LOS ANGELES — With Group G finely poised, both Belgium and Iran can take a big step toward the knockout phase when they continue their World Cup 2026 campaign on Sunday. All four teams are locked on one point after their first fixture, so victory in Los Angeles could prove vital; defeat for either side might leave them on the brink of an early exit.

Belgium’s Underwhelming Start

Still clinging on to the aging remnants of a “golden generation,” Belgium kicked off their World Cup campaign with an unconvincing 1-1 draw against Egypt on Monday evening. After falling behind to a stunning strike by Emam Ashour, the Red Devils then turned to one of their old masters, with substitute Romelu Lukaku effectively forcing Mohamed Hany to score an own goal.

However, Belgium are now winless across their last three World Cup matches, having won 11 of the previous 13, and that demonstrates a recent decline. Despite their lofty status as one of Europe’s top teams, they suffered an embarrassing exit in the group stage at Qatar 2022, before limping out in the last 16 at Euro 2024.

Still Considered Strong Favorites Overall

Nonetheless, Rudi Garcia’s side are still ranked ninth by FIFA and topped their group in qualifying with 18 points from a possible 24, scoring 29 goals and conceding only seven. Given their next two group games are against underdogs Iran and New Zealand, most will still expect Belgium to go through, particularly with the talent available to Garcia.

Iran’s Resilient Opener

While the Belgians have previously reached two semi-finals, Iran have made six World Cup appearances without getting past the first phase. Amid unceasing off-field issues, head coach Amir Ghalenoei led his side out for their opener on Tuesday, and they showed great spirit to twice fight back from behind. Both Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mahebi equalized against New Zealand to claim a potentially valuable point, although that was Iran’s most “winnable” game on paper.

A Tournament Clouded by Off-Field Tension

Iran’s participation in this tournament had been shrouded in uncertainty for several months, due to the ongoing conflict with host country USA, the overriding reaction was one of relief simply to be competing. Under an agreement brokered with FIFA, Ghalenoei’s squad are not permitted to stay overnight on U.S. soil, so they returned straight to their base in the Mexican city of Tijuana to prepare for Sunday’s meeting with Belgium.

A First-Ever Meeting Between the Two Nations

It will be the first encounter between the two countries at senior level, but history suggests that Iran should not expect to prevail. Not only have the West Asian nation produced just three wins from 19 World Cup matches to date, but they have also lost seven of 10 against European opposition.

Belgium’s Team News

Following a below-par performance against Egypt, Belgium boss Garcia may decide to make changes, though it remains to be seen whether Lukaku is fit enough to start up front. The Red Devils’ all-time top scorer emerged from the bench to win his 127th cap earlier this week, but he barely played for Napoli last season and has now gone seven World Cup games without a goal.

Utility forward Charles De Ketelaere might therefore continue as a false nine, with Leandro Trossard and Matías Fernández-Pardo also capable of filling that role. As Zeno Debast is still sidelined by a thigh injury, both central defenders could be retained, but with Maxim De Cuyper and Joaquín Seys waiting in the wings, neither full-back can be sure of keeping his place.

Iran’s Team News

Meanwhile, Iran have minor doubts about midfield pair Roozbeh Cheshmi and Saman Ghoddos, the latter of whom was forced off against New Zealand due to an ankle issue. In that game, 36-year-old Rezaeian became the oldest player on record to both score and assist in one World Cup match, and he will continue to feature at right-back.

Up front, captain and star striker Mehdi Taremi aims to increase his haul of 60 international goals, most likely linking up with Shahriyar Moghanlou or Belgium-based Dennis Eckert.

Predicted Lineups

Belgium’s possible starting lineup: Courtois; Meunier, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Onana, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; De Ketelaere.

Iran’s possible starting lineup: Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Nemati, Mohammadi; Mohebi, Ezatolahi, Ghoddos, Ghayedi; Taremi, Moghanlou.

The Prediction

We say: Belgium 2-1 Iran. Although Belgium are top seeds and Iran will take the role of embattled outsiders, there may not be that much to choose between the pair this weekend. Neither side is completely sound at the back, but the Belgians’ greater quality in attacking areas should see them claim three precious points.

With all four Group G teams currently tied on a single point following the opening round of matches, Sunday’s result in Los Angeles carries significant weight for both nations’ paths through the remainder of the group stage. A Belgium win would put Garcia’s side firmly back on track toward the knockout rounds, given their comparatively favorable remaining fixture against New Zealand. For Iran, already navigating extraordinary off-field circumstances tied to their inability to remain overnight on U.S. soil, a positive result against one of Europe’s traditionally strongest sides would represent a genuinely significant achievement — and would keep alive their bid to finally advance past the group stage for the first time in program history.

Kate Middleton greeted onlookers ahead of her official arrival at Royal Ascot on June 17, marking her first appearance at the prestigious horse-racing event in three years. The Princess of Wales was accompanied by her husband, Prince William, as the couple stepped into their horse-drawn carriage for the event’s daily procession.

A Warm Greeting From the Crowd

In an Instagram video posted by King’s Guard Tours, Kate waved hello to a small crowd of fans who had gathered nearby ahead of the royal procession. “You look lovely,” one fan said, while another called her “gorgeous.”

The princess responded warmly to the compliments before she and William continued on their way. “Thank you,” Kate said. “I’m hoping the sun stays out.” She and William bid farewell to the group as their carriage pulled away, continuing into the event’s traditional opening procession.

A Significant Return to the Races

Kate’s appearance at Royal Ascot marked her first time at the races in three years, making the outing a notable milestone in her recent return to a more active schedule of public royal engagements.

The Princess’s Outfit

For her return to the event, the princess rewore a bright yellow Roksanda midi-dress. Featuring a high neckline, short sleeves, and a cinched waist, the asymmetrical design comes with a bow detail at one shoulder. Kate paired it with a matching veiled hat from Jane Taylor London, an ivory Anya Hindmarch clutch, and her trusty beige suede pumps from Gianvito Rossi.

Her hair was swept back in an elegant low updo, showing off a pair of diamond earrings that previously belonged to Queen Elizabeth II. Coordinating with the clasp on her bag, Kate completed her look with a three-strand pearl bracelet from Princess Diana’s collection — a combination of pieces that reflected the layered royal history often woven into the princess’s public appearances.

Family in Attendance

Beyond her interaction with fans, Kate was also photographed spending time with family members at the event. At the event, Kate was photographed as she greeted her mom, Carole, along with her sister-in-law, Alizée Thevenet. The princess kissed her brother James’s wife, who wore a floral sundress with eyelet trim, on the cheek.

Thevenet completed her own look for the occasion with a straw boater hat, a chunky gold bangle, and a small leather tote, opting for a lighter, more casual aesthetic befitting the daytime social setting of the races.

Carole Middleton’s Look

Kate’s mother, Carole, also drew attention for her own carefully coordinated ensemble at the event. Carole selected a blush button-front midi-dress complete with a sharp collar and quarter-length sleeves. Matching slingbacks and a top-handle purse, as well as a sculptural hat with a built-in veil, topped off her ensemble, rounding out a look that complemented her daughter’s bright yellow dress without directly matching it.

A Tradition Steeped in Royal History

Royal Ascot has long served as one of the most prominent annual events on the British royal calendar, drawing members of the royal family alongside thousands of racing enthusiasts and fashion-watchers each year. The event’s signature daily procession, in which senior royals arrive by horse-drawn carriage, has become one of its most recognizable and closely followed traditions, offering the public a rare close-up glimpse of the family in a relatively informal, celebratory setting compared to more formal state occasions.

A Notable Moment in Kate’s Public Schedule

Kate’s three-year absence from the event, followed by her warmly received return this year, comes after a period in which the princess significantly scaled back her public engagements while undergoing treatment and recovery from a previously disclosed health matter. Her reappearance at high-profile public events like Royal Ascot has continued to be closely watched and warmly received by both royal watchers and the general public, with moments like Sunday’s friendly exchange with fans outside the procession serving as visible signs of her continued return to a fuller schedule of royal duties.

With Kate’s appearance at Royal Ascot now drawing widespread attention across royal and fashion media coverage alike, her continued presence at high-profile public events in the coming months will likely remain closely tracked as an indicator of her broader return to full royal duties. For now, the warm, informal moment captured outside the procession — complete with fan compliments and the princess’s characteristically gracious response — offered a glimpse of the kind of public goodwill that has continued to surround Kate throughout her time as a senior working member of the royal family.

Analyst forecasts often offer more than just numbers; they provide insights into where the next wave of market opportunities may emerge. For investors scanning the Sensex for potential outperformers, the latest analyst consensus highlights several heavyweight stocks that could deliver strong returns over the coming year.

According to Trendlyne data, multiple Sensex stocks show attractive upside potential over the next 12 months based on average analyst target prices. This “upside” represents the expected gain from current levels and serves as a research-backed indicator for investors seeking to position themselves ahead of potential rallies. Among them, nine Sensex stocks stand out, with projected gains ranging from 20% to 40%, suggesting strong return potential in an increasingly selective market.

Last week, the BSE benchmark Sensex jumped 1,274.95 points, or 1.68 per cent.

“Indian equity markets extended their recovery during the week, supported by easing geopolitical concerns, softer crude oil prices, and improving global risk sentiment. Although negotiations remain ongoing and the agreement is yet to be fully implemented, the reduction in geopolitical uncertainty has significantly improved market sentiment,” Ponmudi R, CEO – Enrich Money, an online trading and wealth tech firm, said.

The market valuation of Bharti Airtel surged by Rs 52,432.67 crore to Rs 11,62,963.30 crore, the most among the top-10 firms.

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) added Rs 51,675.23 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 5,56,726.30 crore.

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The valuation of Bajaj Finance soared by Rs 26,553.71 crore to Rs 5,98,501.25 crore, and that of Reliance Industries jumped by Rs 22,464.02 crore to Rs 17,71,882.96 crore.
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The market capitalisation (mcap) of Larsen & Toubro climbed Rs 21,929.12 crore to Rs 5,79,126.95 crore, and that of State Bank of India rallied Rs 16,753.57 crore to Rs 9,55,415.07 crore.
HDFC Bank‘s mcap edged higher by Rs 11,948.72 crore to Rs 12,01,263.14 crore, and that of Hindustan Unilever advanced by Rs 6,661.1 crore to Rs 5,15,946.75 crore.

The valuation of ICICI Bank rose by Rs 4,724.22 crore to Rs 9,66,021.99 crore.

However, the market value of TCS declined by Rs 12,699.49 crore to Rs 7,69,350.13 crore.

Reliance Industries remained the most valued domestic firm, followed by HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, ICICI Bank, State Bank of India, TCS, Bajaj Finance, Larsen & Toubro, LIC and Hindustan Unilever.

MELBOURNE — The Western Bulldogs secured a much-needed victory in a low-scoring affair, defeating an injury-hit St Kilda side 12.11 (83) to 8.13 (61) at Marvel Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The win propelled the Bulldogs into seventh place on the AFL ladder, keeping their finals hopes firmly alive.

It was a contest that tested the Bulldogs’ resilience from the opening bounce. St Kilda, already battling injuries, lost key players during the game, compounding their struggles in a match they needed to keep their own postseason aspirations on track. The Bulldogs controlled large portions of the game through midfield dominance but had to withstand a Saints fightback before sealing the result late.

Marcus Bontempelli was the standout performer for the visitors, collecting 34 disposals, 13 clearances and booting a goal, including a highlight-reel roving major in the second quarter that brought the crowd to its feet. His leadership and work rate set the tone for a Bulldogs side that has shown glimpses of its premiership pedigree this season. Tom Liberatore’s return added further steel to the midfield, with the veteran gathering 23 disposals and five clearances in his first game back since Round 6.

The Bulldogs jumped out of the blocks, kicking the first three goals of the match, mirroring a pattern St Kilda has endured in recent weeks. However, the Saints responded to trail by just 16 points at halftime. The second half remained a grind, with both teams trading blows in a physical encounter under the closed roof.

St Kilda’s injury woes worsened dramatically. Co-captain Jack Sinclair hobbled off early with a calf injury after recording just one disposal, and scans are expected to determine the severity. Ruckman Tom De Koning, a significant recruit for the Saints, was forced from the field in the second quarter after copping a knee to the ribs in a contest. He briefly returned but was ruled out at halftime. Rowan Marshall also spent time off the ground in the third quarter after a heavy hit in the ruck contest.

Despite the setbacks, St Kilda showed fight, particularly through their forward line and pressure around the ball. However, their inaccuracy and the Bulldogs’ ability to win the stoppages proved decisive. The Saints now sit outside the top eight with a challenging run ahead before their mid-season break.

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge would be pleased with the four-point haul, especially after recent inconsistencies. The return of Liberatore provided a boost, while players like Matt Kennedy contributed goals and contested work. The Bulldogs’ defense held firm in the final quarter to repel Saints surges and secure the 22-point victory.

This result highlights the competitive nature of the middle of the 2026 AFL ladder. For the Bulldogs (now 9-6), it reinforces their status as a dangerous finals contender when their best players fire. Bontempelli’s performance, in particular, underscores why he remains one of the league’s premier midfielders. His ability to influence contests at both ends of the ground was pivotal in a game lacking high-scoring flair but rich in intensity.

For St Kilda, the afternoon was a reminder of the fragility of their campaign. Coach Ross Lyon faces a significant challenge in managing the injury list while trying to extract more consistency from a group capable of strong performances but prone to slow starts. The loss of Sinclair and De Koning disrupts their structural balance, particularly in defense and ruck. Marshall’s availability will also be monitored closely.

The match statistics reflected the Bulldogs’ midfield control. They won the clearance battle decisively, allowing them to generate repeated forward entries. While St Kilda competed in tackles and contested possessions at times, they struggled to convert opportunities into scores, finishing with more behinds than goals.

Key moments included Bontempelli’s second-quarter goal, which came after a slick handball chain and highlighted the Bulldogs’ transition speed. In the final term, with the margin inside two goals, the Dogs’ experienced heads steadied the ship. Multiple players contributed to the defensive effort, denying the Saints clean looks at goal in the closing stages.

The Bulldogs’ forward setup, bolstered by returning players, provided enough targets to keep the Saints’ defense honest. Kennedy’s presence added another dimension, with his work alongside the likes of Aaron Naughton and others creating headaches for St Kilda’s back six.

This victory comes at an important time for the Western Bulldogs. With several teams jostling for ladder position, every point counts. Their ability to grind out a win in less-than-ideal conditions — against an opponent missing key personnel — bodes well for the business end of the season.

St Kilda, meanwhile, will regroup during the bye period. The club will hope for positive news on their injured stars to mount a late charge. Their home ground advantage at Marvel Stadium has been solid, but on this occasion, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Dogs’ determination and superior midfield.

The game drew a solid crowd to Marvel Stadium, with fans treated to a tough, attritional battle typical of AFL at this level. While not a high-scoring spectacle, it delivered in physicality and highlighted the depth required to succeed in the modern game.

As the season approaches its midpoint, the Bulldogs have positioned themselves well. Consistency remains the key for both sides, but Sunday’s result

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Uruguay head to Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, desperate to secure their first victory of the tournament. La Celeste controlled early possession against Saudi Arabia but struggled to convert that dominance into meaningful chances, ultimately settling for a frustrating 1-1 draw. Marcelo Bielsa will demand a far more ruthless attacking display against Cape Verde. With European champions Spain waiting on matchday three, maximum points here are not just important — they are essential.

Two Surprise Results Have Left the Group Wide Open

A pair of surprise opening results for Uruguay and Cape Verde, albeit for differing reasons, leaves Group H wide open before they meet in Sunday’s World Cup clash. Cape Verde held Spain to a shock goalless draw in their debut at FIFA’s top event, despite facing 27 shots from the European champions across almost 100 minutes. Coincidentally, Uruguay also attempted 27 efforts in their tournament opener but were left frustrated by a 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia.

With all four Group H teams currently tied on one point, Cape Verde may be sensing another opportunity to move closer to an unlikely progression. Their chances of featuring in the last 32 have jumped to 47.6% from the 32.9% the Opta supercomputer gave them before a ball was kicked in North America.

Cape Verde’s Disciplined Defensive Blueprint

Cape Verde will likely sit deep again in Miami against Bielsa’s side, given how that blueprint worked against La Roja. Coach Bubista will have been delighted with how disciplined his side were off the ball. Cape Verde conceded only one foul — the fewest by any team in a World Cup match on record since 1966 — despite Spain having over 74% of possession.

Much of that defensive resilience traced back to a standout individual performance in goal. Forty-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha delivered an inspired display for Cape Verde. His seven saves was the most by a goalkeeper keeping a clean sheet against Spain in any competition since October 2020, when Ukraine’s Georgiy Bushchan managed eight. Vozinha was aided by a resilient backline in front of him, led by Pico Lopes, whose 11 clearances on matchday one was the most by a debutant in the World Cup for an African team since Tunisia’s Karim Haggui against Saudi Arabia in 2006.

Uruguay’s Two Critical Absences

Bielsa is without two key players ahead of this fixture. Ronald Araújo is ruled out with a calf injury, while Giorgian de Arrascaeta is also sidelined with a calf problem of his own. The absence of De Arrascaeta in particular strips Uruguay of their most creative passer.

Losing Ronald Araújo reshapes the defense, with Sebastián Cáceres alongside Mathías Olivera. The absence of De Arrascaeta leaves a creative hole against a team that just kept a clean sheet against Spain. Uruguay may need to be more direct and lean harder on Vinas and the runners from deep.

Uruguay’s Likely Lineup

Fernando Muslera retains his place in goal after a record-breaking appearance against Saudi Arabia. Sebastián Cáceres partners Mathías Olivera in central defense, with Guillermo Varela and Juan Manuel Sanabria as the full-backs. Federico Valverde and Rodrigo Bentancur provide the creative drive in midfield, with Manuel Ugarte offering defensive cover behind them.

In attack, Bielsa faces a decision over Darwin Núñez, who struggled against Saudi Arabia and was substituted at halftime. Federico Vinas is the likely replacement should Bielsa opt for a change. Agustín Canobbio offers pace and directness from the flank. Maximiliano Araújo, who scored the late equalizer against Saudi Arabia, is expected to retain his place.

Uruguay’s possible starting XI: Muslera; Varela, Cáceres, Olivera, Sanabria; Valverde, Bentancur, Ugarte, Araújo; Canobbio, Núñez.

A Statistical Edge in Set Pieces

Maximiliano Araújo is expected to again be central to any creative exploits for Uruguay given his recent form from dead-ball situations. As well as equalizing, his five chances created — all from set-pieces — was the most by a Uruguay player in a World Cup game since Diego Forlán managed as many against Mexico in 2010. Cape Verde’s defense should expect a heavy aerial workload given Uruguay attempted 34 crosses from open play on matchday one, the most of any team across Groups A to H, and also their most on record in a World Cup match since 1966, though only nine were successful.

Uruguay’s Encouraging Recent History

Despite the missing personnel, Uruguay’s broader recent record at the World Cup offers some reassurance. Uruguay have only lost one of their last nine group games on FIFA’s global stage, with six wins and two draws, that lone defeat coming 2-0 to Portugal at Qatar 2022. Those nine matches have seen just 15 goals scored overall, 11 for and four against, at an average of 1.7 per game.

Cape Verde, by contrast, have struggled specifically against South American opposition in their limited history. Bubista’s team have lost their only two matches against CONMEBOL sides — they suffered a 1-0 defeat against Ecuador four years ago and a 4-2 loss to Chile in March this year.

Match Details and How to Watch

The Group H fixture kicks off at 6 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The match will be broadcast on FS1, Telemundo, and FOX One in the United States. UK viewers can watch the match live and free-to-air on BBC One, with a live stream available via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.

The Betting and Statistical Outlook

The numbers point heavily toward Uruguay despite their personnel concerns. The Opta supercomputer struggled to see past a win for Uruguay, who claimed all three points in a massive 67.2% of 25,000 pre-match simulations. Cape Verde are afforded just a 12.2% chance of victory in the same data-led simulations, while the draw accounted for 20.6% of scenarios. Separate market pricing from Kalshi traders shows a similar lean, with Uruguay priced at 67% to win, the draw at 23%, and Cape Verde at 11%.

With Spain looming on matchday three and all four Group H sides level on points after the opening round, Sunday’s result carries outsized importance for both nations’ paths through the remainder of the group. A Uruguay win would put Bielsa’s side in firm control of their own destiny heading into the decisive final fixture, while another surprise result for Cape Verde would mark a second remarkable result in as many matches for the tournament’s smallest participating nation, and would meaningfully boost their already-improved odds of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.

This article was written by

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Last week was momentous. There was a fragile 60-day de-escalation during negotiations between Washington and Tehran. However, the allies of both (Hezbollah and Israel) continue to clash, stalling talks. Still, oil prices tumbled 7-9%. At the same time, a new era at the Federal