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WADA chief meets CBI special director to discuss cooperation in doping crackdown  World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President, Witold Banka, who is on a whirlwind tour of India, met Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special director Manoj Sashidhar here on Wednesday to discuss cooperation in tackling organised doping and the criminal networks behind the menace.Banka had met National Anti-Doping Agency officials on Monday for “urgent and serious” discussions on protecting the “integrity of sport” in India. Banka is scheduled to hold a press conference in Delhi on Thursday in which he is expected to address India’s poor doping numbers.“An important meeting with Mr. Manoj Sashidhar, special director of the CBI, in Delhi. As part of the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network, we emphasized close cooperation with law enforcement to tackle organized doping and the criminal networks behind it,” Banka posted on social media.On Tuesday, he had met sports secretary Hari Ranjan Rao.“Our exchange underlined the importance of effective governance and policy in strengthening anti-doping efforts and supporting the integrity of sport in India,” he had stated.Last year, India became the country with the second worst record of doping cases in a 10-year global study of WADA.The country also topped the list of highest number of dope violations for a third successive year.India returned a positivity rate of 3.6 per cent, accounting for 260 Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF), the highest among all major countries.Sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya has repeatedly promised an aggressive crackdown on doping, and while speaking in the Parliament recently he stated that agencies like the CBI are being involved for strengthening NADA’s intelligence and investigative infrastructure.Published on Apr 15, 2026  #WADA #chief #meets #CBI #special #director #discuss #cooperation #doping #crackdown

WADA chief meets CBI special director to discuss cooperation in doping crackdown

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President, Witold Banka, who is on a whirlwind tour of India, met Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special director Manoj Sashidhar here on Wednesday to discuss cooperation in tackling organised doping and the criminal networks behind the menace.

Banka had met National Anti-Doping Agency officials on Monday for “urgent and serious” discussions on protecting the “integrity of sport” in India. Banka is scheduled to hold a press conference in Delhi on Thursday in which he is expected to address India’s poor doping numbers.

“An important meeting with Mr. Manoj Sashidhar, special director of the CBI, in Delhi. As part of the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network, we emphasized close cooperation with law enforcement to tackle organized doping and the criminal networks behind it,” Banka posted on social media.

On Tuesday, he had met sports secretary Hari Ranjan Rao.

“Our exchange underlined the importance of effective governance and policy in strengthening anti-doping efforts and supporting the integrity of sport in India,” he had stated.

Last year, India became the country with the second worst record of doping cases in a 10-year global study of WADA.

The country also topped the list of highest number of dope violations for a third successive year.

India returned a positivity rate of 3.6 per cent, accounting for 260 Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF), the highest among all major countries.

Sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya has repeatedly promised an aggressive crackdown on doping, and while speaking in the Parliament recently he stated that agencies like the CBI are being involved for strengthening NADA’s intelligence and investigative infrastructure.

Published on Apr 15, 2026

#WADA #chief #meets #CBI #special #director #discuss #cooperation #doping #crackdown

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President, Witold Banka, who is on a whirlwind tour of India, met Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special director Manoj Sashidhar here on Wednesday to discuss cooperation in tackling organised doping and the criminal networks behind the menace.

Banka had met National Anti-Doping Agency officials on Monday for “urgent and serious” discussions on protecting the “integrity of sport” in India. Banka is scheduled to hold a press conference in Delhi on Thursday in which he is expected to address India’s poor doping numbers.

“An important meeting with Mr. Manoj Sashidhar, special director of the CBI, in Delhi. As part of the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network, we emphasized close cooperation with law enforcement to tackle organized doping and the criminal networks behind it,” Banka posted on social media.

On Tuesday, he had met sports secretary Hari Ranjan Rao.

“Our exchange underlined the importance of effective governance and policy in strengthening anti-doping efforts and supporting the integrity of sport in India,” he had stated.

Last year, India became the country with the second worst record of doping cases in a 10-year global study of WADA.

The country also topped the list of highest number of dope violations for a third successive year.

India returned a positivity rate of 3.6 per cent, accounting for 260 Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF), the highest among all major countries.

Sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya has repeatedly promised an aggressive crackdown on doping, and while speaking in the Parliament recently he stated that agencies like the CBI are being involved for strengthening NADA’s intelligence and investigative infrastructure.

Published on Apr 15, 2026

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#WADA #chief #meets #CBI #special #director #discuss #cooperation #doping #crackdown

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Deadspin | Avalanche down Flames, tie franchise’s season mark for points <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28730266.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28730266.jpg" alt="NHL: Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 14, 2026; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Colorado Avalanche left wing Artturi Lehkonen (62) and Calgary Flames defenseman Hunter Brzustewicz (48) battle for the puck during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Gabriel Landeskog scored a tiebreaking goal late in the third period, Martin Necas had an assist to reach 100 points for the first time in his career, and the visiting Colorado Avalanche beat the Calgary Flames 3-1 on Tuesday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Artturi Lehkonen and Nathan MacKinnon scored goals and Mackenzie Blackwood turned away 30 shots for Colorado (54-16-11). The Avalanche have 119 points, tying the franchise record set during the 2021-22 season, when they won the Stanley Cup.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>MacKinnon notched his NHL-leading 53rd goal of the season in his battle for the Rocket Richard Trophy. He has a two-goal lead over the Montreal Canadiens’ Cole Caufield. Both have one game remaining.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Cale Makar logged three assists for the Avalanche in his return to the lineup after missing seven games due to an upper-body injury. Devon Toews and Brock Nelson were healthy scratches, and Nazem Kadri (finger) and Josh Manson (upper-body injury) remain sidelined.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Colorado coach Jared Bednar missed his second consecutive game. Bednar didn’t travel on the two-game trip due to facial fractures and a corneal abrasion sustained when he was hit by a puck during the Avalanche’s Saturday game against the Vegas Golden Knights.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-6"> <p>Blake Coleman had a goal and Dustin Wolf made 36 saves for Calgary (33-39-9, 75 points).</p> </section> <section id="section-7"> <p>The Avalanche got the winner when Landeskog won an offensive-zone faceoff back to Makar, who sent it to Brett Kulak. Landeskog, stationed in front of the crease, deflected Kulak’s shot past Wolf at 15:07.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>Wolf came off for an extra skater and MacKinnon scored into the empty net at 19:43. Necas got the second assist on the goal to reach his personal milestone.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>After a scoreless first period, the Flames broke through early in the second. Mikael Backlund had the puck at the point and sent a shot to the front of the net. Coleman, batting in the slot, got his stick on the puck as it glided on the ice, and it deflected over Blackwood’s shoulder at 7:22.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>It was Coleman’s 20th goal of the season.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>The Avalanche tied it when Makar fed Lehkonen for a one-timer at 11:25 of the second.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-12"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Avalanche #Flames #tie #franchises #season #mark #points

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College basketball transfer portal rankings for 11 best men’s players still available <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The transfer portal has completely changed men’s college basketball, essentially making every player a free agent at the end of each season. Regulation is probably coming down the pipeline, but it’s not here yet, and prices are <a href="https://x.com/EvanMiya/status/2044083260670857245">reportedly skyrocketing 65 percent from this time last year</a>.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Michigan won the national championship this past season off the backs of four key transfers after landing Yaxel Lendeborg from UAB, Morez Johnson from Illinois, Aday Mara from UCLA, and Elliot Cadeau from North Carolina. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2025/4/14/24406281/transfer-portal-team-rankings-mens-college-basketball-2025">I wrote that Michigan had the country’s best transfer portal haul this time last year</a>, so I nailed that one. Unfortunately, I praised the portal hauls from programs like Creighton, Georgetown, and Washington in the same column, and none of those teams even made the 2026 NCAA tournament.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Teams need to hunt for talent that fits their system in the portal to really see big results — or maybe it’s more important that they tailor the system to the talent they can get. There’s still a long way to go before the portal closes on April 21, and that’s only the deadline to <em>enter</em>, not commit. The race for transfers is already on, and <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1110562/louisville-transfer-portal-flory-bidunga-shelstad-mens-college-basketball">some of the best ones have already committed</a>. Here are the best players still available in the portal.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Former school</strong>: Penn State</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Mingo’s younger brother Dylan has a case as the best available player in college basketball right now <a href="https://www.tarheelblog.com/unc-basketball/55013/unc-basketball-parted-ways-with-dylan-mingo">after the 5-star incoming freshman decommitted from North Carolina</a> last week. Could the Mingo brothers be a packaged deal at their next home? Their games are pretty similar as big point guards who can’t shoot, so it might not be the best idea. Kayden Mingo had a nice freshman season at Penn State where he established himself as a quality playmaker (27 percent assist rate and +2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio), a defensive terror (3.8 percent steal rate), and a promising on-ball creator. Mingo made nearly 62 percent of his rim looks with only 20 percent of those being assisted, and he also showed off a nice self-created mid-range game. Dylan Mingo has a chance to be a top-5 pick in the 2027 NBA Draft, but Kayden is a good player and a real catch in the portal in his own right.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Scharnowski’s per-game numbers (10.7 points, six rebounds) don’t do him justice. The 6’9 big man was one of the most efficient players in the country at Belmont this past season, and he has real two-way utility. Scharnowski was a super efficient scorer (68.3 effective field goal percentage), a great rebounder on both ends, and a fearsome rim protector with an eight percent block rate. He finishes everything inside with 75 percent shooting at the rim buoyed by 44 dunks in 30 games, and he’s also a good passer. There’s a ton of green flags in his profile, but his 43.6 percent free throw stroke is a big red flag. Improving his free throw shooting over the offseason would take Scharnowski’s game to the next level.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">McNeil is one of the best shooters in the country combining deadly accuracy with super high volume. He hit 42.7 percent of his threes on 14.6 attempts from deep per 100 possessions this past season at NC State. McNeil isn’t just a spot-up shooter, he can dart off screens and hit shots from tough angles with deep range. He doesn’t have much creation ability and he’s not much of a playmaker, but his turnover avoidance and elite shooting should draw plenty of interest in the portal.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Wright left Baylor for BYU for a huge bag last year, and now he’s about to get paid again with Kentucky and BYU reportedly vying for him. The 6’1 guard is a speedy ball handler who can generate paint touches while also hitting 41 percent of his threes. He has a good mid-range game (41.4 percent on non-rim twos) even if he struggles to finish when he gets all the way to the rim. He’s a dependable floor general, too, posting a 24 percent assist rate and a +2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Every team wants a trusty veteran point guard, and Wright might be the best one on the market right now.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1105461/march-madness-top-50-players-2026-mens-ncaa-tournament">I named Hill one of the 50 best players in the 2026 NCAA tournament</a> despite coming off the bench all year for VCU. He rewarded my faith by hitting the game-winner in their first-round upset against North Carolina, and now he’s ready for an even bigger role. Hill is a walking bucket at his best with self-creation ability, high-volume three-point shooting (37 percent from deep), and a very good mid-range game. Hill is also a solid passer who avoids turnovers, making him a perfect secondary creator. He’s not a plus defender, but a scorer this talented will be in demand on the market.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Freeman was a McDonald’s All-American out of high school who has battled foot injuries in both of his college seasons. If he can stay healthy, Freeman has a desirable skill set as a 6’9 forward who can launch threes with volume while also crushing the defensive glass. Part of this ranking is believing that Freeman is a better shooter than he’s shown so far after making 30.2 percent of his threes on 86 attempts in 23 games last season. He’s a career 77.5 percent free throw shooter and has shown good touch from mid-range (44.4 percent), so I think a leap is coming. Freeman also finishes well at the rim and holds his own on defense. I predict a breakout junior season if he lands in the right spot.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Blackwell scores points in bunches without sacrificing efficiency. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1106304/wisconsin-college-basketball-best-backcourt-nick-boyd-john-blackwell-big-ten-tournament">The 6’4 guard was part of dynamic duos at Wisconsin the last two seasons</a>, and his shooting touch combined with on/off ball versatility will make him arguably the most coveted guard in the portal this year. Blackwell averaged 19 points per game on 59.3 percent true shooting by ripping the nets from deep (39 percent from three on 247 attempts) and showing off a skilled mid-range game. He’s more of a combo guard than a pure point, but his ability to create good looks for himself allows him to play on or off the ball. Duke and Illinois are believed to be the frontrunners.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Former school:</strong> Wake Forest</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Harris also declared for the NBA Draft when he announced he was leaving Marquette, but he will likely get a lot more money in the transfer portal for next season as a projected early second round pick. The 6’7 wing is bristling with upside with three-level scoring touch, some self-creation ability, and a knack for getting points at the foul line. He’s an excellent mid-range scorer who made nearly 48 percent on non-rim twos with more than 90 percent of them being unassisted. He should be a better outside shooter than his 33 percent three-point stroke indicates. It feels like Harris will be a solid first-round pick in the 2027 NBA Draft if he chooses the right school. Will he go for the biggest bag in the portal this year, or prioritize the place that could make him the most money long-term?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Former school</strong>: Arizona State</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1109445/college-basketball-isnt-a-point-guards-game-anymore-size-is-king-at-final-four-once-again">College basketball is a big man’s game once again</a>, and there’s few players bigger than Diop. Listed at 7’1, 230 pounds with a 7’4 wingspan, the native of Senegal proved he could score efficiently inside, protect the rim, and make enough of his free throws (71.5 percent) to not be a total liability at the end of games. Diop crushed 53 dunks last season, which helped him shoot above 71 percent at the rim. He’s a legitimate defensive anchor with a nearly eight percent block rate, but would benefit from being paired with better rebounders. Given the race for size throughout the sport, Diop should be highly sought after coming off a good freshman year at Arizona State.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Former school</strong>: Iowa State</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There might not be a better shooter in college basketball than Momcilovic. The Iowa State forward made 48.7 percent of his threes on 14.4 attempts per 100 possessions from deep last season at Iowa State. He’s also declared for the draft, but his athletic limitations likely make him a second rounder, which means the money will be better in college. While his outside shooting gets all the attention, Momcilovic is also incredible from midrange, making 47 percent of his looks with nearly three-quarters of them being unassisted. All the heavy hitters in the sport could use a shooter like this.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Former school</strong>: Santa Clara</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">No one knew who Graves was coming into the season, and now he’s either going to be a first-round NBA draft pick or the most coveted player in the transfer portal after a breakout redshirt freshman year at Santa Clara. Graves should have been a March Madness hero, but his go-ahead three-pointer against Kentucky was quickly wiped away with <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1107336/kentucky-payroll-nil-basketball-otega-oweh-santa-clara-video">Otega Oweh’s deep buzzer-beater</a>. The 6’9 forward is a hyper-aggressive defender who simply rips the ball away from opponents. His defensive playmaking is second-to-none with a five percent block rate and 4.9 percent steal rate, and he also uses his great hands and keen instincts to corral rebounds at an elite rate on both ends. Graves also hit 40.7 percent of his threes on 91 attempts, mostly on pick-and-pops and catch-and-shoot attempts. The size, motor, feel, and efficiency are there. He’s <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/1109861/nba-mock-draft-2026-updated-projection-after-march-madness-ends">projected to be a first-round pick in our latest NBA mock draft</a>, but the money in college might be too good to pass up if the bluebloods get involved.</p></div></div> #College #basketball #transfer #portal #rankings #mens #players

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.

In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.

Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.

Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goal

Mexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.

From bad to worse for Sithole…

An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

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Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action">Watch every World Cup goal from the opening day of action  The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goalMexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.From bad to worse for Sithole…An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.Raul Jiménez has his moment!Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrivedSouth Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.The South Korean responseHwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!The substitute secures the points!Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?Closes in 3 days • 2 total votesView resultsJulian Quinones vs. RSARaul Jimenez vs. RSALadislav Krejci vs. KORHwang In-Beom vs. CZEOh Hyung-Gyu vs. CZERec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyHave your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.  #Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action

DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

Rec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReply

Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action">Watch every World Cup goal from the opening day of action

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.

In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.

Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.

Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goal

Mexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.

From bad to worse for Sithole…

An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

Rec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReply

Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action

Former Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter Avinash Vaidya has been appointed as the Indian team manager for the upcoming T20I series tour to Ireland and England.

India will play two T20Is against Ireland on June 26 and 28 at Belfast, followed by five matches against England between July 1 and 11.

Vaidya is a vastly experienced administrator, having worked with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings in the past in the IPL.

ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi seeks substance to match the sparkle

The 59-year-old is a member of the current Managing Committee of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), led by Venkatesh Prasad.

During his playing days, Vaidya, besides Karnataka, appeared for India-A, Board President’s XI and South Zone in various competitions.

He was also a member of the Karnataka side that won multiple Ranji Trophy titles in the 90s.

Published on Jun 12, 2026

#Karnataka #player #Avinash #Vaidya #appointed #India #team #manager #Ireland #England #tours">Former Karnataka player Avinash Vaidya appointed as India team manager for Ireland, England tours  Former Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter Avinash Vaidya has been appointed as the Indian team manager for the upcoming T20I series tour to Ireland and England.India will play two T20Is against Ireland on June 26 and 28 at Belfast, followed by five matches against England between July 1 and 11.Vaidya is a vastly experienced administrator, having worked with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings in the past in the IPL.ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi seeks substance to match the sparkleThe 59-year-old is a member of the current Managing Committee of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), led by Venkatesh Prasad.During his playing days, Vaidya, besides Karnataka, appeared for India-A, Board President’s XI and South Zone in various competitions.He was also a member of the Karnataka side that won multiple Ranji Trophy titles in the 90s.Published on Jun 12, 2026  #Karnataka #player #Avinash #Vaidya #appointed #India #team #manager #Ireland #England #tours

Sooryavanshi seeks substance to match the sparkle

The 59-year-old is a member of the current Managing Committee of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), led by Venkatesh Prasad.

During his playing days, Vaidya, besides Karnataka, appeared for India-A, Board President’s XI and South Zone in various competitions.

He was also a member of the Karnataka side that won multiple Ranji Trophy titles in the 90s.

Published on Jun 12, 2026

#Karnataka #player #Avinash #Vaidya #appointed #India #team #manager #Ireland #England #tours">Former Karnataka player Avinash Vaidya appointed as India team manager for Ireland, England tours

Former Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter Avinash Vaidya has been appointed as the Indian team manager for the upcoming T20I series tour to Ireland and England.

India will play two T20Is against Ireland on June 26 and 28 at Belfast, followed by five matches against England between July 1 and 11.

Vaidya is a vastly experienced administrator, having worked with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings in the past in the IPL.

ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi seeks substance to match the sparkle

The 59-year-old is a member of the current Managing Committee of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), led by Venkatesh Prasad.

During his playing days, Vaidya, besides Karnataka, appeared for India-A, Board President’s XI and South Zone in various competitions.

He was also a member of the Karnataka side that won multiple Ranji Trophy titles in the 90s.

Published on Jun 12, 2026

#Karnataka #player #Avinash #Vaidya #appointed #India #team #manager #Ireland #England #tours

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