Every SportNestra article, newest first: football, basketball, tennis, Formula 1 and other sports, with their sources.
Formula 1Starting seventh at Sepang, Russell surged to second before a power-unit failure cost him a podium. “You’ve almost got to laugh,” he said, as the gap to his championship rival widened.
Formula 1Toto Wolff said he was “massively annoyed” and “not in a happy place” after George Russell retired from the Bahrain Grand Prix. A power unit failure forced the Briton to pull over while he appeared on course for a podium.
GeneralBeaten by Valentin Vacherot in the quarter-finals in Tokyo, Arthur Fils felt the match turned on a handful of points. The Frenchman regretted allowing his opponent back into the first and third sets after taking the break.
FootballAsked about his reduced playing time at Barcelona, Jules Koundé acknowledged that last season fell short of his standards. The defender accepts his coach’s decision and says he wants to regain his best form.
GeneralZinedine Zidane rejected the suggestion that Cristiano Ronaldo had ended his career badly, praising his career and what they achieved together at Real Madrid. The France coach also discussed the differences between working at a club and leading a national team.
FootballAfter three demanding days of work, the coach has scheduled a break for Thursday. Real Sociedad will prepare to host Deportivo de La Coruña with several internationals expected to be away until close to the end of the week.
FootballJunior Firpo was forced off after ten minutes of the match between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Real Betis will assess his condition when he returns to Seville.
FootballTroy Parrott and Ez Abde conclude their commitments with their national teams on Sunday. Their fixtures come as the international schedule for Real Betis players nears its end.
FootballIn an interview with the BBC on Friday, Sir Alex Ferguson revisited the brain haemorrhage he suffered in 2018. He spoke about his fear, losing his voice and the exercises that helped him regain it.
TennisAryna Sabalenka was knocked out of the China Open in the third round, losing to Nikola Bartunkova in straight sets. Her defeat came just over twelve hours after Elena Rybakina’s, leaving the tournament without its two leading favourites.
FootballOn Charla Podcast, Brazilian midfielder Fred gave a scathing assessment of his former coach. He also praised Ten Hag’s tactical ability and recounted tensions involving Cristiano Ronaldo.
FootballThe Rampant Roosters beat the Broncos to secure their third NRLW title. Six first-half tries set up a commanding win, which also provided a fitting send-off for Corban Baxter and Millie Elliott.
FootballAfter Gordon’s performance against Croacia, Thomas Tuchel praised his aggression and confidence. The forward started the match, scored and provided an assist.
GeneralThe former Manchester United midfielder sharply criticised Ten Hag’s treatment of players. He described repeated tensions within the squad and revisited the dispute with Cristiano Ronaldo.
TennisAfter reaching the semifinals, Carlos Alcaraz wrote “Get well soon, Denis” on the tournament camera. Shapovalov had retired after earning a set point at 5-4.
FootballTicket prices for Barça-Madrid prompted a strong reaction this week. Lateral-stand seats are being offered for 800 euros, while Barça’s schedule has also drawn criticism.
FootballCavan Sullivan’s long-range chip featured in the United States’ 3-0 win over Mexico. Days after turning 17, Sullivan became the youngest scorer in USMNT history.
GeneralThe coach says he put his hands on his head after Lamine’s goal out of admiration, not surprise. After the match against the Czech Republic, he also discussed his team’s play, fatigue and the balance between results and players’ health.
GeneralAfter a goal was ruled out that would have brought his team level at 2-2, the Czech Republic coach defended his respect for referees. He also said he was proud of his players’ work.
Football“I would trade many of my titles to win one with Betis,” Ceballos said. Back at the club, the midfielder wants to take things step by step and hopes to win a trophy there within the next three years.
GeneralAfter Croatia’s heavy loss in Rijeka, Luka Modric said he had never felt such shame after a match in 20 years. He also urged his team to stay united ahead of their home game against Spain.
FootballKieron Bowie’s 7th-minute goal got Scotland moving and gave Sébastien Pocognoli his first goal as manager. John McGinn later scored his 22nd goal for his country from the penalty spot, but missed chances and Scott McKenna’s late sending-off kept Scotland from having a fully comfortable evening.
FootballThe Wakefield Trinity coach says he is still struggling to take in the Super League Grand Final triumph. Daryl Powell praised a group whose confidence and recent performances, in his view, made the achievement possible.
FootballThe Czech Republic’s assessment against Spain notes three goals conceded, but also interventions that kept the margin from growing. The performance combined defensive difficulties with some bravery in possession.
FootballThe Manchester United midfielder defended Ronaldo’s place in Portuguese football as his departure from the squad split supporters. Fernandes urged the country not to divide itself over the decision.
GeneralAlbert Celades’ side answered their need for a victory with a 4-0 win. Antoñito Cordero scored twice, while Vladys and Moueffek also found the net.
FootballBéticos Veteranos paid tribute to Manuel Pellegrini and Rubén Cousillas. The ceremony also celebrated the bond the two men have built with Betis supporters.
GeneralThe Barcelona–Real Madrid fixture has been moved back by two hours and will be played at Spotify Camp Nou. The revised time takes account of the weather forecast and organisational needs.
FootballEngland delivered a commanding win over Croatia in Rijeka. Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka scored twice each as a dominant team performance strengthened England’s hopes of qualifying.
FootballEngland claimed a historic victory over Croatia. Gordon scored and assisted, while Kane and Saka each netted twice.