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Fantasy baseball Week 18 pitchers: Sleepers, streamers and two-start targets

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Welcome back to baseball. How did it feel to set your lineup after taking this past Monday off? Pretty good, right?

Well, it’s already time to set it again.

It is, anyway, if your league treated the first weekend after the All-Star break, meaning Thursday through Sunday, as its own distinct scoring period. Not everyone did. Some combined it with the first full week for a supersized 11-day scoring period. If that’s your league, then this article doesn’t apply to you, plain and simple. It’s only for those who are beginning a new scoring period Monday, a scoring period that I’m going to call Week 18.

As usual, I’ve limited my selection to those rostered in less than 80 percent of CBS Sports leagues. All information is up to date as of late Sunday.

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Sleeper pitchers for Week 18 (July 20-26)

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Tempo close first half of inagural season with a loss

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TORONTO – The Toronto Tempo are looking forward to a mental and physical rest period over the WNBA’s all-star break — so they can be ready to attack the season’s second half.

The expansion franchise dropped a 109-83 decision to the Las Vegas Aces (18-7) at Coca-Cola Coliseum on Monday night. Toronto (10-16) enters the break having lost three straight and seven of their last eight games overall.

It’s been an eventful opening half for Canada’s first WNBA team. The Tempo have enjoyed memorable moments, including Marina Mabrey’s WNBA record-tying 53 point-performance against the Los Angeles Sparks on June 25 and setting a league attendance record at Montreal’s Bell Centre earlier this month.

But Toronto has also been hampered by key injuries, all while experiencing the growing pains expected of an expansion team. The break will be a moment to reset, said Tempo centre Isabelle Harrison.

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“We have people in and out, injuries left and right,” said Harrison, who scored a career-high 26 points in the loss. “So, really resting, but coming in and having the mindset of just being tough. 

“I can live with a lot of different things that might not go well. But we just have to be tougher and be ready to face these teams that we have coming up after the break.”

On Monday, the Tempo also faced a new challenge. Head coach Sandy Brondello wasn’t on the bench as she served a one-game suspension handed down by the league for an “inappropriate” comment she made about Atlanta star Angel Reese during the Dream’s 111- 92 win Friday.

It happened when Tempo centre, Nyara Sabally fouled Reese after an offensive rebound. While the call was reviewed, microphones picked up Brondello yelling at the referees, “Angel, she’s a protected species.”

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Brondello issued a written apology for her choice of words on social media the following day. She later told the media she’d reached out to Reese immediately following Friday’s game.

Tempo associate coach Olaf Lange, who is married to Brondello, assumed head coaching duties for the game. He was asked ahead of Monday’s contest if he thought the suspension was fair.

“I’m not going to entertain that,” he said. “I think my wife handled it well.

“I’m not in the business of judging if this is justified or not. It is what it is, and I’m here to coach.”

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Lange said the team was ready to turn its attention to facing the Aces.

“The players handled it very, very professionally,” he said. “There was support, and then there was understanding of the situation, and they really wanted to move on and focus on the game.”

The Tempo were in tough against the defending champion Aces (18-7), who were making their first trip to Toronto. A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young combined for 50 points as Las Vegas took control of the game in the second half.

“Vegas is the champion in three of the last four years,” Lange said. “This is a terrific basketball team.”

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The loss capped a 2-7 stretch for the Tempo during their nine-game homestand that spanned 26 days and three venues, including Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, Coca-Cola Coliseum and the Bell Centre.

While Mabrey will head to Chicago for her first all-star Game appearance, the remaining Tempo players are prepared to use the break to recuperate. When play resumes, Mabrey said the club needs to “get better and not feel sorry for ourselves.”

The Tempo visit the Minnesota Lynx on July 28.

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Man United transfer news LIVE – Manu Kone latest, Bradley Barcola ‘hijack’, Alex Scott twist

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Manchester United remain interested in signing Leicester City defender Ben Nelson this summer.

The 22-year-old has come up through the Foxes academy and is highly rated. But he has just 12 months remaining on his contract, with reports that he has asked the club to leave this summer following relegation to League One.

United are showing an interest alongside Torino, Borussia Monchengladbach and West Ham.

Leicester are standing firm on their £10 million asking price, with Nelson playing an hour of their pre-season friendly win over Burton Albion on Saturday.

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Leicester City defender Ben Nelson has been linked with a move to Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)

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MLB roundup: Red Sox edge Orioles for 14th straight win

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Jul 20, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) celebrates beating the Baltimore Orioles with catcher Connor Wong (12) at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn ImagesJul 20, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) celebrates beating the Baltimore Orioles with catcher Connor Wong (12) at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Caleb Durbin hit a tiebreaking solo home run to break in the eighth inning as the Boston Red Sox extended their winning streak to 14 games by beating the visiting Baltimore Orioles, 6-5, Monday night.

The streak is the second longest in club history and one short of the franchise record set in 1946.

Durbin’s homer came against reliever Tyler Wells (2-2) and broke a 5-5 tie. It was his 10th home run of the season. Baltimore had runners on second and third with two outs in the ninth, but Tyler O’Neill lined out to shortstop to end the game. Garrett Whitlock (5-1) pitched a scoreless eighth to earn the win. Aroldis Chapman worked the ninth for his 22nd save.

Christian Encarnacion-Strand homered and Gunnar Henderson had three doubles for the Orioles, who committed four errors. The loss ended Baltimore’s seven-game winning streak.

Yankees 8, Pirates 5

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Jazz Chisholm Jr. homered twice as New York played one of its best games at home of late to beat Pittsburgh.

The Yankees won for the third time in their past 12 home games and scored its most runs in a home game since a 10-5 victory over the Chicago White Sox on June 17 thanks to Chisholm, who homered in the first and third off Pittsburgh’s Braxton Ashcraft (9-4) and produced his 10th career multi-homer game.

Chisholm’s second homer occurred after rookie Esmerlyn Valdez hit a 431-foot two-run home run that gave the Pirates a 5-4 lead in the top of the third. Valdez’s drive to right gave him an RBI in eight straight games and 13 homers in the first 32 games of his career.

Guardians 13, Twins 4

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Rookie Petey Halpin hit his first two home runs and Rhys Hoskins had his 14th career multi-homer game as Cleveland went deep a season-high seven times to throttle visiting Minnesota.

Travis Bazzana and Brayan Rocchio also cleared the fence against Twins starter Joe Ryan (6-6), who allowed a franchise- and ballpark-record six homers in four innings — the most in the majors this season — in his first appearance since the All-Star Game.

Patrick Bailey belted Cleveland’s seventh homer off Woo-Suk Go in the seventh, tying the club’s mark for most ever at home. Tanner Bibee (4-9) won his second consecutive start, working six innings and giving up two runs on six hits.

Rays 7, Blue Jays 1

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Victor Mesa Jr., Cedric Mullins and Nick Fortes socked solo home runs as Tampa Bay won in Toronto to snap a five-game losing streak.

Junior Caminero was 3-for-4 with two doubles, a walk, and two RBIs in the opener of a four-game series to support Nick Martinez, who pitched six effective innings.

Martinez (9-2) allowed one run, six hits and one walk with no strikeouts to help Tampa Bay go to 6-1 against Toronto this season. Toronto is now 1-3 on a six-game homestand and fell 11 1/2 games behind the first-place Rays in the American League East.

Phillies 10, Dodgers 7

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Trea Turner had two home runs, a double and five RBIs to fuel Philadelphia over visiting Los Angeles.

Brandon Marsh, Bryce Harper and Derek Hill also homered for the Phillies, who provided Cristopher Sanchez (12-4) with plenty of offensive support. After struggling in his first All-Star start last week, the left-hander allowed three runs and seven hits in 5 1/3 innings Monday, striking out seven without a walk.

Mookie Betts homered twice as part of a 4-for-5 night for the Dodgers, while Andy Pages chipped in with two hits and an RBI. Los Angeles starter Emmet Sheehan (4-7) absorbed the loss after allowing six runs and eight hits in 5 1/3 innings.

Braves 3, Padres 2

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Michael Harris II and Ozzie Albies hit solo home runs and Bryce Elder pitched six strong innings to help Atlanta beat visiting San Diego in the opener of their four-game series. It was Atlanta’s first win in four tries against San Diego.

Harris went deep in the fifth to tie the game and Albies homered in the sixth, although their streak of nine consecutive home games with at least five runs came to an end. Elder (6-6) allowed two runs on five hits and one walk, striking out four. Victor Mederos pitched the final 2 1/3 innings and earned his first career save.

San Diego’s Ty France extended his hitting streak to a season-high eight games with a single in the fourth and homered to start the seventh.

Tigers 8. Cubs 6 (10 innings)

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Dillon Dingler hit two home runs and added the go-ahead RBI single in the 10th inning to help Detroit survive a comeback by host Chicago.

Detroit scored four times in the first inning and maintained the lead until Ian Happ’s two-run homer off Kyle Finnegan in the eighth knotted the score at 5-5. With runners on the corners and no one out in the 10th, Dingler hit a chopper deep into the hole at shortstop and beat the throw to first from Dansby Swanson. Spencer Torkelson added on with a two-run single.

Dingler was 4-for-5 with three RBIs while Riley Greene got things started with a three-run homer in the first for Detroit.

Royals 4, Giants 3

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Salvador Perez clubbed a two-run shot to move within one of tying George Brett’s all-time club home run record, but Kansas City needed Nick Loftin’s walk-off squeeze bunt in the ninth inning to beat visiting San Francisco.

The Giants trailed 3-1 and were down to their final out in the top of the ninth when Kansas City’s Alex Lange (1-5) allowed a single to Jung Hoo Lee. Willy Adames then sent a low-and-away pitch the opposite way and just over the right field fence to tie the game.

However, with runners on first and third and one out against Caleb Kilian (2-6) in the bottom of the frame, Loftin, who replaced All-Star Bobby Witt Jr. after the latter exited with lingering low back tightness earlier in the contest, bounced a bunt toward charging first baseman Bryce Eldridge, who could not make a clean play to get Josh Rojas at the plate.

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Brewers 8, Mets 3

Joey Ortiz had a three-run homer, and Andrew Vaughn and Cooper Pratt added solo shots to pace Milwaukee over visiting New York and former teammate Freddy Peralta.

Brewers starter Jacob Misiorowski, who skipped his last start before the All-Star break due to arm fatigue, allowed one unearned run before exiting after four innings and 65 pitches. Two of the four hits allowed by the hard-throwing right-hander were infield singles. He struck out six and walked one. Craig Yoho (2-0) followed Misiorowski with one scoreless inning.

Peralta (5-9), facing his former team for the first time, was tagged for seven runs on eight hits in 5 1/3 innings, striking out six and walking two in a 107-pitch outing.

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Astros 8, Marlins 5

Yordan Alvarez produced his fifth multi-homer game of the season to help Houston snap a four-game skid with a win over visiting Miami.

Alvarez finished 3-for-4 with a pair of solo home runs, his 27th career multi-homer game. Jeremy Pena added his second career grand slam as the highlight of a six-run second inning for the Astros. Ronel Blanco allowed two homers and four runs, striking out eight in his first start since May 17, 2025 after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Joe Mack and Liam Hicks hit two-run homers for the Marlins. Miami starter Janson Junk (4-6) was tagged for six runs on five hits over four innings. The Marlins lost their seventh straight game, falling out of the final National League wild-card spot with the loss.

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White Sox 10, Rangers 3

Andrew Benintendi delivered a bases-clearing double in the fifth inning and Miguel Vargas had three hits and two RBIs to boost visiting Chicago over Texas in Arlington.

Chicago scored five runs in the ninth inning and is half a game ahead of the Cleveland Guardians atop the American League Central.

White Sox starter Erick Fedde spaced two runs and four hits in four innings with six strikeouts while Texas right-hander Jacob deGrom fell to 7-6 after an uneven outing. deGrom allowed five runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. He walked two and struck out six.

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Nationals 7, Rockies 3

CJ Abrams homered for the second straight game, one of three home runs for Washington in its win over Colorado in Denver.

Jacob Young also went deep and finished with three hits, Curtis Mead contributed three hits and Andres Chaparro hit his fourth home run for Washington. Riley Cornelio (1-1) tossed 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief, and Tom Cosgrove got the final six outs for his first save.

Jake McCarthy led the Rockies with a pair of hits. Kyle Freeland (2-9) allowed three runs in the first inning, but settled in to allow just four runs on seven hits over six innings. Colorado, which has dropped three of their first four out of the All-Star break, has the worst record in the National League.

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Mariners 8, Reds 0

Cal Raleigh hit a grand slam and George Kirby pitched six scoreless innings as Seattle defeated visiting Cincinnati in the opener of a three-game interleague series.

Victor Robles went 4-for-4 and scored twice and Raleigh provided five RBIs for the Mariners. Kirby (8-8) allowed three hits, walked one batter and struck out six. Julio Rodriguez exited after the fifth inning, when he was hit by an Elly De La Cruz throw while legging out a run-scoring infield single.

Andrew Abbott (5-6) took the loss despite allowing just one unearned run on four hits over six innings. The top six hitters in the Reds’ lineup were a combined 0-for-20, with Cincinnati’s three hits coming from each of the bottom three hitters in the order.

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Angels 3, Cardinals 2

Jo Adell was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth to give Los Angeles a walk-off victory over St. Louis in the opener of a three-game series in Anaheim, Calif.

The Angels, who were 0-48 when trailing after eight innings this season and had lost their last 106 such games, entered the bottom of the ninth behind 2-1.

Cardinals’ All-Star closer Riley O’Brien (3-4) struck out Mike Trout to begin the frame, but was touched for a single and a double, hit a batter and intentionally walked another before plunking Adell with a 3-0 sinker to drive in the game-winning run. Adell also hit a home run among two hits.

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Athletics 5, Diamondbacks 2

Jeff McNeil delivered a tiebreaking pinch-hit, two-run single during a three-run seventh inning and the Athletics’ bullpen made it stand up in a victory over Arizona in Phoenix.

Tommy White went 4-for-5 with a run scored in his third major league game. Jacob Wilson and Joshua Kuroda-Grauer both had a homer among their two hits. A’s starter Jeffrey Springs gave up two runs on six hits over five innings but still saw his winless streak extended to 16.

Ketel Marte smacked a two-run homer for the Diamondbacks. Nolan Arenado became the sixth active player with 2,000 hits with his fifth-inning double. Arizona starter Mitch Bratt gave up two runs and eight hits over 4 2/3 innings in his third major league start. Kevin Ginkel (3-3) surrendered all three Athletics runs in the seventh.

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–Field Level Media

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Mariners CF Julio Rodriguez ‘good’ after exiting vs. Reds

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Jul 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) runs the bases after a home run hit by Seattle Mariners second baseman Cole Young (2) (not pictured) during the seventh inning against the San Francisco Giants at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn ImagesJul 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) runs the bases after a home run hit by Seattle Mariners second baseman Cole Young (2) (not pictured) during the seventh inning against the San Francisco Giants at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Although he abruptly exited his third game back from the injured list on Monday, Seattle Mariners star outfielder Julio Rodriguez didn’t sustain an injury in their 8-0 home defeat of the Cincinnati Reds.

Instead, it was simply what Mariners manager Dan Wilson deemed a precautionary move after Rodriguez was hit in the left leg by an errant throw while legging out a run-scoring infield single in the fifth inning.

“He’s good,” Wilson said. “Julio busting down the line, got the ball off the leg. We kinda had to make a quick decision and just thought that it was the best moment there (to take him out) just coming off what he’s coming off of to get him out and see how he is tomorrow. … Kinda hit the bag hard and the ball hit him, and it was just a good moment there to make a decision to give him a minute.”

Rodriguez hit a chopper between third and short that shortstop Elly De La Cruz backhanded. He double-clutched before making a throw that eluded first baseman Sal Stewart and struck Rodriguez.

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Rodriguez returned to the lineup Saturday after being on the 7-day concussion list since July 2 when he was hit in the back of the helmet by a throw while sliding into second base. He’s 2-for-11 with two RBIs in his first three games back.

Wilson also shared postgame that Seattle infielder J.P. Crawford, who was scratched from the lineup shortly before Monday’s game, is day-to-day with wrist soreness

–Field Level Media

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‘I don’t see it as a one-sided series’: Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza warns India ahead of T20Is | Cricket News

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'I don't see it as a one-sided series': Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza warns India ahead of T20Is
Zimbabwe’s skipper Sikandar Raza plays a shot during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Group 1 match against India (ANI Photo)

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza believes his side is capable of matching India in the upcoming three-match T20I series, saying there is little to separate the two teams despite India’s reputation. The series begins on Thursday, with India looking to recover from disappointing T20I defeats against Ireland and England.Rejecting suggestions that India will dominate, Raza said Zimbabwe has been playing consistent and exciting cricket in recent months.“Both countries will have an equal chance in this series. But one thing I am very sure about is that because Zimbabwe has been playing very consistent and very entertaining cricket, I can say this for sure that this series will be very entertaining,” Raza told Star Sports.The experienced all-rounder pointed to Zimbabwe’s recent victories over Australia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh as proof that his team can compete with top sides.He added, “As far as winning or losing is concerned, both countries have an equal chance to win the series.”Raza believes both teams are going through a rebuilding phase, making the contest even more competitive.“Yes, India is going through a transition and to some extent you’ll see Zimbabwe is also gonna have a little bit of transition happening as well. I don’t see it as a one-sided series,” he said.India enter the series after suffering a 0-2 T20I defeat in Ireland and a 0-4 loss in England under new captain Shreyas Iyer, while also losing the ODI series 1-2 under Shubman Gill. The remaining two T20Is will be played on July 25 and 26.

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EXPLAINED: Why Spain players cut the goal nets after winning FIFA World Cup 2026 | Football News

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EXPLAINED: Why Spain players cut the goal nets after winning FIFA World Cup 2026

NEW DELHI: Spain’s celebrations after winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 caught the attention of football fans around the world. Apart from the usual scenes of joy, hugs, cheers and trophy celebrations, one moment stood out at the New York New Jersey Stadium, officially known as MetLife Stadium. After beating Argentina 1-0 in extra time to lift their second World Cup title, several Spain players were seen cutting pieces of the goal net and taking them home as souvenirs.

Spain borrow a famous basketball tradition

The unusual celebration came after substitute Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the final in the 106th minute to seal a historic victory over defending champions Argentina.Once the celebrations began, Spain’s players borrowed one of basketball’s most famous traditions by cutting down the goal nets.

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The pieces of the net became personal keepsakes, marking one of the biggest achievements of their careers.

Where did the tradition begin?

Cutting down the nets is a long-standing basketball tradition that began in the US state of Indiana.In the early 20th century, winning teams started taking the nets home as souvenirs to remember championship victories. The tradition became famous in 1947 when North Carolina State coach Everett Case celebrated his team’s Southern Conference Tournament title by climbing onto his players’ shoulders and cutting down part of the basket net.

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Case spent 23 years coaching high school basketball in his home state of Indiana, winning four state championships before joining North Carolina State in 1946.After leading NC State to the Southern Conference Tournament title in 1947, Case cut down the net as a souvenir of the victory. The gesture quickly became one of basketball’s most iconic championship traditions and is now seen regularly during NCAA tournaments and other major competitions.

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Spain’s players brought the tradition to football’s biggest stage, turning the goal net into a lasting reminder of their World Cup triumph at MetLife Stadium after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final.

Spain dominate FIFA World Cup 2026 final

Spain were crowned world champions for only the second time in their history after a dominant performance against Argentina.Although the scoreline was only 1-0, Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled the game from start to finish. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a string of outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest before Ferran Torres finally broke the deadlock in the 106th minute after Nico Williams headed Pedro Porro’s cross into his path.

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Edward Green Linked With Vacant Godswill Akpabio United Coaching Job

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Former Rivers United assistant coach Edward Green has emerged as the leading candidate to become the new head coach of Godswill Akpabio United FC, SportsRation reports.

The Nigeria National League (NNL) side is searching for a new manager following the departure of Coach Lawrence Kingsley, with the club expected to resume preparations for the new season next week.

Although no official announcement has been made, Green is understood to be the favourite for the role.

  • Olumide AjiboladeOlumide Ajibolade

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Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most promising young coaches, the appointment would mark Green’s first job as a substantive head coach. If confirmed, he will face high expectations as Godswill Akpabio United aim to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Edward Green linked to Godswill Akpabio United FC Coaching JobEdward Green linked to Godswill Akpabio United FC Coaching Job
Coach Edward Green

Green recently left his role as Assistant Manager at Rivers United after the 2025/26 season, where he worked under former Super Eagles coach Finidi George.

Before joining the Port Harcourt club, he built an impressive reputation during five years at Akwa United, playing a key role in the club’s historic 2021 NPFL title triumph. He also coached Akwa United’s U-15 team and later served as an assistant coach at Sporting Lagos.

Edward Green linked to Godswill Akpabio United FC Coaching JobEdward Green linked to Godswill Akpabio United FC Coaching Job
Coach Edward Green during a CAF Champions League match with Rivers United FC.

A UEFA C-licensed coach, Green is considered one of the few Nigerian tacticians with a European coaching qualification and is continuing to work towards higher coaching licences.

Godswill Akpabio United are expected to make an official announcement on their new head coach in the coming days.

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Football Takes Back Seat: The Untold Cost Of Spain’s World Cup 2026 Triumph

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The FIFA World Cup 2026 promised to open new doors, reach a wider audience, and mark the beginning of a new chapter with 48 teams participating for the first time. While there’s no denying that the expanded tournament gave hope to several of those nations that had stopped dreaming of participating in the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’, it also hinted at how catastrophic it could be if politics were allowed to infiltrate sports. As the tournament concludes with Spain’s triumphant performance against defending champions Argentina in the final, the sporting world isn’t only buzzing about the footballing drama that unfolded in North America, but also about the precedent set when commercial expansion and geopolitical realities diluted the most loved game on the globe.

For decades, international football federations have balanced the global expansion of the game against accessibility for local and international supporters. In 2026, the sheer cost of attending-from elevated ticket pricing to dynamic surges in host city accommodation-raised pertinent questions about whether traditional fans were being forced out of the game.

Even if the financial barrier was crossed, non-sporting political friction became the second hurdle that saw many fall.

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The case of Somali referee Omar Artan, who was named the CAF’s Referee of the Year, drew international attention. Despite holding valid travel documentation, Artan was denied entry by US immigration authorities in Miami under strict border-vetting protocols. Even FIFA couldn’t intervene, leaving Artan with no option but to return home.

Similar geopolitical tension affected the Iranian national team, whose delegation faced stringent visa and logistical restrictions that required them to base operations in Mexico and commute under tight timelines for fixtures held in the US. Iran was even asked to return to its base in Tijuana immediately after the game, creating a logistical nightmare for players that they found tough to recover from between matches.

FIFA and global bodies have often advocated open-access ideals, but implementation is frequently overlooked.

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Political Neutrality Blurred

In its rulebook, FIFA mandates political neutrality and states that football governance must remain independent of state interference. However, the lifting of USA striker Folarin Balogun‘s one-match ban is a prime example of how the line between politics and sports was blurred in this tournament.

After receiving a red card during a Round of 32 fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun was facing an automatic one-match ban. US President Donald Trump intervened and reportedly called FIFA chief Gianni Infantino three times, asking for his intervention in the matter. Eventually, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee froze the suspension under Article 27 of its code, placing Balogun on probation and clearing him to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium.

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Though the decision arguably ended up putting more pressure on the US team and Balogun, European football authorities (including UEFA) and rival associations expressed concern over the precedent, saying the action was strictly against FIFA’s own anti-politics protocol.

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A World Cup Broken To Suit US Taste

From an operational standpoint, the 2026 edition of the World Cup was broken and re-moulded into a format to match American broadcast and event-management standards.

With matches scheduled across extreme climate conditions and designed to maximise prime-time advertising slots, mid-half cooling breaks became standard practice, functionally altering the match rhythm into distinct quarters-breaking a flow that has been central to the way football is played for years.

What was mind-boggling was the fact that the FIFA World Cup final saw the half-time window being broadened to accommodate a show that purists, including Wayne Rooney, branded ‘crap’. The half-time break in the final lasted for nearly 30 minutes to accommodate large-scale musical performances, often witnessed in models used by North American sports leagues.

Critics strongly believe that this over-commercialisation prioritises broadcast revenue and corporate sponsors over the traditional integrity and physical demands of the 90-minute game. If the trend continues, football as we know it may start to go extinct.

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What Next For Football?

While this World Cup has clearly demonstrated FIFA’s capability to stage an unprecedentedly large event, it has also exposed how far the sport’s governing body is willing to go to suit its commercial and political interests.

When financial growth and geopolitical influence dominate the conversation surrounding a World Cup, the reputation of an international sport like football is eroded. Restoring confidence before future expansion cycles will require FIFA to establish stronger safeguards, ensuring the soul of the game continues to be protected from outside interests.

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NFL.com Claims Vikings Have Unusual Roster Need

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T.J. Hockenson celebrates a touchdown with Justin Jefferson during a Vikings game against the Bengals.
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson celebrates with wide receiver Justin Jefferson after a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals at U.S. Bank Stadium. During the Sept. 21, 2025, contest in Minneapolis, the Vikings leaned on two of their premier offensive playmakers as the passing attack continued producing points in an early-season matchup. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.

Some fans would say outside linebacker; others would shout backup guard. But NFL.com came along last week, claiming the Minnesota Vikings’ main roster need heading into 2026 is at tight end.

And that’s despite employing T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver at TE1 and TE2, respectively. Matt Okada just doesn’t think that’s enough firepower.

Hockenson’s Role Makes the Depth Question Easy to Miss

T.J. Hockenson runs after a catch against Falcons safety Billy Bowman Jr. Vikings tight end depth
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) carries the ball after a reception while defended by Atlanta Falcons safety Billy Bowman Jr. (33) during second-half action on September 14, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Hockenson’s ability to gain yards after the catch remained central to Minnesota’s passing attack as the Vikings worked to establish offensive rhythm. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images.

NFL.com: Vikings Need TE Help

Okada combed through the NFL, identifying one roster need per team, landing on tight end for the purple team.

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He explained, “Once upon a time (three years ago), T.J. Hockenson was a strong starting tight end. In two seasons since, he has totaled just 893 yards and three touchdowns. Vikings TEs accumulated the fourth-fewest receiving yards in the league in 2025.”

“And they did nothing to improve the position this offseason. While Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jauan Jennings are a strong wide receiver trio, a lack of production at tight end lowers the ceiling for the Vikings and their yet-to-be-named starting quarterback.”

Generally speaking, it’s unlikely that Minnesota would invest heavily in a tight end trade or signing this summer, aside from perhaps something minimal, like Darren Waller in free agency.

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The Group Doesn’t Lack Options

Here’s the Vikings’ TE depth chart ahead of training camp:

TE1: T.J. Hockenson
TE2: Josh Oliver
TE3: Ben Yurosek
TE4: Gavin Bartholomew
TE5: Bryson Nesbit
TE6: Marshall Lang

Hockenson, barring injury, is guaranteed to get the lion’s share of passing game targets from Kyler Murray or J.J. McCarthy. Oliver is Minnesota’s blocking-TE asset. And Yurosek and Bartholomew will do battle at training camp for the TE3 job.

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Minnesota Vikings TE Josh Oliver in 2024
Nov 10, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

Okada thinks the group is underwhelming or mid.

A Rebound Season for Hockenson?

Hockenson tore his ACL late in the 2023 season, and based on his production, he hasn’t quite been the same since. He totaled 960 receiving yards in 15 games that year, but in 2024 and 2025, he’s accrued 893 yards combined. Hockenson averaged about 35 receiving yards per game in those two seasons.

While his numbers from 2024 and 2025 are not bad, he’s paid among the richest tight ends in the NFL, and if a team spends top dollar on a TE1, that guy should get close to 1,000 yards per season or exceed it.

Instead, Hockenson’s role has changed, while his paycheck did not in 2024 and 2025, deployed more as a blocking tight end when offensive line injuries have arisen. Minnesota is due for a season with relatively sturdy OL health, so the working theory suggests that Hockenson can get back on track as a pass-catcher.

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NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Jacksonville Jaguars
Nov 10, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) runs through a tackle by Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Foyesade Oluokun (23) and safety Darnell Savage (6) during the fourth quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images.

And if his quarterback is Murray, well, Murray has a history of feeding tight ends, namely Trey McBride in Arizona. It would not be strange at all for Hockenson to deliver a bounce-back season with Murray under center.

Hockenson also took a pay cut this offseason.

2027 Best Time to Evaluate TE Need

If Okada has it right, and the Vikings end up needing a new tight end in 2027, the free-agent options are grim. Names like this are on tap for the open market:

  • Evan Engram
  • Hunter Henry
  • David Njoku

The 2027 NFL Draft is a bit more promising, with these players tentatively expected to be taken before the end of Round 3:

  • Trey’Dez Green (LSU)
  • Jamari Johnson (Oregon)
  • Peter Clarke (Temple)
  • Terrance Carter Jr. (Texas Tech)

Many expected the Vikings to entertain the idea of drafting Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq in April — which would go hand in hand with Okada’s theory — but the New York Jets beat the Vikings to it, and Minnesota selected defensive tackle Caleb Banks from Florida.

Hockenson turned 29 a couple of weeks ago.

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Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker

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Yordan Alvarez homers twice, Ronel Blanco returns as Astros top Marlins

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Jul 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco (56) reacts after retiring the side against the Miami Marlins during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn ImagesJul 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco (56) reacts after retiring the side against the Miami Marlins during the fourth inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Yordan Alvarez produced his fifth multi-homer game of the season to help the Houston Astros snap a four-game skid with an 8-5 win over the visiting Miami Marlins on Monday.

Alvarez finished 3-for-4 with a pair of solo home runs. He posted his 12th three-hit game of the season and his 27th career multi-homer game to send the Marlins to their seventh straight loss.

The Marlins seized a 2-0 lead in the top of the second inning against Astros right-hander Ronel Blanco, who was reinstated from the 60-day injured list to make his first start since May 17, 2025. Blanco missed 15 months due to Tommy John surgery.

His season debut was uneven. Blanco recorded eight strikeouts over 4 2/3 innings and allowed only two hits. However, Blanco issued three walks, and the two hits were two-run home runs from Joe Mack and Liam Hicks.

Mack followed a two-out walk issued to Jakob Marsee with a 409-foot blast to right field in the second. Blanco opened that frame with strikeouts of Hicks and Griffin Conine, but Mack followed Marsee by drilling a 3-2 fastball for his eighth homer of the season.

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The Astros fashioned an immediate response against Marlins right-hander Janson Junk (4-6). Taylor Trammell ignited a six-run second inning with an RBI single that bounced into right and scored LaMonte Wade Jr. Two batters later, Lucas Spence walked to load the bases with one out for Jeremy Pena, who rallied from an 0-2 hole by delivering his second career grand slam.

Pena went the opposite way to right for his seventh homer of the season. Alvarez followed with a titanic shot into the upper deck in right-center field, his 32nd home run covering 428 feet.

Hicks shaved that 6-2 deficit in half in the fourth when he followed a leadoff walk from Xavier Edwards with his 14th home run, a 393-foot shot to right. Blanco rallied and retired the ensuing five batters, but a two-out walk to Kyle Stowers in the fifth spelled the end of his 86-pitch outing.

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Alvarez greeted Marlins reliever Lake Bachar with a 419-foot laser to right-center leading off the fifth. Junk allowed six runs on five hits and three walks with three strikeouts over four innings.

Jose Altuve added Houston’s eighth run with a two-out single in the seventh following Isaac Paredes’ triple. Astros closer Josh Hader gave up three hits in the ninth, including Heriberto Hernandez’s run-scoring single, before locking down the win.

–Field Level Media

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