Maguire lauds Carrick for turnaround at Manchester United as Champions League return looms Manchester United defender Harry Maguire praised coach Michael Carrick for the turnaround in the club’s fortunes after ‌a 2-1 Premier League win over Brentford that leaves it close to a return to ⁠the Champions League after finishing 15th last season.United sacked previous coach Ruben Amorim in January after a turbulent 14-month ‌spell at the helm that saw the players struggle to get to grips with ‌his tactics, and Maguire credited his successor Carrick ‌with ⁠restoring the team’s confidence and getting it back ⁠to winning ways.“We had two tough fixtures when Michael first came in, and I think everyone was probably looking at them thinking ‘oh no’, with Arsenal and ‌Man City, and we managed to get the six points,” Maguire told Sky Sports after setting up Casemiro for the first goal against Brentford.“Everyone’s believed in ‌it, and we’ve gathered together. We’ve got the confidence. We know that we can score goals from anywhere.”Third-placed United looked comfortable as it cruised to a win that moved it to 61 points in the standings, 11 ahead of sixth-placed Brighton & ‌Hove Albion with four games left to play and five teams qualifying for next season’s Champions League.United has won nine of its 13 games under Carrick, paving the way for a return to Europe’s biggest club competition.“The results speak for themselves – since the manager ‌has come in, and the formation has changed, we just seem to pick up results. I think that the games previous, when Ruben was here, the ⁠games were fifty-fifty, but we always ended up on the ⁠back of a defeat,” Maguire explained.“Now it seems like it’s the other way around, where ‌we’re a lot better in both boxes. We defend our box a lot better, and we’re managing to be clinical in the other box.”Published on Apr 28, 2026 #Maguire #lauds #Carrick #turnaround #Manchester #United #Champions #League #return #looms

Maguire lauds Carrick for turnaround at Manchester United as Champions League return looms
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire praised coach Michael Carrick for the turnaround in the club’s fortunes after ‌a 2-1 Premier League win over Brentford that leaves it close to a return to ⁠the Champions League after finishing 15th last season.
United sacked previous coach Ruben Amorim in January after a turbulent 14-month ‌spell at the helm that saw the players struggle to get to grips with ‌his tactics, and Maguire credited his successor Carrick ‌with ⁠restoring the team’s confidence and getting it back ⁠to winning ways.
“We had two tough fixtures when Michael first came in, and I think everyone was probably looking at them thinking ‘oh no’, with Arsenal and ‌Man City, and we managed to get the six points,” Maguire told Sky Sports after setting up Casemiro for the first goal against Brentford.
“Everyone’s believed in ‌it, and we’ve gathered together. We’ve got the confidence. We know that we can score goals from anywhere.”
Third-placed United looked comfortable as it cruised to a win that moved it to 61 points in the standings, 11 ahead of sixth-placed Brighton & ‌Hove Albion with four games left to play and five teams qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
United has won nine of its 13 games under Carrick, paving the way for a return to Europe’s biggest club competition.
“The results speak for themselves – since the manager ‌has come in, and the formation has changed, we just seem to pick up results. I think that the games previous, when Ruben was here, the ⁠games were fifty-fifty, but we always ended up on the ⁠back of a defeat,” Maguire explained.
“Now it seems like it’s the other way around, where ‌we’re a lot better in both boxes. We defend our box a lot better, and we’re managing to be clinical in the other box.”
Published on Apr 28, 2026
#Maguire #lauds #Carrick #turnaround #Manchester #United #Champions #League #return #looms

Sports news April 28, 2026

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire praised coach Michael Carrick for the turnaround in the club’s fortunes after ‌a 2-1 Premier League win over Brentford that leaves it close to a return to ⁠the Champions League after finishing 15th last season.

United sacked previous coach Ruben Amorim in January after a turbulent 14-month ‌spell at the helm that saw the players struggle to get to grips with ‌his tactics, and Maguire credited his successor Carrick ‌with ⁠restoring the team’s confidence and getting it back ⁠to winning ways.

“We had two tough fixtures when Michael first came in, and I think everyone was probably looking at them thinking ‘oh no’, with Arsenal and ‌Man City, and we managed to get the six points,” Maguire told Sky Sports after setting up Casemiro for the first goal against Brentford.

“Everyone’s believed in ‌it, and we’ve gathered together. We’ve got the confidence. We know that we can score goals from anywhere.”

Third-placed United looked comfortable as it cruised to a win that moved it to 61 points in the standings, 11 ahead of sixth-placed Brighton & ‌Hove Albion with four games left to play and five teams qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

United has won nine of its 13 games under Carrick, paving the way for a return to Europe’s biggest club competition.

“The results speak for themselves – since the manager ‌has come in, and the formation has changed, we just seem to pick up results. I think that the games previous, when Ruben was here, the ⁠games were fifty-fifty, but we always ended up on the ⁠back of a defeat,” Maguire explained.

“Now it seems like it’s the other way around, where ‌we’re a lot better in both boxes. We defend our box a lot better, and we’re managing to be clinical in the other box.”

Published on Apr 28, 2026

Source link
#Maguire #lauds #Carrick #turnaround #Manchester #United #Champions #League #return #looms

Deadspin | Max Arfsten nets early goal as Crew proceed to blank Union <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-900/28814312.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28814312.jpg" alt="MLS: Philadelphia Union at Columbus Crew" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 25, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew midfielder Dylan Chambost (7) kicks the ball during the first half against the Philadelphia Union at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Max Arfsten scored in the fifth minute and Patrick Schulte made three saves to help the Columbus Crew defeat the visiting Philadelphia Union 2-0 on Saturday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>After Arfsten staked the Crew (3-4-3, 12 points) to the lead, an own goal by Union defender Nathan Harriel in the third minute of first-half stoppage time provided the final margin.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The Union (1-7-2, 5 points) had a three-match point streak (1-0-2) stopped while the Crew is 3-1-1 in the past five.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Schulte recorded his second shutout of the season, the other coming March 7 in a 0-0 tie with the Chicago Fire.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>The first half began and ended calamitously for the Union, which saw midfielder Jesus Bueno leave with a leg injury sustained at the onset of the sequence leading to the second goal.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Arfsten opened the scoring with the sixth goal contribution (three goals, three assists) in the past six matches for the U.S. World Cup hopeful.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Dylan Chambost sent a long ball out of the back which glanced off Union defender Philippe Ndinga to Arfsten down the right flank and he broke free for the score.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>Just over a minute later, Arfsten had another break but Andre Blake made the save.</p> </section> <section id="section-9"> <p>It wasn’t all in favor of the Crew because 10 minutes later, the Union had numbers heading into the final third and Danley Jean Jacques passed to Milan Iloski on his right but his shot pinged the left post.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Philadelphia nearly made it to the half with a one-goal deficit but a potential scoring opportunity quickly turned the other way.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>The Union was on the attack after a turnover but a slide tackle by Seko Bangoura dispossessed Bueno, who stayed down with an injury, and the Crew created a counter with Arfsten once again on the run on the right flank before sending a cross to the box.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Harriel’s clearing attempt went off a sliding Blake and the rebound hit Harriel and went into the goal.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Crew defender Mo Farsi entered for Arfsten in the 81st minute for his first appearance since July 6, 2025, after undergoing sports hernia surgery.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Union defender Japhet Sery Larsen was red-carded in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time for preventing a goal-scoring opportunity.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Max #Arfsten #nets #early #goal #Crew #proceed #blank #Union

Deadspin | Juan Soto works to turn corner as Mets open set vs. Braves Jun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto. Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage. But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night. Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run. “That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.” Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games. Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain. “There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.” The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix. Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory. The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain. Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6). In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base. “We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.” Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits. Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday. Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves

#Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves">

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Jun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto.

Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage.

But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night.

Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run.

“That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.”

Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games.

Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain.

“There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.”

The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix.

Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory.

The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain.

Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6).

In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base.

“We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.”

Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits.

Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday.

Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves">Deadspin | Juan Soto works to turn corner as Mets open set vs. Braves

Jun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto.

Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage.

But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night.

Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run.

“That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.”

Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games.

Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain.

“There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.”

The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix.

Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory.

The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain.

Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6).

In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base.

“We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.”

Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits.

Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday.

Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves

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?

Closes in 3 days • 2 total votes

Rec 0Reply

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

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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?
Closes in 3 days • 2 total votes
Rec 0Reply
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

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

From bad to worse for Sithole…

Raul Jiménez has his 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!

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

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

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

The substitute secures the points!

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

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

Closes in 3 days • 2 total votes

Rec 0Reply

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

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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 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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From bad to worse for Sithole…

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

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

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