<p>The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown.</p>

<p>Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju said activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines.</p>

<p>"I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated," Rijiju tweeted.</p>

<p>"However, use of gyms and swimming pools are still prohibited," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated. However, use of gyms &amp; swimming pools are still prohibited. <a href="https://t.co/zDHECy09iF">pic.twitter.com/zDHECy09iF</a></p>
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1262376732432248835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with over 3000 deaths.</p>

<p>In the guidelines for the fourth lockdown, sport continued to be listed alongside the functions, gatherings and large congregations which were not allowed.</p>

<p>The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis.</p>

<p>The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-March and the Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at SAI complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding resumption of training for the past couple of weeks.</p>

<p>The Olympics has been postponed to 2021 owing to the deadly pandemic.</p>


The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown.

The Sports Ministry on Monday gave its go ahead to the resumption of training in its complexes and stadia after the government permitted them to reopen in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown. Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju said activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines. "I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated," Rijiju tweeted. "However, use of gyms and swimming pools are still prohibited," he added. I'm happy to inform sportspersons and all concerned that sports activities will be conducted in sports complexes and stadia strictly in accordance with MHA guidelines and that of the States in which they are situated. However, use of gyms & swimming pools are still prohibited. pic.twitter.com/zDHECy09iF — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 18, 2020 × India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with over 3000 deaths. In the guidelines for the fourth lockdown, sport continued to be listed alongside the functions, gatherings and large congregations which were not allowed. The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis. The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-March and the Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at SAI complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding resumption of training for the past couple of weeks. The Olympics has been postponed to 2021 owing to the deadly pandemic.

Sports Ministry gives go ahead to resumption of training as per MHA guidelines

<p>Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday.</p>

<p>Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs.</p>

<p>Second-placed Rangers had a game in hand to try and cut that gap and were due to face Celtic twice more before the end of the season.</p>

<p>A points-per-game formula for determining final league placings also sees bottom club Hearts relegated unless there is any progress in talks over league reconstruction.</p>

<p>"It is, of course, a real shame that we were not able to see out the league in front of our fans. However, no one can deny how deserved this title is," said Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell.</p>

<p>"While we rightly celebrate this fantastic, deserved achievement we must take time to consider the wider circumstances we have all been experiencing and remember those who have helped us through these unique and challenging times with such bravery and selflessness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We dedicate this title to everyone who has cared for us and all those who have been affected by these times of challenge and difficulty."</p>

<p>The three leagues below the Premiership were ended over a month ago when clubs passed a controversial resolution that allowed the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) board to also bring the top flight to a halt if it deemed the games could no longer be played.</p>

<p>Last week Rangers failed to gain support of the 42 member clubs for an independent inquiry into how the vote on the resolution was passed.</p>

<h2>- Prize money to be released -</h2>

<p>Premiership clubs agreed on Friday that finishing the season was no longer a realistic option.</p>

<p>Scottish clubs will not be allowed to return to training until June 10 at the earliest.</p>

<p>The cost of testing and the fact a high percentage of players will be out of contract in May and June were also highlighted by clubs as reasons why making a return to finishing the campaign was impractical.</p>

<p>"The SPFL has today announced that, following consultation with all 12 top-flight clubs, the Board of the SPFL has determined that the 2019/20 Premiership has been concluded with immediate effect," the league said in a statement.</p>

<p>By calling the season to an end, the SPFL can now release a final instalment of prize money to clubs based on their league position.</p>

<p>"On Friday, Premiership clubs expressed their clear and unanimous view that there was no realistic prospect of completing the outstanding fixtures from season 2019/20," said SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster.</p>

<p>"The SPFL board met this morning and in line with the express agreement of member clubs in April, the board determined that League season 2019/20 and the Premiership be brought to an end.</p>

<p>"This decision now enables us to pay out around £7 million ($8.5 million) in fees to help clubs stay afloat during this incredibly difficult time."</p>

<p>Leagues in France, Belgium and the Netherlands have also called their seasons to a premature end.</p>

<p>However, many more across Europe are hoping to follow the example of Germany's Bundesliga, which has already returned behind closed doors and with a series of strict safety measures in place to protect players and staff.</p>


Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday. Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs.

Celtic were crowned champions for a record-equalling ninth consecutive season as the Scottish Premiership campaign was declared over on Monday. Neil Lennon's men were 13 points clear at the top of the table when the season was stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic in March with eight games remaining for the majority of clubs. Second-placed Rangers had a game in hand to try and cut that gap and were due to face Celtic twice more before the end of the season. A points-per-game formula for determining final league placings also sees bottom club Hearts relegated unless there is any progress in talks over league reconstruction. "It is, of course, a real shame that we were not able to see out the league in front of our fans. However, no one can deny how deserved this title is," said Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell. "While we rightly celebrate this fantastic, deserved achievement we must take time to consider the wider circumstances we have all been experiencing and remember those who have helped us through these unique and challenging times with such bravery and selflessness. "We dedicate this title to everyone who has cared for us and all those who have been affected by these times of challenge and difficulty." The three leagues below the Premiership were ended over a month ago when clubs passed a controversial resolution that allowed the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) board to also bring the top flight to a halt if it deemed the games could no longer be played. Last week Rangers failed to gain support of the 42 member clubs for an independent inquiry into how the vote on the resolution was passed. - Prize money to be released - Premiership clubs agreed on Friday that finishing the season was no longer a realistic option. Scottish clubs will not be allowed to return to training until June 10 at the earliest. The cost of testing and the fact a high percentage of players will be out of contract in May and June were also highlighted by clubs as reasons why making a return to finishing the campaign was impractical. "The SPFL has today announced that, following consultation with all 12 top-flight clubs, the Board of the SPFL has determined that the 2019/20 Premiership has been concluded with immediate effect," the league said in a statement. By calling the season to an end, the SPFL can now release a final instalment of prize money to clubs based on their league position. "On Friday, Premiership clubs expressed their clear and unanimous view that there was no realistic prospect of completing the outstanding fixtures from season 2019/20," said SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster. "The SPFL board met this morning and in line with the express agreement of member clubs in April, the board determined that League season 2019/20 and the Premiership be brought to an end. "This decision now enables us to pay out around £7 million ($8.5 million) in fees to help clubs stay afloat during this incredibly difficult time." Leagues in France, Belgium and the Netherlands have also called their seasons to a premature end. However, many more across Europe are hoping to follow the example of Germany's Bundesliga, which has already returned behind closed doors and with a series of strict safety measures in place to protect players and staff.

Celtic declared champions as Scottish season ends

<p>Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon.</p>

<p>The 19-year-old Hudson-Odoi was arrested by officers on suspicion of rape before being taken into police custody and then released on bail, as per a report in The Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A police spokesman said: 'Police and London Ambulance Service were called at 03:53hrs on Sunday, 17 May to a report of an unwell woman.</p>

<p>'When emergency services attended, a woman reported that she was raped. She was taken to hospital.</p>

<p>'A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of rape. He was released from custody and bailed to return on a date in mid-June.'<br />
Police returned to Hudson-Odoi’s house later on Sunday in a bid to continue their investigations into the matter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-foundation-to-organise-a-match-to-help-the-world-299440" hreflang="en">FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world'</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the report, the young Chelsea forward connected with the woman online before inviting to his home. He had sent a vehicle to pick her up. However, the forward has been released on bail to return on a date in mid-June.</p>

<p>Hudson-Odoi was one of the first footballers to have been tested positive for COVID-19 in March. He was scheduled to return to group training by the end of the week given his tests come out perfectly fine.</p>

<p>'I had the virus which has cleared now. I fully feel good, I feel fit, so I am feeling back to myself so it is all good,' Hudson-Odoi said at the start of April.</p>

<p>'I had it [the illness] three weeks ago now I think, on a Monday when I felt a bit hot and I was thinking this is a bit unusual, why do I feel this hot. The next day I was feeling back to normal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a></strong></p>

<p>'I thought it was just a minor temperature thing, but obviously it wasn't. I said to myself this wasn't actually that bad, the symptoms, and I said to myself 'I feel good, I feel better'.</p>

<p>'Everyone has been asking me how I have been which has been class from them. They have been showing me support and saying 'Cal, get well soon, I hope you are okay now'.</p>

<p>'It has been very warming and a good feeling to know you have got your team-mates behind you, backing you and making sure you are feeling well and encouraging you.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hudson-Odoi signed a contract extension with Chelsea last season and wrapped up a reportedly whopping £180,000 per week deal with the Blues.</p>


Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon.

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi was arrested on suspicion of rape on Sunday morning after a model, whom he invited to his home, was taken to hospital. Metropolitan Police officers reached the place of the incident at Hudson-Odoi’s apartment after being called by the woman with an ambulance also arriving at the scene soon. The 19-year-old Hudson-Odoi was arrested by officers on suspicion of rape before being taken into police custody and then released on bail, as per a report in The Sun. A police spokesman said: 'Police and London Ambulance Service were called at 03:53hrs on Sunday, 17 May to a report of an unwell woman. 'When emergency services attended, a woman reported that she was raped. She was taken to hospital. 'A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of rape. He was released from custody and bailed to return on a date in mid-June.' Police returned to Hudson-Odoi’s house later on Sunday in a bid to continue their investigations into the matter. ALSO READ: FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world' As per the report, the young Chelsea forward connected with the woman online before inviting to his home. He had sent a vehicle to pick her up. However, the forward has been released on bail to return on a date in mid-June. Hudson-Odoi was one of the first footballers to have been tested positive for COVID-19 in March. He was scheduled to return to group training by the end of the week given his tests come out perfectly fine. 'I had the virus which has cleared now. I fully feel good, I feel fit, so I am feeling back to myself so it is all good,' Hudson-Odoi said at the start of April. 'I had it [the illness] three weeks ago now I think, on a Monday when I felt a bit hot and I was thinking this is a bit unusual, why do I feel this hot. The next day I was feeling back to normal. ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller 'I thought it was just a minor temperature thing, but obviously it wasn't. I said to myself this wasn't actually that bad, the symptoms, and I said to myself 'I feel good, I feel better'. 'Everyone has been asking me how I have been which has been class from them. They have been showing me support and saying 'Cal, get well soon, I hope you are okay now'. 'It has been very warming and a good feeling to know you have got your team-mates behind you, backing you and making sure you are feeling well and encouraging you.' Hudson-Odoi signed a contract extension with Chelsea last season and wrapped up a reportedly whopping £180,000 per week deal with the Blues.

Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi, arrested on suspicion of rape, released on bail

<p>Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open; however, spectators will not be allowed,” the union home ministry said in its statement on the fresh rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the ban on domestic and international flight is still active, a possibility of a window opening up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 depends on the future of T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-raina-dhawan-destroy-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-and-kashmir-299371" hreflang="en">Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the BCCI is not looking too far and is focused on resuming training. “We can’t be looking at staging any competition, let alone IPL when inter-state travel is not permitted. Also, international travel is restricted. But with stadiums being opened, we will now work out modalities with our state units as to which places players can train and when,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said as quoted by a leading daily.</p>

<p>The BCCI is looking to coordinate with state associations who will communicate with state governments in a bid to allow players, who are in red zones, to train.</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, said that players and franchises have to deal with playing matches behind closed doors while stating that the government’s latest directive is a big positive for Indian sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mha-allows-sports-complexes-stadia-to-open-in-lockdown-4-but-no-entry-for-spectators-299272" hreflang="en">MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators</a></strong></p>

<p>“If that is the final thing, that’s what we will have to do. At this point, we can’t expect crowds to come in at all. Let us see how it works out,” he said as quoted by the same news portal. “It’s a big positive (government order), (but) we will have to wait and see when people are allowed to come out. If you are not allowed to travel how will you play? That’s the most important thing. We still have restrictions in containment zones.</p>

<p>“They have opened the stadiums, now people (players, support staff, officials) have to come out. Players have to come and practice… we will have to see how it works out. Too early, let’s wait for a week or 10 days, we will know. First they will have to maintain the grounds; we don’t know in what shape the wickets and stadiums are. Within a week we will know what will happen,” Viswanathan added.</p>

<p>However, conducting IPL 2020 is still a stretched idea as a lot depends on how the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic will work out in the next month or so. An alternate window for IPL 2020 also depends on the fate of T20 World Cup, which could be postponed given the international travel restrictions in the majority of countries.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India.

Indian sports was handed a major boost on Sunday after the Indian government allowed stadiums and sporting complexes to open in its directives for lockdown 4.0. With the latest directives, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been alerted in its future planning for the resumption of cricket in India. “Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open; however, spectators will not be allowed,” the union home ministry said in its statement on the fresh rules. While the ban on domestic and international flight is still active, a possibility of a window opening up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 depends on the future of T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by Australia in October-November. ALSO READ: Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir However, the BCCI is not looking too far and is focused on resuming training. “We can’t be looking at staging any competition, let alone IPL when inter-state travel is not permitted. Also, international travel is restricted. But with stadiums being opened, we will now work out modalities with our state units as to which places players can train and when,” BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said as quoted by a leading daily. The BCCI is looking to coordinate with state associations who will communicate with state governments in a bid to allow players, who are in red zones, to train. Chennai Super Kings CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, said that players and franchises have to deal with playing matches behind closed doors while stating that the government’s latest directive is a big positive for Indian sports. ALSO READ: MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators “If that is the final thing, that’s what we will have to do. At this point, we can’t expect crowds to come in at all. Let us see how it works out,” he said as quoted by the same news portal. “It’s a big positive (government order), (but) we will have to wait and see when people are allowed to come out. If you are not allowed to travel how will you play? That’s the most important thing. We still have restrictions in containment zones. “They have opened the stadiums, now people (players, support staff, officials) have to come out. Players have to come and practice… we will have to see how it works out. Too early, let’s wait for a week or 10 days, we will know. First they will have to maintain the grounds; we don’t know in what shape the wickets and stadiums are. Within a week we will know what will happen,” Viswanathan added. However, conducting IPL 2020 is still a stretched idea as a lot depends on how the situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic will work out in the next month or so. An alternate window for IPL 2020 also depends on the fate of T20 World Cup, which could be postponed given the international travel restrictions in the majority of countries.

IPL hopes rise as Indian government allows re-opening of stadiums

<p>The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
“It is our responsibility to demonstrate solidarity and continue to do everything we can to participate and support the efforts in the combat against the pandemic,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We have been active in raising awareness via several other campaigns, and FIFA has also contributed financially to this cause, but now we commit ourselves to organise this global fundraising event when the health situation permits, even if this is only in some months’ time.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-koreas-fc-seoul-apologises-for-using-sex-dolls-to-fill-empty-stands-in-home-stadium-299413" hreflang="en">South Korea's FC Seoul apologises for using sex dolls to fill empty stands in home stadium</a></strong></p>

<p>The FIFA Foundation intends to take the opportunity of hosting the match to widen the reach of football beyond the traditional sporting network and into wider society to help support efforts at tackling the coronavirus. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
“The FIFA Foundation will engage not only with the worldwide football community, but also other stakeholders from non-governmental organisations to other foundations, and from the private sector to governments, in order to ensure this initiative is a significant help to those who are at the forefront of research in combatting COVID-19,” said FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a></strong></p>

<p>“Our focus is to develop and support a society that can provide a balance in terms of prevention from such diseases and the future life, creating an environment where sustainability can truly prosper.”</p>

<p>“Further details of this unique event, including the location, date, participants and format will be announced by the FIFA Foundation in due course,” added FIFA Foundation CEO Youri Djorkaeff. “Various scenarios and plans are currently under consideration, all of which are in line with health and other relevant guidelines from respective governments and international organisations.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.

The FIFA Foundation will organise its first-ever official football match to raise funds for Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT), a global collaboration to accelerate the development, production and equitable global access to new coronavirus essential health technologies, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. “It is our responsibility to demonstrate solidarity and continue to do everything we can to participate and support the efforts in the combat against the pandemic,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We have been active in raising awareness via several other campaigns, and FIFA has also contributed financially to this cause, but now we commit ourselves to organise this global fundraising event when the health situation permits, even if this is only in some months’ time.” ALSO READ: South Korea's FC Seoul apologises for using sex dolls to fill empty stands in home stadium The FIFA Foundation intends to take the opportunity of hosting the match to widen the reach of football beyond the traditional sporting network and into wider society to help support efforts at tackling the coronavirus. “The FIFA Foundation will engage not only with the worldwide football community, but also other stakeholders from non-governmental organisations to other foundations, and from the private sector to governments, in order to ensure this initiative is a significant help to those who are at the forefront of research in combatting COVID-19,” said FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri. ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller “Our focus is to develop and support a society that can provide a balance in terms of prevention from such diseases and the future life, creating an environment where sustainability can truly prosper.” “Further details of this unique event, including the location, date, participants and format will be announced by the FIFA Foundation in due course,” added FIFA Foundation CEO Youri Djorkaeff. “Various scenarios and plans are currently under consideration, all of which are in line with health and other relevant guidelines from respective governments and international organisations.”

FIFA Foundation to organise a match 'to help the world'

<p>Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium&nbsp;was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins. But the move took a drastic turn after it was noticed that the mannequins are actually sex dolls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Seoul FC has since apologized as they stated they have been a victim of a misunderstanding and mix-up as they stated that the supplier had made an assurance that the dolls were not intended for sexual use.</p>

<p>“We would like to apologise to the fans,” FC Seoul said in a statement on Instagram. “We are deeply sorry.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-league-without-fans-like-old-mans-football-says-mueller-299362" hreflang="en">German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller</a></strong></p>

<p>It added: “Our intention was to do something light-hearted in these difficult times. We will think hard about what we need to do to ensure that something like this never happens again.”</p>

<p>Seoul FC locked horns with Gwangju FC as cardboard cut-outs and mannequins replaced fans in the stand with music in the stadium replacing the atmosphere created by the fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some on social media platforms pointed out that the dolls were carrying the name of live streamer BJ Chaero, who is reportedly the physical inspiration behind doll’s design, as per the Koreaboo website.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayern-munich-hit-form-as-lewandowski-pavard-score-in-2-0-win-over-union-berlin-299297" hreflang="en">Bundesliga: Bayern Munich hit form as Lewandowski, Pavard score in 2-0 win over Union Berlin</a></strong></p>

<p>“There must have been a countless number of people involved in getting that approved, shipped, dressed, and seated,” Koreaboo quoted one as saying. “In that process, no one thought to question the visuals of these mannequins?”</p>

<p>Images from the stadium showed around 10 dolls spaced out in seats in front of cut-outs of team players. But social media users kept on pointing that something was wrong.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One fan who spotted the blunder before the club said sorry wrote: "FC Seoul put these mannequin supporters in stands which was also tried by Dinamo Brest.</p>

<p>Another posted: "Seriously, though. Imagine the thought process involved in filling your stadium with female sex dolls in football kits and thinking it's a good idea. Nice one, @FCSeoul."</p>

<p>Earlier in May, South Korea’s K-League became the first football league to hold matches with the first match post-resumption gaining traction from a worldwide audience.</p>


Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins.

Football has finally returned to South Korea after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the stadium was empty, South Korean football club FC Seoul tried filling their home ground with mannequins. But the move took a drastic turn after it was noticed that the mannequins are actually sex dolls. Seoul FC has since apologized as they stated they have been a victim of a misunderstanding and mix-up as they stated that the supplier had made an assurance that the dolls were not intended for sexual use. “We would like to apologise to the fans,” FC Seoul said in a statement on Instagram. “We are deeply sorry.” ALSO READ: German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller It added: “Our intention was to do something light-hearted in these difficult times. We will think hard about what we need to do to ensure that something like this never happens again.” Seoul FC locked horns with Gwangju FC as cardboard cut-outs and mannequins replaced fans in the stand with music in the stadium replacing the atmosphere created by the fans. Some on social media platforms pointed out that the dolls were carrying the name of live streamer BJ Chaero, who is reportedly the physical inspiration behind doll’s design, as per the Koreaboo website. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Bayern Munich hit form as Lewandowski, Pavard score in 2-0 win over Union Berlin “There must have been a countless number of people involved in getting that approved, shipped, dressed, and seated,” Koreaboo quoted one as saying. “In that process, no one thought to question the visuals of these mannequins?” Images from the stadium showed around 10 dolls spaced out in seats in front of cut-outs of team players. But social media users kept on pointing that something was wrong. One fan who spotted the blunder before the club said sorry wrote: "FC Seoul put these mannequin supporters in stands which was also tried by Dinamo Brest. Another posted: "Seriously, though. Imagine the thought process involved in filling your stadium with female sex dolls in football kits and thinking it's a good idea. Nice one, @FCSeoul." Earlier in May, South Korea’s K-League became the first football league to hold matches with the first match post-resumption gaining traction from a worldwide audience.

South Korea's FC Seoul apologises for using sex dolls to fill empty stands in home stadium

<p>Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi created a massive controversy following his distasteful comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir. While Indian cricketers, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan lashed out at Afridi after his controversial comments, Twitterati tore into the former Pakistan all-rounder with several hashtags on Afridi trending on social media platform Twitter since his comments on Kashmir and PM Modi went viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-raina-dhawan-destroy-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-and-kashmir-299371" hreflang="en">Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Here's how Twitterati reacted on Shahid Afridi's controversial remarks on Kashmir and PM Modi:</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShahidAfridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShahidAfridi</a> a garbage is garbage doesn't mean what is number of spectacle. <a href="https://t.co/mh3KAZMaGL">pic.twitter.com/mh3KAZMaGL</a></p>
— ARUN SAXENA (@SAXENAARUN1997) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAXENAARUN1997/status/1262102246684319744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why are you giving so much importance to a 16 yo<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shahidAfridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shahidAfridi</a></p>
— D_ki_company (@d_ki_company) <a href="https://twitter.com/d_ki_company/status/1262283478378229761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why u r taking this guy seriously look how open mind he is <a href="https://t.co/hXpqUfa7Rw">pic.twitter.com/hXpqUfa7Rw</a></p>
— Malak meera (@Malak_meera) <a href="https://twitter.com/Malak_meera/status/1261911599004045312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is exactly how we fall for their agenda. They have learned the art of using humanitarian causes to further their propaganda. I wish Indians realized their nefarious plans and understand what's at stake!<a href="https://t.co/yrgqS28eZz">https://t.co/yrgqS28eZz</a></p>
— Jagga Jasoos (@jasoosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/jasoosi/status/1262207432018792448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meanwhile Everyone to Afridi <a href="https://t.co/73tGWN9VoG">pic.twitter.com/73tGWN9VoG</a></p>
— HBD Priyanka (K. Star) {Kamal} (@Bollywoodventu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bollywoodventu/status/1262040302971490306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Aisa padhne chaiye afridi ko <a href="https://t.co/wYrQ9QWoLm">pic.twitter.com/wYrQ9QWoLm</a></p>
— Ujala Arora (@WhereIsMy_Food) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhereIsMy_Food/status/1262059368444395521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="ht">Sun liya <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afridi</a>? Ab likal le! <a href="https://t.co/GtiaMrLmpu">https://t.co/GtiaMrLmpu</a></p>
— New Age Philosopher (@JaydeepBharat) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaydeepBharat/status/1262302449810894848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Lala.. <a href="https://t.co/CzuiVF5eES">pic.twitter.com/CzuiVF5eES</a></p>
— Krushna Rathod (@imkrushna) <a href="https://twitter.com/imkrushna/status/1262300519466500096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Bheekh bhi aukaat se bahr ki mangta hai<br />
Kashmir chahiye isko<br />
<br />
Aur wo afridi bhi udd rha ajkal</p>
— Amol-i-cule (@not_so_amol) <a href="https://twitter.com/not_so_amol/status/1262285770938880001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>"Should have stayed within his limits": Harbhajan Singh on Afridi</strong></p>

<p>While Harbhajan and Yuvraj straightaway regretted their decision of lending a helping hand to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic, the duo made it clear that they will not keep any contact with the former Pakistan skipper from here on.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-gautam-gambhir-hit-back-at-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-comments-on-kashmir-and-pm-modi-299225" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir hit back at Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial comments on Kashmir and PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Harbhajan said, “I thought he was our friend but this not how a friend behaves. Ye badtameezi hai (It’s rude). He should have stayed within his limits but unfortunately keeps on talking rubbish about our country and our PM.”</p>

<p>“What I did for him was in good faith and people suffering due to the coronavirus. But from now on no further relations with him. No more message or helping him. He has to learn how to respect other people,” Harbhajan added.</p>

<p>This is not the first time Afridi has made controversial remarks on Kashmir. On last Friday, he tweeted: “It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. #SaveKashmir”</p>

<p>Last year, Afridi had visited the Line of Control (LoC) to “express solidarity with our Kashmiri brethren” following the Indian government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi created a massive controversy following his distasteful comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir. While Indian cricketers, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan lashed out at Afridi after his controversial comments, Twitterati tore into the former Pakistan all-rounder with several hashtags on Afridi trending on social media platform Twitter since his comments on Kashmir and PM Modi went viral.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi created a massive controversy following his distasteful comments on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kashmir. While Indian cricketers, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir, Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan lashed out at Afridi after his controversial comments, Twitterati tore into the former Pakistan all-rounder with several hashtags on Afridi trending on social media platform Twitter since his comments on Kashmir and PM Modi went viral. ALSO READ: Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir Here's how Twitterati reacted on Shahid Afridi's controversial remarks on Kashmir and PM Modi: #ShahidAfridi a garbage is garbage doesn't mean what is number of spectacle. pic.twitter.com/mh3KAZMaGL — ARUN SAXENA (@SAXENAARUN1997) May 17, 2020 × Why are you giving so much importance to a 16 yo#shahidAfridi — D_ki_company (@d_ki_company) May 18, 2020 × Why u r taking this guy seriously look how open mind he is pic.twitter.com/hXpqUfa7Rw — Malak meera (@Malak_meera) May 17, 2020 × This is exactly how we fall for their agenda. They have learned the art of using humanitarian causes to further their propaganda. I wish Indians realized their nefarious plans and understand what's at stake!https://t.co/yrgqS28eZz — Jagga Jasoos (@jasoosi) May 18, 2020 × Meanwhile Everyone to Afridi pic.twitter.com/73tGWN9VoG — HBD Priyanka (K. Star) {Kamal} (@Bollywoodventu) May 17, 2020 × Aisa padhne chaiye afridi ko pic.twitter.com/wYrQ9QWoLm — Ujala Arora (@WhereIsMy_Food) May 17, 2020 × Sun liya #afridi? Ab likal le! https://t.co/GtiaMrLmpu — New Age Philosopher (@JaydeepBharat) May 18, 2020 × Lala.. pic.twitter.com/CzuiVF5eES — Krushna Rathod (@imkrushna) May 18, 2020 × Bheekh bhi aukaat se bahr ki mangta hai Kashmir chahiye isko Aur wo afridi bhi udd rha ajkal — Amol-i-cule (@not_so_amol) May 18, 2020 × "Should have stayed within his limits": Harbhajan Singh on Afridi While Harbhajan and Yuvraj straightaway regretted their decision of lending a helping hand to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic, the duo made it clear that they will not keep any contact with the former Pakistan skipper from here on. ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir hit back at Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial comments on Kashmir and PM Modi Harbhajan said, “I thought he was our friend but this not how a friend behaves. Ye badtameezi hai (It’s rude). He should have stayed within his limits but unfortunately keeps on talking rubbish about our country and our PM.” “What I did for him was in good faith and people suffering due to the coronavirus. But from now on no further relations with him. No more message or helping him. He has to learn how to respect other people,” Harbhajan added. This is not the first time Afridi has made controversial remarks on Kashmir. On last Friday, he tweeted: “It does not take a religious belief to feel the agony of Kashmiris..just a right heart at the right place. #SaveKashmir” Last year, Afridi had visited the Line of Control (LoC) to “express solidarity with our Kashmiri brethren” following the Indian government’s decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.

Twitterati mercilessly roasts Pakistan's Shahid Afridi for distasteful comments on PM Modi and Kashmir

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia. However, the BCCI will coordinate with state-associations to resume practice at a local level in what will be the fourth phase of the lockdown in India.</p>

<p>As per the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines issued on Sunday, stadiums will be allowed to open but with no spectators allowed in the lockdown which was extended till May 31, indicating that players can restart their individual training.</p>

<p>"Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players," BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal said in a press release issued late on Monday night.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-raina-dhawan-destroy-pakistans-shahid-afridi-over-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-and-kashmir-299371" hreflang="en">Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the meantime, the BCCI will study guidelines at the state level and will work in sync with State Cricket Associations to chalk out a programme for skill-based training at a local level," Dhumal said.</p>

<p>"The BCCI Office-Bearers will continue their interactions with the team management and draw up a suitable plan for the entire team once the situation further improves," he added.</p>

<p>Dhumal further confirmed that the board will not rush into any decision that can hamper India’s efforts in containing the spread of the dreaded virus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mha-allows-sports-complexes-stadia-to-open-in-lockdown-4-but-no-entry-for-spectators-299272" hreflang="en">MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Board reiterates that the safety and well-being of its athletes and support staff is paramount and will not rush into any decision that can hamper or jeopardize India's efforts in containing the spread of the virus."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, there is still no clarity on the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the cash-rich tournament stands indefinitely suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has led to around 3,000 deaths in India with over 95,000 people tested positive thus far.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not planning to organize training camps for its contracted players following the clearance by the Indian government to open sports complexes and stadia. However, the BCCI will coordinate with state-associations to resume practice at a local level in what will be the fourth phase of the lockdown in India. As per the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines issued on Sunday, stadiums will be allowed to open but with no spectators allowed in the lockdown which was extended till May 31, indicating that players can restart their individual training. "Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players," BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal said in a press release issued late on Monday night. ALSO READ: Yuvraj, Raina, Dhawan destroy Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial remarks on PM Modi and Kashmir "In the meantime, the BCCI will study guidelines at the state level and will work in sync with State Cricket Associations to chalk out a programme for skill-based training at a local level," Dhumal said. "The BCCI Office-Bearers will continue their interactions with the team management and draw up a suitable plan for the entire team once the situation further improves," he added. Dhumal further confirmed that the board will not rush into any decision that can hamper India’s efforts in containing the spread of the dreaded virus. ALSO READ: MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators "The Board reiterates that the safety and well-being of its athletes and support staff is paramount and will not rush into any decision that can hamper or jeopardize India's efforts in containing the spread of the virus." Meanwhile, there is still no clarity on the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 as the cash-rich tournament stands indefinitely suspended. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to around 3,000 deaths in India with over 95,000 people tested positive thus far.

BCCI plans to resume skill-based practice at local level for contracted players

<p>Bayern Munich on Sunday started the Bundesliga 2019-20 season post its resumption with a comfortable 2-0 win over Union Berlin at the Stadion An der Alten Forsterei as the Bavarians extended their lead at the top of the standings. Robert Lewandowski was on the scoresheet for the visitors as the Polish forward extended his rich-run of scoring form with his 26th goal of the season in the German top-flight league.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The surprise package of the Bundesliga 2019-20 season, Union Berlin started on a positive note before Bayern Munich’s player quality became evident and the Bavarians started dominated the possession. While both teams looked a bit rusty, quite understandable due to lack of football in the last couple of months, Berlin did create a good couple of chances early on, only to waste them with lack of proper finishing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-but-not-as-we-know-it-odd-sights-from-bundesliga-comeback-299113" hreflang="en">Football but not as we know it: odd sights from Bundesliga comeback</a></strong></p>

<p>Bayern Munich displayed composure on the ball and sprayed it around in the early minutes before Thomas Muller tapped in a goal in the 19th-minute mark only for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to disallow it. Nonetheless, Bayern kept on with the intensity while creating chances on a constant note.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="287fe3ff-a019-4d14-991c-de8e52d63fab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1RS0EI.jpg" /></p>

<p>The visitors’ tenacity finally paid off after Leon Goretzka was brought down by Union Berlin defender Neven Subotic only for Robert Lewandowski to step up and send goalkeeper Rafal Gikiewicz the wrong way to hand Bayern Munich the 1-0 lead in the 40th minute in the first half.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mainz-fight-back-for-point-at-cologne-on-bundesliga-return-299283" hreflang="en">Mainz fight back for point at Cologne on Bundesliga return</a></strong></p>

<p>Bayern Munich hardly broke a sweat in the first half while dominating 66 per cent of possession with six shots in comparison. Interestingly both the sides covered more than 60 kilometre of distance in the first half despite the prolonged break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bayern Munich kept up the intensity in the second half and kept on barging forward in what has become a trademark Hansi Flick style of football. Under Flick, Bayern Munich have now scored 50 goals in just 16 matches.</p>

<p>After constant attacking pressure, Benjamin Pavard leapt the highest in order to convert a inch-perfect Joshua Kimmich corner in the 81st-minute of the match to extend Bayern Munich's lead to 2-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bavarians, with the win, extend their lead at the top of the table with 58 points under their belt whereas Union Berlin remained at 12th spot with 30 points to their name.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Bayern Munich on Sunday started the Bundesliga 2019-20 season post its resumption with a comfortable 2-0 win over Union Berlin at the Stadion An der Alten Forsterei as the Bavarians extended their lead at the top of the standings.

Bayern Munich on Sunday started the Bundesliga 2019-20 season post its resumption with a comfortable 2-0 win over Union Berlin at the Stadion An der Alten Forsterei as the Bavarians extended their lead at the top of the standings. Robert Lewandowski was on the scoresheet for the visitors as the Polish forward extended his rich-run of scoring form with his 26th goal of the season in the German top-flight league. The surprise package of the Bundesliga 2019-20 season, Union Berlin started on a positive note before Bayern Munich’s player quality became evident and the Bavarians started dominated the possession. While both teams looked a bit rusty, quite understandable due to lack of football in the last couple of months, Berlin did create a good couple of chances early on, only to waste them with lack of proper finishing. ALSO READ: Football but not as we know it: odd sights from Bundesliga comeback Bayern Munich displayed composure on the ball and sprayed it around in the early minutes before Thomas Muller tapped in a goal in the 19th-minute mark only for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to disallow it. Nonetheless, Bayern kept on with the intensity while creating chances on a constant note. The visitors’ tenacity finally paid off after Leon Goretzka was brought down by Union Berlin defender Neven Subotic only for Robert Lewandowski to step up and send goalkeeper Rafal Gikiewicz the wrong way to hand Bayern Munich the 1-0 lead in the 40th minute in the first half. ALSO READ: Mainz fight back for point at Cologne on Bundesliga return Bayern Munich hardly broke a sweat in the first half while dominating 66 per cent of possession with six shots in comparison. Interestingly both the sides covered more than 60 kilometre of distance in the first half despite the prolonged break. Bayern Munich kept up the intensity in the second half and kept on barging forward in what has become a trademark Hansi Flick style of football. Under Flick, Bayern Munich have now scored 50 goals in just 16 matches. After constant attacking pressure, Benjamin Pavard leapt the highest in order to convert a inch-perfect Joshua Kimmich corner in the 81st-minute of the match to extend Bayern Munich's lead to 2-0. The Bavarians, with the win, extend their lead at the top of the table with 58 points under their belt whereas Union Berlin remained at 12th spot with 30 points to their name.

Bundesliga: Bayern Munich hit form as Lewandowski, Pavard score in 2-0 win over Union Berlin

<p>Cologne surrendered a two-goal lead Sunday, with players' calls echoing around the stadium, as strugglers Mainz fought back to earn a 2-2 draw in the Bundesliga.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the Bundesliga became the first top European league to return amid the coronavirus pandemic with second-placed Borussia Dortmund hammering Schalke 4-0 in the Ruhr derby.</p>

<p>Later Sunday, reigning champions Bayern Munich, who hold a one-point lead in their bid to win an eighth straight league title, are at mid-table Union Berlin.</p>

<p>In Cologne, the hosts took an early lead when Mark Uth, on loan from Schalke, converted a penalty with just six minutes gone after the striker was brought down in the area.</p>

<p>With hugs and handshakes banned, the players celebrated with elbow bumps instead.</p>

<p>Cologne added a second goal when Florian Kainz headed home a cross with just over half an hour left.</p>

<p>However, Mainz came roaring back with an hour played when replacement striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who had only been on for five minutes, tapped home from close range for his first Bundesliga goal.</p>

<p>Cameroon midfielder Pierre Kunde then earned a point for Mainz when he beat two defenders and poked the ball past Cologne goalkeeper Timo Horn to equalise on 72 minutes.</p>

<p>The result leaves Mainz on the verge of the relegation places but four points above the bottom three while Cologne are tenth.</p>


Cologne surrendered a two-goal lead Sunday, with players' calls echoing around the stadium, as strugglers Mainz fought back to earn a 2-2 draw in the Bundesliga.

Cologne surrendered a two-goal lead Sunday, with players' calls echoing around the stadium, as strugglers Mainz fought back to earn a 2-2 draw in the Bundesliga. On Saturday, the Bundesliga became the first top European league to return amid the coronavirus pandemic with second-placed Borussia Dortmund hammering Schalke 4-0 in the Ruhr derby. Later Sunday, reigning champions Bayern Munich, who hold a one-point lead in their bid to win an eighth straight league title, are at mid-table Union Berlin. In Cologne, the hosts took an early lead when Mark Uth, on loan from Schalke, converted a penalty with just six minutes gone after the striker was brought down in the area. With hugs and handshakes banned, the players celebrated with elbow bumps instead. Cologne added a second goal when Florian Kainz headed home a cross with just over half an hour left. However, Mainz came roaring back with an hour played when replacement striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who had only been on for five minutes, tapped home from close range for his first Bundesliga goal. Cameroon midfielder Pierre Kunde then earned a point for Mainz when he beat two defenders and poked the ball past Cologne goalkeeper Timo Horn to equalise on 72 minutes. The result leaves Mainz on the verge of the relegation places but four points above the bottom three while Cologne are tenth.

Mainz fight back for point at Cologne on Bundesliga return

<p>Sports complexes and stadia were on Sunday permitted to open but declared out of bounds for spectators in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown, possibly clearing the path for at least the resumption of halted training camps.</p>

<p>"Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open, however, spectators won't be allowed," read one of the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines to be followed during the lockdown, which was due to end on Monday but has been extended till May 31.</p>

<p>India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with nearly 3000 deaths.</p>

<p>In the latest guidelines, sport continues to be listed among the functions, gatherings and large congregations which are not allowed as of now.</p>

<p>The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis.</p>

<p>Despite the relaxation announced on Sunday, the IPL is unlikely to go ahead even behind closed doors anytime soon as travel restrictions -- both domestic and international -- continue to remain in place.</p>

<p>The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-march and Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at Sports Authority of India (SAI) complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding a resumption of training for the past couple of weeks.</p>

<p>Last week, Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju held a series of video conferences to take the athletes' view on the matter.</p>

<p>On May 3, he declared that the ministry was aiming for a phase-wise resumption of national camps by the end of this month for at least the Olympic-bound athletes.</p>

<p>The Indian Olympic Association was also demanding a resumption of camps and in a letter to Rijiju on Sunday, IOA President Narinder Batra also requested for a one-time financial help of approximately Rs 220 crore for various sports governing bodies.</p>

<p>Batra claimed that sponsors won't be coming forward to support Olympic disciplines for at least one year and "hand-holding" by the government was the only way to deal with the current cash crunch.</p>


Sports complexes and stadia were on Sunday permitted to open but declared out of bounds for spectators in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown, possibly clearing the path for at least the resumption of halted training camps.

Sports complexes and stadia were on Sunday permitted to open but declared out of bounds for spectators in the fourth phase of the coronavirus-forced lockdown, possibly clearing the path for at least the resumption of halted training camps. "Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open, however, spectators won't be allowed," read one of the Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines to be followed during the lockdown, which was due to end on Monday but has been extended till May 31. India has recorded over 90,000 COVID-19 cases so far with nearly 3000 deaths. In the latest guidelines, sport continues to be listed among the functions, gatherings and large congregations which are not allowed as of now. The only big-ticket event that was to happen in India at this time was the Indian Premier League, which was postponed indefinitely in April due to the health crisis. Despite the relaxation announced on Sunday, the IPL is unlikely to go ahead even behind closed doors anytime soon as travel restrictions -- both domestic and international -- continue to remain in place. The lockdown originally came into effect in mid-march and Tokyo Olympics-bound elite athletes, who are based at Sports Authority of India (SAI) complexes in Patiala and Bengaluru, have been demanding a resumption of training for the past couple of weeks. Last week, Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju held a series of video conferences to take the athletes' view on the matter. On May 3, he declared that the ministry was aiming for a phase-wise resumption of national camps by the end of this month for at least the Olympic-bound athletes. The Indian Olympic Association was also demanding a resumption of camps and in a letter to Rijiju on Sunday, IOA President Narinder Batra also requested for a one-time financial help of approximately Rs 220 crore for various sports governing bodies. Batra claimed that sponsors won't be coming forward to support Olympic disciplines for at least one year and "hand-holding" by the government was the only way to deal with the current cash crunch.

MHA allows sports complexes, stadia to open in Lockdown 4 but no entry for spectators

<p>Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi made controversial remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent visit to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). As expected, there was sudden outrage against the former Pakistan captain as people slammed him for disrespecting PM Modi and the country.</p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj Singh’s name continued to pop up on social media platforms as they had extended help to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its battle against COVID-19. Now, Harbhajan has slammed Afridi for his comments as the veteran spinner said that Afridi’s comments are unacceptable while adding that he should stay within his limits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former India cricket-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir also tore into Afridi by taking to social media platform Twitter as he wrote: “Pak has 7 lakh force backed by 20 Cr ppl says 16 yr old man @SAfridiOfficial. Yet begging for Kashmir for 70 yrs. Jokers like Afridi, Imran &amp; Bajwa can spew venom against India &amp; PM @narendramodi ji to fool Pak ppl but won't get Kashmir till judgment day! Remember Bangladesh?”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steyn-says-worried-umpire-refused-to-give-tendulkar-out-en-route-to-odi-200-299100" hreflang="en">Steyn says worried umpire refused to give Tendulkar out en route to ODI 200</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pak has 7 lakh force backed by 20 Cr ppl says 16 yr old man <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SAfridiOfficial</a>. Yet begging for Kashmir for 70 yrs. Jokers like Afridi, Imran &amp; Bajwa can spew venom against India &amp; PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji to fool Pak ppl but won't get Kashmir till judgment day! Remember Bangladesh?</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1261910845224652802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Whereas Harbhajan clarified that Afridi had asked him to make an appeal for his charity and in good faith, he did it for the people suffering due to COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is very upsetting what Shahid Afridi has come up with, talking ill about our country and our Prime Minister. This is just not acceptable," Harbhajan told a leading news portal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-board-members-may-discuss-shifting-t20-world-cup-to-2022-298921" hreflang="en">ICC Board members may discuss shifting T20 World Cup to 2022</a></strong></p>

<p>"To be honest, he (Adridi) asked us to make an appeal for his charity. In good faith, we did it for humanity and for the people suffering due to the Coronavirus.</p>

<p>"Even our Prime Minister has said that Coronavirus is a fight that extends beyond borders, religions and caste. So we were very clear with the cause that we were promoting, which was simply to help those in crisis.</p>

<p>"But this man (Afridi) is talking ill about our country. All I have to say is we have nothing to do with Shahid Afridi. He has no right to speak ill against our country and he should stay in his country and limits," Harbhajan thundered.</p>

<p><strong>Here's what Shahid Afridi had said about PM Modi and India:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They are viper with poison to their neck, ready to bite at very chance they get.<br />
<br />
Listen this snake Shahid Afridi Abusing our army. <a href="https://t.co/0hcMNW7242">pic.twitter.com/0hcMNW7242</a></p>
— Aditi Rajput (@aditi_cted) <a href="https://twitter.com/aditi_cted/status/1261742038732673027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Harbhajan further said that after playing over 100 Tests, he doesn’t have to prove his loyalty towards India too people on social media and rather let his good work do the talking. The veteran of the game added that he will have no further relation with Afridi from this point of time.</p>

<p>"I was born in this country and will die in this country. I have played for my country for over 20 years and have won many games for India. No one can say that I have done anything against my country.</p>

<p>"Today or tomorrow, if my country needs me anywhere, even if at the border, I will be the first one to pick up a gun for the sake of my country."</p>

<p>As for his relations with Afridi, it's a closed chapter now. "One person asks me to make an appeal for the sake of humanity, and I did my bit. That was it. I have no relation or tie-up with any Shahid Afridi from here on," Harbhajan signed off.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi made controversial remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent visit to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi made controversial remarks against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a recent visit to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). As expected, there was sudden outrage against the former Pakistan captain as people slammed him for disrespecting PM Modi and the country. Harbhajan Singh and Yuvraj Singh’s name continued to pop up on social media platforms as they had extended help to Shahid Afridi Foundation in its battle against COVID-19. Now, Harbhajan has slammed Afridi for his comments as the veteran spinner said that Afridi’s comments are unacceptable while adding that he should stay within his limits. Former India cricket-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir also tore into Afridi by taking to social media platform Twitter as he wrote: “Pak has 7 lakh force backed by 20 Cr ppl says 16 yr old man @SAfridiOfficial. Yet begging for Kashmir for 70 yrs. Jokers like Afridi, Imran & Bajwa can spew venom against India & PM @narendramodi ji to fool Pak ppl but won't get Kashmir till judgment day! Remember Bangladesh?” ALSO READ: Steyn says worried umpire refused to give Tendulkar out en route to ODI 200 Pak has 7 lakh force backed by 20 Cr ppl says 16 yr old man @SAfridiOfficial. Yet begging for Kashmir for 70 yrs. Jokers like Afridi, Imran & Bajwa can spew venom against India & PM @narendramodi ji to fool Pak ppl but won't get Kashmir till judgment day! Remember Bangladesh? — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 17, 2020 × Whereas Harbhajan clarified that Afridi had asked him to make an appeal for his charity and in good faith, he did it for the people suffering due to COVID-19. "This is very upsetting what Shahid Afridi has come up with, talking ill about our country and our Prime Minister. This is just not acceptable," Harbhajan told a leading news portal. ALSO READ: ICC Board members may discuss shifting T20 World Cup to 2022 "To be honest, he (Adridi) asked us to make an appeal for his charity. In good faith, we did it for humanity and for the people suffering due to the Coronavirus. "Even our Prime Minister has said that Coronavirus is a fight that extends beyond borders, religions and caste. So we were very clear with the cause that we were promoting, which was simply to help those in crisis. "But this man (Afridi) is talking ill about our country. All I have to say is we have nothing to do with Shahid Afridi. He has no right to speak ill against our country and he should stay in his country and limits," Harbhajan thundered. Here's what Shahid Afridi had said about PM Modi and India: They are viper with poison to their neck, ready to bite at very chance they get. Listen this snake Shahid Afridi Abusing our army. pic.twitter.com/0hcMNW7242 — Aditi Rajput (@aditi_cted) May 16, 2020 × Harbhajan further said that after playing over 100 Tests, he doesn’t have to prove his loyalty towards India too people on social media and rather let his good work do the talking. The veteran of the game added that he will have no further relation with Afridi from this point of time. "I was born in this country and will die in this country. I have played for my country for over 20 years and have won many games for India. No one can say that I have done anything against my country. "Today or tomorrow, if my country needs me anywhere, even if at the border, I will be the first one to pick up a gun for the sake of my country." As for his relations with Afridi, it's a closed chapter now. "One person asks me to make an appeal for the sake of humanity, and I did my bit. That was it. I have no relation or tie-up with any Shahid Afridi from here on," Harbhajan signed off.

Harbhajan Singh, Gautam Gambhir hit back at Pakistan's Shahid Afridi over controversial comments on Kashmir and PM Modi

<p>Defending champions and league leaders, Bayern Munich will be up against the surprise package of Bundesliga 2019-20 - Union Berlin – as live-action in the German top-flight league continues after the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Bayern are sitting atop the league table with 55 points, Union Berlin are in the 12th spot with 30 points to their name. Bayern Munich go into the match as clear favourites and would be looking to resume the services with a big win. However, Union Berlin, before the halt, had displayed exemplary character and would be raring to make a statement from the word go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Bundesliga’s resumption, Dream11 and fantasy gamers are also active once again and we have assembled a predicted playing XI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-aim-to-shake-off-cobwebs-with-quiet-confidence-in-berlin-299211" hreflang="en">Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>My Dream11 Prediction for UNN vs BAY (Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich), Bundesliga 2019-20:</strong></h2>

<p>Rafal, Davies, Alaba, Pavard, Trimmel, Gnabry, Kimmich, Gentner, Lewandowski (C), Muller (VC), Marcus</p>

<h2>SQUADS</h2>

<p><strong>FC Union Berlin:</strong> Rafal Gikiewicz, Jakob Busk,Moritz Nicolas, Neven Subotic, Marvin Friedrich, Julian Ryerson, Ken Reichel, Florian Hubner,Suleiman Abdullahi, Manuel Schmiedebach, hristopher Lenz, Keven Schlotterbeck, Akaki Gogia, Florian Flecker,Yunus Malli,Grischa Prömel, Felix Kroos, Julius Kade, Michael Parensen, Robert Andrich, Christian Gentner, Maurice Opfermann, Joshua Mees, Sebastian Polter, Sebastian Andersson, Anthony Ujah ,Marius Bulter, Laurenz Dehl, Sheraldo Becker, Christopher Trimmel, Marcus Ingvartsen</p>

<p><strong>Bayern Munich: </strong>Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich, Christian Früchtl, Ron-Thorben Hoffmann, Álvaro Odriozola, Niklas Süle, Jérôme Boateng, Lucas Hernández, Corentin Tolisso, David Alaba, Lukas Mai, Thiago, Javi Martínez, Philippe Coutinho, Mickaël Cuisance, Ivan Perisic, Leon Goretzka, Thomas Müller, Sarpreet Singh, Kingsley Coman, Joshua Kimmich, Oliver Batista Meier, Paul Will, Kwasi Okyere Wriedt, Benjamin Pavard, Robert Lewandowski, Jann-Fiete Arp, Leon Dajaku, Alphonso Davies, Serge Gnabry, Joshua Zirkzee<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Defending champions and league leaders, Bayern Munich will be up against the surprise package of Bundesliga 2019-20 - Union Berlin – as live-action in the German top-flight league continues after the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Defending champions and league leaders, Bayern Munich will be up against the surprise package of Bundesliga 2019-20 - Union Berlin – as live-action in the German top-flight league continues after the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While Bayern are sitting atop the league table with 55 points, Union Berlin are in the 12th spot with 30 points to their name. Bayern Munich go into the match as clear favourites and would be looking to resume the services with a big win. However, Union Berlin, before the halt, had displayed exemplary character and would be raring to make a statement from the word go. With Bundesliga’s resumption, Dream11 and fantasy gamers are also active once again and we have assembled a predicted playing XI. ALSO READ: Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin My Dream11 Prediction for UNN vs BAY (Union Berlin vs Bayern Munich), Bundesliga 2019-20: Rafal, Davies, Alaba, Pavard, Trimmel, Gnabry, Kimmich, Gentner, Lewandowski (C), Muller (VC), Marcus SQUADS FC Union Berlin: Rafal Gikiewicz, Jakob Busk,Moritz Nicolas, Neven Subotic, Marvin Friedrich, Julian Ryerson, Ken Reichel, Florian Hubner,Suleiman Abdullahi, Manuel Schmiedebach, hristopher Lenz, Keven Schlotterbeck, Akaki Gogia, Florian Flecker,Yunus Malli,Grischa Prömel, Felix Kroos, Julius Kade, Michael Parensen, Robert Andrich, Christian Gentner, Maurice Opfermann, Joshua Mees, Sebastian Polter, Sebastian Andersson, Anthony Ujah ,Marius Bulter, Laurenz Dehl, Sheraldo Becker, Christopher Trimmel, Marcus Ingvartsen Bayern Munich: Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich, Christian Früchtl, Ron-Thorben Hoffmann, Álvaro Odriozola, Niklas Süle, Jérôme Boateng, Lucas Hernández, Corentin Tolisso, David Alaba, Lukas Mai, Thiago, Javi Martínez, Philippe Coutinho, Mickaël Cuisance, Ivan Perisic, Leon Goretzka, Thomas Müller, Sarpreet Singh, Kingsley Coman, Joshua Kimmich, Oliver Batista Meier, Paul Will, Kwasi Okyere Wriedt, Benjamin Pavard, Robert Lewandowski, Jann-Fiete Arp, Leon Dajaku, Alphonso Davies, Serge Gnabry, Joshua Zirkzee

UNN vs BAY, Dream11 Prediction, Bundesliga: Fantasy football tips for Union Berlin vs FC Bayern Munich match

<p>As Bundesliga continues its football activities post the resumption of the German top-flight league, FC Koln will take on Mainz at the RheinEnergieStadion on Sunday in what promises to be another cracking contest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Koln and Mainz will be looking to resume the action with a win, albeit with no fans to celebrate in the stadium. While visitors Mainz are locked in a relegation battle and are at 15th spot with 26 points, Koln are sitting 10th in the table with 32 points.</p>

<p>With Bundesliga’s resumption, Dream11 and fantasy gamers are also active once again and we have assembled a predicted playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-aim-to-shake-off-cobwebs-with-quiet-confidence-in-berlin-299211" hreflang="en">Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin</a></strong></p>

<h2>My Dream11 Prediction for KOL vs MAZ (FC Koln vs Mainz), Bundesliga 2019-20:</h2>

<p>Muller, Ehizibue, Katterbach, Bornauw, Leistner, Oztunali, Baku, Kainz, Quaison (VC), Uth, Cordoba (C)</p>

<h2>KOL vs MAZ - Squads:</h2>

<p><strong>FC Koln: </strong>Timo Horn, Thomas Kessler, Brady Scott, Julian Krahl, Benno Schmitz, Rafael Czichos, Kingsley Schindler, Kingsley Ehizibue, Jorge Meré, Sebastian Bornauw, Noah Katterbach, Toni Leistner, Robert Voloder, Marco Höger, Marcel Risse, Birger Verstraete, Jonas Hector, Christian Clemens, Elvis Rexhbecaj, Ellyes Skhiri, Niklas Hauptmann, Simon Terodde, Jhon Córdoba, Mark Uth, Dominick Drexler, Anthony Modeste, Jan Thielmann, Florian Kainz, Ismail Jakobs</p>

<p><strong>Mainz: </strong>Robin Zentner, Omer Hanin, Finn Dahmen, Aarón Martín, Jeremiah St. Juste, Jeffrey Bruma, Stefan Bell, Jonathan Meier, Philip Mwene, Niklas Kölle, Alexander Hack, Florian Müller, Ronael Pierre-Gabriel, Danny Latza, Robin Quaison, Levin Öztunali, Pierre Kunde, Daniel Brosinski, Moussa Niakhate, Bote Baku, Leandro Barreiro, Erkan Eyibil, Jean-Paul Boëtius, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Ji Dong-Won, Edimilson Fernandes, Karim Onisiwo, Taiwo Awoniyi, Adám Szalai, Jonathan Burkhardt, Cyrill Akono&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


As Bundesliga continues its football activities post the resumption of the German top-flight league, FC Koln will take on Mainz at the RheinEnergieStadion on Sunday in what promises to be another cracking contest.

As Bundesliga continues its football activities post the resumption of the German top-flight league, FC Koln will take on Mainz at the RheinEnergieStadion on Sunday in what promises to be another cracking contest. Both Koln and Mainz will be looking to resume the action with a win, albeit with no fans to celebrate in the stadium. While visitors Mainz are locked in a relegation battle and are at 15th spot with 26 points, Koln are sitting 10th in the table with 32 points. With Bundesliga’s resumption, Dream11 and fantasy gamers are also active once again and we have assembled a predicted playing XI. ALSO READ: Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin My Dream11 Prediction for KOL vs MAZ (FC Koln vs Mainz), Bundesliga 2019-20: Muller, Ehizibue, Katterbach, Bornauw, Leistner, Oztunali, Baku, Kainz, Quaison (VC), Uth, Cordoba (C) KOL vs MAZ - Squads: FC Koln: Timo Horn, Thomas Kessler, Brady Scott, Julian Krahl, Benno Schmitz, Rafael Czichos, Kingsley Schindler, Kingsley Ehizibue, Jorge Meré, Sebastian Bornauw, Noah Katterbach, Toni Leistner, Robert Voloder, Marco Höger, Marcel Risse, Birger Verstraete, Jonas Hector, Christian Clemens, Elvis Rexhbecaj, Ellyes Skhiri, Niklas Hauptmann, Simon Terodde, Jhon Córdoba, Mark Uth, Dominick Drexler, Anthony Modeste, Jan Thielmann, Florian Kainz, Ismail Jakobs Mainz: Robin Zentner, Omer Hanin, Finn Dahmen, Aarón Martín, Jeremiah St. Juste, Jeffrey Bruma, Stefan Bell, Jonathan Meier, Philip Mwene, Niklas Kölle, Alexander Hack, Florian Müller, Ronael Pierre-Gabriel, Danny Latza, Robin Quaison, Levin Öztunali, Pierre Kunde, Daniel Brosinski, Moussa Niakhate, Bote Baku, Leandro Barreiro, Erkan Eyibil, Jean-Paul Boëtius, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Ji Dong-Won, Edimilson Fernandes, Karim Onisiwo, Taiwo Awoniyi, Adám Szalai, Jonathan Burkhardt, Cyrill Akono

KOL vs MAZ, Dream11 Prediction, Bundesliga: Fantasy football tips for FC Koln vs Mainz match

<p>Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus.</p>

<p>Hansi Flick's side hold a one-point lead at the top of the league heading into their trip to the German capital, which has been the scene of some impressive upsets thanks to promoted Union's form at their Alten Foersterei stadium.</p>

<p>Union have twice shocked the league leaders this season, beating Borussia Dortmund 3-1 in August and turning out 2-0 victors over Borussia Moenchengladbach three months later.</p>

<p>Now it's Bayern's turn.</p>

<p>Flick is unsure of his team's ability to play out a full match of professional football after having only received the go-ahead to resume full team training last week.</p>

<p>"We don't know if the team can hold out over 90 minutes," said Flick. "We have trained well and played three matches of 20 minutes each last Sunday.</p>

<p>"They were played at a very high intensity, but we don't know clearly where we stand.</p>

<p>"We have to just deal with the situation."</p>

<p>The Bundesliga is the first major league in Europe to return to action since the coronavirus brought football to a halt two months ago and has only come back with a host of strict health regulations, chief among them empty stands in what are usually passion-filled stadiums.</p>

<p>That means Union won't be able to count on their ferocious home support at their ground on the eastern outskirts of the German capital.</p>

<p>They will also be without their coach Urs Fischer after breaking the team quarantine following the death of his father-in-law.</p>

<p>"It's not possible to surprise Bayern with the experience their players have," said assistant coach Markus Hoffmann, who will take charge of Union for the Bayern match.</p>

<p>"They've already experienced everything.</p>

<p>"We have to concentrate on ourselves and try to implement what we can to influence the game in the best possible way."</p>

<h2>- 'Very, very strange' -</h2>

<p>Bayern's lead was cut to a single point by Borussia Dortmund, who on Saturday showed no ring rustiness in a 4-0 demolition of Ruhr rivals Schalke.</p>

<p>Young gun Erling Braut Haaland was again the headline act, scoring the first Bundesliga goal after the restart and setting up Raphael Guerreiro for the first of his brace.</p>

<p>In one of a series of odd scenes that peppered the first day back, Dortmund's players jogged over to applaud an empty 'Sudtribune', which would for a normal derby would be jammed with 25,000 delirous fans hailing a huge victory that keeps pressure on their title rivals.</p>

<p>"There was no noise. You shoot at the goal, make a top pass, score a goal, and nothing happens," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre.</p>

<p>"That's very, very strange. We really missed our fans."</p>

<p>As well as the echoing arenas, a host of other rules have been put in place to try to stop the spread of the virus, from frequent testing to masks for players on the subs bench and a week-long quarantine for teams ahead of the restart.</p>

<p>However, advice to socially distance didn't stop Hertha Berlin players from celebrating their goals in a 3-0 win at Hoffenheim by hugging each other.</p>

<p>"The fact is that this is part of football," said Hertha coach Bruno Labbadia. "We've been tested so many times that we can allow it.</p>

<p>"If you can't celebrate anymore, the whole thing breaks down."</p>

<p>A German Football League (DFL) spokesman&nbsp;confirmed there will be no punishment, as it had only offered "guidelines" on how goals should be celebrated.</p>

<p>The DFL has also made no secret of the fact that several clubs are in a dire financial situation as a result of the lockdown.</p>

<p>If they are able to complete the nine remaining rounds of matches by June 30, clubs could receive around 300 million euros ($324 million) from television contracts.</p>

<p>Clubs in England, Spain and Italy, where leagues are weeks away from returning, will be watching to see how the rest of weekend goes.</p>


Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus.

Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus. Hansi Flick's side hold a one-point lead at the top of the league heading into their trip to the German capital, which has been the scene of some impressive upsets thanks to promoted Union's form at their Alten Foersterei stadium. Union have twice shocked the league leaders this season, beating Borussia Dortmund 3-1 in August and turning out 2-0 victors over Borussia Moenchengladbach three months later. Now it's Bayern's turn. Flick is unsure of his team's ability to play out a full match of professional football after having only received the go-ahead to resume full team training last week. "We don't know if the team can hold out over 90 minutes," said Flick. "We have trained well and played three matches of 20 minutes each last Sunday. "They were played at a very high intensity, but we don't know clearly where we stand. "We have to just deal with the situation." The Bundesliga is the first major league in Europe to return to action since the coronavirus brought football to a halt two months ago and has only come back with a host of strict health regulations, chief among them empty stands in what are usually passion-filled stadiums. That means Union won't be able to count on their ferocious home support at their ground on the eastern outskirts of the German capital. They will also be without their coach Urs Fischer after breaking the team quarantine following the death of his father-in-law. "It's not possible to surprise Bayern with the experience their players have," said assistant coach Markus Hoffmann, who will take charge of Union for the Bayern match. "They've already experienced everything. "We have to concentrate on ourselves and try to implement what we can to influence the game in the best possible way." - 'Very, very strange' - Bayern's lead was cut to a single point by Borussia Dortmund, who on Saturday showed no ring rustiness in a 4-0 demolition of Ruhr rivals Schalke. Young gun Erling Braut Haaland was again the headline act, scoring the first Bundesliga goal after the restart and setting up Raphael Guerreiro for the first of his brace. In one of a series of odd scenes that peppered the first day back, Dortmund's players jogged over to applaud an empty 'Sudtribune', which would for a normal derby would be jammed with 25,000 delirous fans hailing a huge victory that keeps pressure on their title rivals. "There was no noise. You shoot at the goal, make a top pass, score a goal, and nothing happens," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre. "That's very, very strange. We really missed our fans." As well as the echoing arenas, a host of other rules have been put in place to try to stop the spread of the virus, from frequent testing to masks for players on the subs bench and a week-long quarantine for teams ahead of the restart. However, advice to socially distance didn't stop Hertha Berlin players from celebrating their goals in a 3-0 win at Hoffenheim by hugging each other. "The fact is that this is part of football," said Hertha coach Bruno Labbadia. "We've been tested so many times that we can allow it. "If you can't celebrate anymore, the whole thing breaks down." A German Football League (DFL) spokesman confirmed there will be no punishment, as it had only offered "guidelines" on how goals should be celebrated. The DFL has also made no secret of the fact that several clubs are in a dire financial situation as a result of the lockdown. If they are able to complete the nine remaining rounds of matches by June 30, clubs could receive around 300 million euros ($324 million) from television contracts. Clubs in England, Spain and Italy, where leagues are weeks away from returning, will be watching to see how the rest of weekend goes.

Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin

<p>The German Bundesliga on Saturday became the first major European league to resume playing after a two-month coronavirus lockdown.</p>

<p>Matches were played without fans while goal celebrations were banned and benches observed social distancing.</p>

<p><strong>AFP Sport looks at the reaction:</strong></p>

<p>"There is something surreal about it. In the two hours before the match, you receive text messages from all over the world, people who tell you that they are going to watch the match on TV, and then you drive through your city and there is absolutely nothing happening. You have to get used to it."</p>

<p>--<strong> Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke after his team's 4-0 win over local rivals Schalke</strong></p>

<p>"There is no noise, you shoot at the goal, you make a great pass, you score, and nothing happens, it's very, very weird."</p>

<p><strong>-- Dortmund coach Lucien Favre</strong></p>

<p>"Not necessarily for the players, who may have to buy one less Lamborghini, but for the economy that depends on it -- the coaches, ground staff, fan shops. On a match day, some shops, including fast-food stands, rake in revenues equivalent to that of a normal week."</p>

<p><strong>-- Long-standing Dortmund supporter Marco Perz on why it was crucial the German season restarted</strong></p>

<p>"For us the situation is not really new. We have already been training in empty stadiums. But it is sad not to have fans in the stadium. In the long run, it doesn't matter. It won't affect the quality of the game if there are no spectators. Also as a coach, this isn't something new as I have trained youth teams in the past and I always heard myself shouting."</p>

<p><strong>-- Freiburg coach Christian Streich&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"The day was a bit odd. I am an emotional man, I like to take a player in my arms, which I obviously couldn't do today."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>-- Uwe Rosler, the coach of Duesseldorf</strong></p>

<h2>....and the not so serious</h2>

<p>"I remember when I was at Hamburg, I played in an empty stadium - it didn't put me off, I bagged twenty goals in as many minutes. Then I got rollocked by a groundsman who told me we were in fact playing away at Bayern that day and no bugger had told me. It did explain a lot."</p>


The German Bundesliga on Saturday became the first major European league to resume playing after a two-month coronavirus lockdown. Matches were played without fans while goal celebrations were banned and benches observed social distancing.

The German Bundesliga on Saturday became the first major European league to resume playing after a two-month coronavirus lockdown. Matches were played without fans while goal celebrations were banned and benches observed social distancing. AFP Sport looks at the reaction: "There is something surreal about it. In the two hours before the match, you receive text messages from all over the world, people who tell you that they are going to watch the match on TV, and then you drive through your city and there is absolutely nothing happening. You have to get used to it." -- Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke after his team's 4-0 win over local rivals Schalke "There is no noise, you shoot at the goal, you make a great pass, you score, and nothing happens, it's very, very weird." -- Dortmund coach Lucien Favre "Not necessarily for the players, who may have to buy one less Lamborghini, but for the economy that depends on it -- the coaches, ground staff, fan shops. On a match day, some shops, including fast-food stands, rake in revenues equivalent to that of a normal week." -- Long-standing Dortmund supporter Marco Perz on why it was crucial the German season restarted "For us the situation is not really new. We have already been training in empty stadiums. But it is sad not to have fans in the stadium. In the long run, it doesn't matter. It won't affect the quality of the game if there are no spectators. Also as a coach, this isn't something new as I have trained youth teams in the past and I always heard myself shouting." -- Freiburg coach Christian Streich "The day was a bit odd. I am an emotional man, I like to take a player in my arms, which I obviously couldn't do today." -- Uwe Rosler, the coach of Duesseldorf ....and the not so serious "I remember when I was at Hamburg, I played in an empty stadium - it didn't put me off, I bagged twenty goals in as many minutes. Then I got rollocked by a groundsman who told me we were in fact playing away at Bayern that day and no bugger had told me. It did explain a lot."

Who's saying what as the Bundesliga returns

<p>Germany gave football-starved fans reason to be cheerful on Saturday with the Bundesliga's return to action behind closed doors, on a day in which Borussia Dortmund hammered local rivals Schalke in an echoing Signal Iduna Park.</p>

<p>Here AFP looks at some of the most eye-catching things from a memorable day in the history of the sport:</p>

<h2>Haaland keeps it socially distanced</h2>

<p>Wonderkid striker Erling Braut Haaland began where he left off with the first Bundesliga goal of its restart after a two-month break caused by the coronavirus.</p>

<p>Haaland turned home Thorgan Hazard's low cross just before the half hour to open the scoring against Schalke. It was the 19-year-old's 10th goal in just nine Bundesliga appearances and set his team on their way to a thumping 4-0 derby victory.</p>

<p>Instead of being mobbed by jubilant teammates, Haaland made sure that they all kept their distance as he bobbed a cheeky little dance on the sidelines, in homage to the strict hygiene rules that the league has to follow.</p>

<h2>Schalke take five</h2>

<p>Schalke became the first team to make use of the rule change that allows five substitutions in a game, with David Wagner using the maximum number at Dortmund.</p>

<p>Timo Becker replaced Everton loanee Jonjoe Kenny with three minutes remaining as Schalke suffered &nbsp;destruction at the hands of Lucien Favre's flamboyant side.</p>

<p>Favre, meanwhile, used four substitutions, with man-of-the-match Raphael Guerreiro replaced by Marcel Schmelzer in the final moments after adding to Haaland's opener with an impressive brace.</p>

<p>The increase in subs, approved by the game's lawmakers earlier this month, was adopted by the Bundesliga to limit the risk of injury following two months without matches.</p>

<h2>Masked men line the dugout</h2>

<p>As well as the unusual sight of normally packed stands shorn of the boisterous support that accompanies the Bundesliga, fans watching on TV saw players wearing masks on the sidelines.</p>

<p>Players on the bench wore protective masks in compliance with the stringent safety guidelines implemented to allow the Bundesliga to resume before Europe's other top leagues.</p>

<p>Schalke alternated players on the bench&nbsp;in order to respect social distancing rules while a contact sport was being played out on the field.</p>

<h2>Augsburg fans question restart</h2>

<p>While fans across the world celebrated being able to watch top-level live football after a two-month drought, some supporters questioned the wisdom in restarting the league.</p>

<p>Augsburg followers hung a banner in front of an empty stand that read "Football gives life -- your business is sick" in protest at football being played&nbsp;while the pandemic still takes lives across Europe.</p>

<p>There was little joy for the home side on the pitch either, with Daniel Ginczek's stoppage time strike handing Wolfsburg a 2-1 win and deepening Augsburg's relegation fears.</p>

<h2>Dortmund salute empty wall</h2>

<p>A resounding victory over Schalke would usually see Dortmund's players celebrating in front of a throbbing 'Yellow Wall', the massive terrace behind the goal at Signal Iduna Park that holds up to 25,000 passionate fans.</p>

<p>However, with the stadium all-but-empty and the only noise being the cheers and clapping of players and coaches, Dortmund still jogged over to applaud the 'Sudtribune' in honour of the fervent support that usually pours from the stand.</p>

<h2>Clean balls, please</h2>

<p>The decision to allow German football to restart came with a host of government regulations, including the masks on the bench and plexiglass separating players and journalists for post-match interviews.</p>

<p>One of the rules states that match balls need to be regularly disinfected by personnel wearing gloves, as the German Football League attempts to limit the spread of the virus and finish the 2019-20 season.</p>


Germany gave football-starved fans reason to be cheerful on Saturday with the Bundesliga's return to action behind closed doors, on a day in which Borussia Dortmund hammered local rivals Schalke in an echoing Signal Iduna Park.

Germany gave football-starved fans reason to be cheerful on Saturday with the Bundesliga's return to action behind closed doors, on a day in which Borussia Dortmund hammered local rivals Schalke in an echoing Signal Iduna Park. Here AFP looks at some of the most eye-catching things from a memorable day in the history of the sport: Haaland keeps it socially distanced Wonderkid striker Erling Braut Haaland began where he left off with the first Bundesliga goal of its restart after a two-month break caused by the coronavirus. Haaland turned home Thorgan Hazard's low cross just before the half hour to open the scoring against Schalke. It was the 19-year-old's 10th goal in just nine Bundesliga appearances and set his team on their way to a thumping 4-0 derby victory. Instead of being mobbed by jubilant teammates, Haaland made sure that they all kept their distance as he bobbed a cheeky little dance on the sidelines, in homage to the strict hygiene rules that the league has to follow. Schalke take five Schalke became the first team to make use of the rule change that allows five substitutions in a game, with David Wagner using the maximum number at Dortmund. Timo Becker replaced Everton loanee Jonjoe Kenny with three minutes remaining as Schalke suffered destruction at the hands of Lucien Favre's flamboyant side. Favre, meanwhile, used four substitutions, with man-of-the-match Raphael Guerreiro replaced by Marcel Schmelzer in the final moments after adding to Haaland's opener with an impressive brace. The increase in subs, approved by the game's lawmakers earlier this month, was adopted by the Bundesliga to limit the risk of injury following two months without matches. Masked men line the dugout As well as the unusual sight of normally packed stands shorn of the boisterous support that accompanies the Bundesliga, fans watching on TV saw players wearing masks on the sidelines. Players on the bench wore protective masks in compliance with the stringent safety guidelines implemented to allow the Bundesliga to resume before Europe's other top leagues. Schalke alternated players on the bench in order to respect social distancing rules while a contact sport was being played out on the field. Augsburg fans question restart While fans across the world celebrated being able to watch top-level live football after a two-month drought, some supporters questioned the wisdom in restarting the league. Augsburg followers hung a banner in front of an empty stand that read "Football gives life -- your business is sick" in protest at football being played while the pandemic still takes lives across Europe. There was little joy for the home side on the pitch either, with Daniel Ginczek's stoppage time strike handing Wolfsburg a 2-1 win and deepening Augsburg's relegation fears. Dortmund salute empty wall A resounding victory over Schalke would usually see Dortmund's players celebrating in front of a throbbing 'Yellow Wall', the massive terrace behind the goal at Signal Iduna Park that holds up to 25,000 passionate fans. However, with the stadium all-but-empty and the only noise being the cheers and clapping of players and coaches, Dortmund still jogged over to applaud the 'Sudtribune' in honour of the fervent support that usually pours from the stand. Clean balls, please The decision to allow German football to restart came with a host of government regulations, including the masks on the bench and plexiglass separating players and journalists for post-match interviews. One of the rules states that match balls need to be regularly disinfected by personnel wearing gloves, as the German Football League attempts to limit the spread of the virus and finish the 2019-20 season.

Football but not as we know it: odd sights from Bundesliga comeback

<p>South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn is convinced he had Sachin Tendulkar lbw as he approached the first individual double century in one-day internationals only to be denied by umpire Ian Gould's fear he wouldn't make it back to his hotel if he gave the India great out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The historic innings took place in front of a lively India home crowd at Gwalior in 2010.</p>

<p>Discussing how tough it was to dismiss Tendulkar with England paceman James Anderson during a Sky Sports cricket podcast, Steyn said: "He scored the first double-hundred in ODI cricket, and it was against us in Gwalior.</p>

<p>"And I actually remember – I think I got him out lbw when he was about 190-odd. Gouldy was the umpire, and he gave him not out.</p>

<p>"And I was like, 'why, why did you give him not out!? That's so dead'. And he was like, 'mate, look around –- if I gave him out, I won't make it back to the hotel'."</p>

<p>Steyn, however, was full of admiration for Tendulkar, international cricket's all-time leading run-scorer and century-maker, saying he had "everything covered, he's got every shot in the book.</p>

<p>"He was so good, and very rarely got out lbw," added Steyn of the 'Little Master', who retired in 2013.</p>

<p>"And, like Jimmy said, you just didn't want to bowl a bad ball to him. Especially in a place like India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You bowl a bad ball, and he hits you four –- he's on nought and he hits you for four in Mumbai (Tendulkar's home town), it feels like the world is closing in on you. He's only on four not out, he may as well have been on 500!</p>

<p>"You feel like, 'maybe I could bring the pace down a little bit and really focus on getting the ball in the right place for as long as I possibly can'. You just didn't want to bowl a bad ball</p>

<p>"You just hope one will do something off the seam or he's got an off day, and it goes in your favour."</p>


South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn is convinced he had Sachin Tendulkar lbw as he approached the first individual double century in one-day internationals only to be denied by umpire Ian Gould's fear he wouldn't make it back to his hotel if he gave the India great out.

South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn is convinced he had Sachin Tendulkar lbw as he approached the first individual double century in one-day internationals only to be denied by umpire Ian Gould's fear he wouldn't make it back to his hotel if he gave the India great out. The historic innings took place in front of a lively India home crowd at Gwalior in 2010. Discussing how tough it was to dismiss Tendulkar with England paceman James Anderson during a Sky Sports cricket podcast, Steyn said: "He scored the first double-hundred in ODI cricket, and it was against us in Gwalior. "And I actually remember – I think I got him out lbw when he was about 190-odd. Gouldy was the umpire, and he gave him not out. "And I was like, 'why, why did you give him not out!? That's so dead'. And he was like, 'mate, look around –- if I gave him out, I won't make it back to the hotel'." Steyn, however, was full of admiration for Tendulkar, international cricket's all-time leading run-scorer and century-maker, saying he had "everything covered, he's got every shot in the book. "He was so good, and very rarely got out lbw," added Steyn of the 'Little Master', who retired in 2013. "And, like Jimmy said, you just didn't want to bowl a bad ball to him. Especially in a place like India. "You bowl a bad ball, and he hits you four –- he's on nought and he hits you for four in Mumbai (Tendulkar's home town), it feels like the world is closing in on you. He's only on four not out, he may as well have been on 500! "You feel like, 'maybe I could bring the pace down a little bit and really focus on getting the ball in the right place for as long as I possibly can'. You just didn't want to bowl a bad ball "You just hope one will do something off the seam or he's got an off day, and it goes in your favour."

Steyn says worried umpire refused to give Tendulkar out en route to ODI 200

<p>RB Leipzig were held to a 1-1 draw by Freiburg as the Bundesliga restarted following the coronavirus suspension on Saturday, suffering a further knock to their dwindling title hopes.</p>

<p>Julian Nagelsmann's third-placed side sit four points behind league leaders Bayern Munich ahead of the reigning champions' visit to Union Berlin on Sunday, and it would have been worse if Freiburg midfielder Robin Koch's late effort had not been ruled out by VAR.</p>

<p>Leipzig's title dreams had started to slip away before the lockdown started, as back-to-back draws with Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg in March had seen them fall five points off the pace.</p>

<p>Players and coaches sitting on the bench wore protective masks in compliance with the stringent safety guidelines implemented to allow the Bundesliga to resume before Europe's other top leagues.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-haaland-guerreiro-shine-as-borussia-dortmund-hammer-fc-schalke-4-0-299087" hreflang="en">Bundesliga: Haaland, Guerreiro shine as Borussia Dortmund hammer FC Schalke 4-0</a></strong></p>

<p>The hosts started brightly at an eerily-quiet Red Bull Arena, with Timo Werner and Nordi Mukiele both going close to opening the scoring in the first half an hour.</p>

<p>But Freiburg claimed a surprise lead 12 minutes before half-time as Vincenzo Grifo's low corner was diverted in by centre-back Manuel Gulde.</p>

<p>Leipzig continued to dominate possession in the second period and wasted a golden chance in the 57th minute as on-loan Everton winger Ademola Lookman volleyed wide when totally unmarked just yards from goal.</p>

<p>Freiburg had to rely on their goalkeeper the next time Leipzig carved them open, as Alexander Schwolow stretched out a leg to brilliantly deny Werner a 28th goal of the season.</p>

<p>Leipzig gave themselves fresh hope of turning the game around in the 77th minute, though, as Yussuf Poulsen headed past Schwolow.</p>

<p>The home side pushed for a winner, as Marcel Sabitzer and Patrik Schick joined Lookman in coming off the bench, but failed to carve out another clear-cut opportunity.</p>

<p>Instead, it was Freiburg who thought they had snatched a dramatic injury-time victory, only for Koch's close-range finish to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review.</p>


RB Leipzig were held to a 1-1 draw by Freiburg as the Bundesliga restarted following the coronavirus suspension on Saturday, suffering a further knock to their dwindling title hopes.

RB Leipzig were held to a 1-1 draw by Freiburg as the Bundesliga restarted following the coronavirus suspension on Saturday, suffering a further knock to their dwindling title hopes. Julian Nagelsmann's third-placed side sit four points behind league leaders Bayern Munich ahead of the reigning champions' visit to Union Berlin on Sunday, and it would have been worse if Freiburg midfielder Robin Koch's late effort had not been ruled out by VAR. Leipzig's title dreams had started to slip away before the lockdown started, as back-to-back draws with Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg in March had seen them fall five points off the pace. Players and coaches sitting on the bench wore protective masks in compliance with the stringent safety guidelines implemented to allow the Bundesliga to resume before Europe's other top leagues. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Haaland, Guerreiro shine as Borussia Dortmund hammer FC Schalke 4-0 The hosts started brightly at an eerily-quiet Red Bull Arena, with Timo Werner and Nordi Mukiele both going close to opening the scoring in the first half an hour. But Freiburg claimed a surprise lead 12 minutes before half-time as Vincenzo Grifo's low corner was diverted in by centre-back Manuel Gulde. Leipzig continued to dominate possession in the second period and wasted a golden chance in the 57th minute as on-loan Everton winger Ademola Lookman volleyed wide when totally unmarked just yards from goal. Freiburg had to rely on their goalkeeper the next time Leipzig carved them open, as Alexander Schwolow stretched out a leg to brilliantly deny Werner a 28th goal of the season. Leipzig gave themselves fresh hope of turning the game around in the 77th minute, though, as Yussuf Poulsen headed past Schwolow. The home side pushed for a winner, as Marcel Sabitzer and Patrik Schick joined Lookman in coming off the bench, but failed to carve out another clear-cut opportunity. Instead, it was Freiburg who thought they had snatched a dramatic injury-time victory, only for Koch's close-range finish to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

Leipzig title hopes hit by Freiburg draw on Bundesliga restart

<p>There was a strange feeling in the empty Signal Iduna Park as Borussia Dortmund locked horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke in what was a one-sided Ruhr Derby and first set of Bundesliga matches after the resumption of the league on Saturday (May 16). Even though Borussia Dortmund ran riot against their bitter rivals by winning the match 4-0, the lack of the iconic yellow wall, no chants and echoing voices of players and support staff clearly gave a glimpse of what sporting activities could like post-COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Dortmund and Schalke took to the ground one by one due to new social distancing norms with staff and other officials wearing masks. After the referee blew the whistle for the commencement of the match in front of empty stands, FC Schalke 04 started with early possession before Dortmund’s high press and intensity caught up to them following a break off 66 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An early chance fell to the feet of Erling Haaland in the ninth minute, however, the young sensation’s first touch let him down. Schalke did try to hurt their arch-rivals as Merit showed early promising signs, however, the lack of final delivery constantly disappointed the Blues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, Bundesliga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7c4bb305-bcaf-4f0d-b9af-2261ef9c39d9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1RP7KY.jpg" /></p>

<p>Achraf Hakimi’s threat from the right flank was visible from the word go and the energetic right-back created a superb chance in the 10th minute only for Dortmund attackers to scrap it wide. Thorgan Hazard was the main threat on the ball for Dortmund as the Belgian looked lively and in-control right after the whistle.</p>

<h2><strong>Erling Haaland - born to score</strong></h2>

<p>A fluid build-up and an inch-perfect cross by Hakimi allowed Haaland to score Bundesliga’s first goal post-resumption and the Norwegian came up with an interesting celebration as he danced to the tune of stadium music away while maintaining a distance with his teammates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-dortmunds-erling-haaland-scores-bundesligas-first-goal-post-resumption-comes-up-with-interesting-celebration-299075" hreflang="en">Watch - Dortmund's Erling Haaland scores Bundesliga's first goal post resumption; comes up with interesting celebration</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Rafael Guerreiro - on the scoresheet, twice</strong></h2>

<p>Rafael Guerriero came to life as he netted&nbsp;a brace showing impressive energy and technique in the build-up. In between, Guerreiro’s brace, Thorgan Hazard came up with a calm finish to help Dortmund net four past their rivals and resume the Bundesliga with a bang.</p>

<p><img alt="Dortmund vs Schalke, Bundesliga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a9d172d-144b-4091-929b-f2c980df4cf7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1RP6AE.jpg" /></p>

<p>With the win, Dortmund close the gap with leader Bayern Munich by one point as the Black and Yellow moved to 54 points.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What happened elsewhere?</h2>

<p>In the other matches, Wolfsburg defeated Augsburg 1-2 following an additional time finish by D Ginczek, whereas, Dusseldorf played out a goalless draw against Paderborn. Hertha Berlin walked past Hoffenheim with a 3-0 win while Red Bull Leipzig playing a 1-1 draw with Freiburg.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


There was a strange feeling in the empty Signal Iduna Park as Borussia Dortmund locked horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke in what was a one-sided Ruhr Derby and first set of Bundesliga matches after the resumption of the league on Saturday (May 16).

There was a strange feeling in the empty Signal Iduna Park as Borussia Dortmund locked horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke in what was a one-sided Ruhr Derby and first set of Bundesliga matches after the resumption of the league on Saturday (May 16). Even though Borussia Dortmund ran riot against their bitter rivals by winning the match 4-0, the lack of the iconic yellow wall, no chants and echoing voices of players and support staff clearly gave a glimpse of what sporting activities could like post-COVID-19. Both Dortmund and Schalke took to the ground one by one due to new social distancing norms with staff and other officials wearing masks. After the referee blew the whistle for the commencement of the match in front of empty stands, FC Schalke 04 started with early possession before Dortmund’s high press and intensity caught up to them following a break off 66 days. An early chance fell to the feet of Erling Haaland in the ninth minute, however, the young sensation’s first touch let him down. Schalke did try to hurt their arch-rivals as Merit showed early promising signs, however, the lack of final delivery constantly disappointed the Blues. Achraf Hakimi’s threat from the right flank was visible from the word go and the energetic right-back created a superb chance in the 10th minute only for Dortmund attackers to scrap it wide. Thorgan Hazard was the main threat on the ball for Dortmund as the Belgian looked lively and in-control right after the whistle. Erling Haaland - born to score A fluid build-up and an inch-perfect cross by Hakimi allowed Haaland to score Bundesliga’s first goal post-resumption and the Norwegian came up with an interesting celebration as he danced to the tune of stadium music away while maintaining a distance with his teammates. Watch - Dortmund's Erling Haaland scores Bundesliga's first goal post resumption; comes up with interesting celebration Rafael Guerreiro - on the scoresheet, twice Rafael Guerriero came to life as he netted a brace showing impressive energy and technique in the build-up. In between, Guerreiro’s brace, Thorgan Hazard came up with a calm finish to help Dortmund net four past their rivals and resume the Bundesliga with a bang. With the win, Dortmund close the gap with leader Bayern Munich by one point as the Black and Yellow moved to 54 points. What happened elsewhere? In the other matches, Wolfsburg defeated Augsburg 1-2 following an additional time finish by D Ginczek, whereas, Dusseldorf played out a goalless draw against Paderborn. Hertha Berlin walked past Hoffenheim with a 3-0 win while Red Bull Leipzig playing a 1-1 draw with Freiburg.

Bundesliga: Haaland, Guerreiro shine as Borussia Dortmund hammer FC Schalke 4-0

<p>Football is back to life with Bundesliga’s resumption on Saturday (May 16). While there is not a single spectator sitting in the stands, there is a sense of relief that footballing action is finally back. Young sensation Erling Haaland registered the first Bundesliga goal post-resumption as Borussia Dortmund took a first-half lead against arch-rivals FC Schalke 04 at the Signal Iduna Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were no crowd celebrations&nbsp;but Haaland and his teammates did celebrate, without touching each other, near the corner flag as the Norwegian jogged with a pointed finger&nbsp;following his clever finish in the 29th minute of the game.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Haaland scores the first post-corona goal and celebrates like that huh <a href="https://t.co/z2Pia0r6vO">pic.twitter.com/z2Pia0r6vO</a></p>
— goatblak! (@bighandsobIak) <a href="https://twitter.com/bighandsobIak/status/1261659629731356672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-eyes-on-germany-as-bundesliga-football-returns-299057" hreflang="en">All eyes on Germany as Bundesliga football returns</a></strong></p>

<p>It was a fluid build-up by the Black and Yellow before Thorgan Hazard whipped an inch-perfect cross only for Haaland to rattle the net and hand Dortmund a 1-0 lead. Rafael Guerreiro tapped another in the additional time of first half to double Dortmund's lead to 2-0.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="nl"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bundesliga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bundesliga</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BVBS04?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BVBS04</a> Haaland goal <a href="https://t.co/hag1LRLeQs">pic.twitter.com/hag1LRLeQs</a></p>
— # t o 1 q a  (@tolgasyhbyz) <a href="https://twitter.com/tolgasyhbyz/status/1261661606674599937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Schalke started the first-half on a positive note, however, Dortmund’s strong pressing made life tough for the Schalke players. Dortmund did get a couple of early chance only but failed to hit the target.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other matches, Freiburg also took a first-half lead Manuel Guide opened the scoring for the visitors against Red Bull Leipzig.&nbsp;<br />
Wolfsburg scored on the brink of first-half with Renato Steffen putting the ball inside the net against Augsburg at the WWK Arena.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Football is back to life with Bundesliga’s resumption on Saturday (May 16). While there is not a single spectator sitting in the stands, there is a sense of relief that footballing action is finally back.

Football is back to life with Bundesliga’s resumption on Saturday (May 16). While there is not a single spectator sitting in the stands, there is a sense of relief that footballing action is finally back. Young sensation Erling Haaland registered the first Bundesliga goal post-resumption as Borussia Dortmund took a first-half lead against arch-rivals FC Schalke 04 at the Signal Iduna Park. There were no crowd celebrations but Haaland and his teammates did celebrate, without touching each other, near the corner flag as the Norwegian jogged with a pointed finger following his clever finish in the 29th minute of the game. Haaland scores the first post-corona goal and celebrates like that huh pic.twitter.com/z2Pia0r6vO — goatblak! (@bighandsobIak) May 16, 2020 × ALSO READ: All eyes on Germany as Bundesliga football returns It was a fluid build-up by the Black and Yellow before Thorgan Hazard whipped an inch-perfect cross only for Haaland to rattle the net and hand Dortmund a 1-0 lead. Rafael Guerreiro tapped another in the additional time of first half to double Dortmund's lead to 2-0. #Bundesliga #BVBS04 Haaland goal pic.twitter.com/hag1LRLeQs — # t o 1 q a  (@tolgasyhbyz) May 16, 2020 × Schalke started the first-half on a positive note, however, Dortmund’s strong pressing made life tough for the Schalke players. Dortmund did get a couple of early chance only but failed to hit the target. In other matches, Freiburg also took a first-half lead Manuel Guide opened the scoring for the visitors against Red Bull Leipzig. Wolfsburg scored on the brink of first-half with Renato Steffen putting the ball inside the net against Augsburg at the WWK Arena.

Watch - Dortmund's Erling Haaland scores Bundesliga's first goal post resumption; comes up with interesting celebration

<p>Football will be back to life when Bundesliga kicks off on May 16 (Saturday) with some mouth-watering action lined up for the weekend following a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the German top-flight league is set to resume services with the Ruhr Derby in Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, there are some other high-octane clashes set to enthral football lovers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Augsburg will host Wolfsburg; Dusseldorf will face Paderborn while Hoffenheim take on Hertha Berlin. Red Bull Leipzig will also return to the pitch as they face Freiburg on Saturday with the last match of the evening being between Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the resumption of live sports, fantasy gamers, especially those who are into Dream11, will also look to engage once again and to help the ardent lovers of the beautiful game, we take a look at Dream11 prediction for Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04 (DOR v SCH).</p>

<h2><strong>Dream11 Team Prediction, DOR vs SCH (Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04):</strong></h2>

<p><strong>DOR vs SCH, Bundesliga, Dream11 Team Prediction:</strong> Roman Burki (GK), Mats Hummels (DOR), Achraf Hakimi (DOR), Jean-Clair Todibo (SCH), Axel Witsel (DOR), Amine Harit (SCH), Weston McKennie (SCH), Daniel Caligiuri (SCH), Erling Haaland (C) (DOR), Jadon Sancho (VC) (DOR) and Michael Gregoritsch (SCH).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>DOR vs SCH - Squads</strong></p>

<p><strong>Borussia Dortmund:</strong> Roman Burki, Marwin Hitz, Eric Oelschlagel, Luca Unbehaun, Mats Hummels, Lukasz Piszczek, Marcel Schmelzer, Nico Schulz, Achraf Hakimi, Manuel Akanji, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Leonardo Balerdi, Mateu Morey, Axel Witsel, Emre Can, Marco Reus, Julian Brandt, Raphael Guerreiro, Thorgan Hazard, Thomas Delaney, Mahmoud Dahoud, Giovanni Reyna, Tobias Raschl, Mario Gotze, Jadon Sancho, Erling Haaland</p>

<p><strong>Schalke 04:</strong> Alexander Nubel, Michael Langer, Markus Schubert, Matija Nastasic, Benjamin Stambouli, Jonjoe Kenny, Bastian Oczipka, Salif Sane, Juan Miranda, Jean-Clair Todibo, Ozan Kabak, Timo Becker, Malick Thiaw, Daniel Caligiuri, Alessandro Schopf, Weston Mckennie, Amine Harit, Suat Serdar, Omar Mascarell, Rabbi Matondo, Nassim Boujellab, Levent Mercan, Benito Raman, Michael Gregoritsch, Guido Burgstaller, Ahmed Kutucu</p>


Football will be back to life when Bundesliga kicks off on May 16 (Saturday) with some mouth-watering action lined up for the weekend following a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Football will be back to life when Bundesliga kicks off on May 16 (Saturday) with some mouth-watering action lined up for the weekend following a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. While the German top-flight league is set to resume services with the Ruhr Derby in Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, there are some other high-octane clashes set to enthral football lovers. Augsburg will host Wolfsburg; Dusseldorf will face Paderborn while Hoffenheim take on Hertha Berlin. Red Bull Leipzig will also return to the pitch as they face Freiburg on Saturday with the last match of the evening being between Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg. With the resumption of live sports, fantasy gamers, especially those who are into Dream11, will also look to engage once again and to help the ardent lovers of the beautiful game, we take a look at Dream11 prediction for Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04 (DOR v SCH). Dream11 Team Prediction, DOR vs SCH (Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04): DOR vs SCH, Bundesliga, Dream11 Team Prediction: Roman Burki (GK), Mats Hummels (DOR), Achraf Hakimi (DOR), Jean-Clair Todibo (SCH), Axel Witsel (DOR), Amine Harit (SCH), Weston McKennie (SCH), Daniel Caligiuri (SCH), Erling Haaland (C) (DOR), Jadon Sancho (VC) (DOR) and Michael Gregoritsch (SCH). DOR vs SCH - Squads Borussia Dortmund: Roman Burki, Marwin Hitz, Eric Oelschlagel, Luca Unbehaun, Mats Hummels, Lukasz Piszczek, Marcel Schmelzer, Nico Schulz, Achraf Hakimi, Manuel Akanji, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Leonardo Balerdi, Mateu Morey, Axel Witsel, Emre Can, Marco Reus, Julian Brandt, Raphael Guerreiro, Thorgan Hazard, Thomas Delaney, Mahmoud Dahoud, Giovanni Reyna, Tobias Raschl, Mario Gotze, Jadon Sancho, Erling Haaland Schalke 04: Alexander Nubel, Michael Langer, Markus Schubert, Matija Nastasic, Benjamin Stambouli, Jonjoe Kenny, Bastian Oczipka, Salif Sane, Juan Miranda, Jean-Clair Todibo, Ozan Kabak, Timo Becker, Malick Thiaw, Daniel Caligiuri, Alessandro Schopf, Weston Mckennie, Amine Harit, Suat Serdar, Omar Mascarell, Rabbi Matondo, Nassim Boujellab, Levent Mercan, Benito Raman, Michael Gregoritsch, Guido Burgstaller, Ahmed Kutucu

DOR vs SCH, Bundesliga, Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy football tips for Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04

<p>After a prolonged break, Bundesliga will be back albeit without fans in the stadiums from May 16. The German top-flight league will resume with Borussia Dortmund locking horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke at the Signal Iduna Park whereas Augsburg will host Wolfsburg in what promises to be a great contest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other matches of Bundesliga on May 16, Dusseldorf will face Paderborn while Hoffenheim take on Hertha Berlin. Red Bull Leipzig will also return to the pitch as they face Freiburg on Saturday with the last match of the evening being between Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-premier-league-set-for-june-21-restart-298893" hreflang="en">Russian Premier League set for June 21 restart</a></strong></p>

<p>Bundesliga will be the first major European league to commence following the unwanted break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and all eyes will be on the German league as to how successfully they conduct the matches. Fans, who are desperate to see some live football will be glued to their television sets, smartphones, tablets or laptops will tune in to feast their eyes with the beautiful game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO&nbsp; READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-is-back-borussia-dortmund-vs-fc-schalke-04-revierderby-preview-team-news-head-to-head-records-298457" hreflang="en">Football is back! Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, Revierderby: Preview, team news, head-to-head records</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>As Bundesliga gears up for resumption, let us take a look at the TV schedule of the matches of matchday 26:</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Saturday, May 16, Bundesliga – When and where to watch</strong></h2>

<p><strong>7:00 PM IST</strong></p>

<p>Dortmund vs Schalke – Star Sports Select 2/HD</p>

<p>RB Leipzig vs Freiburg – Star Sports Select 1/HD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hoffenheim vs Hertha Berlin – Not on TV</p>

<p>Fortuna Dusseldorf vs Paderborn – Not on TV</p>

<p>Augsburg vs Wolfsburg – Not on TV</p>

<p><strong>10:00 PM IST</strong></p>

<p>Eintracht Frankfurt vs Borussia Monchengladbach – Star Sports Select 2/HD</p>

<p>Besides getting televised on the mention channels in India, all the Bundesliga matches will be available on Jio TV and Disney + Hotstar<br />
&nbsp;</p>


After a prolonged break, Bundesliga will be back albeit without fans in the stadiums from May 16. The German top-flight league will resume with Borussia Dortmund locking horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke at the Signal Iduna Park whereas Augsburg will host Wolfsburg in what promises to be a great contest.

After a prolonged break, Bundesliga will be back albeit without fans in the stadiums from May 16. The German top-flight league will resume with Borussia Dortmund locking horns with arch-rivals FC Schalke at the Signal Iduna Park whereas Augsburg will host Wolfsburg in what promises to be a great contest. In other matches of Bundesliga on May 16, Dusseldorf will face Paderborn while Hoffenheim take on Hertha Berlin. Red Bull Leipzig will also return to the pitch as they face Freiburg on Saturday with the last match of the evening being between Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg. ALSO READ: Russian Premier League set for June 21 restart Bundesliga will be the first major European league to commence following the unwanted break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and all eyes will be on the German league as to how successfully they conduct the matches. Fans, who are desperate to see some live football will be glued to their television sets, smartphones, tablets or laptops will tune in to feast their eyes with the beautiful game. ALSO READ: Football is back! Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, Revierderby: Preview, team news, head-to-head records As Bundesliga gears up for resumption, let us take a look at the TV schedule of the matches of matchday 26: Saturday, May 16, Bundesliga – When and where to watch 7:00 PM IST Dortmund vs Schalke – Star Sports Select 2/HD RB Leipzig vs Freiburg – Star Sports Select 1/HD. Hoffenheim vs Hertha Berlin – Not on TV Fortuna Dusseldorf vs Paderborn – Not on TV Augsburg vs Wolfsburg – Not on TV 10:00 PM IST Eintracht Frankfurt vs Borussia Monchengladbach – Star Sports Select 2/HD Besides getting televised on the mention channels in India, all the Bundesliga matches will be available on Jio TV and Disney + Hotstar

Bundesliga, May 16: From Dortmund vs Schalke to Leipzig vs Freiburg - When and where to watch, live streaming details and timings

<p>Bundesliga is all set to kick-start its first round of matches since the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. Although the matches would be played behind closed doors, football fans can breathe a sigh of relief as they will get to see live football from one of the top and most-followed European League, the Bundesliga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From the first round of matches, Red Bull Leipzig will be up against Freiburg in what promises to be a cracking game of football. While Leipzig are currently sitting third in the standings, Freiburg are eighth with every potential to hurt strongest of opponents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the resumption of Bundesliga, fantasy gamers will also be rooting for their selected players and to make things easy, we have assembled a Dream11 predicted XI. Both Leipzig and Freiburg have quality players and the match could end up being a goal-fest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dor-vs-sch-bundesliga-dream11-prediction-fantasy-football-tips-for-borussia-dortmund-vs-fc-schalke-04-298926" hreflang="en">DOR vs SCH, Bundesliga, Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy football tips for Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>My Dream11 Prediction for LEP vs FRB (Red Bull Leipzig vs Freiburg), Bundesliga 2019-20 match:</strong></h2>

<p>Alexander, Lukas, Marcel, Angelino, Mukiele, Sabitzer, Haberer, Hofler, Werner(c), Patrik (vc), Petersen</p>

<h2><strong>LEP vs FRB Squads</strong></h2>

<p><strong>RB Leipzig:</strong> Peter Gulacsi, Yvon Mvogo, Philipp Tschauner, Angelino, Marcel Halstenberg, Lukas Klostermann, Willi Orban, Dayot Upamecano, Ethan Ampadu, Ibrahima Konate, Nordi Mukiele, Frederik Jakel, Malik Talabidi, Emil Forsberg, Kevin Kampl, Christopher Nkunku, Marcel Sabitzer, Dani Olmo, Konrad Laimer, Tyler Adams, Amadou Haidara, Hannes Wolf, Fabrice Hartmann, Mads Bidstrup, Tom Krauss, Yussuf Poulsen, Patrik Schick, Timo Werner, Ademola Lookman</p>

<p><strong>SC Freiburg:</strong> Niclas Thiede, Mark Flekken, Alexander Schwolow, Nico Schlotterbeck, Lukas Kubler, Manuel Gulde, Jonathan Schmid, Dominique Heintz, Gian-Luca Itter, Philipp Lienhart, Christian Gunter, Robin Koch, Amir Abrashi, Lino Tempelmann, Yannik Keitel, Brandon Borrello, Florian Kath, Mike Frantz, Nicolas Hofler, Janik Haberer, Yoric Ravet, Chang-Hoon Kwon, Vincenzo Grifo, Roland Sallai, Nils Petersen, Lucas Holer, Luca Waldschmidt<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Bundesliga is all set to kick-start its first round of matches since the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. Although the matches would be played behind closed doors, football fans can breathe a sigh of relief as they will get to see live football from one of the top and most-followed European League, the Bundesliga.

Bundesliga is all set to kick-start its first round of matches since the prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic. Although the matches would be played behind closed doors, football fans can breathe a sigh of relief as they will get to see live football from one of the top and most-followed European League, the Bundesliga. From the first round of matches, Red Bull Leipzig will be up against Freiburg in what promises to be a cracking game of football. While Leipzig are currently sitting third in the standings, Freiburg are eighth with every potential to hurt strongest of opponents. With the resumption of Bundesliga, fantasy gamers will also be rooting for their selected players and to make things easy, we have assembled a Dream11 predicted XI. Both Leipzig and Freiburg have quality players and the match could end up being a goal-fest. ALSO READ: DOR vs SCH, Bundesliga, Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy football tips for Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04 My Dream11 Prediction for LEP vs FRB (Red Bull Leipzig vs Freiburg), Bundesliga 2019-20 match: Alexander, Lukas, Marcel, Angelino, Mukiele, Sabitzer, Haberer, Hofler, Werner(c), Patrik (vc), Petersen LEP vs FRB Squads RB Leipzig: Peter Gulacsi, Yvon Mvogo, Philipp Tschauner, Angelino, Marcel Halstenberg, Lukas Klostermann, Willi Orban, Dayot Upamecano, Ethan Ampadu, Ibrahima Konate, Nordi Mukiele, Frederik Jakel, Malik Talabidi, Emil Forsberg, Kevin Kampl, Christopher Nkunku, Marcel Sabitzer, Dani Olmo, Konrad Laimer, Tyler Adams, Amadou Haidara, Hannes Wolf, Fabrice Hartmann, Mads Bidstrup, Tom Krauss, Yussuf Poulsen, Patrik Schick, Timo Werner, Ademola Lookman SC Freiburg: Niclas Thiede, Mark Flekken, Alexander Schwolow, Nico Schlotterbeck, Lukas Kubler, Manuel Gulde, Jonathan Schmid, Dominique Heintz, Gian-Luca Itter, Philipp Lienhart, Christian Gunter, Robin Koch, Amir Abrashi, Lino Tempelmann, Yannik Keitel, Brandon Borrello, Florian Kath, Mike Frantz, Nicolas Hofler, Janik Haberer, Yoric Ravet, Chang-Hoon Kwon, Vincenzo Grifo, Roland Sallai, Nils Petersen, Lucas Holer, Luca Waldschmidt

LEP vs FRB, Bundesliga, Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy football tips for Red Bull Leipzig vs SC Freiburg

<p>Elimination of low-ventilation change rooms, disinfection of training equipment after every use, a bar on sparring for now, and usage of gyms in shifts -- these are some of the measures to tackle the COVID-19 threat that the Sports Authority of India is proposing if training of athletes resumes later this month.</p>

<p>The SAI has formulated a detailed draft of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be followed before reopening of its training centres by the end of this month, as suggested by Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju but subject to clearance from the Health and Home ministry.</p>

<p>A six-member committee, headed by secretary Rohit Bharadwaj, has formulated a 33-page document, which is yet to be passed by the Sports and Health Ministry.</p>

<p>The document proposes making the Arogya Setu app mandatory for all athletes and staff, strict social distancing at training venues, use of PPE kits by medical practitioners on duty, increased sanitation measures and stringent supervision of athletes' health among a slew of measures to counter the threat posed by the deadly virus.</p>

<p>"The committee has outlined a broad SOP but it is not final. It is the first draft which is yet to be vetted by the Sports Ministry as well as the Health Ministry. We can't expect the SOP to be passed in totality," a SAI source told PTI.</p>

<p>SAI has sent across the draft to the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to seek their view on the recommendations.</p>

<p>"In the end, the resumption of training will depend on MHA's guidelines. If the MHA bars sporting activities in its upcoming guidelines to be issued post lockdown 3, like it did in the previous guidelines, the Sports Ministry can't resume training," the source added.</p>

<p>The country will enter the fourth phase of the lockdown from May 18 but significant relaxations are also expected.</p>

<p>"The SAI acted in a proactive manner and laid down the SOP in case the MHA gives a go ahead for training," the source said.</p>

<p>The SOP, a copy of which is with PTI, suggests resumption of training in small groups, which the Indian hockey players had already stated in their online meeting with Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday.</p>

<p>The SOP calls for COVID-19 testing of all athletes who would be returning to the training facilities.</p>

<p>"The returning athletes shall be quarantined till the test results clear them of COVID-19 contraction. Final clearance should be provided by the Doctor-in-charge at the respective SAI centres," it further states.</p>

<p>"Use of the fitness equipment shall be permitted only while wearing gloves and face mask and under consequent use of disinfectants afterwards. Use of the fitness room shall be permitted only in small groups of maximum 5 people under observance distancing norms," it adds.</p>

<p>The SAI committee suggests that physiotherapy and massage be avoided unless "absolutely necessary". The protocol for such sessions would require the people involved to follow basic hygiene.</p>

<p>"Athletes shall be treated individually in spacious, ventilated rooms. If necessary, additional rooms may be opened with disinfected examination couches," the document states.</p>

<p>Besides SAI centres, the SOP, if approved, will also be applicable on private facilities like the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence and Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy among others.</p>

<p>The SOP also stresses on the need to form a COVID Task Force at each training centre with the Centre-in-charge as its ex-officio chairman.</p>

<p>The SOP further states that it would be the responsibility of NSFs to ensure complete adherence to training protocols.</p>

<p>"NSFs shall nominate a Hygiene Officer to ensure compliance and implementation of all protective measures for athletes and staff safety."</p>

<p>The SAI panel proposes only one access point for entry and exit at training venues with utilisation of the facilities by non-SAI athletes or outsiders be prohibited till relaxations are announced by the central government based on local conditions.</p>

<p>The document proposes maximum restrictions for contact sports, which will not have any sparring in their training programme for now.</p>

<p>"Additional staff shall be appointed for proper disinfection of the equipment prior to continuous usage," it states.</p>

<p>"Equipment which is bound to be shared and utilised continuously during a training such as punching/kicking bags, slam balls, skipping ropes etc. Must be used carefully without using such equipment to rub/touch face, remove sweat, cover mouth," it adds.</p>


Elimination of low-ventilation change rooms, disinfection of training equipment after every use, a bar on sparring for now, and usage of gyms in shifts -- these are some of the measures to tackle the COVID-19 threat that the Sports Authority of India is proposing if training of athletes resumes later this month.

Elimination of low-ventilation change rooms, disinfection of training equipment after every use, a bar on sparring for now, and usage of gyms in shifts -- these are some of the measures to tackle the COVID-19 threat that the Sports Authority of India is proposing if training of athletes resumes later this month. The SAI has formulated a detailed draft of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be followed before reopening of its training centres by the end of this month, as suggested by Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju but subject to clearance from the Health and Home ministry. A six-member committee, headed by secretary Rohit Bharadwaj, has formulated a 33-page document, which is yet to be passed by the Sports and Health Ministry. The document proposes making the Arogya Setu app mandatory for all athletes and staff, strict social distancing at training venues, use of PPE kits by medical practitioners on duty, increased sanitation measures and stringent supervision of athletes' health among a slew of measures to counter the threat posed by the deadly virus. "The committee has outlined a broad SOP but it is not final. It is the first draft which is yet to be vetted by the Sports Ministry as well as the Health Ministry. We can't expect the SOP to be passed in totality," a SAI source told PTI. SAI has sent across the draft to the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to seek their view on the recommendations. "In the end, the resumption of training will depend on MHA's guidelines. If the MHA bars sporting activities in its upcoming guidelines to be issued post lockdown 3, like it did in the previous guidelines, the Sports Ministry can't resume training," the source added. The country will enter the fourth phase of the lockdown from May 18 but significant relaxations are also expected. "The SAI acted in a proactive manner and laid down the SOP in case the MHA gives a go ahead for training," the source said. The SOP, a copy of which is with PTI, suggests resumption of training in small groups, which the Indian hockey players had already stated in their online meeting with Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday. The SOP calls for COVID-19 testing of all athletes who would be returning to the training facilities. "The returning athletes shall be quarantined till the test results clear them of COVID-19 contraction. Final clearance should be provided by the Doctor-in-charge at the respective SAI centres," it further states. "Use of the fitness equipment shall be permitted only while wearing gloves and face mask and under consequent use of disinfectants afterwards. Use of the fitness room shall be permitted only in small groups of maximum 5 people under observance distancing norms," it adds. The SAI committee suggests that physiotherapy and massage be avoided unless "absolutely necessary". The protocol for such sessions would require the people involved to follow basic hygiene. "Athletes shall be treated individually in spacious, ventilated rooms. If necessary, additional rooms may be opened with disinfected examination couches," the document states. Besides SAI centres, the SOP, if approved, will also be applicable on private facilities like the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence and Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy among others. The SOP also stresses on the need to form a COVID Task Force at each training centre with the Centre-in-charge as its ex-officio chairman. The SOP further states that it would be the responsibility of NSFs to ensure complete adherence to training protocols. "NSFs shall nominate a Hygiene Officer to ensure compliance and implementation of all protective measures for athletes and staff safety." The SAI panel proposes only one access point for entry and exit at training venues with utilisation of the facilities by non-SAI athletes or outsiders be prohibited till relaxations are announced by the central government based on local conditions. The document proposes maximum restrictions for contact sports, which will not have any sparring in their training programme for now. "Additional staff shall be appointed for proper disinfection of the equipment prior to continuous usage," it states. "Equipment which is bound to be shared and utilised continuously during a training such as punching/kicking bags, slam balls, skipping ropes etc. Must be used carefully without using such equipment to rub/touch face, remove sweat, cover mouth," it adds.

SAI formulates SOP for centres but training to resume only after MHA clearance

<p>Major League Soccer on Thursday extended its moratorium on team or group training through June 1 as coronavirus concerns continue to disrupt global sport.</p>

<p>MLS suspended play on March 12 in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>Last week the league allowed individual players to return to outdoor team facilities to train where local government restrictions allowed.</p>

<p>Social distancing measures were in place, but at least nine teams have yet to receive permission from local authorities to welcome players back.</p>

<p>"MLS and its clubs will continue to remain in close contact with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and local health authorities on this continually evolving situation and provide further updates as they become available," MLS said in a statement.</p>

<p>The update came amid reports that MLS was considering a resumption of competition with all 26 clubs taking part in a stand-alone tournament to be played inside a secure "bubble" in Orlando, Florida.</p>

<p>The plan reportedly calls for teams to head to Florida in June for one month of training before the tournament kicks off. The games would not be part of the regular season, and it remained unclear when or if the formal 2020 campaign would be completed.</p>


Major League Soccer on Thursday extended its moratorium on team or group training through June 1 as coronavirus concerns continue to disrupt global sport. MLS suspended play on March 12 in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Major League Soccer on Thursday extended its moratorium on team or group training through June 1 as coronavirus concerns continue to disrupt global sport. MLS suspended play on March 12 in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week the league allowed individual players to return to outdoor team facilities to train where local government restrictions allowed. Social distancing measures were in place, but at least nine teams have yet to receive permission from local authorities to welcome players back. "MLS and its clubs will continue to remain in close contact with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and local health authorities on this continually evolving situation and provide further updates as they become available," MLS said in a statement. The update came amid reports that MLS was considering a resumption of competition with all 26 clubs taking part in a stand-alone tournament to be played inside a secure "bubble" in Orlando, Florida. The plan reportedly calls for teams to head to Florida in June for one month of training before the tournament kicks off. The games would not be part of the regular season, and it remained unclear when or if the formal 2020 campaign would be completed.

MLS extends team training moratorium

<p>World number one Rory McIlroy and America's most popular auto racers will nudge United States sport forward this weekend as hope grows for a June revival from the coronavirus shutdown.</p>

<p>Four-time major champion McIlroy and fifth-ranked Dustin Johnson will team up to face Rickie Fowler and Matthew Wolff in a made-for-television Skins Game&nbsp;without spectators on Sunday to raise $3 million for virus relief charities.</p>

<p>"Golf can return to doing things like this," McIlroy said. "We can keep ourselves socially distant. We can keep ourselves in different carts and stay more than six feet away from one another. That's very important, too, taking all the necessary precautions to be able to put this match on."</p>

<p>That's in part because other sports organizations seeking their own returns will be watching to see how well these events handle the challenge.</p>

<p>The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) also&nbsp;returns Sunday without fans with a 400-mile (643km) race at the 1.33-mile Darlington Raceway oval, where temperature-taking and masks will be among the measures used to safeguard the health of all involved.</p>

<p>"There will be a huge microscope on how we're doing things," 2020 Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin said. "For all of us, it's just the unknown of making sure we're doing it the right way."</p>

<p>Creating an atmosphere where athletes can be confident they won't contract the deadly virus, risking the health of themselves and loved ones, is key to chances the NBA, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League and Major League Soccer can return, perhaps as soon as next month, after shutting down in March.</p>

<p>"If we get proper testing and we know everyone is negative... golf is in good position to lead the charge back and sports, I think, is important for American culture," veteran US PGA Tour player Joel Dahmen told Golfweek.</p>

<p>Even without spectators, plentiful testing will be needed for players, coaches, trainers and officials when sport resumes, with IndyCar planning a June 6 Texas race and the PGA Tour set for a June 11 relaunch at Colonial after stopping in March.</p>

<p>The PGA Tour's event plan includes temperature monitoring, virus tests for those above 100.4 F (38 C) and quarantines for those testing positive to keep events in a secure bubble, much the same strategy the NBA, MLB, MLS and NHL are studying.</p>

<p>Small-scale events are easier, such as the Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson skins game May 24 with NFL stars Tom Brady and Peyton Manning or McIlroy's Sunday event at Seminole Golf Club in South Florida.</p>

<p>"It has been difficult to witness what so many are enduring over the last several weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic," McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"I'm pretty excited to do a small part to raise some money and some awareness in these challenging times."</p>

<p>Fowler knows safety is a top priority.</p>

<p>"Hopefully it's safe enough to move forward," Fowler said. "We want to make sure it's safe enough and make sure our country and the states on their own are doing well enough to continue moving forward."</p>

<h2>- 'Too Tough to Tame' -</h2>

<p>NASCAR's return comes at Darlington, a 70-year-old oval in rural South Carolina nicknamed "The Track Too Tough To Tame".</p>

<p>This year, drivers must also contend with COVID-19, the virus too virulent to vanquish -- at least for now.</p>

<p>"NASCAR and its teams are eager and excited to return to racing, and have great respect for the responsibility that comes with a return to competition," NASCAR executive vice president Steve O'Donnell.</p>

<p>"NASCAR will return in an environment that will ensure the safety of our competitors, officials and all those in the local community."</p>

<p>Social distancing measures will be in place, and if rescue workers need to help drivers out of vehicles after crashes both will have protection to contain potential virus transmission.</p>

<p>NASCAR staged only four races before the season was stopped, the last won by Joey Logano at Phoenix on March 8. Hamlin won the US stock car circuit's signature event at Daytona for the third time but has had to prepare for a race with no practice or qualifying and more safety requirements than usual.</p>

<p>"Figuring out protocol for me, when I need to be there, where I need to be at all times, just going through that this week, make sure I get it right," Hamlin said of his preparation.</p>

<p>"I'm sure after this first race it will be a lot easier for us and it should go quite a bit smoother, so I'm looking forward to it."</p>

<p>NASCAR has now announced nine top-level Cup Series races to be run under their revamped schedule, all to beheld without fans in the stands.</p>

<p>For many, the usual qualifying procedures will be scrapped. Teams will be allowed to prime engines and make final adjustments to cars on the pre-race starting grid.</p>

<p>Information for mandatory driver and crew chief meetings will be sent electronically.</p>


World number one Rory McIlroy and America's most popular auto racers will nudge United States sport forward this weekend as hope grows for a June revival from the coronavirus shutdown.

World number one Rory McIlroy and America's most popular auto racers will nudge United States sport forward this weekend as hope grows for a June revival from the coronavirus shutdown. Four-time major champion McIlroy and fifth-ranked Dustin Johnson will team up to face Rickie Fowler and Matthew Wolff in a made-for-television Skins Game without spectators on Sunday to raise $3 million for virus relief charities. "Golf can return to doing things like this," McIlroy said. "We can keep ourselves socially distant. We can keep ourselves in different carts and stay more than six feet away from one another. That's very important, too, taking all the necessary precautions to be able to put this match on." That's in part because other sports organizations seeking their own returns will be watching to see how well these events handle the challenge. The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) also returns Sunday without fans with a 400-mile (643km) race at the 1.33-mile Darlington Raceway oval, where temperature-taking and masks will be among the measures used to safeguard the health of all involved. "There will be a huge microscope on how we're doing things," 2020 Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin said. "For all of us, it's just the unknown of making sure we're doing it the right way." Creating an atmosphere where athletes can be confident they won't contract the deadly virus, risking the health of themselves and loved ones, is key to chances the NBA, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League and Major League Soccer can return, perhaps as soon as next month, after shutting down in March. "If we get proper testing and we know everyone is negative... golf is in good position to lead the charge back and sports, I think, is important for American culture," veteran US PGA Tour player Joel Dahmen told Golfweek. Even without spectators, plentiful testing will be needed for players, coaches, trainers and officials when sport resumes, with IndyCar planning a June 6 Texas race and the PGA Tour set for a June 11 relaunch at Colonial after stopping in March. The PGA Tour's event plan includes temperature monitoring, virus tests for those above 100.4 F (38 C) and quarantines for those testing positive to keep events in a secure bubble, much the same strategy the NBA, MLB, MLS and NHL are studying. Small-scale events are easier, such as the Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson skins game May 24 with NFL stars Tom Brady and Peyton Manning or McIlroy's Sunday event at Seminole Golf Club in South Florida. "It has been difficult to witness what so many are enduring over the last several weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic," McIlroy said. "I'm pretty excited to do a small part to raise some money and some awareness in these challenging times." Fowler knows safety is a top priority. "Hopefully it's safe enough to move forward," Fowler said. "We want to make sure it's safe enough and make sure our country and the states on their own are doing well enough to continue moving forward." - 'Too Tough to Tame' - NASCAR's return comes at Darlington, a 70-year-old oval in rural South Carolina nicknamed "The Track Too Tough To Tame". This year, drivers must also contend with COVID-19, the virus too virulent to vanquish -- at least for now. "NASCAR and its teams are eager and excited to return to racing, and have great respect for the responsibility that comes with a return to competition," NASCAR executive vice president Steve O'Donnell. "NASCAR will return in an environment that will ensure the safety of our competitors, officials and all those in the local community." Social distancing measures will be in place, and if rescue workers need to help drivers out of vehicles after crashes both will have protection to contain potential virus transmission. NASCAR staged only four races before the season was stopped, the last won by Joey Logano at Phoenix on March 8. Hamlin won the US stock car circuit's signature event at Daytona for the third time but has had to prepare for a race with no practice or qualifying and more safety requirements than usual. "Figuring out protocol for me, when I need to be there, where I need to be at all times, just going through that this week, make sure I get it right," Hamlin said of his preparation. "I'm sure after this first race it will be a lot easier for us and it should go quite a bit smoother, so I'm looking forward to it." NASCAR has now announced nine top-level Cup Series races to be run under their revamped schedule, all to beheld without fans in the stands. For many, the usual qualifying procedures will be scrapped. Teams will be allowed to prime engines and make final adjustments to cars on the pre-race starting grid. Information for mandatory driver and crew chief meetings will be sent electronically.

US sport edges back from virus shutdown with golf, auto events

<p>Football is back but this time the beautiful game will come with empty stadiums and fans sitting in front of their electronic appliances to watch their beloved teams play. The resumption of football will start with Germany where Bundesliga 2019-20 will be kick-started with the Revierderby as two of the most heated rivals in the history of football – Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04 – will lock horns at the iconic Signal Iduna Park on May 16.</p>

<h2><strong>Fitness - an issue</strong></h2>

<p>While players’ fitness is a major issue due to restrictions in training amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ruhr Derby always live up to the expectation regardless of the competition it is played in. Some of the big-match players are unlikely to feature in the highly-anticipated match due to lack of fitness but that doesn’t take away all the hype and intensity the match will bring along with it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fc-schalke-04-call-out-every-premier-league-club-fans-to-support-them-in-bundesliga-the-thread-is-winning-hearts-298414" hreflang="en">FC Schalke 04 call out every Premier League club fans to support them in Bundesliga; the thread is winning hearts</a></strong></p>

<p>From Borussia Dortmund, the likes of Dan-Axel Zagadou, Marco Reus, Axel Witsel, Emre Can are unlikely to feature in the Riveierderby due to fitness issues, whereas Jadon Sancho, Achraf Hakimi, Manuel Akanji, Mario Gotze and Marcel Schmelzer are also a major doubt for the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While FC Schalke 04 have fewer injury issues, Benjamin Stambouli, Ozan Kabak and captain Omar Mascarell are likely to be unavailable for the derby.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Team Form</strong></h2>

<p>As football is returning after a prolonged break, team forms are not that important. Dortmund, who are sitting second in the Bundesliga points table, have lost just one match (2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain) in their last six games across competitions, FC Schalke 04 sitting sixth in the table, have failed to win a single match in their last six and would be looking to turn the tables when they take to the field on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-bundesliga-is-back-so-can-dortmund-catch-bayern-298374" hreflang="en">The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Head-to-Head</strong></h2>

<p>In previous five Revierderby matches, FC Schalke 04 have come out on top twice whereas Dortmund have won only once with the other two games ending in a draw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, given the intensity of the rivalry between the two sides, a cracking match is expected as the world will be tuning in to witness some live football.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Predicted line-ups:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Borussia Dortmund:</strong> Burki; Piszczek, Hummels, Balerdi; Morey, Brandt, Delaney, Guerreiro; Sancho, Haaland, Hazard.</p>

<p><strong>Schalke 04:</strong> Nubel; Kenny, Todibo, Nastasic, Oczipka; McKennie, Schopf, Serdar; Raman, Harit, Gregoritsch.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Football is back but this time the beautiful game will come with empty stadiums and fans sitting in front of their electronic appliances to watch their beloved teams play.

Football is back but this time the beautiful game will come with empty stadiums and fans sitting in front of their electronic appliances to watch their beloved teams play. The resumption of football will start with Germany where Bundesliga 2019-20 will be kick-started with the Revierderby as two of the most heated rivals in the history of football – Borussia Dortmund and FC Schalke 04 – will lock horns at the iconic Signal Iduna Park on May 16. Fitness - an issue While players’ fitness is a major issue due to restrictions in training amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ruhr Derby always live up to the expectation regardless of the competition it is played in. Some of the big-match players are unlikely to feature in the highly-anticipated match due to lack of fitness but that doesn’t take away all the hype and intensity the match will bring along with it. ALSO READ: FC Schalke 04 call out every Premier League club fans to support them in Bundesliga; the thread is winning hearts From Borussia Dortmund, the likes of Dan-Axel Zagadou, Marco Reus, Axel Witsel, Emre Can are unlikely to feature in the Riveierderby due to fitness issues, whereas Jadon Sancho, Achraf Hakimi, Manuel Akanji, Mario Gotze and Marcel Schmelzer are also a major doubt for the match. While FC Schalke 04 have fewer injury issues, Benjamin Stambouli, Ozan Kabak and captain Omar Mascarell are likely to be unavailable for the derby. Team Form As football is returning after a prolonged break, team forms are not that important. Dortmund, who are sitting second in the Bundesliga points table, have lost just one match (2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain) in their last six games across competitions, FC Schalke 04 sitting sixth in the table, have failed to win a single match in their last six and would be looking to turn the tables when they take to the field on Saturday. ALSO READ: The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern? Head-to-Head In previous five Revierderby matches, FC Schalke 04 have come out on top twice whereas Dortmund have won only once with the other two games ending in a draw. However, given the intensity of the rivalry between the two sides, a cracking match is expected as the world will be tuning in to witness some live football. Predicted line-ups: Borussia Dortmund: Burki; Piszczek, Hummels, Balerdi; Morey, Brandt, Delaney, Guerreiro; Sancho, Haaland, Hazard. Schalke 04: Nubel; Kenny, Todibo, Nastasic, Oczipka; McKennie, Schopf, Serdar; Raman, Harit, Gregoritsch.

Football is back! Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04, Revierderby: Preview, team news, head-to-head records

<p>The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday.</p>

<p>A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the T20 World Cup in the wake of coronavirus pandemic and shifting it may find favours with Cricket Australia, feels the Board member.</p>

<p>The ICC flagship event is scheduled in Australia from October 18 to November 15.</p>

<p>The ICC Board Meeting will be preceded by the Cricket Committee meeting to discuss playing conditions including applying sweat and saliva on the ball.</p>

<p>It is expected that ICC's Events Committee headed by Chris Tetley will present multiple options.</p>

<p>"We are expecting three options from the ICC Events Committee. First option is having World T20 as per schedule with 14-day quarantine with crowd being allowed. The back-up for this option could be tournament in-front of empty stadium. The third option could be shifting the tournament to 2022," a Board member privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p>The Board meeting will also discuss two-month extension for Chairman Shashank Manohar but primarily the focus will be on deciding the fate of T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>Of late, Cricket Australia and their top players including present and former, have been aggressively campaigning for the Test Series against India to go as scheduled in November-December.</p>

<p>The series is crucial to Cricket Australia's financial health.</p>

<p>"CA wouldn't be too unhappy if the World T20 is shifted to 2022. At the end of the day, ICC is made up of members. If members decide that bilateral series are more important, you can't discount that.</p>

<p>"Also ICC might find its cash flow being hampered but it's a short-term problem. If the tournament happens in 2022, the parent body doesn't lose anything because it's deferment not postponement," the board member said.</p>

<p>The deferment will also mean that the cash-rich Indian Premier League, which is a parallel industry in itself, will get the much-needed window if the COVID-19 pandemic is under control by then. The Indian team can travel to Australia after the IPL.</p>

<p>The Board member also cited a few problems which may lead to deferment of T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>"The costs of quarantine arrangements for 16 teams with support staff plus TV crew will be huge. Add to that if in some of the countries, normalcy doesn't return, whether travelling will be safe by then," he added.</p>

<p>"So it can't be postponed by a few months, say February-March, 2021. It's not a great idea as we have Women's ODI World Cup and the two ICC events should not clash. The Women's World Cup is a much safer bet, there will only be eight teams."&nbsp;</p>


The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday.

The option of shifting the upcoming T20 World Cup to 2022 is expected to be put on the table when the ICC Board meets on May 28, a member of world governing body's influential Board told PTI on Friday. A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the T20 World Cup in the wake of coronavirus pandemic and shifting it may find favours with Cricket Australia, feels the Board member. The ICC flagship event is scheduled in Australia from October 18 to November 15. The ICC Board Meeting will be preceded by the Cricket Committee meeting to discuss playing conditions including applying sweat and saliva on the ball. It is expected that ICC's Events Committee headed by Chris Tetley will present multiple options. "We are expecting three options from the ICC Events Committee. First option is having World T20 as per schedule with 14-day quarantine with crowd being allowed. The back-up for this option could be tournament in-front of empty stadium. The third option could be shifting the tournament to 2022," a Board member privy to development told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The Board meeting will also discuss two-month extension for Chairman Shashank Manohar but primarily the focus will be on deciding the fate of T20 World Cup. Of late, Cricket Australia and their top players including present and former, have been aggressively campaigning for the Test Series against India to go as scheduled in November-December. The series is crucial to Cricket Australia's financial health. "CA wouldn't be too unhappy if the World T20 is shifted to 2022. At the end of the day, ICC is made up of members. If members decide that bilateral series are more important, you can't discount that. "Also ICC might find its cash flow being hampered but it's a short-term problem. If the tournament happens in 2022, the parent body doesn't lose anything because it's deferment not postponement," the board member said. The deferment will also mean that the cash-rich Indian Premier League, which is a parallel industry in itself, will get the much-needed window if the COVID-19 pandemic is under control by then. The Indian team can travel to Australia after the IPL. The Board member also cited a few problems which may lead to deferment of T20 World Cup. "The costs of quarantine arrangements for 16 teams with support staff plus TV crew will be huge. Add to that if in some of the countries, normalcy doesn't return, whether travelling will be safe by then," he added. "So it can't be postponed by a few months, say February-March, 2021. It's not a great idea as we have Women's ODI World Cup and the two ICC events should not clash. The Women's World Cup is a much safer bet, there will only be eight teams."

ICC Board members may discuss shifting T20 World Cup to 2022

<p>While the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown has moved sports enthusiasts and newbies indoors, halting their regular practice sessions, they have managed to turn the tables on these limitations and are finding new ways to carry on. With no access to the outdoors, people are reinventing how they play sports with the resources available to them at home, and to that end, have got their creative juices flowing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adding to the momentum, Indian table tennis players Manika Batra and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran&nbsp;joined the conversation on Twitter and shared interesting tips and tricks.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When training with one hand is just not good enough<br />
Hitting some balls alongwith my best friend at home <a href="https://twitter.com/BUTTERFLY_JAPAN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BUTTERFLY_JAPAN</a> Amicus Prime Robot !!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sathiyan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sathiyan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tabletennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tabletennis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fridayfeeling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fridayfeeling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/5p7ixnJTIj">https://t.co/5p7ixnJTIj</a> <a href="https://t.co/vHoK0iL6Uo">pic.twitter.com/vHoK0iL6Uo</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261187972839268352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Commenting on this, Manika Batra, Indian star paddler said, “It feels great to engage with people during this lockdown. Twitter is a great place to have conversations and I am glad that we are able to spread and create awareness about staying fit while at home through the service. I hope this will motivate fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-could-be-stranded-when-india-resume-training-bcci-treasurer-arun-dhumal-warns-298873" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma could be stranded when India resume training, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal warns</a></strong></p>

<p>Both the players also interacted with fans through Twitter Q&amp;As and answered questions on the service. Manika&nbsp;shared her quarantine routine, her favourite Bollywood actors and gave an encouraging message for young players, whereas, Sathiyan&nbsp;answered questions on players he follows, his favourite childhood cartoon and revealed that he would love to have a match with master blaster Sachin Tendulkar.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Haha that’s one thing which I have not yet tried out as I do care a lot about my mom’s health <a href="https://t.co/gEemlpp5SX">https://t.co/gEemlpp5SX</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261196931835006976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My favorite actors are Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal <a href="https://t.co/cTXAqWbHGL">https://t.co/cTXAqWbHGL</a></p>
— Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT/status/1261175818144759808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a><br />
Practice session with <a href="https://twitter.com/BUTTERFLY_JAPAN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BUTTERFLY_JAPAN</a> Amicus Prime Robot is going great and playing a lot of specific skills.<br />
Thank you . <a href="https://t.co/nhVQ8InW2r">https://t.co/nhVQ8InW2r</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261160689353109504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Working on physical fitness, meditation, watching TV series. Also helping people directly and indirectly.. <a href="https://t.co/YJhuetPujG">https://t.co/YJhuetPujG</a></p>
— Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT/status/1261176786634719233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have tried my hand on gardening , ventured into Yoga and probably looking to learn some new language (may be little bit of Japanese) to prepare myself for Olympics <a href="https://t.co/befWxdUCe0">https://t.co/befWxdUCe0</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261202406064283653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An age is good to start playing but if we talk about childrens to be a champion then 3 and half or 4 is the good age to hold a racquet in your hand. <a href="https://t.co/8U4LJ7YidE">https://t.co/8U4LJ7YidE</a></p>
— Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT/status/1261185379400548352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Haha I am not that great at playing Cricket and don’t want to embarrass myself, I would definitely love to play a game of TT with <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> sir and teach him some skills !!<br />
<br />
I would also be very keen to know on how he developed the liking for TT <a href="https://t.co/URuIcQoBPE">https://t.co/URuIcQoBPE</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261168115125121024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="ht">Popeye <a href="https://t.co/vIBqqVof3z">https://t.co/vIBqqVof3z</a></p>
— Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt/status/1261174180340396040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Recently, the Pandya brothers too challenged each other to a game of at-home table tennis.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sai-formulates-sop-for-centres-but-training-to-resume-only-after-mha-clearance-298818" hreflang="en">SAI formulates SOP for centres but training to resume only after MHA clearance</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PandyaBros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PandyaBros</a> in action in a different sport <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> and I are always competitive with each other Who do you think won this round? <a href="https://t.co/4jjlatV15P">pic.twitter.com/4jjlatV15P</a></p>
— Krunal Pandya (@krunalpandya24) <a href="https://twitter.com/krunalpandya24/status/1253297651656749058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In fact, they are not the only ones. Twitter India&nbsp; asked people to send pictures of their makeshift table tennis set-ups and they reverted with some jaw-dropping videos, including para-badminton athlete Manasi Nayana Joshi, take a look:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ping-Pong, Ping-Pong , smash! Who else is playing table tennis at home? Show us your makeshift TT setup, let's see who has got game! Any tips for these players <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manikabatra_TT</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sathiyantt</a>?</p>
— Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterIndia/status/1260912802887159810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My TT game definitely getting stronger in this lockdown <a href="https://t.co/DtRzmXhy3v">pic.twitter.com/DtRzmXhy3v</a></p>
— Manasi Nayana Joshi (@joshimanasi11) <a href="https://twitter.com/joshimanasi11/status/1260991895729106949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here's one unique makeshift TT setup <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterIndia</a><br />
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Would anyone like to try <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Windscreen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Windscreen</a>?<br />
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Credit: Vijender Sharma <a href="https://t.co/d4k65KB3zZ">pic.twitter.com/d4k65KB3zZ</a></p>
— Ultimate TableTennis (@UltTableTennis) <a href="https://twitter.com/UltTableTennis/status/1261226561056804866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My table tennis setup keeps getting interesting everyday <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sathiyantt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sathiyantt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manikabatra_TT</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZdSavpUdjl">pic.twitter.com/ZdSavpUdjl</a></p>
— Pongpotter (@pongpotter_) <a href="https://twitter.com/pongpotter_/status/1261157673606606849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Stay tuned as real-time conversations around the table tennis and other sports continue to unfold on Twitter.</p>


While the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown has moved sports enthusiasts and newbies indoors, halting their regular practice sessions, they have managed to turn the tables on these limitations and are finding new ways to carry on.

While the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown has moved sports enthusiasts and newbies indoors, halting their regular practice sessions, they have managed to turn the tables on these limitations and are finding new ways to carry on. With no access to the outdoors, people are reinventing how they play sports with the resources available to them at home, and to that end, have got their creative juices flowing. Adding to the momentum, Indian table tennis players Manika Batra and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran joined the conversation on Twitter and shared interesting tips and tricks. When training with one hand is just not good enough Hitting some balls alongwith my best friend at home @BUTTERFLY_JAPAN Amicus Prime Robot !!#sathiyan #tabletennis #sports #fridayfeeling #lockdown https://t.co/5p7ixnJTIj pic.twitter.com/vHoK0iL6Uo — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × Commenting on this, Manika Batra, Indian star paddler said, “It feels great to engage with people during this lockdown. Twitter is a great place to have conversations and I am glad that we are able to spread and create awareness about staying fit while at home through the service. I hope this will motivate fans to stay positive and active during these difficult times.” ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma could be stranded when India resume training, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal warns Both the players also interacted with fans through Twitter Q&As and answered questions on the service. Manika shared her quarantine routine, her favourite Bollywood actors and gave an encouraging message for young players, whereas, Sathiyan answered questions on players he follows, his favourite childhood cartoon and revealed that he would love to have a match with master blaster Sachin Tendulkar. Haha that’s one thing which I have not yet tried out as I do care a lot about my mom’s health https://t.co/gEemlpp5SX — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × My favorite actors are Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal https://t.co/cTXAqWbHGL — Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) May 15, 2020 × It’s @rogerfederer Practice session with @BUTTERFLY_JAPAN Amicus Prime Robot is going great and playing a lot of specific skills. Thank you . https://t.co/nhVQ8InW2r — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × Working on physical fitness, meditation, watching TV series. Also helping people directly and indirectly.. https://t.co/YJhuetPujG — Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) May 15, 2020 × I have tried my hand on gardening , ventured into Yoga and probably looking to learn some new language (may be little bit of Japanese) to prepare myself for Olympics https://t.co/befWxdUCe0 — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × An age is good to start playing but if we talk about childrens to be a champion then 3 and half or 4 is the good age to hold a racquet in your hand. https://t.co/8U4LJ7YidE — Manika Batra (@manikabatra_TT) May 15, 2020 × Haha I am not that great at playing Cricket and don’t want to embarrass myself, I would definitely love to play a game of TT with @sachin_rt sir and teach him some skills !! I would also be very keen to know on how he developed the liking for TT https://t.co/URuIcQoBPE — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × Popeye https://t.co/vIBqqVof3z — Sathiyan Gnanasekaran (@sathiyantt) May 15, 2020 × Recently, the Pandya brothers too challenged each other to a game of at-home table tennis. ALSO READ: SAI formulates SOP for centres but training to resume only after MHA clearance #PandyaBros in action in a different sport @hardikpandya7 and I are always competitive with each other Who do you think won this round? pic.twitter.com/4jjlatV15P — Krunal Pandya (@krunalpandya24) April 23, 2020 × In fact, they are not the only ones. Twitter India asked people to send pictures of their makeshift table tennis set-ups and they reverted with some jaw-dropping videos, including para-badminton athlete Manasi Nayana Joshi, take a look: Ping-Pong, Ping-Pong , smash! Who else is playing table tennis at home? Show us your makeshift TT setup, let's see who has got game! Any tips for these players @manikabatra_TT and @sathiyantt? — Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) May 14, 2020 × My TT game definitely getting stronger in this lockdown pic.twitter.com/DtRzmXhy3v — Manasi Nayana Joshi (@joshimanasi11) May 14, 2020 × Here's one unique makeshift TT setup @TwitterIndia Would anyone like to try #Windscreen? Credit: Vijender Sharma pic.twitter.com/d4k65KB3zZ — Ultimate TableTennis (@UltTableTennis) May 15, 2020 × My table tennis setup keeps getting interesting everyday @TwitterIndia @sathiyantt @manikabatra_TT pic.twitter.com/ZdSavpUdjl — Pongpotter (@pongpotter_) May 15, 2020 × Stay tuned as real-time conversations around the table tennis and other sports continue to unfold on Twitter.

Table Tennis fans learn tips and tricks on Twitter from India’s best paddlers, Manika Batra and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran

<p>The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar.</p>

<p>"The Russian Premier League season will resume on June 21," a statement said following a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Russian football association.</p>

<p>The final eight games of the remainder of the season will be played between June 21 to July 22 with four of the scheduled round of matches taking place in the midweek.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-accepts-risk-of-possible-la-liga-return-298869" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi accepts 'risk' of possible La Liga return</a></strong></p>

<p>Matches will be played behind closed doors without spectators with the new rules of five substitutions coming into play in every match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Along with Russian Premier League, the Olympic Russian Cup is also set for a restart with the final scheduled to take place on July 25.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-sport-edges-back-from-virus-shutdown-with-golf-auto-events-298814" hreflang="en">US sport edges back from virus shutdown with golf, auto events</a></strong></p>

<p>As things stand, Russia are atop the league standings with 50 points off 22 matches whereas Lokomotiv Moscow are second with 41 points to their name. Krasnodar are sitting third with 41 points with FK Rostov and CSKA Moscow sitting fifth and sixth respectively. Orenburg, Rubin Kazan, FK Krylya Sovetov Samara and Akhmat Grozny are involved in a tight relegation battle, and it would be interesting to see how things pan out once the league is brought back to life again.</p>

<h2>The preliminary fixture schedule</h2>

<p><strong>23rd round: </strong>21 June</p>

<p><strong>Cup QF:</strong> 24 June</p>

<p><strong>24th round:</strong> 28 June</p>

<p><strong>25th round: </strong>1 July</p>

<p><strong>26th round:</strong> 5 July</p>

<p><strong>27th round: </strong>8 July</p>

<p><strong>28th round: </strong>12 July</p>

<p><strong>29th round: </strong>15 July</p>

<p><strong>Cup SF: </strong>18-19 July</p>

<p><strong>30th round:</strong> 22 July</p>

<p><strong>Cup Final:</strong> 25 July 25</p>


The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar.

The Russian Premier League is set to restart on June 21, the country’s football association announced on Friday. The Russian Premier League, like every other major European league, was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has disrupted the entire sporting calendar. "The Russian Premier League season will resume on June 21," a statement said following a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Russian football association. The final eight games of the remainder of the season will be played between June 21 to July 22 with four of the scheduled round of matches taking place in the midweek. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi accepts 'risk' of possible La Liga return Matches will be played behind closed doors without spectators with the new rules of five substitutions coming into play in every match. Along with Russian Premier League, the Olympic Russian Cup is also set for a restart with the final scheduled to take place on July 25. ALSO READ: US sport edges back from virus shutdown with golf, auto events As things stand, Russia are atop the league standings with 50 points off 22 matches whereas Lokomotiv Moscow are second with 41 points to their name. Krasnodar are sitting third with 41 points with FK Rostov and CSKA Moscow sitting fifth and sixth respectively. Orenburg, Rubin Kazan, FK Krylya Sovetov Samara and Akhmat Grozny are involved in a tight relegation battle, and it would be interesting to see how things pan out once the league is brought back to life again. The preliminary fixture schedule 23rd round: 21 June Cup QF: 24 June 24th round: 28 June 25th round: 1 July 26th round: 5 July 27th round: 8 July 28th round: 12 July 29th round: 15 July Cup SF: 18-19 July 30th round: 22 July Cup Final: 25 July 25

Russian Premier League set for June 21 restart

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