalling the British transfer record. The latest reports suggest that the two clubs and Enzo have finally reached an agreement, with City chasing the Argentine for several months. Moreover, Fernandez’s move equals the previous British record set by Liverpool when they signed Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨💣 BREAKING: Enzo Fernández to Manchester City, HERE WE GO! 🇦🇷 Deal in place for fee over £125m after a long negotiation as Chelsea approved the sale. Enzo only wanted Manchester City and he’s now set for medical at <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a>. <a href="https://t.co/R8rGpD24rc">pic.twitter.com/R8rGpD24rc</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2094814268042453369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Enzo’s move sees him reunite with Enzo Maresca – the current City manager, who was with Chelsea earlier before exiting Stamford Bridge in January. Maresca was keen to land Fernandez after the recent sale of influential World Cup winner Rodri to Barcelona, as well as the departures of fellow midfielders Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-matchday-2-recap-perfect-starts-for-city-and-arsenal-bruno-s-hat-trick-sparks-manchester-united-comeback-1788246283781">Premier League Matchday 2 recap: Perfect starts for City and Arsenal, Bruno’s hat-trick sparks Manchester United comeback</a> &nbsp;Fernandez would join England's Elliot Anderson and Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi in City's revamped central midfield following Pep Guardiola’s departure ahead of this season. While Anderson joined City from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, Bouaddi cost £86 million to become the most expensive teenager in Premier League history.<h2>Enzo Pushed for City Move</h2>After learning about Enzo’s intentions of joining Manchester City, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso had left him out of his squad for the last two games. Fernandez, who signed for Chelsea from Benfica for £106 million in 2023, strained relations with the club after expressing interest in joining Real Madrid, for which he was dropped for two matches. &nbsp;In his last competitive match for Argentina, the defending world champion lost the FIFA World Cup final to Spain in North America. &nbsp;Earlier, he also angered England fans with a provocative celebration of his country's World Cup semi-final over Thomas Tuchel's men, when Argentina won 2-1 to reach successive finals. &nbsp;The 25-year-old has won the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup in his time at Chelsea.

Manchester City have agreed a joint-record £125m deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez on deadline day, reuniting him with manager Enzo Maresca.

Premier League giants Manchester City have agreed to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in a £125 million ($167 million) deal on deadline day, equalling the British transfer record. The latest reports suggest that the two clubs and Enzo have finally reached an agreement, with City chasing the Argentine for several months. Moreover, Fernandez’s move equals the previous British record set by Liverpool when they signed Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

Manchester City have agreed a joint-record £125m deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez on deadline day, reuniting him with manager Enzo Maresca.

Manchester City equal British transfer record with £125m Enzo Fernandez deal

Premier League Matchday 2 is over for all 20 teams, and Manchester City are at the top with six points from two wins in two matches, while defending champions Arsenal are right behind in second place. Hull City continue to enjoy their return to top-flight English football with a second consecutive win. Manchester United, meanwhile, have bounced back from their season-opening loss to Hull City and have earned their first points with a win against Ipswich Town. Below are the complete results for all teams from Premier League Matchday 2:<ul><li>Manchester City 4-1 Crystal Palace</li><li>Liverpool 2-2 Nottingham Forest</li><li>Bournemouth 1-1 Everton</li><li>Coventry City 0-1 Hull City</li><li>Tottenham Hotspur 0-2 Newcastle United</li><li>Chelsea 4-3 Brighton &amp; Hove Albion</li><li>Leeds United 1-1 Brentford</li><li>Sunderland 1-0 Fulham</li><li>Manchester United 5-2 Ipswich Town</li><li>Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal</li></ul><h2><a href="premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=goals&amp;season=2026">Who leads the Golden Boot race?</a></h2>Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes leads the goal tally with three goals after scoring a hat-trick against Ipswich Town on Matchday 2. Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton), João Pedro (Chelsea), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), and Erling Haaland (Man City) each have two goals.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2026-stan-wawrinka-2016-winner-bids-adieu-to-new-york-after-first-round-loss-1788233290607">US Open 2026: Wawrinka, 2016 winner, bids adieu to New York after 1st round loss</a><h2>Which team has scored the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/tables/premier-league/2026-27/all-matchweeks">most goals and conceded the least</a>?</h2>After two matches each, Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals for a team, with seven each. Arsenal and Hull City, meanwhile, have not conceded a single goal so far in the two matches played this season.<h2><a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=cleanSheets&amp;season=2026&amp;position=Goalkeeper">Who is the best goalkeeper?</a></h2>Arsenal's David Raya and Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis are tied at the top for the Golden Glove award with two clean sheets in two matches played so far.<h2><a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goal-assists/2026-27">Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race?</a></h2>Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Man City) are in a six-way tie for the Golden Playmaker award for the most assists, with two assists each.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Win</td><td>Loss</td><td>Draw</td><td>Points</td></tr><tr><td>Manchester City</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Arsenal</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Hull City</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Chelsea</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Brentford</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Newcastle</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Everton</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Leeds</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Brighton and Hove Albion</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Manchester United</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Sunderland</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Ipswich Town</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Liverpool</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>Bournemouth</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Nottingham Forest</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Fulham</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Coventry City</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Crystal Palace</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Aston Villa</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Tottenham Hotspur</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Manchester City lead Premier League Matchday 2 on goal difference with six points, while Arsenal sit second. Bruno Fernandes tops the Golden Boot race with three goals for Manchester United.

Premier League Matchday 2 is over for all 20 teams, and Manchester City are at the top with six points from two wins in two matches, while defending champions Arsenal are right behind in second place. Hull City continue to enjoy their return to top-flight English football with a second consecutive win. Manchester United, meanwhile, have bounced back from their season-opening loss to Hull City and have earned their first points with a win against Ipswich Town. Below are the complete results for all teams from Premier League Matchday 2: Manchester City 4-1 Crystal Palace Liverpool 2-2 Nottingham Forest Bournemouth 1-1 Everton Coventry City 0-1 Hull City Tottenham Hotspur 0-2 Newcastle United Chelsea 4-3 Brighton & Hove Albion Leeds United 1-1 Brentford Sunderland 1-0 Fulham Manchester United 5-2 Ipswich Town Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal Who leads the Golden Boot race? Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes leads the goal tally with three goals after scoring a hat-trick against Ipswich Town on Matchday 2. Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton), João Pedro (Chelsea), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), and Erling Haaland (Man City) each have two goals. Also Read - US Open 2026: Wawrinka, 2016 winner, bids adieu to New York after 1st round loss Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least? After two matches each, Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals for a team, with seven each. Arsenal and Hull City, meanwhile, have not conceded a single goal so far in the two matches played this season. Who is the best goalkeeper? Arsenal's David Raya and Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis are tied at the top for the Golden Glove award with two clean sheets in two matches played so far. Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race? Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Man City) are in a six-way tie for the Golden Playmaker award for the most assists, with two assists each. Team Matches Win Loss Draw Points Manchester City 2 2 0 0 6 Arsenal 2 2 0 0 6 Hull City 2 2 0 0 6 Chelsea 2 2 0 0 6 Brentford 2 1 0 1 4 Newcastle 2 1 0 1 4 Everton 2 1 0 1 4 Leeds 2 1 0 1 4 Brighton and Hove Albion 2 1 1 0 3 Manchester United 2 1 1 0 3 Sunderland 2 1 1 0 3 Ipswich Town 2 1 1 0 3 Liverpool 2 0 0 2 2 Bournemouth 2 0 1 1 1 Nottingham Forest 2 0 1 1 1 Fulham 2 0 2 0 0 Coventry City 2 0 2 0 0 Crystal Palace 2 0 2 0 0 Aston Villa 2 0 2 0 0 Tottenham Hotspur 2 0 2 0 0

Manchester City lead Premier League Matchday 2 on goal difference with six points, while Arsenal sit second. Bruno Fernandes tops the Golden Boot race with three goals for Manchester United.

Premier League Matchday 2 recap: Perfect starts for City and Arsenal, Bruno’s hat-trick sparks Manchester United comeback

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