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Bayern Munich and PSG Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals

Bayern Munich and PSG Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals

By March 6, 2024 0

Bayern Munich’s resurgence under interim manager Thomas Tuchel continued on Tuesday as they secured a 3-0 victory over Lazio in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. The win, which sealed a 3-1 aggregate triumph, propelled the German giants into the quarterfinals and reignited their hopes of European glory.

Harry Kane, Bayern’s talismanic striker, proved to be the difference-maker once again. The England international opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a diving header, canceling out Lazio’s first-leg advantage. He then doubled Bayern’s lead in the 66th minute, tapping in a rebound after Thomas Mueller’s effort had been parried.

Mueller had earlier made it 2-0 on the stroke of halftime, heading in a Matthijs de Ligt volley. The German forward’s goal proved to be a crucial moment, as it gave Bayern a comfortable cushion going into the second half.

Lazio, who were bidding for their first quarter-final appearance in 24 years, struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the match. Ciro Immobile’s header just before halftime was their best opportunity, but it sailed narrowly wide.

Bayern, on the other hand, were relentless in their attack. Jamal Musiala almost added a third goal seconds after Kane’s opener, but his sliding shot missed the target. Leroy Sane also came close in the second half, but his shot was palmed into Kane’s path for the third goal.

The win provides a much-needed boost for Bayern, who had won just one of their last five matches in all competitions prior to Tuesday. It also eases the pressure on Tuchel, who will leave the club at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain also booked their place in the quarterfinals with a comfortable 2-1 victory away to Real Sociedad. Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show for the French champions, scoring both goals in a match that wrapped up a 4-1 aggregate victory.

Mbappe’s first goal came in the 15th minute, as he curled a fabulous strike into the far corner. He doubled his tally in the 56th minute, bursting into the box and beating the goalkeeper at his near post.

Mikel Merino netted a consolation goal for Real Sociedad in the 89th minute, but it was too little too late to prevent PSG from reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in three years.

Categories: Football
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Mitchell Starc on the Brink of History, Credits Resilience to Tim Nielsen's Tough Love

Mitchell Starc on the Brink of History, Credits Resilience to Tim Nielsen’s Tough Love

By March 6, 2024 0

Mitchell Starc, on the cusp of surpassing Dennis Lillee as Australia’s fourth-highest Test wicket-taker, credits former coach Tim Nielsen’s tough love for his remarkable resilience. Starc, who has played seven consecutive Tests this summer, has overcome physical challenges to become Australia’s iron man.

Nielsen’s words, “harden the f* up,” have resonated with Starc, who has pushed through pain to represent his country. Despite lingering groin soreness, Starc was Australia’s leading wicket-taker in the Ashes last year. He also played through the World Cup with minor adjustments to his run-up.

Starc’s ability to withstand pain and perform at a high level is a testament to his experience and determination. He has learned to manage niggles and find ways to contribute to the team. Surpassing Lillee is a significant milestone, as Starc is the only bowler in Australia’s top eight wicket-takers with a strike-rate under 50.

Starc is also approaching another landmark: 100 Tests. Tim Southee will become the latest pace bowler to reach this milestone in Christchurch, and Starc is 12 away. If his body and form hold up, he could join the club in 2025.

Starc’s longevity and resilience are a testament to his dedication and the support of the medical staff. He has become a role model for young bowlers, showing that it is possible to overcome physical challenges and achieve greatness.

Categories: Cricket
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LIV Golf Withdraws World Ranking Application

LIV Golf Withdraws World Ranking Application

By March 6, 2024 0

The Great White Shark, LIV Golf, has withdrawn its application for recognition by the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). CEO Greg Norman informed players of the decision, citing the OWGR’s unwillingness to work with LIV.

LIV’s initial application in July 2022 was rejected due to its unique format and lack of a path for players to qualify. The OWGR board maintained that it could not fairly compare LIV to other tours with more open tournaments.

The withdrawal has significant implications for LIV players, as the world ranking is used to determine eligibility for the majors and the Olympics. Top players like Cameron Smith and Tyrrell Hatton may struggle to qualify for these prestigious events.

Despite LIV’s efforts to create a more open qualifying system, the players are currently far removed from the top of the rankings. Only four LIV players are in the top 50, and even if adjustments were made, it would be challenging for them to make up ground.

The withdrawal also highlights the ongoing tension between LIV and the established golf ecosystem. The OWGR board, which includes representatives from the majors, has maintained that its decision was technical, not political. However, LIV has accused the board of bias and a lack of transparency.

Meanwhile, Gary Woodland has been honored with the Ben Hogan Award for his return to golf following brain surgery. The former U.S. Open champion underwent a serious operation to remove a lesion pressing on his brain.

In other news, Angela Stanford has received an exemption to the Chevron Championship, extending her consecutive LPGA major streak to 98. The USGA has also acquired memorabilia related to Charlie Sifford, the first Black player to win on the PGA Tour.

Categories: Others
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Red Sox Starter Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

Red Sox Starter Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

By March 6, 2024 0

Red Sox Starter Lucas Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Boston Red Sox have been dealt a significant setback with the news that right-handed starter Lucas Giolito is likely to miss opening day and potentially longer due to discomfort in his elbow.

Manager Alex Cora confirmed the injury on Tuesday, stating that Giolito will undergo further examinations to determine the severity of the issue. “We’re obviously concerned. Not a good day for us,” Cora told reporters.

Giolito, who signed a $38.5 million, two-year deal with the Red Sox this offseason, has made two starts in spring training. While he pitched two scoreless innings in his first outing, he struggled in his second start against Minnesota last Friday, allowing four runs and three walks in 2 1/3 innings. It was after that outing that Giolito reported the discomfort in his elbow.

The injury is a major blow to the Red Sox, who were counting on Giolito to be a key part of their rotation. The 29-year-old was the first overall pick by the Washington Nationals in the 2012 draft and has established himself as a solid starter in the majors.

In 2023, Giolito pitched for the White Sox, Angels, and Guardians, posting a 4.88 ERA and allowing a league-high 41 home runs. However, he has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, earning an All-Star selection in 2019 and averaging 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings from 2019-21.

The Red Sox were hoping to see that version of Giolito when they signed him this winter. However, the elbow discomfort has cast a shadow over his availability for the start of the season. The team will await the results of further examinations before determining the extent of the injury and Giolito’s timeline for return.

Categories: Others
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Giancarlo Stanton's Tireless Work Ethic Fuels Yankees' Hopes

Giancarlo Stanton’s Tireless Work Ethic Fuels Yankees’ Hopes

By March 6, 2024 0

Giancarlo Stanton, the New York Yankees’ slugger, is renowned for his dedication to extra work. Despite missing a significant number of games over the past five seasons due to injuries, Stanton remains committed to his rigorous training regimen.

On Tuesday, Stanton spent 90 minutes at Steinbrenner Field engaged in an intense batting practice session against a pitching machine. The session began with teammate DJ LeMahieu for the first 20 minutes, after which Stanton continued solo, taking short breaks to pace around the batting cage or consult with hitting coach James Rowson.

“If I don’t get my work in, then I’m just thinking about it all day,” Stanton explained. “So, there’s no point in being at home just thinking about doing this anyway.”

Stanton’s dedication is evident in his slimmed-down physique. The 34-year-old continues to display his power, hitting opposite-field homers to right field during the final minutes of his batting practice.

“Whatever I need to get it to what I need to feel,” Stanton said.

Since joining the Yankees in 2018, Stanton has not played a full season. Injuries have plagued him, including a strained right biceps and posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee (2019), strained left hamstring (2020), strained left quadriceps (2021), right ankle inflammation and left Achilles tendinitis (2022), and strained left hamstring (2023).

Despite these setbacks, Stanton remains optimistic. Over the past five years, he has hit .233 with 97 homers and 259 RBIs, a slight decline from his first nine seasons, when he averaged .265 with 302 homers and 772 RBIs.

Stanton’s determination and unwavering work ethic are a testament to his commitment to the game. As the Yankees prepare for the upcoming season, Stanton’s presence and leadership will be invaluable.

Categories: Others
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R. Ashwin: A Modern Master of the Craft Reaches 100 Tests

R. Ashwin: A Modern Master of the Craft Reaches 100 Tests

By March 6, 2024 0

The milestone of 100 Test matches is a testament to the exceptional skill and dedication of cricketers. This week, R. Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow join the elite club of players who have reached this remarkable achievement.

Ashwin, India’s most successful off-spinner, has established himself as a formidable force in the game. His ability to extract turn and bounce from any surface, combined with his relentless pursuit of wickets, has made him a nightmare for batsmen worldwide.

While statistics play a role in evaluating a player’s greatness, they cannot fully capture the essence of Ashwin’s artistry. His ability to adapt to different conditions, experiment with new deliveries, and outsmart opponents with his cricketing intelligence sets him apart.

In an era where bowlers are armed with an arsenal of variations, Ashwin’s unwavering focus on taking wickets stands out. He understands that the primary objective of a bowler is to dismiss batsmen, not merely contain runs.

Ashwin’s journey to 100 Tests has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. He has played a pivotal role in India’s overseas victories, but his away record has also been a subject of scrutiny. However, his overall contributions to the team, including his exceptional home record, make him an indispensable asset.

Among the pantheon of Indian off-spinners, Ashwin stands tall. His combination of natural talent and cricket intelligence is reminiscent of the legendary Erapalli Prasanna. Like Prasanna, Ashwin has the ability to succeed in both home and away conditions.

As Ashwin reaches this milestone, it is important to recognize his status as a modern master of the craft. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering belief in his abilities have made him one of the most respected and admired cricketers of his generation.

Categories: Cricket
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Tamil Nadu's Ranji Trophy Journey Ends in Semifinal Heartbreak

Tamil Nadu’s Ranji Trophy Journey Ends in Semifinal Heartbreak

By March 6, 2024 0

Tamil Nadu’s 2023-24 Ranji Trophy campaign ended in disappointment with a crushing innings and 70-run defeat to Mumbai in the semifinals. Despite the setback, the team can take solace in a successful season that saw them break a five-year drought of not qualifying for the knockouts.

Under the leadership of R. Sai Kishore, Tamil Nadu played an aggressive brand of cricket, securing five outright wins from nine games, including three by an innings. They maximized their strength in home conditions, with senior batters piling on the runs and spinners dominating the opposition.

N. Jagadeesan enjoyed his best Ranji season, amassing 816 runs, including a triple and double-hundred. B. Indrajith (767 runs) continued to be a reliable performer, delivering vital knocks under pressure. Vijay Shankar and Pradosh Ranjan Paul also made significant contributions with centuries.

On the bowling front, Sai Kishore emerged as a standout performer, becoming only the third TN bowler to scalp more than 50 wickets in a season. He was ably supported by Ajith Ram (41 wickets) and Sandeep Warrier (24 wickets).

However, Tamil Nadu’s technical frailties were exposed when they played on pitches that favored seamers. They suffered outright defeats in the only two games they played on such surfaces, against Gujarat and Mumbai.

Sai Kishore’s decision to bat first on a green top in the semifinal against Mumbai backfired, leading to a heavy defeat. Post-match comments by coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, who blamed the captain for losing the match at the toss, revealed a schism within the team.

Despite the loss, Tamil Nadu has a solid foundation to build upon. They have shown that they can compete with the best teams in the country, but they need to address their batting issues, particularly on seaming pitches.

Categories: Cricket
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MLB Injury Bug Bites Verlander, Gray, Giolito

MLB Injury Bug Bites Verlander, Gray, Giolito

By March 6, 2024 0

MLB Injury Woes: Verlander, Gray, Giolito Sidelined

The MLB season is approaching, but three prominent right-handed starting pitchers are facing injuries that could delay their starts.

Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will begin the season on the injured list due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder. St. Louis Cardinals’ Sonny Gray has a hamstring strain, while Boston Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito is experiencing discomfort in his pitching elbow.

Verlander’s injury is considered a setback rather than a long-term concern. The 41-year-old is expected to throw in the bullpen again on Friday but has yet to face hitters. However, a delay to the start of the season could jeopardize his $35 million option for 2025.

Giolito’s injury is more concerning. The 29-year-old will undergo additional exams to determine the severity of the issue. He had a disappointing 2023 season, allowing a league-high 41 home runs and posting a 4.88 ERA.

Gray may have the best chance of returning for opening day, which he was scheduled to start against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 28. The Cardinals are hopeful that the mild strain will allow him to recover in time.

Meanwhile, Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuña Jr. is expected to be ready for opening day after a thorough examination of his sore right knee revealed no serious issues.

New York Yankees catcher Jose Trevino is also nearing a return from a calf injury. The 31-year-old is recovering from a wrist injury that limited him to 55 games last season.

Categories: Others
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Haaland Admits to Missing Chances, Vows to Shut Out Critics

Haaland Admits to Missing Chances, Vows to Shut Out Critics

By March 5, 2024 0

Erling Haaland, the prolific Norwegian striker for Manchester City, has acknowledged that he will continue to miss chances despite his remarkable goal-scoring record. However, he remains determined to silence critics and strive for perfection.

Since joining City in 2022, Haaland has netted an astonishing 80 goals in just 84 games, helping the club secure a treble of Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup titles in his debut season. This season, he has already scored 28 goals in all competitions.

Despite his impressive tally, Haaland endured a brief goal drought earlier this season, failing to score in six out of seven games. He also missed a glaring opportunity in City’s recent 3-1 victory over Manchester United.

“I’ve been missing,” Haaland admitted. “I miss a lot of chances. I will still keep on missing chances, I will still score goals so I’ll probably miss a big chance in the future as well and people are going to criticize me and what can I do then?”

“Should I think of that? No. I should focus on scoring more goals and helping the team.”

Haaland recognizes that he has room for improvement despite his exceptional numbers. “There’s a lot of things I can become better at, everything by the way,” he said. “People say I’m good at scoring goals but I missed the biggest chance in the world ever two days ago so I can also become better at that.”

The Norwegian has worked on the mental aspect of his game, but admits that coping with lean spells can be challenging. “It’s with everything in life — if you over-think something, it’s not good, if you stress in your life it’s not good,” he said. “My focus is to become the best possible version of myself and the main thing then is the mental part.”

Amidst speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid, Haaland expressed his contentment at Manchester City. “I’m really happy, especially with the people that I’m surrounded with, the manager, the directors, the board,” he said. “They are a group of amazing people and I’m really happy.”

“If I say this now there’s probably going to be a massive headline tomorrow — ‘you never know what the future brings’ — but again, I’m happy.”

Haaland emphasized his focus on upcoming matches rather than contract negotiations. “My focus mainly now is on the pitch,” he said. “There’s a lot of games. Two days ago it was a Manchester derby and now it’s Champions League and next Sunday it’s Liverpool so I think I should focus on that and not anything else at the moment.”

Categories: Football
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