Aug 22, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Kobe King (41) tackles Tennessee Titans running back Kalel Mullings (28) during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
In 2025, former Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah entered the draft with a comically low number of picks. Due to various trades, he had only four picks remaining. His draft haul included first-rounder Donovan Jackson, and four other rookies, as well as short-term QB2 Sam Howell.
Unsurprisingly, the contributions of the rookie class were fairly limited in 2025. The size of the draft class was even further enhanced when the Vikings surprisingly waived linebacker Kobe King during his rookie campaign. About 13 months after the club selected the Penn State defender in the sixth round, the Vikings could re-hire him, as the New York Jets showed him the door.
Brian Costello, Jets beat writer, posted on social media, “The Jets are waiving kicker Lenny Krieg and waiving/injured LB Kobe King, per source.”
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Aug 16, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III (86) scores a touchdown as Minnesota Vikings linebacker Kobe King (41) and defensive end Alex Williams (99) attempt to make the stop during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
King, now 23, arrived in the Twin Cities with pick 201, a sixth-rounder. A classic downhill linebacker, King was viewed as another Ivan Pace, a productive college linebacker who could provide help on special teams and, down the road, as a playmaker near the line of scrimmage. Despite the lack of depth at the position, King was axed in October and the Jets claimed him off waivers.
With the Vikings, he appeared in five contests, seeing the field on 77 snaps on special teams and another three on defense. After his departure, the Jets relied on him 142 times on special teams, but head coach Aaron Glenn didn’t give him a shot on defense. He made a total of ten tackles in his first season at the pro level.
Adofo-Mensah vouched for the defender right after the draft. His initial praise created some buzz for obvious reasons.
“Kobe King, linebacker from Penn State: Really excited to add him. A lot of times in football, we make it harder than it is, but it’s a meat-and-potatoes game in some positions, and linebacker is one of them. You need somebody to tackle the person trying to advance the ball up the field against your team, whether that be special teams with the ball in his hands or defending the pass and he’s somebody that plays with range, tackles, is a really physical knockback-impact tackler.”
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A year later, the defender is looking for a new job and the executive is back in San Francisco. The difference is the Adofo-Mensah decision is final, while King could, in theory, get another chance with the Vikings.
Dec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Kobe King (41) against the Boise State Broncos during the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
The Vikings made room for him on the initial 53-man roster last year and even gave him some playing time in the first five weeks of the season. During a long NFL year, a team can run out of roster spots and release end-of-roster players to sneak them onto the practice squad. In this case, the Jets’ waiver claim ruined that process, if it was, indeed, the intention.
Last year’s linebacker trio of Blake Cashman, Eric Wilson, and Ivan Pace is still around for 2026. In the draft, the Vikings also added Jake Golday. The Cincinnati linebacker offers some more versatility and might get some run on the edge, but he’ll take his first steps at inside linebacker. That already makes it a crowded room with four players pretty much confirmed to be on the 53-man roster.
Yet, special teams have been a focus for the Vikings last offseason and this year and that’s where King could come in and earn a spot. The franchise also employs linebackers Jacob Roberts and Josh Ross, as well as undrafted rookies Keli Lawson and Bangally Kamara, who likely have a similar plan.
The Vikings saw something in King, which is why he was drafted in 2025 and why he made the 53-man roster. If they want him back, they now have the chance to grab him.
The latest episode of WWE SmackDown was a heartbreaking show for LA Knight fans. The Megastar competed in a Fatal Four-Way first-round match for King of the Ring 2026.
Despite all attempts and fans’ support, the former United States Champion failed to win. Instead, Jey Uso pinned Knight and secured the victory. Many are surprised by this outcome, particularly when WWE teased LA Knight vs Roman Reigns multiple times on Monday Night RAW.
Thanks for the submission!
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In this article, we will discuss three reasons why the Megastar is out of the 2026 King of the Ring tournament.
#4. Triple H has given up on him
It’s over for LA Knight… Now I don’t see him winning world title in WWE. They just don’t value him… #SmackDown
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One of the major reasons why LA Knight lost the King of the Ring first-round match could be due to Triple H giving up on him. The Game is WWE’s present Chief Content Officer and makes all the significant decisions.
So, this makes sense to say that Triple H might have given up on the former US Champion. As a result, he lost the KOTR match and didn’t advance to the semi-finals.
LA Knight winning the King of the Ring tournament and facing Roman Reigns at SummerSlam 2026 for the World Heavyweight Championship was a perfect match. This is especially true when both stars had a heated history in the company, and the Megastar still has issues with the Bloodline.
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Despite all the efforts, Triple H decided not to give LA Knight a victory, which implies something serious is wrong with his booking. Also, Knight got pinned in the match by Jey Uso. With all these factors, it’s evident that the CCO has no interest in pushing the 43-year-old star.
#3. WWE is not running back LA Knight vs. Roman Reigns
LA Knight locked horns with Roman Reigns at Crown Jewel 2023 for the Universal Championship. The Megastar lost the match and failed to dethrone the Original Tribal Chief.
With Knight losing the King of the Ring tournament first-round match, it seems that the Triple H-led creative regime doesn’t want to run Knight vs Reigns again in the company.
This contributes to another possible explanation why LA Knight is out of the King of the Ring tournament.
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#2. To set up his heel turn
Over the past few months, LA Knight has failed to secure any big victories in WWE. It’s been a long time since the Megastar won any Championship in World Wrestling Entertainment.
His failure to advance in the King of the Ring tournament could be a strategic move by WWE to set up his heel turn. Knight could be frustrated with his losses and may decide to switch characters.
A villainous version of the beloved WWE star could be more ruthless and help him to emerge victorious in significant matches. So, turning LA Knight into a heel might be a probable reason why he failed to win the King of the Ring tournament first-round match on SmackDown.
#1. Triple H might have different plans for LA Knight at SummerSlam 2026
I HATE TRIPLE H AS MUCH AS TRIPLE H HATES LA KNIGHT
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There is also a chance that the company might be saving Roman Reigns vs LA Knight rematch for later and has different plans for this year’s Biggest Party of the Summer.
Though Knight got pinned on SmackDown, he is still likely to be part of SummerSlam 2026. If Knight had qualified for the semi-finals and won the tournament, he would have faced Roman Reigns.
However, Triple H might have intentionally booked him to lose on WWE SmackDown to execute the planned direction for the 43-year-old star.
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A nation’s football shirt is a chance for the world’s nations to loudly and proudly showcase their heritage, traditions and and culture
Mexico’s winning start, numerous water breaks and three red cards. It was a colorful start to the 2026 World Cup. Over 80,000 fans packed out the Estadio Azteca, as the first of 104 games spanning 16 cities across three countries got underway.
Despite the violent clashes outside the stadium, most of the focus was on the beautiful game as Mexico kicked off their campaign with a 2-0 win over South Africa. Global superstar Shakira also got a look in, along with J Balvin, Burna Boy and Danny Ocean.
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Over the next five weeks, Mexico, along with the United States and Canada will be on hosting duties as 48 teams battle for global bragging rights, a sense of national pride and some shiny new silverware.
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But there’s actually a competition to be won that doesn’t require the teams to lace up their boots or kick a ball at all. A team’s kit is cultural artifact, a series of garments that can unify and elevate.
Beyond of course the millions of pounds – or perhaps dollars in this case – to be made in global revenues when selling football shirts and the like – it’s a chance for the world’s nations to loudly and proudly showcase their heritage, traditions and and culture.
By modern standards, the crossover between elite sports and high fashion has never been so topical. But above all else, when done right, it’s a wearable symbol of where you come from and what you represent.
Someone who understands the importance of the jersey and the story it tells is Gary Bierton. For several years he’s worked for Classic Football Shirts, the Manchester-born retailer founded by his brother Doug and his university course mate Matthew Dale.
Now twenty years on, Classic Football Shirts (CFS) is the leading seller when it comes to vintage shirts, official reissues and the latest season’s kits, selling to customers in 130 countries. As well as shops in Manchester and London, the brand has even cracked America, which is where Gary finds himself at this very moment.
Based out of New York for the foreseeable, we caught up with Gary earlier in the week as he helps CFS prep the the tournament and all those football shirt sale. The Empire State Building Observation Deck – the number one attraction in the United States – is also currently hosting an exhibition of the world’s most famous shirts from Classic Football Shirts’ vault, so that’s keeping him busy.
In terms of the kits, Gary and the team have noticed an uptick in interest over the last few weeks, with certain country’s shirts becoming particularly covetable.
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“England is obviously a big one because of the club season ending and the World Cup starting,” he noted.
“But Scotland too, and interestingly we’re selling a lot of Haiti shirts too. We’re really in the golden age of kit design, and adidas kits have been very popular.
“Football shirts have taken on a life of their own at this point. They’re culturally significant and a statement piece for people.”
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We couldn’t agree more, which is why we asked Gary about which team’s shirts have been most popular for 2026. And while many people are seeking out vintage shirts from tournaments past – especially in the case of England – here we take a look at some of the one’s grabbing people’s attention right now.
Scotland
The Scots have been waiting 28 years to see their team back in the World Cup so it’s only right that their kit gets its moment in the floodlights too.
The Tartan Army have descended on North America under the tutelage of Steve Clarke. They take on Brazil, Morocco and Haiti in the group stages as they look to reach knockouts for the first time in their history.
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They also have fresh kits to rally behind. The home kit, unveiled by adidas and Scottish FA in November leans heavily into their sense of national pride with a deep blue base and Saltire motifs – a nod to their famed flag.
Their away kit meanwhile is wonderfully retro and uses a scarlet red last used in the 1980s. It draws on the rich history of Scotland’s past away kits and is elevated by vertical pinstripes. See if you can spot the national flower of Scotland on there too.
Brazil
The demand for retro Brazil shirts continues to boom with shops like Classic Football Shirts noting the status of the legendary football brand as a major driver. Global football royalty, to be seen in the yellow, green and blue kit has become a major fashion statement.
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Football’s most iconic colours have been blended by Nike for the home kit with the canary yellow base paired with green accents and blue shorts. Look a bit closer and a Brazilian flag runs through the fabric and the specific colour palette is said to draw inspiration from the team’s 1970 side.
In a historic link up, The Brazilian National Team and Jordan Brand have been brought together for the away kit, and features the Jumpman for the first time on a national team uniform. Blue base, jagged graphics and tonal striping make it rather appealing and there’s also nods to nature and Brazil’s “dangerous” attacking identity.
Curaçao
Asked if there’s a shirt that has captured people’s imagination for this World Cup, and Gary doesn’t pause – Curacao. The tiny island nation has made global football history by becoming the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup finals.
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Arriving in immaculate style for their first-ever tournament, The Adidas Curacao 2026 home shirt takes inspiration from the waves surrounding the Caribbean island. The sleeves of the shirt feature a distinct graphic pattern consisting of lighter blue, wavy circular lines in a nod to the sea and it’s central part in the life of Curaçaoans.
Meanwhile, their highly-desirable away kit, which Gary says is one of the most requested in store, features a pastel-yellow base punctuated with bold and vibrant pink, turquoise, and orange stripes. It was designed as visual tribute to the sunlit architecture of the Caribbean island’s capital Willemstad and colourful painted buildings along waterways in the Punda and Otrobanda districts.
Haiti
Saturday night, or Sunday morning (2am) if we’re being precise will see Haiti take on Scotland in Group C at Boston Stadium, Foxborough. The Caribbean country will then face five-time winners Brazil and Morocco in the group stage.
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It’s been 52 years since Haiti were in the World Cup – let that just sink in. Interestingly, their kit hit the headlines in the days leading up the the tournament with the team forced to change their design after their shirt, depicting a war scene did not comply with FIFA rules.
An illustration of the Battle of Vertieres in 1803, which secured Haiti’s independence, with the country’s flag had been embedded onto the shirts. However, regulations set out by the governing body prohibits the use of any “political, religious, or personal messages or slogans” on kit.
In a statement, Colombian manufacturer Saeta said its original design “was a tribute to the men and women who contribute every day to Haiti’s future” and “was not intended as a political statement”.
England
And last, but not least, England. Thomas Tuchel’s squad selection might have caused a few raised eyebrows and plenty of online remarks, but it’s testament to doing whatever the hell you like and not feeling the need to explain yourself.
While the players withstanding the heat this time round might be ‘sweaty and frustrated’, the inside collar of the home kit – manufactured by Nike – bears the words ‘happy and glorious’, which shows the power of a positive mental attitude – and can be called upon if they forget the words to the national anthem.
I don’t know about you but I prefer the away kit. Bold, retro and just a lovely shade of ‘Speed Red”, it’s like a statement of intent. Unlike the home shirt it features a centralised badge – the first time England has employed this on an away shirt since 2008 – and sits beneath a metallic gold star honouring the 1996 World Cup Victory.
When I visited The Foundry, Mizuno Golf’s R&D and Fitting headquarters just outside of Atlanta, I picked up one of their new Pro Fli-Hi utility irons.
It was already built in the fitting bay with a Ventus Black HB shaft. I essentially fell (back) in love with the club.
There’s just something about the Fli-Hi that makes it one of my favorite utility irons on the market, if not my No. 1 favorite. I spent some time on the course with the Mizuno team hitting it into a tricky par-5, and it certainly showed off its abilities.
Let’s talk about why I think this one’s special.
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The Mizuno Pro Fli-Hi has been at the top of the list for me for quite a while. Even four or five years ago, when I was working at a national club fitter, the Fli-Hi was very popular in the bays; but it’s always been for a more specific customer.
The Fli-Hi is probably the best option for the better player who wants more heat out of a driving iron but doesn’t want to sacrifice the look. There are a lot of really good driving irons in the market, but not all of them handle the visual very well.
The newest iteration of the Fli-Hi has gone even further to make sure that it looks good behind the ball. Not only have they given the shape some very nice nips and tucks around the edges, along with a very nice transition from the hosel into the leading edge that protects the visual offset, but they’ve also changed the finish.
They’ve typically had darker finishes on the Fli-Hi in hopes of creating a more compact-looking visual, but this latest iteration just looks… cleaner. The new Black Ion finish reminds you of the Mizuno Pro irons lineup; Nice and clean, with a little bit of sheen for a more premium player’s look, and by going dark over silver or chrome, it appears even smaller.
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They’ve also done a really cool internal design trick with the top line of the club to reduce its size. They are using what’s called an ‘Offset Face Weld’ that allows them to put the weld on the inside of the upper face-gauge. On the bottom side, the weld is back away from the face, which allows for the face to flex more and create more ball speed.
Make no mistake, the iron is still a big utility-style design, but Mizuno’s time and care in carving the shape into something that any player can put in the bag is noticeable.
The Mizuno Pro Fli-Hi in-hand
Jack Hirsh / GOLF
The thing I love most about the Mizuno Pro Fli-Hi is how workable and versatile the club is. It’s also very hot. I remember when I got the stock build in for testing early on, I was hitting the 4-iron marked loft close to 240 yards. I actually sent my friend at Mizuno a text that said “What am I supposed to do with a 240-yard 4-iron?” to which he laughed and replied, “I’ve never heard anybody complain a driving iron goes too far.” Fair point.
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That ball speed and the forgiveness of the larger C.O.R. area make for a fantastic tee option, particularly if you can handle the 2-iron lofted version of the Fli-Hi. It’s not just a stinger toy, either, which is my beef with other utility irons on the market. The Fli-Hi off of a tee can be hit high, it can be hit low, and it’s very easy to produce a big swinging draw with the club that helps promote roll-out when you need it to.
My favorite part, though, is how good it is off the ground. I like to hit hybrids and irons; I’m not a big fairway wood player, so having something that I trust off the ground is massive. If a driving or utility iron is going to end up in the bag, it has to prove that it’s not a one-trick pony.
You can see in the video that the Fli-Hi does everything I want it to do. I was able to hit a low stinger into the same hole that I hit a towering draw over a very tall tree. Both shots were on command, back-to-back. If that doesn’t showcase the usability of the Fli-Hi, I’m just not quite sure what would.
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Mizuno Pro Fli-Hi 2026 Custom Utility Iron
The Mizuno Pro Fli-Hi has become a fixture with the majority of Mizuno’s tour players. An easy launching, powerful long iron replacement that flows seamlessly into either the Mizuno Pro M13, M15 or full iron set. With a chassis now fully upgraded to 4335+ Nickel Chromoly for elevated ball speeds.
INTERNAL TUNGSTEN WEIGHTING: 26 grams of weight low in the head for elevated launch compared to traditional long irons.
HARMONIC IMPACT TECHNOLOGY: Applied to best match the vibration patterns Mizuno’s tour players identified with a soft muscle-back feel.
INCREASED BOUNCE ANGLE: Increased by a degree for improved turf interaction.
The World Cup officially kicked off this week – but alongside the football, there are questions around heat, cost, the environmental impact and travel restrictions.
The BBC Analysis Editor Ros Atkins takes a look at the challenges facing this year’s tournament.
Despite Tszyu pushing for a super-welterweight contest, his opponent clearly felt an extra 4lbs was appropriate following his three-year layoff.
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This lengthy hiatus came after Spence suffered a ninth-round stoppage defeat to Terence Crawford, who became the undisputed king at 147lbs in surprisingly one-sided fashion.
Prior to that, Spence had claimed his WBC, IBF and WBA titles with respective victories over Shawn Porter, Kell Brook and Yordenis Ugas, though a move up in weight has always seemed inevitable.
Now, the 36-year-old looks to reignite his career against Tszyu, who comes off two points victories following his stoppage defeat to Sebastian Fundora last July.
While their rematch ended in round seven, Tszyu had shown tremendous grit against Fundora in 2024, only to lose his WBO title by split decision.
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The Australian would then suffer a third-round stoppage defeat to Bakhram Murtazaliev later that year, with four-division world champion Stevenson telling All The Smoke Fight that he feels Spence is a level above.
“I think [Spence] gonna do good. I wish Errol the best; I hope Errol goes in there and beats Tim Tszyu up.
“I’m an Errol Spence fan; I was cool with Errol Spence before that [Crawford] fight. I know Errol is mentally tough – Errol is a dog when it comes to fighting, so I don’t think Tim Tszyu can beat him.”
File Pic: Manu Bhaker with Jaspal Rana (Pic credit: Bhaker’s X post)
NEW DELHI: Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker on Saturday paid an emotional tribute to her former coach Jaspal Rana, describing his death as an “irreparable loss” and remembering the man she said understood her better than most people.Bhaker shared a series of photographs with the decorated shooter-turned-coach on X, accompanying them with a brief but poignant message: “Irreparable loss.”Rana, one of India’s most successful shooters and an influential coach, passed away at the age of 49. He had recently undergone a stent procedure after experiencing chest discomfort in late May and was admitted to hospital, where he died despite medical intervention.
Bhaker remembers mentor and friend
The 24-year-old, who scripted history at the Paris Olympics by becoming the first Indian after Independence to win two medals at a single edition of the Games, credited Rana for helping her rediscover confidence during one of the most challenging phases of her career.“I still can’t believe it. It is unbelievable news. I am struggling to process it,” Bhaker told Olympics.com on Friday. “He was not just my coach, mentor or guide, but also a friend who understood me better than most people.”Their association, which had witnessed both highs and lows, eventually evolved into one of the most remarkable comeback stories in Indian sport. Bhaker and Rana reunited ahead of the Paris Olympics, and the partnership yielded historic results.
Partnership that brought Olympic glory
Bhaker recalled how Rana’s approach went beyond technical guidance and helped her navigate difficult moments.“There were times when he was strict, and there were times when he simply listened,” she said. “He always wanted the best from me, even when I did not understand it at the time. Looking back now, every lesson he taught me had a purpose.”Reflecting on their reunion, Bhaker said it felt like “coming home”.“He knew when I was confident, when I was nervous and when I needed support. He always found a way to bring out the best in me,” she said.Rana’s passing has left the Indian sporting fraternity mourning the loss of one of its finest marksmen and coaches, while Bhaker’s heartfelt tribute underlined the deep bond they shared both inside and outside the shooting range.
Every four years, the FIFA World Cup serves as the platform for young players to showcase their talent to the world. Ivory Coast’s Yan Diomande, who has already made a name among the top forwards in European football thanks to some exemplary performances for Bundesliga club RB Leipzig, is keen to take the next leap in his development as he fulfils his World Cup dream. As Ivory Coast prepare for their opening match of the campaign against Ecuador, Diomande is keen to redefine the definition of a ‘star player’, saying he is yet to reach his true potential.
“I think everyone somehow sees me as a star, but I do not see myself as a star,” Diomande said when asked about his growing profile. “For me, I am still the same person as before, since the first day I arrived here.”
The comment offers an insight into the mentality that has helped the young Ivorian emerge as one of his country’s most exciting talents. Despite becoming a key figure for the national team and attracting increasing recognition, Diomande remains focused on self-improvement rather than status.
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“That is why I try to fight every day to improve myself in everything, on and off the pitch,” he added.
The grounded approach has been shaped by a journey that began with a dream shared by countless children across Africa. Growing up in Ivory Coast, Diomande always envisioned himself playing on football’s biggest stage.
“As a little boy, when I started playing football in my home country, it was my dream to play in the World Cup, and now that dream is coming true,” he said. “I am happy and proud of myself because this was one of my biggest dreams since I was a child.”
Representing Ivory Coast remains his greatest source of pride. While many players speak about international football in professional terms, Diomande’s words reveal a deeply personal connection to the national team.
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“Today, playing for my country is something very special to me,” he said. “I give everything for my country – it is my country.”
Want To Play Against The Best: Yan Diomande
The 23-year-old believes the current Ivorian squad has every reason to approach the tournament with confidence. Rather than being intimidated by the world’s elite nations, he is eager for the challenge.
“I want to play against the best teams in the world: France, Brazil, Argentina,” he said. “We have great self-confidence and want to go as far as possible.”
Even as he dreams of testing himself against football’s superpowers, Diomande remains conscious of the work still ahead.
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“In football, it is not about age, but about mentality and talent,” he explained. “I am even more motivated to work hard because I can see what I am capable of and I can see my potential.”
That balance between ambition and humility also appears in the way he discusses African football legends. While many young Ivorians grew up idolising Didier Drogba, Diomande is careful to distinguish admiration from imitation.
“Drogba is a great player, but he is not the player I model myself on because we have different styles of play,” he said.
Yet his respect for the generation that paved the way is unmistakable.
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“Drogba, Yaya Toure and Samuel Eto’o are role models not only for me, but for everyone,” he said. “I believe they are role models for this generation of Africans and young players.”
Featured Video Of The Day
Tushar Deshpande’s Brilliant Final Act Ensures Thrilling Win For RR Over Gujarat Titans
The rules are simple. Each day there’s a new footballer and the challenge is to guess who they are in as few attempts as possible.
After each wrong guess you unlock a new clue. But, if you get your answer in as few guesses as possible, you get more points.
Three is a good score, four or five points is exceptional.
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So, take part in quiz number one and return for more tomorrow.
Today’s player and clues are set by BBC Sport’s Flora Snelson.
After more quizzes? Go to our dedicated Football Quizzes and Sports Quizzes pages and sign up for notifications to get the latest quizzes sent straight to your device.
Mauricio Pochettino had spent the past few days summoning belief in what the USA might achieve in the face of scepticism. Can they win the World Cup, he was repeatedly asked, to which his stock response was: “Why not? We can dream.” After this hugely impressive 4-1 win over Paraguay in Los Angeles, perhaps Pochettino’s task now is to manage inflated expectations, to temper America’s wildest dreams.
The first half in particular was 45 minutes of perfection, broken only by three minutes of needless hydration. One of America’s nagging concerns in recent years has been the lack of a ruthless striker but Monaco forward Folarin Balogun scored three times, one of which was ruled out for offside, and the last of which was a brilliantly composed and precise finish into the top corner of Orlando Gill’s goal.
That strike wrapped a half full of endeavour and spirit, but also technical quality and intelligent movement. Pochettino has spent most of his two-year reign as manager testing and tweaking, trying to find the right balance between attack and defence, between left and right, and here his team worked in seamless sync.
Sergino Dest was a constant threat on the right wing with his direct dribbling, while Paraguay’s right-back Juan Jose Caceres must have contracted the twisties trying to fend off Christian Pulisic on the opposite side. Pulisic offered creative spark and set up Balogun’s first goal before being replaced at half-time.
“I just got a bit of a kick in the first half, so I’m really hoping that it’s nothing,” Pulisic said after the game. “Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I’m hoping I’ll be fine the next few days.”
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USA’s reliance on Pulisic has often weighed heavily on this generation’s star player. His face has been all over billboards and on TV adverts here. But the performance of Balogun up front and Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie stitching moves together in the No 10 role suggested that responsibility will be shared around.
“It’s a dream,” Balogun after his World Cup debut. “It’s a dreamy night.”
(Reuters)
This World Cup is not just a test of the USA’s place in the game but a test of the game’s place in the USA. It is now the fourth most popular sport in America, with more fans than ever watching Major League Soccer and more children than ever playing the game. With a World Cup on home soil, there will never be a better platform for America to climb closer to the sport’s summit.
To be in LA over the past few days was to meet two different types of America. The majority only vaguely know the World Cup is happening and have no idea the US are playing in their own city or which players are on the team. They assume “Pochettino” is a type of coffee. It can feel like the World Cup has barely registered in a city this vast, like a damselfly landing on a water buffalo’s back.
But there are thousands of football fans if you look in the right places. US shirts, Mexico shirts, Argentina shirts, people passionate about the game and giddy its greatest show has arrived on their doorstep.
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“What is success?” Pochettino keeps being asked. Perhaps it is not a specific knockout round but a feeling, a moment, a late winner that grips the entire country, even those oblivious to what is going on right now. USA’s task here is not so much to win the World Cup as to take the country on an unforgettable ride so that in years to come, the words “that summer of 2026” transport them back to a moment in time when they felt something.
The job of this squad, a diverse band of brothers, is to connect with the American public, and this was the perfect start. The evening began with an opening ceremony and organisers provided all the bombast you’d expect, with a series of musical acts headlined by Katy Perry and a parade of national flags reminiscent of an Olympic Games. Iran’s flag was among the 48, although it was somewhat comical that the event’s MC called for “a round of applause for peace” before kick-off.
Mauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of the United States, celebrates (Getty)
There appeared to be almost as many Paraguay fans as US supporters inside this extraordinary spaceship of a stadium, almost as many vertical red and white stripes as horizontal ones, like the world’s most devilish game of Where’s Wally. Like several other games so far there were some empty seats which undermined the wisdom of Fifa’s ticketing policy, although several fans entering the stadium told The Independent they had paid around $1,000 for tickets, so Fifa may not miss a few going unsold.
Donald Trump did not attend but Tom Cruise, David Beckham, Brad Pitt, Halle Berry, Hilary Duff and Vince Vaughn were among the famous faces posted on giant screens with their names captioned beneath them, as they do here. What they witnessed was the standout performance of the tournament so far.
Pulisic danced into the box before drawing the mistake from Bobadilla for America’s first goal, and Pulisic was involved again down the left when he raced into space before squaring for Balogun to convert a sharp first-time finish. Balogun’s second goal was even better, shrugging off a defender before pausing just a moment and then spearing a shot into the top corner.
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Paraguay pulled a goal back in the second half through substitute Mauricio, but the US showed off their firepower in reserve when Gio Reyna came off the bench to swerve an arcing finish past Gill to seal three points.
“Poch has said many times, why not us?” added Balogun. “We have to believe. You can’t do anything if you don’t believe in yourself.” By the full-time whistle, there were no more disbelievers.
;)
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