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Deadspin | Canadiens pull off comeback, shootout victory over Panthers Apr 7, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Adam Engstrom (42) gets a penalty for holding a Florida Panthers player during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images Cole Caufield and Alexandre Texier scored in the shootout to complete the host Montreal Canadiens’ 4-3 comeback win over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. Ivan Demidov, Phillip Danault and Nick Suzuki scored for the Canadiens (46-22-10, 102 points) in regulation. Montreal has won nine of its last 10. Juraj Slafkovsky had two assists and Jakub Dobes stopped 30 shots. Carter Verhaeghe, Cole Reinhart and Eetu Luostarinen got the goals for the Panthers (37-37-4, 78 points), who have lost six of eight. Danill Tarasov made 29 saves. Suzuki tied the game 3-3 with 21 seconds left in regulation. He put the puck into an empty net after taking a pass from defenseman Lane Hutson from behind the net. Danault tied it 2-2, 6:22 into the third period with a snap shot from the slot. It came with a penalty being called against Florida and the Canadiens playing 6-on-5 on the ice with Dobes pulled. But Luostarinen restored the lead just 1:27 later when he tipped in defenseman Gustav Forsling’s shot. Reinhart gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead with 6:17 left in the second period. He won a foot race for the puck from the neutral zone to create a short semi-breakaway for himself and, from almost along the goal line, poked the puck just inside the left goal post. Demidov’s power-play goal 54 seconds into the middle period had tied the game 1-1 for the Canadiens. It came on a one-time slap shot from the top of the right circle off a pass from Caufield. Florida defenseman Tobias Bjornfot slashed Demidov and had been penalized for it 22 seconds earlier. Verhaeghe opened the scoring 9:23 into the first period when the rebound of a shot by defenseman Donovan Sebrango caromed out to Verhaeghe in the left circle. He then drilled it past Dobes for Verhaeghe’s 25th goal and his third in the last four games. Montreal’s Kirby Dach and Texier returned from injuries. Dach missed 11 games with an upper-body injury and Texier seven games with a lower-body injury. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Canadiens #pull #comeback #shootout #victory #Panthers

Deadspin | Canadiens pull off comeback, shootout victory over Panthers
Deadspin | Canadiens pull off comeback, shootout victory over Panthers Apr 7, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Adam Engstrom (42) gets a penalty for holding a Florida Panthers player during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images Cole Caufield and Alexandre Texier scored in the shootout to complete the host Montreal Canadiens’ 4-3 comeback win over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. Ivan Demidov, Phillip Danault and Nick Suzuki scored for the Canadiens (46-22-10, 102 points) in regulation. Montreal has won nine of its last 10. Juraj Slafkovsky had two assists and Jakub Dobes stopped 30 shots. Carter Verhaeghe, Cole Reinhart and Eetu Luostarinen got the goals for the Panthers (37-37-4, 78 points), who have lost six of eight. Danill Tarasov made 29 saves. Suzuki tied the game 3-3 with 21 seconds left in regulation. He put the puck into an empty net after taking a pass from defenseman Lane Hutson from behind the net. Danault tied it 2-2, 6:22 into the third period with a snap shot from the slot. It came with a penalty being called against Florida and the Canadiens playing 6-on-5 on the ice with Dobes pulled. But Luostarinen restored the lead just 1:27 later when he tipped in defenseman Gustav Forsling’s shot. Reinhart gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead with 6:17 left in the second period. He won a foot race for the puck from the neutral zone to create a short semi-breakaway for himself and, from almost along the goal line, poked the puck just inside the left goal post. Demidov’s power-play goal 54 seconds into the middle period had tied the game 1-1 for the Canadiens. It came on a one-time slap shot from the top of the right circle off a pass from Caufield. Florida defenseman Tobias Bjornfot slashed Demidov and had been penalized for it 22 seconds earlier. Verhaeghe opened the scoring 9:23 into the first period when the rebound of a shot by defenseman Donovan Sebrango caromed out to Verhaeghe in the left circle. He then drilled it past Dobes for Verhaeghe’s 25th goal and his third in the last four games. Montreal’s Kirby Dach and Texier returned from injuries. Dach missed 11 games with an upper-body injury and Texier seven games with a lower-body injury. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Canadiens #pull #comeback #shootout #victory #PanthersApr 7, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Adam Engstrom (42) gets a penalty for holding a Florida Panthers player during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Cole Caufield and Alexandre Texier scored in the shootout to complete the host Montreal Canadiens’ 4-3 comeback win over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night.

Ivan Demidov, Phillip Danault and Nick Suzuki scored for the Canadiens (46-22-10, 102 points) in regulation. Montreal has won nine of its last 10. Juraj Slafkovsky had two assists and Jakub Dobes stopped 30 shots.

Carter Verhaeghe, Cole Reinhart and Eetu Luostarinen got the goals for the Panthers (37-37-4, 78 points), who have lost six of eight. Danill Tarasov made 29 saves.

Suzuki tied the game 3-3 with 21 seconds left in regulation. He put the puck into an empty net after taking a pass from defenseman Lane Hutson from behind the net.

Danault tied it 2-2, 6:22 into the third period with a snap shot from the slot. It came with a penalty being called against Florida and the Canadiens playing 6-on-5 on the ice with Dobes pulled.


But Luostarinen restored the lead just 1:27 later when he tipped in defenseman Gustav Forsling’s shot.

Reinhart gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead with 6:17 left in the second period. He won a foot race for the puck from the neutral zone to create a short semi-breakaway for himself and, from almost along the goal line, poked the puck just inside the left goal post.

Demidov’s power-play goal 54 seconds into the middle period had tied the game 1-1 for the Canadiens. It came on a one-time slap shot from the top of the right circle off a pass from Caufield. Florida defenseman Tobias Bjornfot slashed Demidov and had been penalized for it 22 seconds earlier.

Verhaeghe opened the scoring 9:23 into the first period when the rebound of a shot by defenseman Donovan Sebrango caromed out to Verhaeghe in the left circle. He then drilled it past Dobes for Verhaeghe’s 25th goal and his third in the last four games.

Montreal’s Kirby Dach and Texier returned from injuries. Dach missed 11 games with an upper-body injury and Texier seven games with a lower-body injury.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Canadiens #pull #comeback #shootout #victory #Panthers

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Apr 7, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Adam Engstrom (42) gets a penalty for holding a Florida Panthers player during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Cole Caufield and Alexandre Texier scored in the shootout to complete the host Montreal Canadiens’ 4-3 comeback win over the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night.

Ivan Demidov, Phillip Danault and Nick Suzuki scored for the Canadiens (46-22-10, 102 points) in regulation. Montreal has won nine of its last 10. Juraj Slafkovsky had two assists and Jakub Dobes stopped 30 shots.

Carter Verhaeghe, Cole Reinhart and Eetu Luostarinen got the goals for the Panthers (37-37-4, 78 points), who have lost six of eight. Danill Tarasov made 29 saves.

Suzuki tied the game 3-3 with 21 seconds left in regulation. He put the puck into an empty net after taking a pass from defenseman Lane Hutson from behind the net.

Danault tied it 2-2, 6:22 into the third period with a snap shot from the slot. It came with a penalty being called against Florida and the Canadiens playing 6-on-5 on the ice with Dobes pulled.

But Luostarinen restored the lead just 1:27 later when he tipped in defenseman Gustav Forsling’s shot.

Reinhart gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead with 6:17 left in the second period. He won a foot race for the puck from the neutral zone to create a short semi-breakaway for himself and, from almost along the goal line, poked the puck just inside the left goal post.

Demidov’s power-play goal 54 seconds into the middle period had tied the game 1-1 for the Canadiens. It came on a one-time slap shot from the top of the right circle off a pass from Caufield. Florida defenseman Tobias Bjornfot slashed Demidov and had been penalized for it 22 seconds earlier.

Verhaeghe opened the scoring 9:23 into the first period when the rebound of a shot by defenseman Donovan Sebrango caromed out to Verhaeghe in the left circle. He then drilled it past Dobes for Verhaeghe’s 25th goal and his third in the last four games.

Montreal’s Kirby Dach and Texier returned from injuries. Dach missed 11 games with an upper-body injury and Texier seven games with a lower-body injury.

–Field Level Media

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In an age of hurry, Sai Sudharsan keeps his own time <div id="content-body-70836961" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Unlike most of his contemporaries, B. Sai Sudharsan employs a bat-down technique. He awaits the bowler in his crease with the bottom edge of the bat resting on the ground.</p><p>He raises his bat to load his shot only when the bowler reaches the popping crease, adjusting the extent of his backswing based on his reading of length and shot choice.</p><p>It is a batting style from a bygone era, one that makes the process seem tougher than it should be. For Sai Sudharsan, it is a habit born of childhood frailty, one he has considered changing but ultimately retained.</p><p>“I started playing by keeping my bat down when I was young,” explains Sai Sudharsan in an interview with <i>Sportstar</i>.</p><p>“The main reason at the time was that I was not very strong. My coaches would say, ‘You’re not so strong. So, don’t lift your bat. Otherwise, you’ll get tired soon. Just keep your bat down.’ That’s how I started.”</p><p>“But it is helping me. Yes, I had some temptations in between to change it. But I think I had more trust in this. The way I batted, the set-up I have, I trusted this more,” he added.</p><p>The 24-year-old’s faith in his natural style has brought rich rewards, most notably the Orange Cap in IPL 2025, when he accumulated 759 runs at an impressive strike rate of 156.17 for Gujarat Titans.</p><p>That massive haul was the punctuation mark on an upward trajectory that has defined his IPL career: 145 runs in 2022, 362 in 2023, and 527 in 2024.</p><p>At the heart of his progression has been a willingness to adapt by adding new shots to his repertoire, particularly behind square. The southpaw has integrated a variety of ramps and scoops into his strokeplay as he has expanded his run-scoring methods.</p><p>This evolution has been the result of conscious planning and focused off-season training, driven by a desire to add new tools without unsettling his batting foundation.</p><p>“I definitely do it [prepare for such shots] beforehand. The way the sport is going, we need multiple options against the bowler. Without disturbing my strengths, how can I still improve my range? That is the thought process. It takes time to develop a new shot, but I think I’ve done a very good job.”</p><p>While Sai Sudharsan has impressed individually, it is his opening partnership with skipper Shubman Gill that has underpinned Gujarat Titans’ team plan.</p><p>Over the last two seasons, the pair has aggregated a league-leading 1453 runs at an average of 63.17. With an emphasis on accumulation and risk minimisation, the two are expected to provide a stable base for the middle order to capitalise on.</p><p>Sai Sudharsan believes this is a perfect alignment of team strategy and individual strengths.</p><p>“I think it was in unison, where our strengths aligned with what the team required. The team requirement was also very similar. We focus more on taking the game deeper and winning it from there,” he says.</p><p>In addition to his appetite for runs, the Tamil Nadu batter is known for his quirky preparation routines. During the England Test series in 2025, he was spotted jotting in his journal before walking out to bat and engaging in visualisation exercises. This is in addition to his habit of not batting on the eve of a game and assessing the pitch by walking on it barefoot.</p><p>It would be easy to label these as superstitions and dismiss them. But in a high-pressure environment like competitive sport, such forms of pattern-building are essential for performance, he believes.</p><p>“Most sportsmen do it. It’s a feel-good thing. Whatever you do, even practice, it’s about making you feel good and confident. So, whatever helps us feel that way is good. There is a reason for me to do these things — to be in a good headspace and be expressive and natural when I step onto the ground.”</p><p>Sai Sudharsan also admits that he has toned down his routines, sticking only to pragmatic ones.</p><p>“I used to have a lot of superstitions, but over time I have reduced them and made everything more practical and logical. Sometimes I would eat the same food — it could be ice cream or biryani. If the game went well, I would repeat it for 14 games. I have done that before, but now I have taken it out of my system. It’s just an example,” he says.</p><p>The left-hander was last in action in national colours against South Africa in a home Test series, where India suffered a 2-0 defeat.</p><p>Sai Sudharsan featured only in the second Test in Guwahati and managed just 29 runs across both innings. It was a failure that prompted serious introspection.</p><p>“I had so much anger towards myself that I was not able to execute when the team needed it. But once the series finished, I understood that I need to work more, be better prepared, and be ready when the situation comes again. That was the biggest thing on my mind.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 08, 2026</p></div> #age #hurry #Sai #Sudharsan #time

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Apollo Tyres VC and MD Neeraj Kanwar on the ‘Har Safar Mein Dum Hai’ campaign: It’s about the struggle to become a famous cricketer <div id="content-body-70836977" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Earlier this year, Apollo Tyres — the new lead sponsor for Indian cricket — signalled a clear shift in tone with its <i> ‘Har Safar Mein Dum Hai’</i> campaign, moving away from light-hearted advertising to a more reflective, story-driven narrative. Anchored by Sachin Tendulkar and the journeys of India’s leading cricketers, the campaign draws a parallel between sporting perseverance and the company’s own evolution, striking a chord with audiences through its emphasis on resilience, family support, and long-term ambition. In this conversation, Vice Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar unpacks the thinking behind the campaign, its timing, and how Apollo views its growing association with Indian sport.</p><div class="inline_embed article-block-item"><p>[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_RJhCZNNT8[/embed]</p></div><p><b>Could you walk us through the thought process behind the advertisement? Was releasing it close to the World Cup a strategic decision?</b></p><p>Firstly, thank you. The idea was to release it before the World Cup, but as you can see, this is not a World Cup-specific ad. It’s something that will play out over the next two to three years. From my side, I can say that my wife actually wrote the entire story. She is the creative mind behind it.</p><p>The ad is about the struggle one goes through to become one of the most famous cricketers. It captures resilience, commitment, passion, and also the struggles of parents.</p><p>In that journey, you have to keep excelling. That’s where Apollo comes in. Apollo has had a similar journey. In 1976, the company was bankrupt, and today we are number one in India. That has come from resilience, excellence, continuous effort, discovering ourselves, and investing in technology to become leaders.</p><p>Sachin [Tendulkar] comes in as the god of cricket, a mentor figure guiding these kids. In the same way, my father, the chairman, has been a mentor to our 20,000 employees. Even today, as mobility evolves, he continues to guide us. That’s the correlation between Sachin and the chairman.</p><p><b>You mentioned Sachin. What also stood out was the choice of players — Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill. Given that Virat and Rohit have retired from T20s and Gill isn’t part of the current World Cup setup, what was the thinking behind this selection?</b></p><p>You said it yourself. They are currently the top players.</p><p>Apollo is also a top company. So why would I go for second-best when I have access to the best?</p><p>These players have strong journeys. A lot of research has gone into the casting. Virat’s younger version looks identical, but the same effort has gone into the others too, including parents and costumes.</p><p>Their journeys are all different but equally difficult. Take Rohit, for instance. He grew up in a chawl in Mumbai, and his journey from there to here is significant.</p><p><b>Is there a possibility of doing something similar with the women’s team, given their recent success?</b></p><p>We are looking into it. I’m very excited because, since Apollo tied up on the jersey, we’ve already had two World Cups — one with the women’s team and one at the Under-19 level.</p><p>We have now added a T20 title as well. So yes, the women’s team is very much on my mind. Right now, we are just on the jersey, but discussions are ongoing internally.</p><p><b>Cricket guarantees visibility in India. But as a brand, how do you ensure that this translates into actual value and not just visibility?</b></p><p>We have done this with ROI in mind. ₹580 crore is not a small investment. Since tying up on the jersey in September, we have seen sales increase, better distribution, new dealers, and higher throughput at dealer counters.</p><p>This is especially visible in car tyres, scooter tyres, and tractor tyres. The biggest advantage is rural reach. Cricket allows us to reach all of India instantly. People in villages are watching on phones and TVs. That awareness is driving growth in rural markets.</p><p>Apollo has also invested in football, both in India and Europe. Given the uncertainty around Indian football, do you still see it as a viable space?</p><p>Football is growing in India. India needs to become a sporting nation. Investment should go into multiple sports, not just cricket. The government needs to replicate cricket’s success across other sports.</p><p>We are seeing progress. With increased focus, India is winning more medals at the Asian Games and Olympics. A strong public-private partnership can help identify and nurture talent.</p><p>Football is becoming popular, especially with global influences like Lionel Messi. European clubs are also looking at India for academies and talent. There is recognition that India has potential.</p><p><b>Have your European partnerships offered insights into how similar models could work in India?</b></p><p>The key issue in India is infrastructure. In cricket, we have built world-class stadiums. Ahmedabad, for example, is phenomenal. Compared to Old Trafford, it stands out.</p><p>So we have the capability. The question is why we are not doing this across all sports. We were dominant in hockey once but have slipped.</p><p>If we invest in infrastructure and training across sports, India can succeed. We have proven ourselves in business, technology, and science. The issue is focus.</p><p>Right now, 90 per cent of attention goes to cricket. If leadership sets a clear target, like 100 Olympic medals, I’m confident it can happen.</p><p>Infrastructure and funding would follow. Without direction, efforts get fragmented.</p><p>This also discourages private investment. For example, we partnered with Mahesh Bhupathi to produce a Grand Slam singles champion.</p><p>But due to interference from governing bodies, we had to withdraw. If such issues are resolved, any sport can grow. Also, cricket is overcrowded. Talent needs to move into other sports.</p><p><b>Which sports vertical does Apollo see itself investing in over the next five years?</b></p><p>We were not in cricket earlier. My vision was to enter only when we became a brand leader. I didn’t want smaller branding opportunities.</p><p>When the right opportunity came, we committed — and this is a long-term commitment.</p><p>When I spoke to the BCCI, I made it clear this is not a short-term deal. I believe in long-term partnerships. We’ve been with Manchester United for 12 years.</p><p>Even during their downturn, we stayed committed. Similarly, we will continue investing in cricket in India. India accounts for 65 per cent of our business. Cricket is also growing globally, so focusing on it will help build the brand.</p><p><b>With cricket set to feature in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, will popularity drive future investment decisions? And would you consider other sports?</b></p><p>Yes, popularity will be a key factor. For Apollo, cricket will remain the focus. However, with our Vredestein brand in Europe, we invest in football, skiing, and marathons. In India, we are involved in golf as well.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 08, 2026</p></div> #Apollo #Tyres #Neeraj #Kanwar #Har #Safar #Mein #Dum #Hai #campaign #struggle #famous #cricketer

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Iran threatened to halt its matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026 if unauthorised flags are ​displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at ‌stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister ​Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team’s ⁠presence at the tournament.

The World Cup begins on Thursday, with Iran opening its Group G campaign against New Zealand in ‌Los Angeles on June 15. It next faces Belgium at the same venue on ‌June 21 before taking on Egypt in Seattle ‌on ⁠June 26.

“We have informed FIFA that if ⁠unofficial flags are brought or slogans against the national team are chanted in the stadiums where Iran plays in the World ​Cup, the team manager ‌will definitely be responsible for stopping the match,” Donyamali said on Tuesday, according to Iranian media.

“We have been assured that no disruptive incidents will occur ‌in the stadium during the match against ​Egypt.”

ALSO READ | Iraq FIFA World Cup 2026 preview: Tough test awaits Graham Arnold’s men

Iran and Egypt’s football associations had previously urged FIFA to prevent any LGBTQ+ ⁠Pride-related activities during the Seattle match. The fixture had been designated by local organisers as a “Pride Match” to ‌coincide with Seattle’s Pride weekend.

In April, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver called for Iran to be banned from the tournament, saying the team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people.

The Iranian team has ‌also faced organisational challenges, with Iran’s football federation saying its ticket ​allocation was withdrawn days before the tournament, leaving supporters who had already made travel ⁠plans unable to attend their team’s matches.

The team, currently ⁠training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the U.S. the day before each ‌match, the Department of Homeland Security said, amid a conflict that has added a geopolitical dimension ​to the tournament.

Published on Jun 10, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #stop #matches #unauthorised #flags #slogans #shown #Sports #Minister">FIFA World Cup 2026 — Iran will stop matches if unauthorised flags or slogans shown: Sports Minister Iran threatened to halt its matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026 if unauthorised flags are ​displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at ‌stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister ​Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team’s ⁠presence at the tournament.The World Cup begins on Thursday, with Iran opening its Group G campaign against New Zealand in ‌Los Angeles on June 15. It next faces Belgium at the same venue on ‌June 21 before taking on Egypt in Seattle ‌on ⁠June 26.“We have informed FIFA that if ⁠unofficial flags are brought or slogans against the national team are chanted in the stadiums where Iran plays in the World ​Cup, the team manager ‌will definitely be responsible for stopping the match,” Donyamali said on Tuesday, according to Iranian media.“We have been assured that no disruptive incidents will occur ‌in the stadium during the match against ​Egypt.”ALSO READ | Iraq FIFA World Cup 2026 preview: Tough test awaits Graham Arnold’s menIran and Egypt’s football associations had previously urged FIFA to prevent any LGBTQ+ ⁠Pride-related activities during the Seattle match. The fixture had been designated by local organisers as a “Pride Match” to ‌coincide with Seattle’s Pride weekend.In April, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver called for Iran to be banned from the tournament, saying the team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people.The Iranian team has ‌also faced organisational challenges, with Iran’s football federation saying its ticket ​allocation was withdrawn days before the tournament, leaving supporters who had already made travel ⁠plans unable to attend their team’s matches.The team, currently ⁠training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the U.S. the day before each ‌match, the Department of Homeland Security said, amid a conflict that has added a geopolitical dimension ​to the tournament.Published on Jun 10, 2026 #FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #stop #matches #unauthorised #flags #slogans #shown #Sports #Minister

Iraq FIFA World Cup 2026 preview: Tough test awaits Graham Arnold’s men

Iran and Egypt’s football associations had previously urged FIFA to prevent any LGBTQ+ ⁠Pride-related activities during the Seattle match. The fixture had been designated by local organisers as a “Pride Match” to ‌coincide with Seattle’s Pride weekend.

In April, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver called for Iran to be banned from the tournament, saying the team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people.

The Iranian team has ‌also faced organisational challenges, with Iran’s football federation saying its ticket ​allocation was withdrawn days before the tournament, leaving supporters who had already made travel ⁠plans unable to attend their team’s matches.

The team, currently ⁠training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the U.S. the day before each ‌match, the Department of Homeland Security said, amid a conflict that has added a geopolitical dimension ​to the tournament.

Published on Jun 10, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #stop #matches #unauthorised #flags #slogans #shown #Sports #Minister">FIFA World Cup 2026 — Iran will stop matches if unauthorised flags or slogans shown: Sports Minister

Iran threatened to halt its matches at the FIFA World Cup 2026 if unauthorised flags are ​displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at ‌stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister ​Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team’s ⁠presence at the tournament.

The World Cup begins on Thursday, with Iran opening its Group G campaign against New Zealand in ‌Los Angeles on June 15. It next faces Belgium at the same venue on ‌June 21 before taking on Egypt in Seattle ‌on ⁠June 26.

“We have informed FIFA that if ⁠unofficial flags are brought or slogans against the national team are chanted in the stadiums where Iran plays in the World ​Cup, the team manager ‌will definitely be responsible for stopping the match,” Donyamali said on Tuesday, according to Iranian media.

“We have been assured that no disruptive incidents will occur ‌in the stadium during the match against ​Egypt.”

ALSO READ | Iraq FIFA World Cup 2026 preview: Tough test awaits Graham Arnold’s men

Iran and Egypt’s football associations had previously urged FIFA to prevent any LGBTQ+ ⁠Pride-related activities during the Seattle match. The fixture had been designated by local organisers as a “Pride Match” to ‌coincide with Seattle’s Pride weekend.

In April, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver called for Iran to be banned from the tournament, saying the team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps rather than the Iranian people.

The Iranian team has ‌also faced organisational challenges, with Iran’s football federation saying its ticket ​allocation was withdrawn days before the tournament, leaving supporters who had already made travel ⁠plans unable to attend their team’s matches.

The team, currently ⁠training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the U.S. the day before each ‌match, the Department of Homeland Security said, amid a conflict that has added a geopolitical dimension ​to the tournament.

Published on Jun 10, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #stop #matches #unauthorised #flags #slogans #shown #Sports #Minister
Deadspin | Colorado coach Deion Sanders now ‘cancer free’ Nov 1, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders before the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced he is “cancer free” heading into the 2026 season. The Pro Football Hall of Famer talked about his battle with bladder cancer Tuesday on “Good Morning America.” “I’ve got my health back. I’ve got my swagger back,” said Sanders, 58. “Last year at this time I was fighting cancer, didn’t know which way it was going to go. … I’m fully back now. Last year at this time, it wasn’t a good look. “We fought the battle and we won the battle fighting cancer. I’m cancer free. I’m good. Great doctors in Colorado that have brought me through. God has brought me through. I’m thankful I’m healthy.” Sanders said he underwent 14 surgeries, including the removal of his bladder. Colorado struggled to a 3-9 finish last season following a 9-4 campaign in 2025. “I’m ready to go coach my butt off this season,” Sanders said. “I’m having a good time.” Sanders is 16-21 with one bowl appearance through his first three seasons in Boulder. The Buffaloes open the season at Georgia Tech on Sept. 3. A two-time Super Bowl champion and six-time All-Pro cornerback, Sanders played 14 NFL seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington and the Baltimore Ravens. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Colorado #coach #Deion #Sanders #cancer #freeNov 1, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders before the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced he is “cancer free” heading into the 2026 season.

The Pro Football Hall of Famer talked about his battle with bladder cancer Tuesday on “Good Morning America.”

“I’ve got my health back. I’ve got my swagger back,” said Sanders, 58. “Last year at this time I was fighting cancer, didn’t know which way it was going to go. … I’m fully back now. Last year at this time, it wasn’t a good look.

“We fought the battle and we won the battle fighting cancer. I’m cancer free. I’m good. Great doctors in Colorado that have brought me through. God has brought me through. I’m thankful I’m healthy.”

Sanders said he underwent 14 surgeries, including the removal of his bladder.


Colorado struggled to a 3-9 finish last season following a 9-4 campaign in 2025.

“I’m ready to go coach my butt off this season,” Sanders said. “I’m having a good time.”

Sanders is 16-21 with one bowl appearance through his first three seasons in Boulder.

The Buffaloes open the season at Georgia Tech on Sept. 3.

A two-time Super Bowl champion and six-time All-Pro cornerback, Sanders played 14 NFL seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington and the Baltimore Ravens. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Colorado #coach #Deion #Sanders #cancer #free">Deadspin | Colorado coach Deion Sanders now ‘cancer free’ Nov 1, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders before the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced he is “cancer free” heading into the 2026 season. The Pro Football Hall of Famer talked about his battle with bladder cancer Tuesday on “Good Morning America.” “I’ve got my health back. I’ve got my swagger back,” said Sanders, 58. “Last year at this time I was fighting cancer, didn’t know which way it was going to go. … I’m fully back now. Last year at this time, it wasn’t a good look. “We fought the battle and we won the battle fighting cancer. I’m cancer free. I’m good. Great doctors in Colorado that have brought me through. God has brought me through. I’m thankful I’m healthy.” Sanders said he underwent 14 surgeries, including the removal of his bladder. Colorado struggled to a 3-9 finish last season following a 9-4 campaign in 2025. “I’m ready to go coach my butt off this season,” Sanders said. “I’m having a good time.” Sanders is 16-21 with one bowl appearance through his first three seasons in Boulder. The Buffaloes open the season at Georgia Tech on Sept. 3. A two-time Super Bowl champion and six-time All-Pro cornerback, Sanders played 14 NFL seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington and the Baltimore Ravens. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Colorado #coach #Deion #Sanders #cancer #free

Brandon Aiyuk’s war of words with the San Francisco 49ers reached new heights on Tuesday.

In a video posted to social media, Aiyuk blasted the organization as “stupid” for paying him, and “mad” at themselves for how the team was handling the situation.

The video came after Aiyuk posted one over the weekend, where he called the 49ers “little-ass boys” who needed to “stop running from the bill.”

The two videos are the wide receiver’s first lengthy public comments since the team placed him on the reserve/left team list back in December of last year. Aiyuk has not played in a game for the 49ers since midway through the 2024 season, when he suffered a torn ACL.

Prior to the 2024 campaign, Aiyuk was a hold-in during training camp until he agreed to terms with the team on a new four-year extension worth up to $120 million.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan, along with general manager John Lynch, continue to assert that Aiyuk has played his last snap for the 49ers. Speaking at the team’s end-of-season press conference in January, the coach indicated he had lost contact with Aiyuk, going on to say that “eventually you understand that it’s not going to change and you’ve got to move on with your football team.”

On that January day, Lynch explicitly said that Aiyuk had “played his last snap with the Niners.”

Then at the end of March at the league’s annual meetings, Shanahan maintained that stance, but did not put a timeframe on a resolution.

“I don’t have a date for it, but I know eventually it’ll resolve itself,” Shanahan said in March. “Hopefully, we could get something for [him]. And I know we’re in no rush to do that. You’ve got to do what’s right for the Niners, and you’re not trying to hook up any other team as fast as you possibly can. Hopefully, we can get something for that, and it’ll take care of itself.”

As far as what that resolution looks like, many believe Aiyuk will find a home with the Washington Commanders. Aiyuk played with Jayden Daniels at Arizona State, and over this past weekend did share a photos of himself wearing a Commanders hat.

However, he is still technically under contract with San Francisco through the 2028 season. And while the 49ers did void the guaranteed money he was owed for 2026, the guaranteed money Aiyuk is owed for 2027 is still on the books.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport addressed the situation on Monday.

“First of all, here’s what the San Francisco 49ers would like: They have his rights, he’s not due any guaranteed money because he forfeited that by not showing up to his rehab,” said Rapoport. “So, they would like to trade him, probably to the Commanders, with his old friend Jayden Daniels and an organization that obviously knows him well, considering (Commanders general manager) Adam Peters was in San Francisco, and all that.

“What the Commanders would like to do is sign him without having to trade him. … We’re in a situation where nobody wants to move at all. They’re all staring at each other. There’s really no deadline to make a move at all. So, until and unless everyone gets tired of Brandon Aiyuk sending Instagram messages, this is going to be a storyline that takes us through the summer.”

Happy offseason, everyone.

#Brandon #Aiyuks #49ers #divorce #uglier">Brandon Aiyuk’s 49ers divorce keeps getting uglier Brandon Aiyuk’s war of words with the San Francisco 49ers reached new heights on Tuesday.In a video posted to social media, Aiyuk blasted the organization as “stupid” for paying him, and “mad” at themselves for how the team was handling the situation.The video came after Aiyuk posted one over the weekend, where he called the 49ers “little-ass boys” who needed to “stop running from the bill.”The two videos are the wide receiver’s first lengthy public comments since the team placed him on the reserve/left team list back in December of last year. Aiyuk has not played in a game for the 49ers since midway through the 2024 season, when he suffered a torn ACL.Prior to the 2024 campaign, Aiyuk was a hold-in during training camp until he agreed to terms with the team on a new four-year extension worth up to $120 million.Head coach Kyle Shanahan, along with general manager John Lynch, continue to assert that Aiyuk has played his last snap for the 49ers. Speaking at the team’s end-of-season press conference in January, the coach indicated he had lost contact with Aiyuk, going on to say that “eventually you understand that it’s not going to change and you’ve got to move on with your football team.”On that January day, Lynch explicitly said that Aiyuk had “played his last snap with the Niners.”Then at the end of March at the league’s annual meetings, Shanahan maintained that stance, but did not put a timeframe on a resolution.“I don’t have a date for it, but I know eventually it’ll resolve itself,” Shanahan said in March. “Hopefully, we could get something for [him]. And I know we’re in no rush to do that. You’ve got to do what’s right for the Niners, and you’re not trying to hook up any other team as fast as you possibly can. Hopefully, we can get something for that, and it’ll take care of itself.”As far as what that resolution looks like, many believe Aiyuk will find a home with the Washington Commanders. Aiyuk played with Jayden Daniels at Arizona State, and over this past weekend did share a photos of himself wearing a Commanders hat.However, he is still technically under contract with San Francisco through the 2028 season. And while the 49ers did void the guaranteed money he was owed for 2026, the guaranteed money Aiyuk is owed for 2027 is still on the books.NFL insider Ian Rapoport addressed the situation on Monday.“First of all, here’s what the San Francisco 49ers would like: They have his rights, he’s not due any guaranteed money because he forfeited that by not showing up to his rehab,” said Rapoport. “So, they would like to trade him, probably to the Commanders, with his old friend Jayden Daniels and an organization that obviously knows him well, considering (Commanders general manager) Adam Peters was in San Francisco, and all that.“What the Commanders would like to do is sign him without having to trade him. … We’re in a situation where nobody wants to move at all. They’re all staring at each other. There’s really no deadline to make a move at all. So, until and unless everyone gets tired of Brandon Aiyuk sending Instagram messages, this is going to be a storyline that takes us through the summer.”Happy offseason, everyone. #Brandon #Aiyuks #49ers #divorce #uglier

video posted to social media, Aiyuk blasted the organization as “stupid” for paying him, and “mad” at themselves for how the team was handling the situation.

The video came after Aiyuk posted one over the weekend, where he called the 49ers “little-ass boys” who needed to “stop running from the bill.”

The two videos are the wide receiver’s first lengthy public comments since the team placed him on the reserve/left team list back in December of last year. Aiyuk has not played in a game for the 49ers since midway through the 2024 season, when he suffered a torn ACL.

Prior to the 2024 campaign, Aiyuk was a hold-in during training camp until he agreed to terms with the team on a new four-year extension worth up to $120 million.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan, along with general manager John Lynch, continue to assert that Aiyuk has played his last snap for the 49ers. Speaking at the team’s end-of-season press conference in January, the coach indicated he had lost contact with Aiyuk, going on to say that “eventually you understand that it’s not going to change and you’ve got to move on with your football team.”

On that January day, Lynch explicitly said that Aiyuk had “played his last snap with the Niners.”

Then at the end of March at the league’s annual meetings, Shanahan maintained that stance, but did not put a timeframe on a resolution.

“I don’t have a date for it, but I know eventually it’ll resolve itself,” Shanahan said in March. “Hopefully, we could get something for [him]. And I know we’re in no rush to do that. You’ve got to do what’s right for the Niners, and you’re not trying to hook up any other team as fast as you possibly can. Hopefully, we can get something for that, and it’ll take care of itself.”

As far as what that resolution looks like, many believe Aiyuk will find a home with the Washington Commanders. Aiyuk played with Jayden Daniels at Arizona State, and over this past weekend did share a photos of himself wearing a Commanders hat.

However, he is still technically under contract with San Francisco through the 2028 season. And while the 49ers did void the guaranteed money he was owed for 2026, the guaranteed money Aiyuk is owed for 2027 is still on the books.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport addressed the situation on Monday.

“First of all, here’s what the San Francisco 49ers would like: They have his rights, he’s not due any guaranteed money because he forfeited that by not showing up to his rehab,” said Rapoport. “So, they would like to trade him, probably to the Commanders, with his old friend Jayden Daniels and an organization that obviously knows him well, considering (Commanders general manager) Adam Peters was in San Francisco, and all that.

“What the Commanders would like to do is sign him without having to trade him. … We’re in a situation where nobody wants to move at all. They’re all staring at each other. There’s really no deadline to make a move at all. So, until and unless everyone gets tired of Brandon Aiyuk sending Instagram messages, this is going to be a storyline that takes us through the summer.”

Happy offseason, everyone.

#Brandon #Aiyuks #49ers #divorce #uglier">Brandon Aiyuk’s 49ers divorce keeps getting uglier

Brandon Aiyuk’s war of words with the San Francisco 49ers reached new heights on Tuesday.

In a video posted to social media, Aiyuk blasted the organization as “stupid” for paying him, and “mad” at themselves for how the team was handling the situation.

The video came after Aiyuk posted one over the weekend, where he called the 49ers “little-ass boys” who needed to “stop running from the bill.”

The two videos are the wide receiver’s first lengthy public comments since the team placed him on the reserve/left team list back in December of last year. Aiyuk has not played in a game for the 49ers since midway through the 2024 season, when he suffered a torn ACL.

Prior to the 2024 campaign, Aiyuk was a hold-in during training camp until he agreed to terms with the team on a new four-year extension worth up to $120 million.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan, along with general manager John Lynch, continue to assert that Aiyuk has played his last snap for the 49ers. Speaking at the team’s end-of-season press conference in January, the coach indicated he had lost contact with Aiyuk, going on to say that “eventually you understand that it’s not going to change and you’ve got to move on with your football team.”

On that January day, Lynch explicitly said that Aiyuk had “played his last snap with the Niners.”

Then at the end of March at the league’s annual meetings, Shanahan maintained that stance, but did not put a timeframe on a resolution.

“I don’t have a date for it, but I know eventually it’ll resolve itself,” Shanahan said in March. “Hopefully, we could get something for [him]. And I know we’re in no rush to do that. You’ve got to do what’s right for the Niners, and you’re not trying to hook up any other team as fast as you possibly can. Hopefully, we can get something for that, and it’ll take care of itself.”

As far as what that resolution looks like, many believe Aiyuk will find a home with the Washington Commanders. Aiyuk played with Jayden Daniels at Arizona State, and over this past weekend did share a photos of himself wearing a Commanders hat.

However, he is still technically under contract with San Francisco through the 2028 season. And while the 49ers did void the guaranteed money he was owed for 2026, the guaranteed money Aiyuk is owed for 2027 is still on the books.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport addressed the situation on Monday.

“First of all, here’s what the San Francisco 49ers would like: They have his rights, he’s not due any guaranteed money because he forfeited that by not showing up to his rehab,” said Rapoport. “So, they would like to trade him, probably to the Commanders, with his old friend Jayden Daniels and an organization that obviously knows him well, considering (Commanders general manager) Adam Peters was in San Francisco, and all that.

“What the Commanders would like to do is sign him without having to trade him. … We’re in a situation where nobody wants to move at all. They’re all staring at each other. There’s really no deadline to make a move at all. So, until and unless everyone gets tired of Brandon Aiyuk sending Instagram messages, this is going to be a storyline that takes us through the summer.”

Happy offseason, everyone.

#Brandon #Aiyuks #49ers #divorce #uglier

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