Sapporo was formally approved on Friday as host of the marathon events at next year's Summer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-medals-unveiled-a-year-before-games-238165">Olympics</a>&nbsp;with the reluctant consent of Tokyo's governor, ending a showdown between the Japanese capital and the IOC over where to stage the flagship event.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stunned many Games organisers last month by announcing that the marathon, one of the most prestigious events at any&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;and one especially beloved in Japan, would be moved to the northern Japanese city of Sapporo to avoid the worst of Tokyo's summer heat.

The announcement enraged Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who said at the beginning of discussions with the IOC on Wednesday that she still wanted the marathon and race walk events to remain in the capital.

At the request of IOC delegation leader John Coates, representatives from the IOC, the 2020 organising committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and national government held talks on Friday aimed at reaching an amicable solution to what has become a very public spat.

Koike reiterated at the start of Friday's meeting there was no change in her feelings that the races should stay in Tokyo and that the IOC explanation still "wasn't sufficient."

"But on these points to make the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;a success we need to build a positive framework going forward," Koike said.

"I don't approve but the decision can't be avoided," she said. "It's a decision without agreement."

She added that they had agreed Tokyo would not bear extra costs of the venue move but other points still remained to be worked out, such as how much of the money Tokyo has spent up to this point in preparation might be repaid.

Coates said they had agreed at a meeting on Thursday that the decision on where to hold the marathon and race walk events rested with the IOC, adding that there would be no other venue changes in the future.

"We will continue as a one-team effort," he said, referring to planning with host city Tokyo.

'Difficult decision'

In Wednesday's opening remarks to a three-day IOC coordination visit, Coates had said organisers "owed it to the people of Tokyo" to clarify any plans over the marathon and race walk and vowed not to leave Tokyo without a consensus decision over the events.

Tokyo temperatures in July and August, when the city will host the Games, regularly exceed 30 degrees Celsius with high humidity adding to the discomfort.

"We thought it would be possible to do something, but our opponent was nature," said Tokyo 2020 organising committee President Yoshiro Mori, adding that he respected Koike's "difficult decision."

The IOC is determined not to repeat the experience of the athletics world championships in Doha, where the heat and humidity forced many athletes to drop out of the race despite the marathon being held at midnight.

The IOC has said temperatures in Sapporo, which will also host soccer games, are as much as five to six degrees cooler during the day.

Asked at a news conference later on Friday about what he might say to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-guns-of-indian-shooting-ready-for-gold-rush-at-tokyo-olympics-249259">Tokyo</a> children missing out on the "memory of a lifetime," Coates once again cited Doha.

"I'm very aware of the special place marathons have in the minds of the Japanese. We also didn't want bad memories, we didn't want people to have bad memories of Tokyo," he said.

"We didn't want it to be remembered by some of the scenes we saw in Doha." Many marathoners at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha were forced to withdraw from races due high temperatures and unbearable humidity. Some were carried off in wheelchairs.

Organisers earlier this year had already moved up the starting times to 6 am&nbsp;for the marathon and 5:30 am&nbsp;for the race walk to avoid the midday sun, and Coates said they were considering moving up the time for some other events, such as equestrian events.

When Tokyo hosted the Summer&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in 1964, they were held in October, an option no longer possible due to international sports schedules.

Next year's Games are set to run from July 24 to August&nbsp;9, with the men's marathon to be held on the final day.

Sapporo was formally approved on Friday as host of the marathon events at next year's Summer Olympics with the reluctant consent of Tokyo's governor, ending a showdown between the Japanese capital and the IOC over where to stage the flagship event.

Sapporo was formally approved on Friday as host of the marathon events at next year's Summer Olympics with the reluctant consent of Tokyo's governor, ending a showdown between the Japanese capital and the IOC over where to stage the flagship event. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stunned many Games organisers last month by announcing that the marathon, one of the most prestigious events at any Olympics and one especially beloved in Japan, would be moved to the northern Japanese city of Sapporo to avoid the worst of Tokyo's summer heat. The announcement enraged Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who said at the beginning of discussions with the IOC on Wednesday that she still wanted the marathon and race walk events to remain in the capital. At the request of IOC delegation leader John Coates, representatives from the IOC, the 2020 organising committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and national government held talks on Friday aimed at reaching an amicable solution to what has become a very public spat. Koike reiterated at the start of Friday's meeting there was no change in her feelings that the races should stay in Tokyo and that the IOC explanation still "wasn't sufficient." "But on these points to make the Olympics a success we need to build a positive framework going forward," Koike said. "I don't approve but the decision can't be avoided," she said. "It's a decision without agreement." She added that they had agreed Tokyo would not bear extra costs of the venue move but other points still remained to be worked out, such as how much of the money Tokyo has spent up to this point in preparation might be repaid. Coates said they had agreed at a meeting on Thursday that the decision on where to hold the marathon and race walk events rested with the IOC, adding that there would be no other venue changes in the future. "We will continue as a one-team effort," he said, referring to planning with host city Tokyo. 'Difficult decision' In Wednesday's opening remarks to a three-day IOC coordination visit, Coates had said organisers "owed it to the people of Tokyo" to clarify any plans over the marathon and race walk and vowed not to leave Tokyo without a consensus decision over the events. Tokyo temperatures in July and August, when the city will host the Games, regularly exceed 30 degrees Celsius with high humidity adding to the discomfort. "We thought it would be possible to do something, but our opponent was nature," said Tokyo 2020 organising committee President Yoshiro Mori, adding that he respected Koike's "difficult decision." The IOC is determined not to repeat the experience of the athletics world championships in Doha, where the heat and humidity forced many athletes to drop out of the race despite the marathon being held at midnight. The IOC has said temperatures in Sapporo, which will also host soccer games, are as much as five to six degrees cooler during the day. Asked at a news conference later on Friday about what he might say to Tokyo children missing out on the "memory of a lifetime," Coates once again cited Doha. "I'm very aware of the special place marathons have in the minds of the Japanese. We also didn't want bad memories, we didn't want people to have bad memories of Tokyo," he said. "We didn't want it to be remembered by some of the scenes we saw in Doha." Many marathoners at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha were forced to withdraw from races due high temperatures and unbearable humidity. Some were carried off in wheelchairs. Organisers earlier this year had already moved up the starting times to 6 am for the marathon and 5:30 am for the race walk to avoid the midday sun, and Coates said they were considering moving up the time for some other events, such as equestrian events. When Tokyo hosted the Summer Olympics in 1964, they were held in October, an option no longer possible due to international sports schedules. Next year's Games are set to run from July 24 to August 9, with the men's marathon to be held on the final day.

Olympics: Tokyo governor gives reluctant consent to moving marathon venue

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-will-reinforce-squad-in-january-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-256463">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> breathed a huge sigh of relief after Manchester United ended their eight-month wait for a Premier League away win as his side beat Norwich City 3-1 on Sunday.

Goals from Scott McTominay, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial capped a stunning United performance in an entertaining game at Carrow Road.

After last weekend's gritty <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-winning-streak-ends-with-draw-at-manchester-united-257174">draw at Old Trafford</a> ended Liverpool's 100 per cent start to the season, the thought of a block of four straight away league and cup games must have had Solskjaer squirming.

Yet his side, still missing Paul Pogba, saw off Partizan Belgrade in the Europa League on Thursday to clear the first hurdle.&nbsp;

With Norwich now also put to the sword, United will travel to Chelsea and Bournemouth in the coming week with a spring in their step.

It could have even been worse for the hosts if Canaries keeper Tim Krul had not saved penalties from Rashford and Martial after two VAR decisions controversially overruled match referee Stuart Attwell.

Reds manager Solskjaer did not dwell too long on the drama after watching his side put in a dominant performance against a Norwich side who had already stunned rivals Manchester City this season.

Solskjaer admitted: "It's been too long but it's great to have it done. But of course, the performance was the pleasing thing."

United's puzzling form has seen them able to hold their own against this season's Premier League's big hitters, taking eight points from 12 against Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Leicester.&nbsp;

Yet, until today they had failed to beat Southampton, Newcastle, Wolves and West Ham on the road.

The Norwegian said: "This is a difficult place to come to, but when we are as focused and concentrated and on the front foot as we were today then we can beat anyone away from home."

The most positive aspect of the performance was the chaos wreaked on the Norwich defence by in-form England striker Rashford and Martial, who has just returned from a two-month injury lay-off.&nbsp;

They were ably supported by Andreas Pereira and Daniel James, with Harry Maguire at the heart of a solid defence.

Solskjaer believes Martial can have a huge impact on United's season if he can stay fit.

"It was a great finish by Anthony," he said. "He's vital for us. He's a top striker, and to have him back fit, smiling and enjoying his football is a big thing for us. He's clever in his movement and one thing he's not given credit for is his defending."

McTominay punished sloppy home defending to bag United's 2000th Premier League goal midway through the first half and the visitors never looked back.

Rashford doubled United's lead when he finished off a counter-attack and Martial get on the scoresheet in the 73rd minute, curling the ball past Krul after exchanging passes with Rashford.

Norwich substitute Onel Hernandez became the first Cuban to score in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mohamed-salah-fires-liverpool-to-comeback-win-over-spurs-258415">Premier League</a> with a late consolation.

But manager Daniel Farke is sweating on the fitness of star keeper Krul, who ended the match limping down the tunnel after damaging his problem knee.

Neither manager was impressed by the two delays caused by VAR interventions.

The first penalty award was particularly baffling after speedy winger James and Canaries defender Ben Godfrey collided chasing the same ball.

Farke said: "Quite obviously it was a mistake. It took two minutes to overrule and it was quite obvious that the foul was on my centre back.

"We are all human beings but when you want to overrule the referee then you must be 100 per cent sure he's made a mistake."

&nbsp;

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer breathed a huge sigh of relief after Manchester United ended their eight-month wait for a Premier League away win as his side beat Norwich City 3-1 on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer breathed a huge sigh of relief after Manchester United ended their eight-month wait for a Premier League away win as his side beat Norwich City 3-1 on Sunday. Goals from Scott McTominay, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial capped a stunning United performance in an entertaining game at Carrow Road. After last weekend's gritty draw at Old Trafford ended Liverpool's 100 per cent start to the season, the thought of a block of four straight away league and cup games must have had Solskjaer squirming. Yet his side, still missing Paul Pogba, saw off Partizan Belgrade in the Europa League on Thursday to clear the first hurdle. With Norwich now also put to the sword, United will travel to Chelsea and Bournemouth in the coming week with a spring in their step. It could have even been worse for the hosts if Canaries keeper Tim Krul had not saved penalties from Rashford and Martial after two VAR decisions controversially overruled match referee Stuart Attwell. Reds manager Solskjaer did not dwell too long on the drama after watching his side put in a dominant performance against a Norwich side who had already stunned rivals Manchester City this season. Solskjaer admitted: "It's been too long but it's great to have it done. But of course, the performance was the pleasing thing." United's puzzling form has seen them able to hold their own against this season's Premier League's big hitters, taking eight points from 12 against Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Leicester. Yet, until today they had failed to beat Southampton, Newcastle, Wolves and West Ham on the road. The Norwegian said: "This is a difficult place to come to, but when we are as focused and concentrated and on the front foot as we were today then we can beat anyone away from home." The most positive aspect of the performance was the chaos wreaked on the Norwich defence by in-form England striker Rashford and Martial, who has just returned from a two-month injury lay-off. They were ably supported by Andreas Pereira and Daniel James, with Harry Maguire at the heart of a solid defence. Solskjaer believes Martial can have a huge impact on United's season if he can stay fit. "It was a great finish by Anthony," he said. "He's vital for us. He's a top striker, and to have him back fit, smiling and enjoying his football is a big thing for us. He's clever in his movement and one thing he's not given credit for is his defending." McTominay punished sloppy home defending to bag United's 2000th Premier League goal midway through the first half and the visitors never looked back. Rashford doubled United's lead when he finished off a counter-attack and Martial get on the scoresheet in the 73rd minute, curling the ball past Krul after exchanging passes with Rashford. Norwich substitute Onel Hernandez became the first Cuban to score in the Premier League with a late consolation. But manager Daniel Farke is sweating on the fitness of star keeper Krul, who ended the match limping down the tunnel after damaging his problem knee. Neither manager was impressed by the two delays caused by VAR interventions. The first penalty award was particularly baffling after speedy winger James and Canaries defender Ben Godfrey collided chasing the same ball. Farke said: "Quite obviously it was a mistake. It took two minutes to overrule and it was quite obvious that the foul was on my centre back. "We are all human beings but when you want to overrule the referee then you must be 100 per cent sure he's made a mistake."

Football: Manchester United beat Norwich City  in away win relief

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-keeps-team-europe-ahead-in-laver-cup-with-win-over-kyrgios-251099">Roger Federer </a>clinched a record-extending 10th Swiss Indoors championship title in his hometown of Basel with a crushing 6-2 6-2 victory over Australia's Alex de Minaur on Sunday.

The 38-year-old Swiss has now won 103 singles titles in his career and the record win in Basel, where he once acted as a ball boy, was the second time he had won a tournament 10 times after achieving the feat in Halle in June.

Federer converted four of 10 breakpoints and did not drop serve to wrap up the match in 68 minutes for his fourth title of the year after wins in Dubai, Miami and Halle.

"It was fast but very nice, I think I played a great match," an emotional Federer said after lifting the trophy.

"I thought Alex played a great tournament as well, and I think we both can be very happy. But what a moment for me to win my 10th here in my hometown of Basel."

Federer and De Minaur traded blows with long-baseline exchanges early in the match, including an absorbing 39-shot rally when Federer led 2-1 before the Swiss stepped up a gear to break his opponent twice and take the opening set.

Federer was ruthless on his serve and retained his momentum and intensity in the second set, moving into a 3-0 lead after winning five games in a row before De Minaur held.

"It was a tough opener... the first five games, we had some great rallies," Federer added. "I never looked back.

"I was great on the offence, made very few unforced errors and came up with the big shots and served well when I had to."

De Minaur's rare success only delayed the inevitable as Federer set up match point and forced the 20-year-old to fire a forehand wide as the crowd rose to their feet to salute the 20-times Grand Slam champion.

Roger Federer clinched a record-extending 10th Swiss Indoors championship title in his hometown of Basel with a crushing 6-2 6-2 victory over Australia's Alex de Minaur on Sunday.

Roger Federer clinched a record-extending 10th Swiss Indoors championship title in his hometown of Basel with a crushing 6-2 6-2 victory over Australia's Alex de Minaur on Sunday. The 38-year-old Swiss has now won 103 singles titles in his career and the record win in Basel, where he once acted as a ball boy, was the second time he had won a tournament 10 times after achieving the feat in Halle in June. Federer converted four of 10 breakpoints and did not drop serve to wrap up the match in 68 minutes for his fourth title of the year after wins in Dubai, Miami and Halle. "It was fast but very nice, I think I played a great match," an emotional Federer said after lifting the trophy. "I thought Alex played a great tournament as well, and I think we both can be very happy. But what a moment for me to win my 10th here in my hometown of Basel." Federer and De Minaur traded blows with long-baseline exchanges early in the match, including an absorbing 39-shot rally when Federer led 2-1 before the Swiss stepped up a gear to break his opponent twice and take the opening set. Federer was ruthless on his serve and retained his momentum and intensity in the second set, moving into a 3-0 lead after winning five games in a row before De Minaur held. "It was a tough opener... the first five games, we had some great rallies," Federer added. "I never looked back. "I was great on the offence, made very few unforced errors and came up with the big shots and served well when I had to." De Minaur's rare success only delayed the inevitable as Federer set up match point and forced the 20-year-old to fire a forehand wide as the crowd rose to their feet to salute the 20-times Grand Slam champion.

Federer topples De Minaur to claim record win at home in Basel

American boxer Patrick Day died on Wednesday in Chicago as a result of the traumatic brain injury he suffered during his fight on Saturday, where he was knocked out by Charles Conwell in the 10th round.

Day, 27, had been in a coma for four days following his defeat and, despite having emergency brain surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, doctors were unable to save the junior middleweight.

"Patrick Day passed away today, October 16, 2019, succumbing to the traumatic brain injury he suffered in his fight this past Saturday, October 12, at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, IL," his promoter Lou DiBella said in a statement

"He was surrounded by his family, close friends and members of his boxing team, including his mentor, friend and trainer Joe Higgins."

"On behalf of Patrick's family, team, and those closest to him, we are grateful for the prayers, expressions of support and outpouring of love for Pat that have been so obvious since his injury."

Day was rushed to the hospital on a stretcher after Conwell landed a flurry of punches that left him motionless on the canvas.

Before turning professional, Day was a highly decorated amateur who won two nationals titles.

He turned pro in 2013 and became a world-rated super welterweight contender, capturing the WBC Continental Americas championship in 2017 and the IBF Intercontinental championship in 2019. In June he was rated in the top-10 by both the WBC and IBF.

Day's death comes after 23-year-old Argentine super lightweight Hugo Santillan died in July from injuries suffered in the ring and 28-year-old Russian Maxim Dadashev passed away two days earlier from brain injuries during his fight.

"It becomes very difficult to explain away or justify the dangers of boxing at a time like this," DiBella said.

"This is not a time where edicts or pronouncements are appropriate, or the answers are readily available. It is, however, a time for a call to action.

"While we don't have the answers, we certainly know many of the questions, have the means to answer them and have the opportunity to respond responsibly and accordingly and make boxing safer for all who participate.

"This is a way we can honour the legacy of Pat Day. Many people live much longer than Patrick's 27 years, wondering if they made a difference or positively affected their world. This was not the case for Patrick Day when he left us.

"Rest in peace and power, Pat, with the angels."

American boxer Patrick Day died on Wednesday in Chicago as a result of the traumatic brain injury he suffered during his fight on Saturday, where he was knocked out by Charles Conwell in the 10th round.

American boxer Patrick Day died on Wednesday in Chicago as a result of the traumatic brain injury he suffered during his fight on Saturday, where he was knocked out by Charles Conwell in the 10th round. Day, 27, had been in a coma for four days following his defeat and, despite having emergency brain surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, doctors were unable to save the junior middleweight. "Patrick Day passed away today, October 16, 2019, succumbing to the traumatic brain injury he suffered in his fight this past Saturday, October 12, at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, IL," his promoter Lou DiBella said in a statement "He was surrounded by his family, close friends and members of his boxing team, including his mentor, friend and trainer Joe Higgins." "On behalf of Patrick's family, team, and those closest to him, we are grateful for the prayers, expressions of support and outpouring of love for Pat that have been so obvious since his injury." Day was rushed to the hospital on a stretcher after Conwell landed a flurry of punches that left him motionless on the canvas. Before turning professional, Day was a highly decorated amateur who won two nationals titles. He turned pro in 2013 and became a world-rated super welterweight contender, capturing the WBC Continental Americas championship in 2017 and the IBF Intercontinental championship in 2019. In June he was rated in the top-10 by both the WBC and IBF. Day's death comes after 23-year-old Argentine super lightweight Hugo Santillan died in July from injuries suffered in the ring and 28-year-old Russian Maxim Dadashev passed away two days earlier from brain injuries during his fight. "It becomes very difficult to explain away or justify the dangers of boxing at a time like this," DiBella said. "This is not a time where edicts or pronouncements are appropriate, or the answers are readily available. It is, however, a time for a call to action. "While we don't have the answers, we certainly know many of the questions, have the means to answer them and have the opportunity to respond responsibly and accordingly and make boxing safer for all who participate. "This is a way we can honour the legacy of Pat Day. Many people live much longer than Patrick's 27 years, wondering if they made a difference or positively affected their world. This was not the case for Patrick Day when he left us. "Rest in peace and power, Pat, with the angels."

American boxer Patrick Day dies following brutal knockout

Belgium&nbsp;became the&nbsp;first&nbsp;side through to the&nbsp;Euro&nbsp;2020&nbsp;finals&nbsp;after&nbsp;thrashing San Marino 9-0 on Thursday with Romelu Lukaku scoring his 50th and 51st international goals.

Russia was on the verge of joining the world's top-ranked nation as second qualifiers from Group I&nbsp;after&nbsp;running out 4-0&nbsp;winners at home to Scotland with all the goals coming in the second half.

Unbeaten&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;has 21 points from seven games, with only one goal conceded, while Russia has 18 and Cyprus, 2-1&nbsp;winners over Kazakhstan in Astana, are on 10. The top two qualify directly.

San Marino managed to keep a clean sheet for 27 minutes against the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists before, as expected, the floodgates opened at Brussels's King Baudouin Stadium and the goals poured in for Roberto Martinez's side.

Inter Milan striker Lukaku became the&nbsp;first&nbsp;Belgian to reach a half-century of international goals with a right-footed shot to open the scoring.

He set up Nacer Chadli three minutes later before an own-goal from Cristian Brolli put&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;3-0 up in the 35th.

Lukaku grabbed his second on 41 minutes assisted by Real Madrid's Eden Hazard.

"It's nice to be so good in the national&nbsp;team, but at the end of the day I want to&nbsp;win&nbsp;a trophy with&nbsp;Belgium," Lukaku told Belgian broadcaster RTBF.

A deflected Toby Alderweireld effort in the 43rd minute and a Youri Tielemens shot in stoppage time saw&nbsp;Belgium&nbsp;cruise in 6-0 up at the break.

The pace slowed before Christian Benteke broke his three-year international drought by coming off the bench to score three minutes later, in the 79th, by wrong-footing the goalkeeper from the edge of the area.

Yari Verschaeren, 18, came off the bench to score his&nbsp;first&nbsp;senior goal from the penalty spot to make it 8-0 in the 84th and Timothy Castagne rounded off the tally in the 90th minute.

"We wanted the 10th, but we didn't get it, unfortunately," said Hazard.

"We started well, we had some chances and could have scored sooner. But we know that in this kind of game you have to be patient."

Russia dominated possession at the Luzhniki stadium but were frustrated throughout the&nbsp;first&nbsp;half by a Scotland side that failed to muster a single shot on target.

The Scots, who can no longer qualify automatically but remain in contention through the playoffs, crumbled&nbsp;after&nbsp;the break.

Artem Dzyuba made the breakthrough for Russia on the volley in the 57th and a second followed three minutes later when Magomed Ozdoev blasted a long-range screamer past David Marshall.

Dzyuba headed in his second in the 70th minute, with an Aleksandr Golovin shot going in off the post in the 84th, as Russia cruised to a comfortable&nbsp;win.

Belgium became the first side through to the Euro 2020 finals after thrashing San Marino 9-0 on Thursday with Romelu Lukaku scoring his 50th and 51st international goals.

Belgium became the first side through to the Euro 2020 finals after thrashing San Marino 9-0 on Thursday with Romelu Lukaku scoring his 50th and 51st international goals. Russia was on the verge of joining the world's top-ranked nation as second qualifiers from Group I after running out 4-0 winners at home to Scotland with all the goals coming in the second half. Unbeaten Belgium has 21 points from seven games, with only one goal conceded, while Russia has 18 and Cyprus, 2-1 winners over Kazakhstan in Astana, are on 10. The top two qualify directly. San Marino managed to keep a clean sheet for 27 minutes against the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists before, as expected, the floodgates opened at Brussels's King Baudouin Stadium and the goals poured in for Roberto Martinez's side. Inter Milan striker Lukaku became the first Belgian to reach a half-century of international goals with a right-footed shot to open the scoring. He set up Nacer Chadli three minutes later before an own-goal from Cristian Brolli put Belgium 3-0 up in the 35th. Lukaku grabbed his second on 41 minutes assisted by Real Madrid's Eden Hazard. "It's nice to be so good in the national team, but at the end of the day I want to win a trophy with Belgium," Lukaku told Belgian broadcaster RTBF. A deflected Toby Alderweireld effort in the 43rd minute and a Youri Tielemens shot in stoppage time saw Belgium cruise in 6-0 up at the break. The pace slowed before Christian Benteke broke his three-year international drought by coming off the bench to score three minutes later, in the 79th, by wrong-footing the goalkeeper from the edge of the area. Yari Verschaeren, 18, came off the bench to score his first senior goal from the penalty spot to make it 8-0 in the 84th and Timothy Castagne rounded off the tally in the 90th minute. "We wanted the 10th, but we didn't get it, unfortunately," said Hazard. "We started well, we had some chances and could have scored sooner. But we know that in this kind of game you have to be patient." Russia dominated possession at the Luzhniki stadium but were frustrated throughout the first half by a Scotland side that failed to muster a single shot on target. The Scots, who can no longer qualify automatically but remain in contention through the playoffs, crumbled after the break. Artem Dzyuba made the breakthrough for Russia on the volley in the 57th and a second followed three minutes later when Magomed Ozdoev blasted a long-range screamer past David Marshall. Dzyuba headed in his second in the 70th minute, with an Aleksandr Golovin shot going in off the post in the 84th, as Russia cruised to a comfortable win.

Belgium first team to enter Euro 2020 finals after thrashing San Marino

Injury-decimated&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;squandered a&nbsp;two-goal&nbsp;lead&nbsp;to&nbsp;draw&nbsp;2-2 with&nbsp;Argentina&nbsp;thanks to Lucas Ocampos's 85th-minute equaliser in a friendly on Wednesday.

The Germans, missing a dozen players and without a single world champion in the starting line-up for the first time since the 2014 World Cup final, fielded a callow team including newcomers Robin Koch and Luca Waldschmidt.

What they lacked in experience, however, they made up for in enthusiasm in the first half with Serge Gnabry continuing his prolific run with his 10th&nbsp;goal&nbsp;in his 11th international, stabbing the hosts ahead after quarter of an hour.

Gnabry turned provider seven minutes later when he found Kai Havertz in the box to complete a quick move.

Marcel Halstenberg rattled the crossbar with a stunning left-footed free-kick as did&nbsp;Argentina's Rodrigo De Paul with a long-range effort.

Argentina, without suspended world footballer of the year Lionel Messi as well as Angel Di Maria and Sergio Aguero, cut the deficit in the 66th minute through substitute Lucas Alario who instantly added more pace to their game.

The Germans, who had four players making their debuts, gradually ran out of steam and the visitors completed their comeback when Alario charged into the box to lay off for Ocampos to equalise.

Germany&nbsp;next take on Estonia in a Euro 2020 qualifier on Sunday.

Injury-decimated Germany squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Argentina thanks to Lucas Ocampos's 85th-minute equaliser in a friendly on Wednesday. The Germans, missing a dozen players and without a single world champion in the starting line-up for the first time since the 2014 World Cup final, fielded a callow team including newcomers Robin Koch and Luca Waldschmidt.

Injury-decimated Germany squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Argentina thanks to Lucas Ocampos's 85th-minute equaliser in a friendly on Wednesday. The Germans, missing a dozen players and without a single world champion in the starting line-up for the first time since the 2014 World Cup final, fielded a callow team including newcomers Robin Koch and Luca Waldschmidt. What they lacked in experience, however, they made up for in enthusiasm in the first half with Serge Gnabry continuing his prolific run with his 10th goal in his 11th international, stabbing the hosts ahead after quarter of an hour. Gnabry turned provider seven minutes later when he found Kai Havertz in the box to complete a quick move. Marcel Halstenberg rattled the crossbar with a stunning left-footed free-kick as did Argentina's Rodrigo De Paul with a long-range effort. Argentina, without suspended world footballer of the year Lionel Messi as well as Angel Di Maria and Sergio Aguero, cut the deficit in the 66th minute through substitute Lucas Alario who instantly added more pace to their game. The Germans, who had four players making their debuts, gradually ran out of steam and the visitors completed their comeback when Alario charged into the box to lay off for Ocampos to equalise. Germany next take on Estonia in a Euro 2020 qualifier on Sunday.

Germany waste two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Argentina

England&nbsp;fast&nbsp;bowler&nbsp;James&nbsp;Anderson&nbsp;has swapped the&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;nets for the facilities at the training ground of Premier League champions&nbsp;Manchester City in a bid to recover from a calf injury, the country's&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;board said on Wednesday.

Anderson&nbsp;sustained the injury playing for Lancashire in July and&nbsp;managed only four overs in the opening Ashes Test against Australia at Edgbaston. He was eventually ruled out of the five-match series that ended 2-2 as the visitors retained the urn.

England&nbsp;play New Zealand in two tests in November and December but&nbsp;Anderson, the country's leading wicket-taker with 575 test wickets, is targeting a return when they tour South Africa for a four-test series starting at the end of December.

"(Anderson) will be hoping to use the world-class facilities at the Etihad Campus with the&nbsp;England&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;sports science team over the next two months leading into the South Africa tour which starts in December," an ECB spokesman&nbsp;told Reuters.

The ECB said&nbsp;Anderson, 37, would be accompanied by&nbsp;England's national lead for strength and conditioning Rob Ahmun, who will oversee the sessions.

England fast bowler James Anderson has swapped the cricket nets for the facilities at the training ground of Premier League champions Manchester City in a bid to recover from a calf injury, the country's cricket board said on Wednesday.

England fast bowler James Anderson has swapped the cricket nets for the facilities at the training ground of Premier League champions Manchester City in a bid to recover from a calf injury, the country's cricket board said on Wednesday. Anderson sustained the injury playing for Lancashire in July and managed only four overs in the opening Ashes Test against Australia at Edgbaston. He was eventually ruled out of the five-match series that ended 2-2 as the visitors retained the urn. England play New Zealand in two tests in November and December but Anderson, the country's leading wicket-taker with 575 test wickets, is targeting a return when they tour South Africa for a four-test series starting at the end of December. "(Anderson) will be hoping to use the world-class facilities at the Etihad Campus with the England Cricket sports science team over the next two months leading into the South Africa tour which starts in December," an ECB spokesman told Reuters. The ECB said Anderson, 37, would be accompanied by England's national lead for strength and conditioning Rob Ahmun, who will oversee the sessions.

Cricket: England bowler Anderson seeks Manchester City's help in regaining fitness

Serie A club&nbsp;Lazio&nbsp;on Tuesday vowed they would try to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;and then&nbsp;take&nbsp;action&nbsp;against&nbsp;fans&nbsp;responsible for&nbsp;racist&nbsp;chants&nbsp;against&nbsp;Rennes in their Europa League match last week.

Lazio&nbsp;has been charged by UEFA&nbsp;over&nbsp;alleged&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour which could result in the Italian club having sections of their stadium closed.

"Lazio&nbsp;will defend its reputation and tradition, the club announces that it has immediately activated the initiatives aimed at identifying those responsible and will rigorously apply the code of ethics to remove those responsible from the stadium," the club said in a statement.&nbsp;

Lazio&nbsp;added that the club would "join any legal&nbsp;action&nbsp;taken&nbsp;against&nbsp;those who, following the investigation with police, are found to be responsible".

Lazio&nbsp;fans&nbsp;also made Fascist salutes during the 2-1 home win&nbsp;over&nbsp;Rennes.

The Serie A played&nbsp;against&nbsp;Rennes with a stand closed as punishment for fascist salutes by&nbsp;fans&nbsp;in a game with Sevilla last season.

UEFA will hand down their verdict on October 17.

Serie A club Lazio on Tuesday vowed they would try to identify and then take action against fans responsible for racist chants against Rennes in their Europa League match last week.

Serie A club Lazio on Tuesday vowed they would try to identify and then take action against fans responsible for racist chants against Rennes in their Europa League match last week. Lazio has been charged by UEFA over alleged racist behaviour which could result in the Italian club having sections of their stadium closed. "Lazio will defend its reputation and tradition, the club announces that it has immediately activated the initiatives aimed at identifying those responsible and will rigorously apply the code of ethics to remove those responsible from the stadium," the club said in a statement. Lazio added that the club would "join any legal action taken against those who, following the investigation with police, are found to be responsible". Lazio fans also made Fascist salutes during the 2-1 home win over Rennes. The Serie A played against Rennes with a stand closed as punishment for fascist salutes by fans in a game with Sevilla last season. UEFA will hand down their verdict on October 17.

Lazio vow to identify, take action against fans over racist chants

American&nbsp;forward&nbsp;Jozy&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;will miss the first two&nbsp;matches&nbsp;of the CONCACAF&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;League&nbsp;after suffering an injury during the Major&nbsp;League&nbsp;Soccer regular-season finale, the US&nbsp;men's national team said on Tuesday.

Altidore&nbsp;was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus&nbsp;Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah.

While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US&nbsp;team said in a statement that&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada.

US&nbsp;Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up.

The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-uefa-chief-michel-platini-arrested-in-2022-qatar-world-cup-probe-228291">FIFA corruption scandal</a>.

The group&nbsp;matches&nbsp;will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday. Altidore was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah. While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US team said in a statement that Altidore would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada. US Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up. The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the FIFA corruption scandal. The group matches will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

US forward Altidore ruled out of Nations League

Former world number one Andy&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;told Fabio&nbsp;Fognini&nbsp;to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Masters on Tuesday.

Murray, 32, lost a tetchy battle with world number 12 in which the Briton twice failed to serve out the match.

He confronted&nbsp;Fognini&nbsp;at the net in a lengthy exchange in which he accused the Italian of making a noise to put him off when he was playing a shot.

Three-times Grand Slam champion&nbsp;Murray, who underwent a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-hopes-to-be-fit-enough-by-next-year-to-play-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-249345">career-saving hip resurfacing procedure</a> in January, showed some encouraging signs as he continued his injury comeback before losing in just over three hours.

"There is a lot of things that I need to get better at, and I can do much better," said&nbsp;Murray.

"I will go away and I'll work on those things and be in a better position next time I play against him."

Roger Federer eased past Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-2 7-6(5) to reach the last-16, avenging a&nbsp;defeat&nbsp;to the Spaniard in their last meeting at the same stage of the tournament in 2015.

Second seed Federer, who received a first-round bye, broke Ramos-Vinolas twice in the opening set and sailed through his service games without facing a breakpoint in the match.

Ramos-Vinolas, who upset Federer four years ago to snap a 15-match losing streak against top-10 players, recovered well to force a second-set tiebreak but his Swiss opponent came back from 4-1 down to seal victory.

"I focussed because when you travel around the globe, you're missing a bit of energy. Those first few games or matches can be sometimes a bit tricky," Federer said.

"Serve was solid. I was hitting my spots and really was never in trouble there. But of course all of a sudden, being in a breaker, calls out for different play sometimes and different momentum.

"He had his chances, but it was a nice comeback for me, and overall."

Federer, a twice&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;champion, next meets Belgian David Goffin or Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin for a quarter-final spot.

Former world number one Andy Murray told Fabio Fognini to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the Shanghai Masters on Tuesday.

Former world number one Andy Murray told Fabio Fognini to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the Shanghai Masters on Tuesday. Murray, 32, lost a tetchy battle with world number 12 in which the Briton twice failed to serve out the match. He confronted Fognini at the net in a lengthy exchange in which he accused the Italian of making a noise to put him off when he was playing a shot. Three-times Grand Slam champion Murray, who underwent a career-saving hip resurfacing procedure in January, showed some encouraging signs as he continued his injury comeback before losing in just over three hours. "There is a lot of things that I need to get better at, and I can do much better," said Murray. "I will go away and I'll work on those things and be in a better position next time I play against him." Roger Federer eased past Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-2 7-6(5) to reach the last-16, avenging a defeat to the Spaniard in their last meeting at the same stage of the tournament in 2015. Second seed Federer, who received a first-round bye, broke Ramos-Vinolas twice in the opening set and sailed through his service games without facing a breakpoint in the match. Ramos-Vinolas, who upset Federer four years ago to snap a 15-match losing streak against top-10 players, recovered well to force a second-set tiebreak but his Swiss opponent came back from 4-1 down to seal victory. "I focussed because when you travel around the globe, you're missing a bit of energy. Those first few games or matches can be sometimes a bit tricky," Federer said. "Serve was solid. I was hitting my spots and really was never in trouble there. But of course all of a sudden, being in a breaker, calls out for different play sometimes and different momentum. "He had his chances, but it was a nice comeback for me, and overall." Federer, a twice Shanghai champion, next meets Belgian David Goffin or Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin for a quarter-final spot.

Murray fumes at Fognini, loses in Shanghai Masters

France striker Kylian&nbsp;Mbappe&nbsp;has been&nbsp;ruled&nbsp;out&nbsp;of their&nbsp;Euro&nbsp;2020&nbsp;qualifiers&nbsp;against Iceland and Turkey through injury, the French football federation said on Tuesday.

Paris St Germain's&nbsp;Mbappe, who has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-lose-mbappe-for-a-month-with-hamstring-injury-cavani-out-for-three-weeks-245837">struggling with a recurring thigh problem</a>, has been replaced in the squad by Borussia Moenchengladbach forward Alassane Plea.

France travel to Iceland in Group H on Friday before hosting Turkey at the Stade de France on Monday.

The world champions are second in Group H on 15 points, behind Turkey by virtue of their defeat in Konya last June, while Iceland is third with 12 points after six matches.

France striker Kylian Mbappe has been ruled out of their Euro 2020 qualifiers against Iceland and Turkey through injury, the French football federation said on Tuesday.

France striker Kylian Mbappe has been ruled out of their Euro 2020 qualifiers against Iceland and Turkey through injury, the French football federation said on Tuesday. Paris St Germain's Mbappe, who has been struggling with a recurring thigh problem, has been replaced in the squad by Borussia Moenchengladbach forward Alassane Plea. France travel to Iceland in Group H on Friday before hosting Turkey at the Stade de France on Monday. The world champions are second in Group H on 15 points, behind Turkey by virtue of their defeat in Konya last June, while Iceland is third with 12 points after six matches.

Euro 2020 qualifiers: Mbappe ruled out against Iceland, Turkey due to injury

England&nbsp;has&nbsp;called&nbsp;up&nbsp;Sheffield United goalkeeper&nbsp;Dean&nbsp;Henderson&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time following Tom&nbsp;Heaton's withdrawal through injury for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Bulgaria, the FA said on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old&nbsp;Henderson, on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester United, will link&nbsp;up&nbsp;with Gareth Southgate’s 24-man squad on Wednesday after&nbsp;Heaton&nbsp;returned to Aston Villa after suffering the injury in their win at Norwich City last weekend.

Henderson&nbsp;was criticised by his club manager Chris Wilder after gifting Premier League leaders Liverpool the only goal in a 1-0 win at Bramall Lane on Sept. 28, watched by Southgate, but responded with a clean sheet in the draw at Watford on Saturday.

Henderson, who has featured for&nbsp;England&nbsp;from under-16 through to under-21 level, will travel to the Czech Republic and Bulgaria with goalkeepers Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope for the Group&nbsp;A qualifiers on Friday and Monday respectively.

England&nbsp;are top of the section with a perfect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-kane-treble-fires-england-in-bulgaria-rout-248333">12 points from four matches</a> and will qualify for next year's finals with a win over the second-placed Czechs, who have nine points from five games. Bulgaria are bottom of the group&nbsp;with two from five.

England has called up Sheffield United goalkeeper Dean Henderson for the first time following Tom Heaton's withdrawal through injury for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Bulgaria, the FA said on Tuesday.

England has called up Sheffield United goalkeeper Dean Henderson for the first time following Tom Heaton's withdrawal through injury for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Bulgaria, the FA said on Tuesday. The 22-year-old Henderson, on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester United, will link up with Gareth Southgate’s 24-man squad on Wednesday after Heaton returned to Aston Villa after suffering the injury in their win at Norwich City last weekend. Henderson was criticised by his club manager Chris Wilder after gifting Premier League leaders Liverpool the only goal in a 1-0 win at Bramall Lane on Sept. 28, watched by Southgate, but responded with a clean sheet in the draw at Watford on Saturday. Henderson, who has featured for England from under-16 through to under-21 level, will travel to the Czech Republic and Bulgaria with goalkeepers Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope for the Group A qualifiers on Friday and Monday respectively. England are top of the section with a perfect 12 points from four matches and will qualify for next year's finals with a win over the second-placed Czechs, who have nine points from five games. Bulgaria are bottom of the group with two from five.

Euro 2020 qualifiers: England call keeper Henderson as Heaton withdraws

A big bronze statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic - a symbol of "everything is possible" - was unveiled outside Malmo Arena in the striker's hometown of Malmo on Tuesday (October 8).

"Powerhouse" statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic unveiled in his hometown

Barcelona&nbsp;paid out $101 million (92&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros) in collective&nbsp;bonuses&nbsp;to its&nbsp;players&nbsp;for winning the Spanish league and Super Cup titles&nbsp;last&nbsp;season, the club's annual report showed.

The bonus was two&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros less than the amount that was paid out in 2018. The figure was three&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros more than what the&nbsp;players&nbsp;received when the club won the treble in 2015.

The report revealed that the club spent a total of 541&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros on staff costs across all its sports teams, with 311.9&nbsp;million&nbsp;spent on first-team coaches and&nbsp;players.

While Barca won La Liga at a canter and lifted the Super Cup&nbsp;last&nbsp;season, they lost the Copa del Rey final to Valencia and were beaten by Liverpool in the Champions League semi-finals.

Barca paid&nbsp;players&nbsp;89&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros for the 2014-15 campaign when they won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

They&nbsp;handed&nbsp;out 94&nbsp;million&nbsp;euros for the 2017-2018&nbsp;season when they won the Copa del Rey and La Liga titles.

Barcelona paid out $101 million (92 million euros) in collective bonuses to its players for winning the Spanish league and Super Cup titles last season, the club's annual report showed.

Barcelona paid out $101 million (92 million euros) in collective bonuses to its players for winning the Spanish league and Super Cup titles last season, the club's annual report showed. The bonus was two million euros less than the amount that was paid out in 2018. The figure was three million euros more than what the players received when the club won the treble in 2015. The report revealed that the club spent a total of 541 million euros on staff costs across all its sports teams, with 311.9 million spent on first-team coaches and players. While Barca won La Liga at a canter and lifted the Super Cup last season, they lost the Copa del Rey final to Valencia and were beaten by Liverpool in the Champions League semi-finals. Barca paid players 89 million euros for the 2014-15 campaign when they won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. They handed out 94 million euros for the 2017-2018 season when they won the Copa del Rey and La Liga titles.

Barcelona players handed 92 million euros in bonuses last season

England are awaiting the outcome of tests on Billy Vunipola's injured ankle ahead of their final World Cup pool clash with France on Saturday but are comfortable that others can step into the ball-carrying void should the number eight not make it, said scrum coach Neal Hatley.

England chilled over Vunipola fitness for France clash

Less than 40 kilometres from where England beat Argentina at Tokyo Stadium in the Rugby World Cup on Saturday (October 5), another unique rugby match was taking place.

Inclusion and 'unique comraderie' at Tokyo's gay rugby tournament

1st Test, Day-2: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal put India on top against South Africa

India's opener Mayank Agarwal hits maiden double century against South Africa in first Test

Indian badminton player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pv-sindhu-crashes-out-of-china-open-loses-to-thailands-pornpawee-chochuwong-250619">PV Sindhu</a> on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings.

Sindhu, who was earlier in the fifth position, had a poor run in the Korea Open as she crashed out of the tournament in the first round. In the China Open, she faced a second-round exit.

On the other hand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ace-shuttlers-saina-nehwal-parupalli-kashyap-tie-the-knot-184076">Kashyap</a> now holds the 25th position as he displayed a brilliant performance in the Korea Open where he managed to reach the semi-finals.

However, he faced a 13-21, 15-21 defeat in the semi-final at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota.

Sai Praneeth and Srikant Kidambi both moved up by one spot to hold the 12th and 9th position respectively.

Another Indian to feature in the Top 25 in the men`s singles list is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-shuttlers-suffer-2-3-loss-to-malaysia-in-sudirman-cup-220371">Sameer Verma</a>, who improved one place to be on the 17th position.

Apart from Sindhu, only Saina Nehwal is there in the Top 25 ranking in the women`s singles. Nehwal did not move from her eighth position in the list.

Indian badminton player PV Sindhu on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings.

Indian badminton player PV Sindhu on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings. Sindhu, who was earlier in the fifth position, had a poor run in the Korea Open as she crashed out of the tournament in the first round. In the China Open, she faced a second-round exit. On the other hand, Kashyap now holds the 25th position as he displayed a brilliant performance in the Korea Open where he managed to reach the semi-finals. However, he faced a 13-21, 15-21 defeat in the semi-final at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota. Sai Praneeth and Srikant Kidambi both moved up by one spot to hold the 12th and 9th position respectively. Another Indian to feature in the Top 25 in the men`s singles list is Sameer Verma, who improved one place to be on the 17th position. Apart from Sindhu, only Saina Nehwal is there in the Top 25 ranking in the women`s singles. Nehwal did not move from her eighth position in the list.

Badminton World Federation rankings: PV Sindhu slips to 6th position, Parupalli Kashyap breaks into top 25

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday.

Healy reached her century in just 46 balls, the second-fastest in history, as Australia piled up 226 for two in the final game of the three-match series against Sri Lanka.

The 29-year-old opener reached the world record with a six in the penultimate over, eclipsing teammate Meg Lanning's previous mark of 133 not out set against England in July.

This time Lanning was cast in a supporting role as she admired the innings from the non-striker's end.

Having celebrated her 100th T20I two days ago, Healy knocked the stuffing out of Sri Lanka's bowling attack and finished with 19 fours and seven sixes.

"It was just one of those days where everything seemed to come out of the middle, so I'll take that," Healy told Fox Cricket.

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday.

Australia's Alyssa Healy smashed an unbeaten 148 off 61 balls to set a new world record for the highest individual score in women's Twenty20 internationals at the North Sydney Oval on Wednesday. Healy reached her century in just 46 balls, the second-fastest in history, as Australia piled up 226 for two in the final game of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The 29-year-old opener reached the world record with a six in the penultimate over, eclipsing teammate Meg Lanning's previous mark of 133 not out set against England in July. This time Lanning was cast in a supporting role as she admired the innings from the non-striker's end. Having celebrated her 100th T20I two days ago, Healy knocked the stuffing out of Sri Lanka's bowling attack and finished with 19 fours and seven sixes. "It was just one of those days where everything seemed to come out of the middle, so I'll take that," Healy told Fox Cricket.

Alyssa Healy smashes record T20I score

With nearly 30,000 migrant workers employed on World Cup construction projects, Qatar's labour rights have come under global scrutiny.

Qatar’s labour rights questioned with thousands of migrants working on World Cup projects

Sky Brown, the 11-year-old skateboarding prodigy who is poised to become Britain's youngest ever Olympian at the 2020 Tokyo Games, has already amassed an enviable resume.

This Sky has no limits: a skateboarding prodigy targets the Tokyo Olympics

Many of the world's top triathletes battled the heat and humidity in Tokyo on Friday (August 16) at the International Triathlon Union (ITU) Olympic qualifying race, which doubled as a test event for the Games.

Triathletes happy to survive battle with humidity at Tokyo 2020 test event

Fans in Instanbul predicted the result of Wednesday's (August 14) UEFA Super Cup game between Chelsea and Liverpool. The Super Cup is an annual match between the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League.

Fans predict how Super Cup will play out

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Saturday suspended the contract of Mohammad Shahzad for an indefinite period stating that the wicket-keeper batsman breached ACB's Code of Conduct.

"As per ACB's policies, any player travelling out of the country is required to seek the permission of ACB. Shahzad has not adhered to this, repetitively," ACB said in a statement.

Earlier, Shahzad was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-keeper-mohammad-shahzad-ruled-out-of-world-cup-2019-225176"> ruled out of the World Cup </a>on June 7 due to a knee injury.

However, Shahzad said that his injury was not severe and it is the board which needed to be blamed for his withdrawal from the team.

The cricketing body also said that the 31-year old has also breached the ACB Code of Conduct previously and was also called for questioning by the ACB Discipline Committee in relation to a disciplinary matter during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.

"Mohammad Shahzad did not attend meetings scheduled with the Discipline Committee on 20th and 25th of the last month.

The Discipline Committee will meet after Eid-ul Adha holidays to assess the breaches by Mohammad Shahzad and make a decision to be publicized soon," the statement added.&nbsp;

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Saturday suspended the contract of Mohammad Shahzad for an indefinite period stating that the wicket-keeper batsman breached ACB's Code of Conduct.

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Saturday suspended the contract of Mohammad Shahzad for an indefinite period stating that the wicket-keeper batsman breached ACB's Code of Conduct. "As per ACB's policies, any player travelling out of the country is required to seek the permission of ACB. Shahzad has not adhered to this, repetitively," ACB said in a statement. Earlier, Shahzad was ruled out of the World Cup on June 7 due to a knee injury. However, Shahzad said that his injury was not severe and it is the board which needed to be blamed for his withdrawal from the team. The cricketing body also said that the 31-year old has also breached the ACB Code of Conduct previously and was also called for questioning by the ACB Discipline Committee in relation to a disciplinary matter during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019. "Mohammad Shahzad did not attend meetings scheduled with the Discipline Committee on 20th and 25th of the last month. The Discipline Committee will meet after Eid-ul Adha holidays to assess the breaches by Mohammad Shahzad and make a decision to be publicized soon," the statement added.

Afghanistan Cricket Board suspends Mohammad Shahzad

Paris Saint-Germain revealed on Saturday that Neymar transfer talks are "more advanced than before" after the Brazilian was dropped for the French champions' opening Ligue 1 match.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-can-leave-psg-if-we-get-an-offer-says-club-director-leonardo-234404">Sporting director Leonardo </a>confirmed to reporters that the Brazilian was near the exit door but that PSG was "not yet ready to give their approval (to the transfer)" ahead of Sunday's match at the Parc des Princes.

Real Madrid or a return to Barcelona are the most likely destinations for the world's most expensive footballer, with Spanish media on Friday saying that Zinedine Zidane's side will battle Barca for the 27-year-old's signature.

Sports newspaper AS claimed Neymar has been offered to Madrid by PSG, who are open to selling if they can either recoup the 222 million euros&nbsp;they spent on him in 2017 or receive half that amount with players included in the deal.

Barcelona-based Mundo Deportivo says that he would prefer a move back to Catalonia to play alongside former teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Neymar started the new season by angering the Qatari-backed club when he turned up one week late for training. 
The player's camp maintained he had a prior agreement to stay away but that didn't wash with his employers who threatened to take 'appropriate action'.

Off the pitch, Neymar was informed by a Brazilian judge on Friday that the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-rape-case-dismissed-court-241855"> rape case which has been hanging over the footballer</a> for months had been dismissed due to insufficient evidence.

Neymar had vehemently denied allegations he raped a Brazilian woman in a Paris hotel in May.

The forward, whose time in France has been marked by injuries and controversies, has made a series of remarks that strained his relationship further with the club and sparked outrage on social media.

Asked by an online sports channel about his best memory in football, he cited Barcelona's incredible 2017 Champions League victory over PSG when he was part of the team that overturned a 4-0 first-leg deficit by winning 6-1 in the second leg of their last-16 tie.

Paris Saint-Germain revealed on Saturday that Neymar transfer talks are "more advanced than before" after the Brazilian was dropped for the French champions' opening Ligue 1 match.

Paris Saint-Germain revealed on Saturday that Neymar transfer talks are "more advanced than before" after the Brazilian was dropped for the French champions' opening Ligue 1 match. Sporting director Leonardo confirmed to reporters that the Brazilian was near the exit door but that PSG was "not yet ready to give their approval (to the transfer)" ahead of Sunday's match at the Parc des Princes. Real Madrid or a return to Barcelona are the most likely destinations for the world's most expensive footballer, with Spanish media on Friday saying that Zinedine Zidane's side will battle Barca for the 27-year-old's signature. Sports newspaper AS claimed Neymar has been offered to Madrid by PSG, who are open to selling if they can either recoup the 222 million euros they spent on him in 2017 or receive half that amount with players included in the deal. Barcelona-based Mundo Deportivo says that he would prefer a move back to Catalonia to play alongside former teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Neymar started the new season by angering the Qatari-backed club when he turned up one week late for training. The player's camp maintained he had a prior agreement to stay away but that didn't wash with his employers who threatened to take 'appropriate action'. Off the pitch, Neymar was informed by a Brazilian judge on Friday that the rape case which has been hanging over the footballer for months had been dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Neymar had vehemently denied allegations he raped a Brazilian woman in a Paris hotel in May. The forward, whose time in France has been marked by injuries and controversies, has made a series of remarks that strained his relationship further with the club and sparked outrage on social media. Asked by an online sports channel about his best memory in football, he cited Barcelona's incredible 2017 Champions League victory over PSG when he was part of the team that overturned a 4-0 first-leg deficit by winning 6-1 in the second leg of their last-16 tie.

Neymar out of PSG opener, exit talks 'more advanced than before': Club

From Harry Maguire to Virgil van Dijk, list of world's most expensive defenders

Netherlands fans let out all their excitement as they filed out of Lyon Stadium after watching their side edge Sweden 1-0 after extra time in their last-four clash on Wednesday (July 3).

Netherlands fans roar as side reaches first World Cup final with extra-time rocket

In this segment of WION, Know about the story of a girl named Sarita who covers a struggleful journey from Rags to Rugby. Watch this video to know more.

A Journey From Rags To Rugby

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by one run in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 clash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. RCB clinched a thrilling one-run win over CSK in the nail-biting game.

Dhoni calculated game based on his power, will never question him: Stephen Fleming

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