South American champions Botafogo, owned by American businessman John Textor, have escalated a financial dispute with Major League Soccer club Atlanta United to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The Brazilian club is contesting FIFA’s order to pay a $21 million transfer fee for Argentina attacker Thiago Almada, a 2022 World Cup winner. The hearing took place on Wednesday, though no verdict deadline has been set. FIFA’s ruling revealed that Botafogo failed to make the first two installment payments of $3 million each in July and September 2023, leading to default notices from MLS. The Brazilian club had requested additional time to resolve the issue, but FIFA imposed a $150,000 fine and $25,000 in legal costs, citing Botafogo’s history of previous sanctions as an aggravating factor. FIFA also set a 45-day deadline for Botafogo to settle its debts or face a ban on registering new players. Almada, who played for Argentina in the 2022 World Cup and now represents Atletico Madrid, was transferred to Botafogo in June 2023 in a record-breaking MLS deal. After helping Botafogo win the Copa Libertadores, Almada was loaned to Lyon, another club owned by Textor, in January 2024. Lyon’s financial instability nearly led to their demotion from Ligue 1, but they secured a Europa League spot, indirectly affecting Crystal Palace’s UEFA competition status due to ownership integrity rules. Palace’s appeal to CAS to overturn their demotion to the Conference League was unsuccessful.
分类： sports
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McIlroy sets sights on one day becoming Ryder Cup captain ahead of India debut
Rory McIlroy, the world No. 2 golfer and current Masters champion, has expressed his ambition to one day captain the European Ryder Cup team, though he believes this role is still a decade away. Speaking in New Delhi during his first tournament in India, McIlroy reflected on his recent success in helping Europe retain the Ryder Cup by defeating the United States in New York last month. The 36-year-old Northern Irishman, who has participated in the last eight Ryder Cups, emphasized his desire to lead the team in the mid-2030s, after continuing to play at the highest level for several more years. McIlroy praised past captains like Paul McGinley and Luke Donald, under whom he has played, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from their leadership. However, he acknowledged the challenges of the role, particularly in light of the intense atmosphere and occasional hostility from American spectators during the recent Ryder Cup. McIlroy lamented that the focus on the event’s controversies overshadowed Europe’s historic victory as the first team to win an away Ryder Cup since 2012. He urged fans to remember the team’s exceptional performance and the pride he felt in being part of such a successful campaign. Beyond the Ryder Cup, McIlroy is expanding his international presence, with upcoming tournaments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the Australian Open. He expressed enthusiasm for playing in new locations and connecting with diverse audiences, though he admitted disappointment at missing the chance to attend a cricket match during his visit to India, a sport he passionately follows.
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‘We shouldn’t have lost’: UAE fans unite in support despite heartbreaking Qatar defeat
The UAE’s dream of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup was dashed in a dramatic 2-1 defeat to Qatar at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium. Despite the heartbreaking loss, the match became a symbol of national unity as fans across the Emirates rallied behind their team in unprecedented fashion. From bustling malls to cinema screens broadcasting the game live, the UAE came together in a remarkable display of solidarity. Families, students, and elders filled venues like Cinema City and VOX Cinemas, pausing their daily lives to share in the collective hope of World Cup qualification. The atmosphere was electric, with fans of all ages cheering for the national team, affectionately known as ‘the whites.’ The match ended in disappointment as Qatar’s Boualem Khoukhi and Ró-Ró scored, with Sultan Adil Alamiri’s late goal offering a glimmer of hope. Despite the loss, UAE supporters remain optimistic about their team’s future. ‘The 35-year wait continues, but it’s not over—it’s just longer,’ said Yousef AlNaqbi, reflecting the resilience of the fanbase. The game sparked debates over officiating decisions, with many fans questioning key moments on social media. Yet, amid the frustration, there was also respect for Qatar’s victory and a recognition of the rivalry’s role in pushing both nations forward. As fans left screenings and turned off their TVs, the prevailing sentiment was one of pride in the team’s effort and belief in their potential. ‘The dream isn’t over,’ AlNaqbi added. ‘It’s just taking the long road home.’
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Pakistan end South Africa’s 10-Test winning run
In a thrilling first Test match held in Lahore, Pakistan brought an end to South Africa’s remarkable 10-match winning streak in Test cricket with a commanding 93-run victory. The Proteas, who had recently triumphed over Australia in the World Test Championship final in June, were bowled out for 183 while chasing a target of 277. The match, which marked the opening fixture of the 2025-27 Test Championship cycle, saw Pakistan climb to second place in the standings, trailing only Australia. South Africa’s pursuit began on a shaky note as they resumed their innings at 51-2. The early dismissal of Tony de Zorzi, who had scored a century in the first innings, by Shaheen Afridi set the tone for Pakistan’s dominance. Left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who claimed 10 wickets in the match, played a pivotal role by dismissing key batsmen Tristan Stubbs and Dewald Brevis, who managed a brisk 54. Off-spinner Sajid Khan also capitalized on the turning pitch to remove opener Ryan Rickelton after a resilient 45. Shaheen Afridi returned in the afternoon session to dismantle the tail with a masterful display of reverse swing, sealing the win by bowling out Kyle Verreynne, Prenelan Subrayen, and Kagiso Rabada. Pakistan’s victory was anchored by crucial contributions from opener Imam-ul-Haq and number seven Salman Agha, both scoring 93 runs to propel the team to a total of 378. The spinners, Noman and Sajid, exploited the home conditions effectively, reminiscent of their success against England last year. The second and final Test of the series is scheduled to begin on 20 October.
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Why do Australia play in Asia and not Oceania?
In 2006, Australia made a pivotal decision to leave the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and join the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), aiming to streamline their path to World Cup qualification. Historically, the OFC’s top team faced a challenging two-leg playoff against a South American team for a World Cup spot, while Asia offered four automatic qualifying positions and a playoff opportunity. Australia had previously missed out on World Cup qualifications in 1986, 1994, 1998, and 2002 through inter-confederation playoffs. However, their move to the AFC proved successful, as they qualified for the 2006 World Cup by topping their Oceania group and defeating Uruguay in a penalty shootout. The decision was further justified by Australia’s dominant performances in Oceania, including a record-breaking 31-0 win over American Samoa and a 22-0 victory over Tonga in 2002. Both FIFA and the AFC unanimously approved Australia’s transition, allowing them to compete in the AFC Champions League and participate in the Asian Cup. Since the switch, Australia has qualified for every World Cup, including the 2026 tournament, which will feature 48 teams. FIFA’s expansion of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has allocated one automatic qualifying spot to Oceania and eight to Asia. Both Australia and New Zealand secured their places in the 2026 World Cup, marking the first time both nations will compete in the tournament since 2010. Former Australia coach Graham Arnold praised the decision to join the AFC, stating that it has significantly improved the nation’s football standards by exposing them to tougher competition. When asked about the possibility of returning to the OFC, Arnold humorously noted that New Zealand might not welcome such a move. This strategic shift has undeniably elevated Australia’s football profile on the global stage.
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The Portugal basketballer turned England rugby player
Luis Domingos, a 27-year-old wheelchair athlete, has made an extraordinary transition from wheelchair basketball to wheelchair rugby league, earning a spot in England’s 10-man squad for the upcoming Ashes series against Australia. Born in Setubal, Portugal, of Angolan descent, Domingos became a wheelchair user after contracting polio as a child. His journey began in Leeds, where he initially played wheelchair basketball for fun before switching to rugby league to improve his fitness. Domingos’ talent in basketball led him to professional leagues in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, where he represented his birth country internationally. However, his desire to pursue a business management degree at the University of Huddersfield brought him back to England. While studying, Domingos continued to play wheelchair basketball and eventually joined Castleford Tigers’ wheelchair rugby league team, where he quickly made an impact. His performances earned him a call-up to England’s national squad, and he recently helped Castleford win the Wheelchair Championship Grand Final. Domingos attributes his success to his diverse experiences and the support of his teammates. ‘England is a family,’ he said. ‘I feel privileged to be part of this.’ The Ashes series will see England play four matches in Australia, starting on October 24. Domingos is optimistic about the challenges ahead, drawing on his professional background to handle the pressure. ‘Everything happens for a reason,’ he reflected. ‘I’m living today and enjoying this moment.’
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Ecuador and Mexico draw 1-1 in a World Cup warmup
In a tightly contested warmup match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ecuador managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Mexico on Tuesday in Guadalajara. The game saw early action as Germán Berterame put Mexico ahead in the third minute with a swift strike. However, Ecuador responded with determination, and Jordy Alcívar leveled the score in the 20th minute through a well-executed penalty kick. This result extended Mexico’s winless streak to four matches, following a disappointing 4-0 loss to Colombia last Saturday. Mexico’s last victory dates back to July 6, when they defeated an alternate United States squad in the Gold Cup final. The team will now look to break this streak in November when they face Uruguay. Meanwhile, Ecuador, which finished second in South America’s World Cup qualifiers behind Argentina, continues to build momentum after a 1-1 draw against the United States last Friday. Both teams are using these matches to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where Mexico will co-host with Canada and the United States.
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Messi gets two assists, Argentina beats Puerto Rico 6-0 in relocated soccer friendly
In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, Lionel Messi led Argentina to a resounding 6-0 victory over Puerto Rico in an international friendly match held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The game, originally slated for Chicago, was relocated due to low ticket sales and concerns over an ongoing immigration crackdown in the area. Messi, playing on familiar turf as a member of Inter Miami, showcased his brilliance with two assists and a pivotal role in setting up another goal. His first-half lob set up Gonzalo Montiel’s opener, while a clever back pass in the 83rd minute facilitated Lautaro Martínez’s second goal of the night. Alexis Mac Allister contributed with a brace, and an own goal further cemented Argentina’s dominance. Despite the lopsided matchup between FIFA’s third-ranked team and 155th-ranked Puerto Rico, the latter’s goalkeeper, Sebastian Cutler, made notable saves against Messi. The match, part of Argentina’s World Cup preparations, drew a modest crowd initially but filled up as the game progressed. The relocation controversy and the stark contrast in team rankings added layers of intrigue to the event.
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Ivory Coast and Senegal claim places at World Cup
In a thrilling conclusion to the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Senegal and Ivory Coast clinched the continent’s last two automatic berths with decisive victories on Tuesday. Senegal dominated Group B with a commanding 4-0 win over Mauritania in Dakar. Sadio Mane, the former Liverpool star, opened the scoring with a sublime free-kick just before halftime, followed by a clinical second goal. Iliman Ndiaye and Habib Diallo added to the tally, sealing Senegal’s top spot in the group, two points clear of DR Congo, who edged Sudan 1-0. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast showcased their defensive prowess, completing the entire 10-match qualifying campaign without conceding a single goal. Their 3-0 triumph over Kenya in Abidjan, courtesy of goals from Franck Kessie, Yan Diomande, and Amad Diallo, ensured they finished a point ahead of Gabon in Group F. Both teams now join Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, and South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the expanded 48-team tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The final African spot will be determined through next month’s continental play-offs, featuring Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria.
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England reaches 2026 World Cup by routing Latvia. Ronaldo and Portugal miss chance to clinch a spot
In a decisive display of dominance, England became the first European nation to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, clinching their qualification with a commanding 5-0 victory over Latvia on Tuesday. Captain Harry Kane led the charge with a first-half brace, solidifying England’s position at the top of their qualifying group with two matches remaining. Under the guidance of German coach Thomas Tuchel, the English squad has maintained an impeccable defensive record, conceding zero goals in six qualifying matches. Kane, who has netted a combined 21 goals for England and Bayern Munich this season, emphasized the team’s commitment to maintaining high standards regardless of the opponent. Meanwhile, Portugal’s path to qualification hit a snag as they conceded a stoppage-time equalizer against Hungary, resulting in a 2-2 draw in Lisbon. Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored twice to give Portugal a temporary lead, now holds the record for most goals in World Cup qualifiers with 41, surpassing Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz. Despite the setback, Portugal remains in contention for a spot in the tournament. In other qualifying action, Italy secured at least a playoff berth with a 3-0 win over Israel, while Spain maintained their group lead with a 4-0 victory over Bulgaria.