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FIFA World Cup 2026: U.S. to review Iran travel arrangements after Belgium game The United States will continue ‌to assess the Iran squad’s travel arrangements at the World Cup, but for ​now the original plan remains in place despite the team saying it would ⁠lodge a complaint with FIFA, Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the tournament, told Reuters on Saturday.Iran is unhappy at restrictions that mean it can only travel to venues within ‌24 hours of its fixtures and must depart back to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, directly after each game, with coach Amir Ghalenoei suggesting his side was “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup”.Giuliani, however, says the situation ‌is ⁠fluid, and they will discuss what measures will be in place for Iran’s third ⁠game against Egypt in Seattle on Friday after a meeting with Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday.READ: Tunisia vs Japan encounter in Monterrey to be 1000th FIFA World Cup match“The situation is dynamic,” Giuliani said in an exclusive interview in Houston. “We have a plan right now. Tomorrow afternoon (after the match against Belgium) ​they will take the 27-minute flight ‌back to Tijuana.“We will see how it goes for match two, and then there will be discussions the day after in terms of what it looks like for match three in Seattle.”Giuliani defended the measures in place and said the pre-tournament change in training bases for ‌the side from Tucson to Tijuana had shortened Iran’s travel time.“The shift from Tucson ​to Tijuana, I think, was good for everybody involved; certainly, it reduces their travel time to Los Angeles too,” he said. “Their flight is an hour shorter ⁠than it would be from Tucson. And we’re happy with the way that things went for match one in Los Angeles.“I would just point to the fact that all players have received visas. ‌All the coaches have received visas. There are some team officials that have not received visas, and that’s because we’ve seen some derogatory information on them, and this is the balance that we talk about.”Protecting interests of U.S.Giuliani said the goal has always been to protect the interests of the United States and the international visitors at the World Cup.“We want to make sure we have this incredible soccer tournament, where people are welcome and enjoy the World Cup, while ‌also making sure that we are not just protecting American citizens, but we’re also protecting all those international visitors ​that are coming here,” he said.ALSO READ: Hydration breaks at FIFA World Cup 2026 add nothing but take away a lot, says BielsaHe revealed that no threats to the tournament had been identified but that officials remain vigilant.“What I can tell you is ⁠our intelligence community has tripled down on this since the beginning of this year,” he said. “We’re in ⁠discussions every hour on it. But there have been no credible threats at this moment.”Giuliani has been pleased with the opening 10 days of the World Cup.“Things are ‌going as planned,” he said. “It’s been fantastic to see the great play on the pitch; that seems to be the majority of the conversation, which has been fantastic.“I think this ​is an amazing celebration of America over our 250th birthday, with the World Cup being the incredible highlight.”Published on Jun 21, 2026 #FIFA #World #Cup #U.S #review #Iran #travel #arrangements #Belgium #game

FIFA World Cup 2026: U.S. to review Iran travel arrangements after Belgium game

The United States will continue ‌to assess the Iran squad’s travel arrangements at the World Cup, but for ​now the original plan remains in place despite the team saying it would ⁠lodge a complaint with FIFA, Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the tournament, told Reuters on Saturday.

Iran is unhappy at restrictions that mean it can only travel to venues within ‌24 hours of its fixtures and must depart back to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, directly after each game, with coach Amir Ghalenoei suggesting his side was “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup”.

Giuliani, however, says the situation ‌is ⁠fluid, and they will discuss what measures will be in place for Iran’s third ⁠game against Egypt in Seattle on Friday after a meeting with Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday.

READ: Tunisia vs Japan encounter in Monterrey to be 1000th FIFA World Cup match

“The situation is dynamic,” Giuliani said in an exclusive interview in Houston. “We have a plan right now. Tomorrow afternoon (after the match against Belgium) ​they will take the 27-minute flight ‌back to Tijuana.

“We will see how it goes for match two, and then there will be discussions the day after in terms of what it looks like for match three in Seattle.”

Giuliani defended the measures in place and said the pre-tournament change in training bases for ‌the side from Tucson to Tijuana had shortened Iran’s travel time.

“The shift from Tucson ​to Tijuana, I think, was good for everybody involved; certainly, it reduces their travel time to Los Angeles too,” he said. “Their flight is an hour shorter ⁠than it would be from Tucson. And we’re happy with the way that things went for match one in Los Angeles.

“I would just point to the fact that all players have received visas. ‌All the coaches have received visas. There are some team officials that have not received visas, and that’s because we’ve seen some derogatory information on them, and this is the balance that we talk about.”

Protecting interests of U.S.

Giuliani said the goal has always been to protect the interests of the United States and the international visitors at the World Cup.

“We want to make sure we have this incredible soccer tournament, where people are welcome and enjoy the World Cup, while ‌also making sure that we are not just protecting American citizens, but we’re also protecting all those international visitors ​that are coming here,” he said.

ALSO READ: Hydration breaks at FIFA World Cup 2026 add nothing but take away a lot, says Bielsa

He revealed that no threats to the tournament had been identified but that officials remain vigilant.

“What I can tell you is ⁠our intelligence community has tripled down on this since the beginning of this year,” he said. “We’re in ⁠discussions every hour on it. But there have been no credible threats at this moment.”

Giuliani has been pleased with the opening 10 days of the World Cup.

“Things are ‌going as planned,” he said. “It’s been fantastic to see the great play on the pitch; that seems to be the majority of the conversation, which has been fantastic.

“I think this ​is an amazing celebration of America over our 250th birthday, with the World Cup being the incredible highlight.”

Published on Jun 21, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #U.S #review #Iran #travel #arrangements #Belgium #game

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The United States will continue ‌to assess the Iran squad’s travel arrangements at the World Cup, but for ​now the original plan remains in place despite the team saying it would ⁠lodge a complaint with FIFA, Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the tournament, told Reuters on Saturday.

Iran is unhappy at restrictions that mean it can only travel to venues within ‌24 hours of its fixtures and must depart back to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, directly after each game, with coach Amir Ghalenoei suggesting his side was “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup”.

Giuliani, however, says the situation ‌is ⁠fluid, and they will discuss what measures will be in place for Iran’s third ⁠game against Egypt in Seattle on Friday after a meeting with Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday.

READ: Tunisia vs Japan encounter in Monterrey to be 1000th FIFA World Cup match

“The situation is dynamic,” Giuliani said in an exclusive interview in Houston. “We have a plan right now. Tomorrow afternoon (after the match against Belgium) ​they will take the 27-minute flight ‌back to Tijuana.

“We will see how it goes for match two, and then there will be discussions the day after in terms of what it looks like for match three in Seattle.”

Giuliani defended the measures in place and said the pre-tournament change in training bases for ‌the side from Tucson to Tijuana had shortened Iran’s travel time.

“The shift from Tucson ​to Tijuana, I think, was good for everybody involved; certainly, it reduces their travel time to Los Angeles too,” he said. “Their flight is an hour shorter ⁠than it would be from Tucson. And we’re happy with the way that things went for match one in Los Angeles.

“I would just point to the fact that all players have received visas. ‌All the coaches have received visas. There are some team officials that have not received visas, and that’s because we’ve seen some derogatory information on them, and this is the balance that we talk about.”

Protecting interests of U.S.

Giuliani said the goal has always been to protect the interests of the United States and the international visitors at the World Cup.

“We want to make sure we have this incredible soccer tournament, where people are welcome and enjoy the World Cup, while ‌also making sure that we are not just protecting American citizens, but we’re also protecting all those international visitors ​that are coming here,” he said.

ALSO READ: Hydration breaks at FIFA World Cup 2026 add nothing but take away a lot, says Bielsa

He revealed that no threats to the tournament had been identified but that officials remain vigilant.

“What I can tell you is ⁠our intelligence community has tripled down on this since the beginning of this year,” he said. “We’re in ⁠discussions every hour on it. But there have been no credible threats at this moment.”

Giuliani has been pleased with the opening 10 days of the World Cup.

“Things are ‌going as planned,” he said. “It’s been fantastic to see the great play on the pitch; that seems to be the majority of the conversation, which has been fantastic.

“I think this ​is an amazing celebration of America over our 250th birthday, with the World Cup being the incredible highlight.”

Published on Jun 21, 2026

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Last month, 64 teams began a journey with dreams of a trip to Omaha, Nebraska.

Now, just two teams remain, each with an eye on a national championship.

Later tonight, North Carolina and Oklahoma will meet in Game 1 of the Men’s College World Series Finals, a best-of-three series to crown the NCAA baseball champion. UNC clinched its spot in the Finals early in the day on Wednesday, knocking off West Virginia to punch its ticket to the series. Then on Wednesday night Oklahoma joined the fray, defeating SEC rival Georgia to clinch its spot.

Here is everything you need to know about this series.

Men’s College World Series Finals schedule and scores

Here is the schedule for the Finals, which will be updated with the scores as games are played. Note: All times are Eastern.

Game 1: Oklahoma 9, North Carolina 3
Game 2: Sunday, June 21, 2:30 p.m, ABC
Game 3: Monday, June 22, 7:00 p.m., ESPN*

UNC’s path to the MCWS Finals

North Carolina began the NCAA baseball tournament at home, as the No. 5 overall team in the field. It was smooth sailing for the Tar Heels in the Chapel Hill regional, as they won three straight games to book a spot in the Super Regionals, where they were home against USC.

That is where the road got a bit bumpy.

North Carolina dropped Game 1 of the Super Regional, 9-5 to USC. But then with the team’s season on the line, the Tar Heels got a gem of a start from Jason DeCaro in Game 2 to force a decisive Game 3.

After falling down 3-1 on Sunday, the Tar Heels pushed a run across the plate in the bottom of the eighth, and completed a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the ninth when Owen Hull hit his fourth double of the game to center field, bringing home the winning run in walkoff fashion.

Hull and the Tar Heels remained red hot after arriving in Omaha. They knocked off Ole Miss 6-2 in their first game, behind clutch hitting from Gavin Gallaher and Colin Hynek. Then with a chance to clinch a spot in the Finals, Hull and the Tar Heels knocked off West Virginia on Wednesday by a final score of 12-7.

It was UNC’s second win against West Virginia in Omaha, and the team’s first trip to the Finals since 2007.

UNC has never won the NCAA baseball championship.

Oklahoma’s path to the MCWS Finals

The journey to Omaha was a little different for Oklahoma.

The Sooners were not one of the top 16 teams according to the Selection Committee, and started on the road in Atlanta, as the No. 2 seed in the Atlanta regional. That put Oklahoma in the same bracket as Georgia Tech, the No. 2 team overall.

Then when Oklahoma lost the 1-0 game to Georgia Tech, it meant a trip to the loser’s bracket. But a win over The Citadel and a victory over Georgia Tech set up a winner-take-all game in Atlanta.

Which the Sooners won in dramatic fashion, on a walk-off home ron from Dayton Tockey in the tenth inning.

With the win, Oklahoma earned a trip to Kansas to take on the Big 12 Champions in the Lawrence Super Regional. But the Sooners won that series in a two-game sweep, outscoring Kansas 21-3 over the two games. Tockey again went deep in Game 2, won by Oklahoma 13-2, along with Deiten Lachance, Dasan Harris, and Trey Gambill.

Once in Omaha, the Sooners did not let up. Like UNC, Oklahoma won three consecutive games to reach the Finals, including a pair of wins over Georgia.

This is Oklahoma’s first trip to the Finals since 2022, and the Sooners are looking for a third national championship.

One key player for each team

These are two talented rosters, with deep lineups and live arms both in the rotation and coming out of the bullpen.

But two players in particular have been scorching hot in recent games, and will be critical to their team’s chances in the Finals.

North Carolina: Owen Hull

Ahead of the Men’s College World Series, we tapped Hull as the key player for the Tar Heels.

We do so again, and with good reason.

After all, it was Hull who came through with the decisive hit in the Super Regionals, as his opposite-field knock in the bottom of the ninth against USC clinched that series. And he is still swinging a hot bat as the Finals begin. His last game without a hit came back on May 16 against NC State, when he went 0-for-2 in a loss to the Wolfpack. He finished the game on Wednesday having gone 4-for-5 with two RBI, along with a pair of doubles and a triple, and Hull heads to the Finals riding a 12-game hitting streak.

As with Hull, we pointed to Dasan Harris ahead of the Men’s College World Series as a key to the Sooners’ chances.

And like Hull, Harris continued his hot streak once arriving in Omaha.

The Oklahoma outfielder went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI in the Sooners’ opening win over Alabama, and in the win that sent Oklahoma to the Finals, Harris went 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs as the Sooners knocked off Georgia 11-4. For the former walk-on, it was a rather special moment.

“I dreamed of this moment since I was a little kid and I wanted to come here,” said Harris, who went to Oklahoma as a walk-on back in 2024. “To be able to be put in these spots is something special.”

Harris leads the Sooners in batting average (.359) and is second among qualified players in OPS with a mark of 1.002, behind only slugger Deiten Lachance.

#Mens #College #World #Series #Finals #UNCOklahoma">Men’s College World Series Finals: What you need to know about UNC-Oklahoma Last month, 64 teams began a journey with dreams of a trip to Omaha, Nebraska.Now, just two teams remain, each with an eye on a national championship.Later tonight, North Carolina and Oklahoma will meet in Game 1 of the Men’s College World Series Finals, a best-of-three series to crown the NCAA baseball champion. UNC clinched its spot in the Finals early in the day on Wednesday, knocking off West Virginia to punch its ticket to the series. Then on Wednesday night Oklahoma joined the fray, defeating SEC rival Georgia to clinch its spot.Here is everything you need to know about this series.Men’s College World Series Finals schedule and scoresHere is the schedule for the Finals, which will be updated with the scores as games are played. Note: All times are Eastern.Game 1: Oklahoma 9, North Carolina 3Game 2: Sunday, June 21, 2:30 p.m, ABCGame 3: Monday, June 22, 7:00 p.m., ESPN*UNC’s path to the MCWS FinalsNorth Carolina began the NCAA baseball tournament at home, as the No. 5 overall team in the field. It was smooth sailing for the Tar Heels in the Chapel Hill regional, as they won three straight games to book a spot in the Super Regionals, where they were home against USC.That is where the road got a bit bumpy.North Carolina dropped Game 1 of the Super Regional, 9-5 to USC. But then with the team’s season on the line, the Tar Heels got a gem of a start from Jason DeCaro in Game 2 to force a decisive Game 3.After falling down 3-1 on Sunday, the Tar Heels pushed a run across the plate in the bottom of the eighth, and completed a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the ninth when Owen Hull hit his fourth double of the game to center field, bringing home the winning run in walkoff fashion.Hull and the Tar Heels remained red hot after arriving in Omaha. They knocked off Ole Miss 6-2 in their first game, behind clutch hitting from Gavin Gallaher and Colin Hynek. Then with a chance to clinch a spot in the Finals, Hull and the Tar Heels knocked off West Virginia on Wednesday by a final score of 12-7.It was UNC’s second win against West Virginia in Omaha, and the team’s first trip to the Finals since 2007.UNC has never won the NCAA baseball championship.Oklahoma’s path to the MCWS FinalsThe journey to Omaha was a little different for Oklahoma.The Sooners were not one of the top 16 teams according to the Selection Committee, and started on the road in Atlanta, as the No. 2 seed in the Atlanta regional. That put Oklahoma in the same bracket as Georgia Tech, the No. 2 team overall.Then when Oklahoma lost the 1-0 game to Georgia Tech, it meant a trip to the loser’s bracket. But a win over The Citadel and a victory over Georgia Tech set up a winner-take-all game in Atlanta.Which the Sooners won in dramatic fashion, on a walk-off home ron from Dayton Tockey in the tenth inning.With the win, Oklahoma earned a trip to Kansas to take on the Big 12 Champions in the Lawrence Super Regional. But the Sooners won that series in a two-game sweep, outscoring Kansas 21-3 over the two games. Tockey again went deep in Game 2, won by Oklahoma 13-2, along with Deiten Lachance, Dasan Harris, and Trey Gambill.Once in Omaha, the Sooners did not let up. Like UNC, Oklahoma won three consecutive games to reach the Finals, including a pair of wins over Georgia.This is Oklahoma’s first trip to the Finals since 2022, and the Sooners are looking for a third national championship.One key player for each teamThese are two talented rosters, with deep lineups and live arms both in the rotation and coming out of the bullpen.But two players in particular have been scorching hot in recent games, and will be critical to their team’s chances in the Finals.North Carolina: Owen HullAhead of the Men’s College World Series, we tapped Hull as the key player for the Tar Heels.We do so again, and with good reason.After all, it was Hull who came through with the decisive hit in the Super Regionals, as his opposite-field knock in the bottom of the ninth against USC clinched that series. And he is still swinging a hot bat as the Finals begin. His last game without a hit came back on May 16 against NC State, when he went 0-for-2 in a loss to the Wolfpack. He finished the game on Wednesday having gone 4-for-5 with two RBI, along with a pair of doubles and a triple, and Hull heads to the Finals riding a 12-game hitting streak.As with Hull, we pointed to Dasan Harris ahead of the Men’s College World Series as a key to the Sooners’ chances.And like Hull, Harris continued his hot streak once arriving in Omaha.The Oklahoma outfielder went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI in the Sooners’ opening win over Alabama, and in the win that sent Oklahoma to the Finals, Harris went 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs as the Sooners knocked off Georgia 11-4. For the former walk-on, it was a rather special moment.“I dreamed of this moment since I was a little kid and I wanted to come here,” said Harris, who went to Oklahoma as a walk-on back in 2024. “To be able to be put in these spots is something special.”Harris leads the Sooners in batting average (.359) and is second among qualified players in OPS with a mark of 1.002, behind only slugger Deiten Lachance. #Mens #College #World #Series #Finals #UNCOklahoma

No. 5 overall team in the field. It was smooth sailing for the Tar Heels in the Chapel Hill regional, as they won three straight games to book a spot in the Super Regionals, where they were home against USC.

That is where the road got a bit bumpy.

North Carolina dropped Game 1 of the Super Regional, 9-5 to USC. But then with the team’s season on the line, the Tar Heels got a gem of a start from Jason DeCaro in Game 2 to force a decisive Game 3.

After falling down 3-1 on Sunday, the Tar Heels pushed a run across the plate in the bottom of the eighth, and completed a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the ninth when Owen Hull hit his fourth double of the game to center field, bringing home the winning run in walkoff fashion.

Hull and the Tar Heels remained red hot after arriving in Omaha. They knocked off Ole Miss 6-2 in their first game, behind clutch hitting from Gavin Gallaher and Colin Hynek. Then with a chance to clinch a spot in the Finals, Hull and the Tar Heels knocked off West Virginia on Wednesday by a final score of 12-7.

It was UNC’s second win against West Virginia in Omaha, and the team’s first trip to the Finals since 2007.

UNC has never won the NCAA baseball championship.

Oklahoma’s path to the MCWS Finals

The journey to Omaha was a little different for Oklahoma.

The Sooners were not one of the top 16 teams according to the Selection Committee, and started on the road in Atlanta, as the No. 2 seed in the Atlanta regional. That put Oklahoma in the same bracket as Georgia Tech, the No. 2 team overall.

Then when Oklahoma lost the 1-0 game to Georgia Tech, it meant a trip to the loser’s bracket. But a win over The Citadel and a victory over Georgia Tech set up a winner-take-all game in Atlanta.

Which the Sooners won in dramatic fashion, on a walk-off home ron from Dayton Tockey in the tenth inning.

With the win, Oklahoma earned a trip to Kansas to take on the Big 12 Champions in the Lawrence Super Regional. But the Sooners won that series in a two-game sweep, outscoring Kansas 21-3 over the two games. Tockey again went deep in Game 2, won by Oklahoma 13-2, along with Deiten Lachance, Dasan Harris, and Trey Gambill.

Once in Omaha, the Sooners did not let up. Like UNC, Oklahoma won three consecutive games to reach the Finals, including a pair of wins over Georgia.

This is Oklahoma’s first trip to the Finals since 2022, and the Sooners are looking for a third national championship.

One key player for each team

These are two talented rosters, with deep lineups and live arms both in the rotation and coming out of the bullpen.

But two players in particular have been scorching hot in recent games, and will be critical to their team’s chances in the Finals.

North Carolina: Owen Hull

Ahead of the Men’s College World Series, we tapped Hull as the key player for the Tar Heels.

We do so again, and with good reason.

After all, it was Hull who came through with the decisive hit in the Super Regionals, as his opposite-field knock in the bottom of the ninth against USC clinched that series. And he is still swinging a hot bat as the Finals begin. His last game without a hit came back on May 16 against NC State, when he went 0-for-2 in a loss to the Wolfpack. He finished the game on Wednesday having gone 4-for-5 with two RBI, along with a pair of doubles and a triple, and Hull heads to the Finals riding a 12-game hitting streak.

As with Hull, we pointed to Dasan Harris ahead of the Men’s College World Series as a key to the Sooners’ chances.

And like Hull, Harris continued his hot streak once arriving in Omaha.

The Oklahoma outfielder went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI in the Sooners’ opening win over Alabama, and in the win that sent Oklahoma to the Finals, Harris went 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs as the Sooners knocked off Georgia 11-4. For the former walk-on, it was a rather special moment.

“I dreamed of this moment since I was a little kid and I wanted to come here,” said Harris, who went to Oklahoma as a walk-on back in 2024. “To be able to be put in these spots is something special.”

Harris leads the Sooners in batting average (.359) and is second among qualified players in OPS with a mark of 1.002, behind only slugger Deiten Lachance.

#Mens #College #World #Series #Finals #UNCOklahoma">Men’s College World Series Finals: What you need to know about UNC-Oklahoma

Last month, 64 teams began a journey with dreams of a trip to Omaha, Nebraska.

Now, just two teams remain, each with an eye on a national championship.

Later tonight, North Carolina and Oklahoma will meet in Game 1 of the Men’s College World Series Finals, a best-of-three series to crown the NCAA baseball champion. UNC clinched its spot in the Finals early in the day on Wednesday, knocking off West Virginia to punch its ticket to the series. Then on Wednesday night Oklahoma joined the fray, defeating SEC rival Georgia to clinch its spot.

Here is everything you need to know about this series.

Men’s College World Series Finals schedule and scores

Here is the schedule for the Finals, which will be updated with the scores as games are played. Note: All times are Eastern.

Game 1: Oklahoma 9, North Carolina 3
Game 2: Sunday, June 21, 2:30 p.m, ABC
Game 3: Monday, June 22, 7:00 p.m., ESPN*

UNC’s path to the MCWS Finals

North Carolina began the NCAA baseball tournament at home, as the No. 5 overall team in the field. It was smooth sailing for the Tar Heels in the Chapel Hill regional, as they won three straight games to book a spot in the Super Regionals, where they were home against USC.

That is where the road got a bit bumpy.

North Carolina dropped Game 1 of the Super Regional, 9-5 to USC. But then with the team’s season on the line, the Tar Heels got a gem of a start from Jason DeCaro in Game 2 to force a decisive Game 3.

After falling down 3-1 on Sunday, the Tar Heels pushed a run across the plate in the bottom of the eighth, and completed a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the ninth when Owen Hull hit his fourth double of the game to center field, bringing home the winning run in walkoff fashion.

Hull and the Tar Heels remained red hot after arriving in Omaha. They knocked off Ole Miss 6-2 in their first game, behind clutch hitting from Gavin Gallaher and Colin Hynek. Then with a chance to clinch a spot in the Finals, Hull and the Tar Heels knocked off West Virginia on Wednesday by a final score of 12-7.

It was UNC’s second win against West Virginia in Omaha, and the team’s first trip to the Finals since 2007.

UNC has never won the NCAA baseball championship.

Oklahoma’s path to the MCWS Finals

The journey to Omaha was a little different for Oklahoma.

The Sooners were not one of the top 16 teams according to the Selection Committee, and started on the road in Atlanta, as the No. 2 seed in the Atlanta regional. That put Oklahoma in the same bracket as Georgia Tech, the No. 2 team overall.

Then when Oklahoma lost the 1-0 game to Georgia Tech, it meant a trip to the loser’s bracket. But a win over The Citadel and a victory over Georgia Tech set up a winner-take-all game in Atlanta.

Which the Sooners won in dramatic fashion, on a walk-off home ron from Dayton Tockey in the tenth inning.

With the win, Oklahoma earned a trip to Kansas to take on the Big 12 Champions in the Lawrence Super Regional. But the Sooners won that series in a two-game sweep, outscoring Kansas 21-3 over the two games. Tockey again went deep in Game 2, won by Oklahoma 13-2, along with Deiten Lachance, Dasan Harris, and Trey Gambill.

Once in Omaha, the Sooners did not let up. Like UNC, Oklahoma won three consecutive games to reach the Finals, including a pair of wins over Georgia.

This is Oklahoma’s first trip to the Finals since 2022, and the Sooners are looking for a third national championship.

One key player for each team

These are two talented rosters, with deep lineups and live arms both in the rotation and coming out of the bullpen.

But two players in particular have been scorching hot in recent games, and will be critical to their team’s chances in the Finals.

North Carolina: Owen Hull

Ahead of the Men’s College World Series, we tapped Hull as the key player for the Tar Heels.

We do so again, and with good reason.

After all, it was Hull who came through with the decisive hit in the Super Regionals, as his opposite-field knock in the bottom of the ninth against USC clinched that series. And he is still swinging a hot bat as the Finals begin. His last game without a hit came back on May 16 against NC State, when he went 0-for-2 in a loss to the Wolfpack. He finished the game on Wednesday having gone 4-for-5 with two RBI, along with a pair of doubles and a triple, and Hull heads to the Finals riding a 12-game hitting streak.

As with Hull, we pointed to Dasan Harris ahead of the Men’s College World Series as a key to the Sooners’ chances.

And like Hull, Harris continued his hot streak once arriving in Omaha.

The Oklahoma outfielder went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI in the Sooners’ opening win over Alabama, and in the win that sent Oklahoma to the Finals, Harris went 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs as the Sooners knocked off Georgia 11-4. For the former walk-on, it was a rather special moment.

“I dreamed of this moment since I was a little kid and I wanted to come here,” said Harris, who went to Oklahoma as a walk-on back in 2024. “To be able to be put in these spots is something special.”

Harris leads the Sooners in batting average (.359) and is second among qualified players in OPS with a mark of 1.002, behind only slugger Deiten Lachance.

#Mens #College #World #Series #Finals #UNCOklahoma

The year will be 2076.

The United States of America will be turning 300 years old.

And Giannis Antetokounmpo will still be in an awkward situation with the Milwaukee Bucks.

The first time we heard about Antetokounmpo being unhappy with the Bucks was back in 2025. After waiving Damian Lillard, the Greek Freak and his representation began conversations with the Bucks to evaluate his fit and future of the organization, which was struggling to support their superstar.

Fast forward to the end of June in 2026 and there’s still no resolution and the situation has gotten increasingly worse.

On Saturday morning, ESPN Milwaukee reported that Antetokounmpo doesn’t want to leave Milwaukee – he just wants to leave the Bucks.

This situation is all the way off the rails. Is he going to play for the Brewers? The Green Bay Packers? Probably not. So this is just another twist and turn in a rollercoaster ride that seemingly is never going to end.

Earlier this offseason, reports circulated that Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination was the Miami Heat. And you guessed it. They don’t really have enough assets to entice the Bucks to trade Antetokounmpo within the Eastern Conference.

Reports also indicate that Antetokounmpo could be intrigued by the Boston Celtics, who are evaluating the future of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown together. So far, a deal doesn’t sound close.

During a blowout loss in January, Antetokounmpo was booed by fans in Milwaukee. He booed them back. This is a situation that is well beyond unhealthy. But for some reason, neither end will let each other move on.

It’s actually pretty easy.

Antetokounmpo could expand the teams he’d be willing to be moved to. The Greek Freak doesn’t have a no trade clause, but his contract is expiring, and teams could be cautious to give up a big trade package for a 31-year-old rental.

On the other side, Bucks GM Jon Horst either needs to crap or get off the pot. The Bucks lost 50 games last season. They were 17-19 with Antetokounmpo. Trading a homegrown, championship-winning MVP isn’t easy. But getting a few young players and draft picks could at least help the organization get moving on turning the page.

Just ask Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti. Everyone was so focused on the four first-round picks he acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George. But so far, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s two MVPs and one NBA title feel like the real prize of that trade.

These two sides can’t let this drag on all summer.

Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam admitted in May that the team was facing roster uncertainty and needed some clarity on Antetokounmpo’s future by the offseason.

Well, the offseason is here. The 2026 NBA Draft takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday. Free agency negotiations get started on June 30.

The window for a Giannis move is opening this week – and these two sides should finally agree to move on.

#Giannis #Bucks #Awkward #Trade #Situation #Deadspin.com">Giannis and the Bucks Need to End This Awkward Trade Situation Now | Deadspin.com The year will be 2076.The United States of America will be turning 300 years old.And Giannis Antetokounmpo will still be in an awkward situation with the Milwaukee Bucks.The first time we heard about Antetokounmpo being unhappy with the Bucks was back in 2025. After waiving Damian Lillard, the Greek Freak and his representation began conversations with the Bucks to evaluate his fit and future of the organization, which was struggling to support their superstar.Fast forward to the end of June in 2026 and there’s still no resolution and the situation has gotten increasingly worse.On Saturday morning, ESPN Milwaukee reported that Antetokounmpo doesn’t want to leave Milwaukee – he just wants to leave the Bucks.This situation is all the way off the rails. Is he going to play for the Brewers? The Green Bay Packers? Probably not. So this is just another twist and turn in a rollercoaster ride that seemingly is never going to end.Earlier this offseason, reports circulated that Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination was the Miami Heat. And you guessed it. They don’t really have enough assets to entice the Bucks to trade Antetokounmpo within the Eastern Conference.Reports also indicate that Antetokounmpo could be intrigued by the Boston Celtics, who are evaluating the future of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown together. So far, a deal doesn’t sound close.During a blowout loss in January, Antetokounmpo was booed by fans in Milwaukee. He booed them back. This is a situation that is well beyond unhealthy. But for some reason, neither end will let each other move on.It’s actually pretty easy.Antetokounmpo could expand the teams he’d be willing to be moved to. The Greek Freak doesn’t have a no trade clause, but his contract is expiring, and teams could be cautious to give up a big trade package for a 31-year-old rental.On the other side, Bucks GM Jon Horst either needs to crap or get off the pot. The Bucks lost 50 games last season. They were 17-19 with Antetokounmpo. Trading a homegrown, championship-winning MVP isn’t easy. But getting a few young players and draft picks could at least help the organization get moving on turning the page.Just ask Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti. Everyone was so focused on the four first-round picks he acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George. But so far, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s two MVPs and one NBA title feel like the real prize of that trade.These two sides can’t let this drag on all summer.Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam admitted in May that the team was facing roster uncertainty and needed some clarity on Antetokounmpo’s future by the offseason.Well, the offseason is here. The 2026 NBA Draft takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday. Free agency negotiations get started on June 30.The window for a Giannis move is opening this week – and these two sides should finally agree to move on. #Giannis #Bucks #Awkward #Trade #Situation #Deadspin.com

he just wants to leave the Bucks.

This situation is all the way off the rails. Is he going to play for the Brewers? The Green Bay Packers? Probably not. So this is just another twist and turn in a rollercoaster ride that seemingly is never going to end.

Earlier this offseason, reports circulated that Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination was the Miami Heat. And you guessed it. They don’t really have enough assets to entice the Bucks to trade Antetokounmpo within the Eastern Conference.

Reports also indicate that Antetokounmpo could be intrigued by the Boston Celtics, who are evaluating the future of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown together. So far, a deal doesn’t sound close.

During a blowout loss in January, Antetokounmpo was booed by fans in Milwaukee. He booed them back. This is a situation that is well beyond unhealthy. But for some reason, neither end will let each other move on.

It’s actually pretty easy.

Antetokounmpo could expand the teams he’d be willing to be moved to. The Greek Freak doesn’t have a no trade clause, but his contract is expiring, and teams could be cautious to give up a big trade package for a 31-year-old rental.

On the other side, Bucks GM Jon Horst either needs to crap or get off the pot. The Bucks lost 50 games last season. They were 17-19 with Antetokounmpo. Trading a homegrown, championship-winning MVP isn’t easy. But getting a few young players and draft picks could at least help the organization get moving on turning the page.

Just ask Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti. Everyone was so focused on the four first-round picks he acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George. But so far, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s two MVPs and one NBA title feel like the real prize of that trade.

These two sides can’t let this drag on all summer.

Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam admitted in May that the team was facing roster uncertainty and needed some clarity on Antetokounmpo’s future by the offseason.

Well, the offseason is here. The 2026 NBA Draft takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday. Free agency negotiations get started on June 30.

The window for a Giannis move is opening this week – and these two sides should finally agree to move on.

#Giannis #Bucks #Awkward #Trade #Situation #Deadspin.com">Giannis and the Bucks Need to End This Awkward Trade Situation Now | Deadspin.com

The year will be 2076.

The United States of America will be turning 300 years old.

And Giannis Antetokounmpo will still be in an awkward situation with the Milwaukee Bucks.

The first time we heard about Antetokounmpo being unhappy with the Bucks was back in 2025. After waiving Damian Lillard, the Greek Freak and his representation began conversations with the Bucks to evaluate his fit and future of the organization, which was struggling to support their superstar.

Fast forward to the end of June in 2026 and there’s still no resolution and the situation has gotten increasingly worse.

On Saturday morning, ESPN Milwaukee reported that Antetokounmpo doesn’t want to leave Milwaukee – he just wants to leave the Bucks.

This situation is all the way off the rails. Is he going to play for the Brewers? The Green Bay Packers? Probably not. So this is just another twist and turn in a rollercoaster ride that seemingly is never going to end.

Earlier this offseason, reports circulated that Antetokounmpo’s preferred destination was the Miami Heat. And you guessed it. They don’t really have enough assets to entice the Bucks to trade Antetokounmpo within the Eastern Conference.

Reports also indicate that Antetokounmpo could be intrigued by the Boston Celtics, who are evaluating the future of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown together. So far, a deal doesn’t sound close.

During a blowout loss in January, Antetokounmpo was booed by fans in Milwaukee. He booed them back. This is a situation that is well beyond unhealthy. But for some reason, neither end will let each other move on.

It’s actually pretty easy.

Antetokounmpo could expand the teams he’d be willing to be moved to. The Greek Freak doesn’t have a no trade clause, but his contract is expiring, and teams could be cautious to give up a big trade package for a 31-year-old rental.

On the other side, Bucks GM Jon Horst either needs to crap or get off the pot. The Bucks lost 50 games last season. They were 17-19 with Antetokounmpo. Trading a homegrown, championship-winning MVP isn’t easy. But getting a few young players and draft picks could at least help the organization get moving on turning the page.

Just ask Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti. Everyone was so focused on the four first-round picks he acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George. But so far, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s two MVPs and one NBA title feel like the real prize of that trade.

These two sides can’t let this drag on all summer.

Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam admitted in May that the team was facing roster uncertainty and needed some clarity on Antetokounmpo’s future by the offseason.

Well, the offseason is here. The 2026 NBA Draft takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday. Free agency negotiations get started on June 30.

The window for a Giannis move is opening this week – and these two sides should finally agree to move on.

#Giannis #Bucks #Awkward #Trade #Situation #Deadspin.com

The first set of games in Group F at the 2026 FIFA World Cup were a fascinating contrast, setting up an intriguing run to the knockout round in this group.

In one match, heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands finished level in a 2-2 draw, with both teams showing the skill and ability to make a deep run in the tournament.

But in the other match, Sweden throttled Tunisia 5-1, and it is Graham Potter’s side that has a chance to not only clinch a spot in the Round of 32, but perhaps even win the group, in the matches schedule for Saturday, June 20.

Here are the clinching scenarios for Group F entering the second set of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Update (Saturday afternoon): With a 5-1 win over Sweden, the Netherlands moved into first place in Group F.

What are the Group F standings?

Entering Saturday’s two Group F matches, here are the current standings.

Team

W

D

L

GF

GA

GD

Points

Netherlands11073+44
Sweden0116603
Japan0102201
Tunisia00115-41

Japan is ahead of the Netherlands due to the “total content score,” as the Netherlands earned three yellow cards in the match between the teams, while Japan kept things clean. As we will see in a moment, this is one of the tiebreakers used at the World Cup.

What are the next Group F matches?

Four matches remain in Group F, starting with a pair on Saturday, June 20. All times listed are Eastern.

Tunisia vs. Japan, 12:00 a.m.

Tunisia vs. Netherlands, 7:00 p.m.
Japan vs. Sweden, 7:00 p.m.

What are the current scenarios for Group F?

Here are the scenarios for Group F entering the matches on Saturday, June 20.

We start with Sweden who, as noted above, can book a spot in the Round of 32 this weekend.

At the outset, with a win over the Netherlands, Sweden is guaranteed to advance to the knockout round as one of the top two teams in Group F. That would move them to six points, and at worst they would finish second in the group.

But with a win against the Netherlands, and a Japan loss or tie against Tunisia, Sweden will clinch the top spot in Group F, and a date with the second-place team from Group C in the Round of 32. A win against the Netherlands would move Sweden to six points, and a Japan loss or tie would either keep them on one point or move them to two points. Even with a win against Sweden in the final match of group play, Japan could not overtake Sweden on points in this scenario.

On the other side of things, Tunisia faces elimination on Saturday. With a loss to Japan, and a Netherlands win against Sweden, Tunisia is eliminated from knockout round contention.

Japan and the Netherlands

Both Japan and the Netherlands cannot be eliminated in the second set of matches, nor can they clinch a spot in the knockout round. We will updated this piece with their scenarios ahead of the third set of matches in Group F.

What about tiebreakers in Group F?

Now we get to the tiebreaker scenarios that come into play with Group F, starting on Saturday, June 20.

Here is how tiebreakers work at the World Cup this year. If two or more teams in the same group are equal on points following the group stage, a three-step process will be followed to determine tiebreakers.

In the first step, the greatest number of points in the group matches between the tied teams will be applied. Then, the superior goal difference from the group matches between the tied teams will be applied, and finally, the greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the tied teams will be applied.

If that cannot determine a tiebreaker, then the teams that are still equal will advance to step two. In this stage, the first step is the goal difference in all group matches, then the greatest number of goals in all group matches, and finally the highest team conduct score (relating to yellow and red cards) will be applied.

If that does not break the tie, then the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.

That first step, which reads “greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned” according to FIFA, effectively turns into a head-to-head tiebreaker in the case of ties between two teams.

Ahead of the second set of matches, the only tiebreaker in play is the team conduct score, which tilts in Japan’s favor at the moment to slot them into second place in the group ahead of the Netherlands. We will revisit this section ahead of the third set of matches if necessary.

#World #Cup #knockout #scenarios #Group">World Cup 2026: What are the knockout round scenarios for Group F? The first set of games in Group F at the 2026 FIFA World Cup were a fascinating contrast, setting up an intriguing run to the knockout round in this group.In one match, heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands finished level in a 2-2 draw, with both teams showing the skill and ability to make a deep run in the tournament.But in the other match, Sweden throttled Tunisia 5-1, and it is Graham Potter’s side that has a chance to not only clinch a spot in the Round of 32, but perhaps even win the group, in the matches schedule for Saturday, June 20.Here are the clinching scenarios for Group F entering the second set of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Update (Saturday afternoon): With a 5-1 win over Sweden, the Netherlands moved into first place in Group F.What are the Group F standings?Entering Saturday’s two Group F matches, here are the current standings.TeamWDLGFGAGDPointsNetherlands11073+44Sweden0116603Japan0102201Tunisia00115-41Japan is ahead of the Netherlands due to the “total content score,” as the Netherlands earned three yellow cards in the match between the teams, while Japan kept things clean. As we will see in a moment, this is one of the tiebreakers used at the World Cup.What are the next Group F matches?Four matches remain in Group F, starting with a pair on Saturday, June 20. All times listed are Eastern.Tunisia vs. Japan, 12:00 a.m.Tunisia vs. Netherlands, 7:00 p.m.Japan vs. Sweden, 7:00 p.m.What are the current scenarios for Group F?Here are the scenarios for Group F entering the matches on Saturday, June 20.We start with Sweden who, as noted above, can book a spot in the Round of 32 this weekend.At the outset, with a win over the Netherlands, Sweden is guaranteed to advance to the knockout round as one of the top two teams in Group F. That would move them to six points, and at worst they would finish second in the group.But with a win against the Netherlands, and a Japan loss or tie against Tunisia, Sweden will clinch the top spot in Group F, and a date with the second-place team from Group C in the Round of 32. A win against the Netherlands would move Sweden to six points, and a Japan loss or tie would either keep them on one point or move them to two points. Even with a win against Sweden in the final match of group play, Japan could not overtake Sweden on points in this scenario.On the other side of things, Tunisia faces elimination on Saturday. With a loss to Japan, and a Netherlands win against Sweden, Tunisia is eliminated from knockout round contention.Japan and the NetherlandsBoth Japan and the Netherlands cannot be eliminated in the second set of matches, nor can they clinch a spot in the knockout round. We will updated this piece with their scenarios ahead of the third set of matches in Group F.What about tiebreakers in Group F?Now we get to the tiebreaker scenarios that come into play with Group F, starting on Saturday, June 20.Here is how tiebreakers work at the World Cup this year. If two or more teams in the same group are equal on points following the group stage, a three-step process will be followed to determine tiebreakers.In the first step, the greatest number of points in the group matches between the tied teams will be applied. Then, the superior goal difference from the group matches between the tied teams will be applied, and finally, the greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the tied teams will be applied.If that cannot determine a tiebreaker, then the teams that are still equal will advance to step two. In this stage, the first step is the goal difference in all group matches, then the greatest number of goals in all group matches, and finally the highest team conduct score (relating to yellow and red cards) will be applied.If that does not break the tie, then the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.That first step, which reads “greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned” according to FIFA, effectively turns into a head-to-head tiebreaker in the case of ties between two teams.Ahead of the second set of matches, the only tiebreaker in play is the team conduct score, which tilts in Japan’s favor at the moment to slot them into second place in the group ahead of the Netherlands. We will revisit this section ahead of the third set of matches if necessary. #World #Cup #knockout #scenarios #Group

2026 FIFA World Cup were a fascinating contrast, setting up an intriguing run to the knockout round in this group.

In one match, heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands finished level in a 2-2 draw, with both teams showing the skill and ability to make a deep run in the tournament.

But in the other match, Sweden throttled Tunisia 5-1, and it is Graham Potter’s side that has a chance to not only clinch a spot in the Round of 32, but perhaps even win the group, in the matches schedule for Saturday, June 20.

Here are the clinching scenarios for Group F entering the second set of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Update (Saturday afternoon): With a 5-1 win over Sweden, the Netherlands moved into first place in Group F.

What are the Group F standings?

Entering Saturday’s two Group F matches, here are the current standings.

Team

W

D

L

GF

GA

GD

Points

Netherlands11073+44
Sweden0116603
Japan0102201
Tunisia00115-41

Japan is ahead of the Netherlands due to the “total content score,” as the Netherlands earned three yellow cards in the match between the teams, while Japan kept things clean. As we will see in a moment, this is one of the tiebreakers used at the World Cup.

What are the next Group F matches?

Four matches remain in Group F, starting with a pair on Saturday, June 20. All times listed are Eastern.

Tunisia vs. Japan, 12:00 a.m.

Tunisia vs. Netherlands, 7:00 p.m.
Japan vs. Sweden, 7:00 p.m.

What are the current scenarios for Group F?

Here are the scenarios for Group F entering the matches on Saturday, June 20.

We start with Sweden who, as noted above, can book a spot in the Round of 32 this weekend.

At the outset, with a win over the Netherlands, Sweden is guaranteed to advance to the knockout round as one of the top two teams in Group F. That would move them to six points, and at worst they would finish second in the group.

But with a win against the Netherlands, and a Japan loss or tie against Tunisia, Sweden will clinch the top spot in Group F, and a date with the second-place team from Group C in the Round of 32. A win against the Netherlands would move Sweden to six points, and a Japan loss or tie would either keep them on one point or move them to two points. Even with a win against Sweden in the final match of group play, Japan could not overtake Sweden on points in this scenario.

On the other side of things, Tunisia faces elimination on Saturday. With a loss to Japan, and a Netherlands win against Sweden, Tunisia is eliminated from knockout round contention.

Japan and the Netherlands

Both Japan and the Netherlands cannot be eliminated in the second set of matches, nor can they clinch a spot in the knockout round. We will updated this piece with their scenarios ahead of the third set of matches in Group F.

What about tiebreakers in Group F?

Now we get to the tiebreaker scenarios that come into play with Group F, starting on Saturday, June 20.

Here is how tiebreakers work at the World Cup this year. If two or more teams in the same group are equal on points following the group stage, a three-step process will be followed to determine tiebreakers.

In the first step, the greatest number of points in the group matches between the tied teams will be applied. Then, the superior goal difference from the group matches between the tied teams will be applied, and finally, the greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the tied teams will be applied.

If that cannot determine a tiebreaker, then the teams that are still equal will advance to step two. In this stage, the first step is the goal difference in all group matches, then the greatest number of goals in all group matches, and finally the highest team conduct score (relating to yellow and red cards) will be applied.

If that does not break the tie, then the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.

That first step, which reads “greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned” according to FIFA, effectively turns into a head-to-head tiebreaker in the case of ties between two teams.

Ahead of the second set of matches, the only tiebreaker in play is the team conduct score, which tilts in Japan’s favor at the moment to slot them into second place in the group ahead of the Netherlands. We will revisit this section ahead of the third set of matches if necessary.

#World #Cup #knockout #scenarios #Group">World Cup 2026: What are the knockout round scenarios for Group F?

The first set of games in Group F at the 2026 FIFA World Cup were a fascinating contrast, setting up an intriguing run to the knockout round in this group.

In one match, heavyweights Japan and the Netherlands finished level in a 2-2 draw, with both teams showing the skill and ability to make a deep run in the tournament.

But in the other match, Sweden throttled Tunisia 5-1, and it is Graham Potter’s side that has a chance to not only clinch a spot in the Round of 32, but perhaps even win the group, in the matches schedule for Saturday, June 20.

Here are the clinching scenarios for Group F entering the second set of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Update (Saturday afternoon): With a 5-1 win over Sweden, the Netherlands moved into first place in Group F.

What are the Group F standings?

Entering Saturday’s two Group F matches, here are the current standings.

Team

W

D

L

GF

GA

GD

Points

Netherlands11073+44
Sweden0116603
Japan0102201
Tunisia00115-41

Japan is ahead of the Netherlands due to the “total content score,” as the Netherlands earned three yellow cards in the match between the teams, while Japan kept things clean. As we will see in a moment, this is one of the tiebreakers used at the World Cup.

What are the next Group F matches?

Four matches remain in Group F, starting with a pair on Saturday, June 20. All times listed are Eastern.

Tunisia vs. Japan, 12:00 a.m.

Tunisia vs. Netherlands, 7:00 p.m.
Japan vs. Sweden, 7:00 p.m.

What are the current scenarios for Group F?

Here are the scenarios for Group F entering the matches on Saturday, June 20.

We start with Sweden who, as noted above, can book a spot in the Round of 32 this weekend.

At the outset, with a win over the Netherlands, Sweden is guaranteed to advance to the knockout round as one of the top two teams in Group F. That would move them to six points, and at worst they would finish second in the group.

But with a win against the Netherlands, and a Japan loss or tie against Tunisia, Sweden will clinch the top spot in Group F, and a date with the second-place team from Group C in the Round of 32. A win against the Netherlands would move Sweden to six points, and a Japan loss or tie would either keep them on one point or move them to two points. Even with a win against Sweden in the final match of group play, Japan could not overtake Sweden on points in this scenario.

On the other side of things, Tunisia faces elimination on Saturday. With a loss to Japan, and a Netherlands win against Sweden, Tunisia is eliminated from knockout round contention.

Japan and the Netherlands

Both Japan and the Netherlands cannot be eliminated in the second set of matches, nor can they clinch a spot in the knockout round. We will updated this piece with their scenarios ahead of the third set of matches in Group F.

What about tiebreakers in Group F?

Now we get to the tiebreaker scenarios that come into play with Group F, starting on Saturday, June 20.

Here is how tiebreakers work at the World Cup this year. If two or more teams in the same group are equal on points following the group stage, a three-step process will be followed to determine tiebreakers.

In the first step, the greatest number of points in the group matches between the tied teams will be applied. Then, the superior goal difference from the group matches between the tied teams will be applied, and finally, the greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the tied teams will be applied.

If that cannot determine a tiebreaker, then the teams that are still equal will advance to step two. In this stage, the first step is the goal difference in all group matches, then the greatest number of goals in all group matches, and finally the highest team conduct score (relating to yellow and red cards) will be applied.

If that does not break the tie, then the teams still equal on points will be ranked according to the most recent FIFA World Rankings.

That first step, which reads “greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned” according to FIFA, effectively turns into a head-to-head tiebreaker in the case of ties between two teams.

Ahead of the second set of matches, the only tiebreaker in play is the team conduct score, which tilts in Japan’s favor at the moment to slot them into second place in the group ahead of the Netherlands. We will revisit this section ahead of the third set of matches if necessary.

#World #Cup #knockout #scenarios #Group

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