As the Kyler Murray concussion watch continues and Carson Wentz prepares for a possible 100th NFL start Sunday in Chicago, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores is scheming up ways to disrupt the high-flying Bears offense coming off their 59 point, 552-yard explosion in their opening win at Carolina.
It’s a battle of 1-0 teams who split their series last season with each team winning memorable come-from-behind games on the road. In his first NFL start, J.J. McCarthy led a late rally for a three-point opening victory for the Vikings. Later in Week 11, a long kickoff return by Devin Duvernay set up a short drive for Caleb Williams before Cairo Santos’ game-winning field goal in a game that helped spur the Bears on to the NFC North title while damaging the Vikings’ playoff chances.
The Bears are a 5 ½ point favorite as the oddsmakers are enamored with the Bears offense directed by boastful coach Ben Johnson, rising star QB Caleb Johnson, and the running back duo of D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai (who each rushed for over 100 yards last Sunday). Overlooked are the problems the defense had in allowing 37 points and 478 total yards including 361 passing yards and three TD passes (plus one rushing TD) by Panthers QB Bryce Young.
The Vikings have beaten the Bears six straight times in Chicago and will head to Soldier Field full of confidence after their thrilling rally to beat the Packers as all three areas—offense, defense and special teams—contributed to the victory. But there is plenty for the coaches to clean up this week starting with poor first half coverage by the secondary.
1. Win up front on defense especially against Garrett Bradbury at center and Braxton Jones or Ozzy Trapilo at left tackle. Bradbury, the former Vikings center, has had problems in his career against big, athletic defensive tackles with the prime example being Dexter Lawrence in the 2022 playoff loss to the Giants. I expect to see more of big DTs Domonique Orange and Caleb Banks this week as Flores tries to take advantage of Bradbury to stop the run and pressure Williams up the middle although the Bears probably will give Bradbury guard help.
Aug 22, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Domonique Orange (97) in action against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images – Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Bears likely will chip with tight ends and backs to help Jones or Trapilo against Dallas Turner who had a big opener with a sack and seven QB hits on Jordan Love. Left tackle is a potential weakness if Jones or Trapilo try to single block Turner.
A big question is how will the Bears handle the inside blitzing of Blake Cashman and Andrew Van Ginkel’s edge pass rushing after they (with Turner) wreaked havoc on the Packers.
2. Stop the run: Kevin O’Connell says of the Bears “at their core they want to run the football.” That was obvious last week with 291 rushing yards including 124 yards and three TDs from D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai contributed 100 yards and one TD. The Vikings held the Packers to 66 yards on 21 carries (3.1 average) but the Bears have better backs with Josh Jacobs out last week for the Pack and the Green Bay O-line was banged up and ran out of gas in the second half. But both Swift (ankle/knee) and Monangai (hamstring) were limited in practice this week.
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3. Pressure Williams into sacks and turnovers and contain his running: Williams is coming off an outstanding performance at Carolina (21 or 29 for 269 yards, two TD passes, 10 rushes for 65 yards, two rushing TDs, no turnovers). He was only sacked twice which was the case in both games against the Vikings last season but the Minnesota D held him to 210 yards and 193 yards through the air last season. He had 58 rushing yards and a TD on the ground in the Week 1 game of 2025 but was held to 26 rushing yards in Week 11.
Nov 16, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) greets Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) following a game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
4. Better coverage than in first half against Green Bay: the Vikings allowed seven pass plays over 20 yards in the game, most of them in the first half from Jordan Love to Christian Watson including the 81 yard TD in which there was confusion among Vikings defenders on the coverage. Things seemed to settle down more in the second half as Harrison Smith played more snaps and was able to get the secondary properly aligned. Theo Jackson had several coverage issues and so did Josh Metellus. The Vikings need Smith on the field for more snaps against the Bears and should limit Jackson’s snaps while getting third rounder Jakobe Thomas more action in place of Jackson (or play Jay Ward or Jacob Thomas).
Byron Murphy must play up to his Pro Bowl status after he had a rough first half against Watson. Murphy, Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre (who did have a big interception in his first game as a Viking) will be tested by Bears WRs Rome Odunze, Luther Burden and Kalif Raymond.
The safeties and linebackers need to do a better job covering two good tight ends in Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet after the Packers’ Tucker Kraft and Jonnu Smith combined for five catches and 115 yards.
5. Offense run it more consistently: with Jordan Mason on IR (fractured thumb), Aaron Jones, Demond Claiborne and DeeJay Dallas will carry the load. The offensive line, tight ends and fullback Max Bredeson came on in the second half to lead the way for Jones and Mason (one TD each) after rough going early on. The Vikings need to come out with a more consistent rushing attack to take pressure off the QB, set up play action, and win time of possession to keep the Bears offense off the field as much as possible.
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6. Pass protect and get the ball to Jefferson and Addison: the Bears aren’t a great pass rushing team although Montez Sweat is dangerous (10 sacks last season, one sack last week). Wentz was sacked three times last week and either he or Murray must be protected so the dynamic skill players led by Jefferson and Addison have time to get open.
Jefferson had a great game last week (eight catches, 92 yards, two TDs) but Addison was shut out on only two targets (bad throws early by Wentz) and needs to be more involved this week. T.J. Hockenson should be a key part of the game plan in the intermediate zones after his solid game against the Packers (four catches, 36 yards, one TD).
The Vikings need their excellent right tackle Brian O’Neill to be able to play after he was limited on Wednesday and did not practice Thursday with a knee injury. O’Neill would be lined up against Sweat. If he can’t go, backup Ryan Van Demark steps in and will likely need help against Sweat.
7. Protect the ball and win the turnover battle: the Bears led the league in takeaways with 33 last season and the Vikings were the worst in giveaways (30). The Bears were +2 and the Vikings +1 in turnover ratio last week.
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8. Continued excellence on third down: the Vikings controlled time of possession with 8 of 15 on third down while the defense held the Packers to 3 of 12 on third down and 0 for 2 on fourth down. This is a good formula to get a win.
9. Deeper kickoffs and better kickoff coverage: I’d like to see either much better kickoff coverage than last week (Bo Melton averaged 31 yards per return with a 59 yarder) or Will Reichard should just kick if deep in the end zone and let the Bears start at the 35. Anything to avoid a repeat of the disaster in Week 11 last year when Devin Duvernay’s 56-yard return set up the winning field goal by Cairo Santos. Fortunately Duvernay is now a Cardinal and Josh Blackwell averaged only 21 yards per return last week.
Aug 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings kicker Will Reichard (46) kicks off against the Las Vegas Raiders in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports.
Another big return or two from Myles Price would be a huge help to the Vikings cause as was the case last week when his 68-yard return set up the touchdown that brought the Vikings within five points in the third quarter and was a momentum changer at that point.
10. Reichard outkick Santos: Reichard, a first-team All-Pro last season, tied a Soldier Field record with his 59-yard field goal in Week 1. He was perfect against the Bears in the two games and Santos missed one field goal in each game but also made the clutch 48-yarder for the Week 11 victory.
11. Continue last week’s low penalty total: the Vikings had only three penalties for 15 yards last Sunday which was impressive in an opener while the Bears had 12 penalties for 57 yards at Carolina.
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Prediction
I see a close game with both teams trying to control the clock with the run game and working play action for several big pass plays. Similar to the two games last year, I think it will come down to a final Bears drive with Williams making some key passes and runs to set up the winning field goal. Sorry to say I predict a 27-24 victory for the Bears but it certainly wouldn’t surprise me if the Vikings stretch their winning streak to seven straight at Soldier Field.
Around the NFL in Week 2
1. Will Packers bounce back at the Jets? Green Bay has lost six straight dating back to last season. The Jets have added a lot of young talent and had a dominant opening day win in Tennessee over the lousy Titans. I think Jordan Love is a lot better than Geno Smith in the QB matchup and I see the Packers winning a close game.
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2. There are several Week 1 losers looking to avoid the dreaded 0-2 start. Included in this group is the Vikings’ Week 3 opponent on the road—Tampa Bay. The Bucs had fumble issues in Cincinnati where they had four lost fumbles (three by Baker Mayfield) the Bucs shouldn’t have any trouble with Mayfield’s former team—the hapless Browns who are sticking with Deshaun Watson after getting hammered in Jacksonville on Sunday.
Houston looks to rebound against Cincinnati in a critical home game as the Texans were one of the AFC favorites and don’t want to start the season with two home losses after their close loss to the Bills.
Jan 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) is introduced before playing against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
I like the Patriots and Drake Maye to get a win at home against the Steelers after Maye’s rough three-pick outing in the opening loss at Seattle. The Seahawks will battle the heat at surprising Arizona who are feeling good after upsetting the Chargers but Seattle’s defense will bring the Cards back to earth.
Denver comes off a poor performance at Kansas City and hosts a solid Jacksonville team. I’m picking the underrated Jaguars in a mild upset. The Chiefs were surprisingly good running the ball with Kenneth Walker. He and Patrick Mahomes along with a strong defense should win on Sunday night in Indianapolis.
The Chargers had perhaps the worst loss of Week 1 in falling at home to the Cardinals. Now the Chargers badly need a home win over Kirk Cousins and the Raiders who beat lowly Miami in their opener. It’s critical considering these next seven games for LAC—at Buffalo, at Seattle, home vs. Denver, at Kansas City, at the Rams, home vs. Houston and at Baltimore. Yikes.
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Week 2 will wrap up with the Rams bouncing back from their lousy game in Australia against the 49ers to beat the Giants who handled the Cowboys in the opener. Despite Myles Garrett being out with a knee injury, the Rams will get after Jaxson Dart in the possible return of Aaron Donald.
If you’re playing a Rogue build in Diablo 4 Season 15, then you must craft a Zephyr Runeword. It comes with incredibly high flat damage, which already makes it a great DPS pick. However, it also has various other useful mods, including one that grants additional damage on Lucky Hit. Because the mods also scale with gear level, Zephyr remains viable as you progress towards the endgame.
Zephyr has two runeword unique variants: one for a Bow and one for a Crossbow. If you aren’t familiar with Runeword uniques in Diablo 4, they’re basically secret uniques that you can craft yourself with specific rune and item combinations.
Diablo 4 Season 15: How to craft Zephyr Runeword uniques
Put a White Bow or Crossbow with these Runes to make the Runeword (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)
As mentioned, Zephyr has two variants. To make the Zephyr Runeword Bow, combine a Common (White) Bow with an Ort Rune and an Eth Rune. Using an Ancestral common Bow is even better, but if you can’t find one, there’s always another time. Once you have the items, take them to the Horadric Cube and press Transmute to get your Unique.
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For the Zephyr Runeword Crossbow, the process is basically the same. However, instead of a Common (White) Bow, you’ll need a Common (White) Crossbow. Pair that with an Ort and Eth Rune inside a Horadric Cube, and you’ll get the Unique. An Ancestral Crossbow will give you an Ancestral Unique if you’re after the best stats.
Speaking of stats, both Runeword uniques have the same affixes and Aspect, so it’s a matter of preference:
12.5% Dodge Chance
+12.5% Attack Speed
+12.5% Movement Speed
x62.5% All Damage Multiplier
Lucky Hit: Up to a 40% Chance to Deal +1,500 Lightning Damage
The Aspect you get is the Dust Devil, which triggers whenever you dodge. It leaves a tornado that damages enemies and increases the damage they take.
Why use Zephyr Runeword over other items for Rogue in Diablo 4
Runewords are easy to craft (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)
The Rogue class specializes in building around Dodge and Lucky Hits. With the Zephyr Runeword providing additional Dodge Chance and a large amount of flat damage on Lucky Hits, it’s a match made in heaven. The Attack and Movement Speed, along with All Damage Multiplier, are just the cherry on top.
And while it may not be the best item for a Rogue build in Diablo 4, you can craft it yourself once you have the runes and the right Common bases, saving you time searching for the BiS item. With a combination of great affixes and easy crafting, I can see why this Runeword unique is becoming popular.
UFC 331 finally heads to Los Angeles, California, on 19 September 2026. With the main card fight Van vs. Pantoja, it’s a long awaited rematch, here’s the Main Card, Prelims and Early Prelims list, international starting time and more details
Hamzah Sheeraz has relinquished his WBO super-middleweight world title following the purse bid proceedings for his mandatory defence against Janibek Alimkhanuly.
Sheeraz captured the vacant belt, previously held by Terence Crawford, in Egypt by stopping Alem Begic inside two rounds. The Brit made one defence of the title – a majority decision over Simon Zachenhuber – before he was ordered to face Alimkhanuly.
The undefeated Khazak, previously unified champion at middleweight before announcing his move up to 168lbs, being installed as mandatory challenger was considered controversial given his failed doping test last year.
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Promoters Queensberry for Sheeraz and Top Rank for Alimkhanuly failed to strike a deal and purse bids were called, with Queensberry winning with a bid of $1,001,809. Despite the Brit’s promoter controlling the rights to the fight, Sheeraz, as per WBO President Gustavo Olivieri, has opted to swerve the fight and drop the belt.
“The WBO confirms that Queensberry Promotions has formally notified in writing that Hamzah Sheeraz, per the terms resulting from the purse bid proceedings concerning his mandatory obligation against Zhanibek Alimkhanuly, has elected NOT to proceed with the Mandatory and has voluntarily relinquished his WBO Super Middleweight World Championship.
“The WBO acknowledges and respects the decision of Hamzah and his team. The WBO doors will always remain open to him, and we sincerely wish Hamzah and his team all the very best and continued success moving forward.
“The WBO World Championship Committee will render the applicable ruling on Monday, September 21, regarding the status of the WBO Super Middleweight World Championship and the division moving forward.”
Quinn Hughes has a chance to eventually play with his brothers Jack and Luke in New Jersey, but he isn’t willing to give up what he has in Minnesota just for that. Hughes said Thursday that he is happy with the Wild and doesn’t feel pressure to sign an extension before the season.
The 26-year-old defenseman is entering the final year of his contract. He pointed to Kirill Kaprizov, who signed his extension with Minnesota on Sept. 30 last year, when talking about the timing of his own negotiations.
“I wouldn’t say there’s any issues here,” Hughes said. “I just think that we’re going through the process, specifically myself, and just taking the time. I don’t feel pressure to do anything. I’m really happy here. I love the guys. I love the team. And I fit in really well. Obviously, there’s a draw to playing with (my brothers) at some point. But I think Jack said it perfectly at (the recent NHL/NHLPA Player) Media Tour: I’m not going to sacrifice a great spot for me to play … with them.”
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Hughes said the Wild give him what he wants from a hockey standpoint, including a chance to compete for a championship. Playing with his brothers remains something he would like to do at some point, but it isn’t the only factor in his future.
Quinn Hughes has one year left on his six-year, $47.1 million contract, which carries a $7.85 million AAV. He can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027, if he doesn’t sign a new deal with Minnesota.
Wild GM Bill Guerin remains confident Quinn Hughes will re-sign
Quinn Hughes isn’t rushing his next contract, but Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin expects the defenseman to stay. Guerin said last month that he is “confident” Hughes will sign a new deal with the team.
Guerin spoke about Quinn Hughes on Judd’s Hockey Show on SKOR North Radio during the Minnesota State Fair on Aug. 31.
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“I’m confident. That’s the luxury I have of being on the inside,” Guerin said. “There’s always the other side of it. I can be confident, you can be insecure, you just have to work through the process of the negotiations, figuring out what the player wants, what it will take to keep him, make him happy.”
Hughes could be in line for a massive payday. He is expected to command an annual salary around or above the NHL record for a defenseman, set by Cale Makar with his eight-year, $163.2 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche. Makar’s deal carries a $20.4 million AAV.
Quinn Hughes had 53 points, including 48 assists, in 48 regular-season games for Minnesota last season. He added 15 points in 11 playoff games, recording 4 goals, and 11 assists during that postseason run.
What kind of improvements could you make to your game if you had access to a launch monitor for every practice session? The possibilities are truly limitless.
If a launch monitor has been on your wish list but the price of more premium units has given you pause, you may be interested in an epic sale currently happening at PGA TOUR Superstore, where Bushnell’s LPi Circle B Edition Launch Monitor is on sale for 50 percent off its original retail price of $1,999.99, meaning you can save $1,000 when you purchase this impressive device for only $999.99.
What can a launch monitor like this one do for you? As a high-resolution, three-camera system, the LPi Circle B produces accurate and reliable data. In addition to logging 16 different swing metrics like carry distance, ball speed, launch angle and more, the Bushnell LPi Circle B is also “Link Enabled,” meaning the data the launch monitor records can be shared with your compatible Bushnell distance measuring device.
What does that mean? Let’s say you find yourself 120 yards from the green. On paper, you might believe that’s an easy 9-iron. But your launch monitor data may disagree. Based on the shots you’ve hit with the Bushnell LPi Circle B, that data can relay a club selection recommendation to your rangefinder that realistically reflects your ideal club for that yardage. Pretty cool!
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There’s no denying that this launch monitor is a smokin’ deal, but there are a few caveats to keep in mind. The LPi Circle B is specifically designed for indoor use and requires a gaming-optimized PC and TV monitor/projector. You’ll also need a software subscription. Your purchase comes with a 14-day trial of FSX Play Gold Software, which costs $499 per year.
So if your indoor simulator is ready for a sweet launch monitor upgrade, or if this purchase is the first step toward creating the man-cave of your dreams, don’t miss this exceptional deal on the Bushnell LPi Circle B. Buy yours for 50 percent off while you can by clicking the link below.
Save 50 percent on Bushnell’s LPi Circle B launch monitor
Bushnell Launch Pro Launch Monitor ACCURACY ABOVE ALL Your pursuit of longer drives, more accurate carries and lower scores requires knowing the critical data points of your swing. A personal launch monitor will give you these data points, however, not all launch monitors are created equal. Unlike radar-based systems that set up behind the golfer and rely on algorithms to guess what happened at impact, the Launch Pro combines proprietary high speed/high resolution cameras with infrared which has been optimized in an auto calibrating three-camera system to deliver Tour-level performance and accuracy on every shot. We literally see impact like never before and this allows you to trust your swing when it matters most. UNRIVALED, ACCURATE BALL AND CLUB DATA When confidence and lower scores are what you’re after, second-rate data that leaves you second-guessing on the course won’t cut it. Your game needs the accuracy only Bushnell Golf can deliver. How & What we measure Tour Proven Consistency Tour Proven Consistency Launch Pro captures and measures thousands of frames per second, giving the most reliable and accurate launch condition and ball flight in the industry. See how we measure and what data points we collect. More and more pros trust the Foresight name in launch monitors. Combined with the trusted accuracy of Bushnell Golf, we knew Foresight was the right partner, but see what others are saying about their technology. They trust the accuracy and consistency of Launch Pro. See what they have to say ANYTIME. ANYWHERE. Where other launch monitor technologies struggle with ambient light sensitivity, small hitting windows and incomplete performance capturing capabilities, Launch Pro delivers unmatched precision and reliability both indoors and outdoors. You can choose any practice venue you want with Launch Pro: the range, the course, your garage or your own simulator room. You can now practice any aspect of your game anywhere, anytime you want KNOW YOUR NUMBERS More and more pros trust the Foresight name in launch monitors. Combined with the trusted accuracy of Bushnell Golf, we knew Foresight was the right partner, but see what others are saying about their technology. TRUE-TO-LIFE SIMULATION Launch Pro gives you true-to-life simulation and lets you enjoy the best of both worlds by allowing you to play on the world’s best courses and dialing in your game on the range. Launch Pro precisely captures and analyzes ball and club performance where they matter most – at impact – to give you unmatched ball flight data in any space you can safely swing a club. Whether you want a basic setup in your garage or a custom indoor simulator room, Launch Pro is the answer. LAUNCH PRO SOFTWARE Launch Pro offers a range of software packages – powered by Foresight Sports – to fit every golfer’s desire and need. Included with your purchase is a 30-Day Free Trial of Gold Software and 1-Year of Free Basic Software. Software packages are purchased separately during product setup/registration after receiving your Launch Pro device. Full software unlock available only on Gold. Basic* Silver** Gold** Data Points Carry Distance Yes Yes Yes Ball Speed Yes Yes Yes Total Spin Yes Yes Yes Horizontal Launch Angle Yes Yes Yes Vertical Launch Angle Yes Yes Yes Club Head Speed Yes Yes Yes Smash Factor Yes Yes Yes Spin Tilt Axis Yes Yes Yes Back Spin Yes Yes Yes Side Spin Yes Yes Yes Club Path Yes Yes Yes Angle of Attack Yes Yes Yes Total Distance (FSX 2020 or Pro) Yes Yes Yes Offline Distance (FSX 2020 or Pro) Yes Yes Yes Descent Angle (FSX 2020 or Pro) Yes Yes Yes Peak Height (FSX 2020 or Pro) Yes Yes Yes Barometer Yes Yes Yes Additional Features Saved Sessions 1 Locally Up to 5 Locally Up to 10 Locally Cloud Sessions 10 20 Unlimited Save Clubs Up to 14 Up to 14 Unlimited Save Videos 2 Locally 5 Locally 10 Locally Cloud Videos 2 5 10 Std Range No Yes Yes Ball Flight Type 2D 3D 3D Dispersion Yes Yes Yes Simulation Allowed No Yes Yes Players Allowed 1 4 8 Courses Included 0 5 10 Online Play No Yes Yes Peak Subscription No Level 1 All 3rd Party Software Allowed No No Yes *Requires iPad or gaming PC to run FSX Pro software, not included. **Requires gaming PC to power FSX 2020 software. PC not included. What’s Included Launch Pro Device Club Marker Pack USB-C Cable Power Cord Alignment Stick Quick Start Guide 1-Year of Basic Software Package from Foresight Sports ($249/year after 1st year) 14-Day FREE Trial of Gold Software Package from Foresight Sports Not Included: Gaming PC (Required to power FSX 2020 Software, including Silver and Golf Packages). See PC System Requirements
The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) on Friday dismissed the mounting concerns around organisational chaos in the build-up to the Asian Games, saying that every multi-sport event faces such challenges and attempts to “politicise” or “exploit” them on social media would not be allowed to succeed.
Addressing a media conference on the eve of the Games opening ceremony here, 2026 Asian Games Coordination Committee Chairman Tayyab Ikram sought to downplay the controversies as temporary issues.
The accommodation scarcity at the Games has become an international story and the excruciatingly long check-in process at hotels and long distance travel for training by the athletes is not doing any good to Japan’s image as a host right now.
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“There are certain things which we can see in different media and different feedbacks … we strongly condemn this … any attempt to politicise our sporting event which is for athletes. That is something we would like to prevent,” Ikram said.
“… people are trying to come up with concerns in everything, but which Games don’t have challenges? The important thing is what kind of response is there. Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee response has been extraordinary, but OCA and ANAGOC will not allow (anyone) to politicise the Games,” he insisted.
“I don’t want to mention the names, but there are certain concerns which are being exploited on social media. We continue to be positive,” added the veteran official, who is also the president of the International Hockey Federation.
He, however, did not specify who he believes is behind the politicisation of the Games’ issues, which have also affected the Indians, who have complained about cramped rooms and long waits.
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On Friday, a Chinese world champion gymnast said that he was “totally exhausted” due to the lengthy registration process for his accommodation which lasted more than six hours.
Zhang, who won two silver medals at 2024 Paris Olympics and has two world championship titles to his name, later booked a room at a hotel to rest, the local media here reported.
A Xinhua report said Chinese badminton players were helped by staff from their Consulate General in Nagoya in arranging chartered vehicles through local overseas Chinese contacts.
The hashtag “Asian Games absurd” has since been viewed more than 94 million times on Weibo, according to ‘Japan Times’.
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To make matters worse, South Korea’s Olympic Committee on Friday said it has filed a complaint with the Games organisers for featuring a Japanese warlord at the team welcome ceremony.
The event on Tuesday included a person dressed as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who led Japan’s invasions of Korea in 1592-1598, and the ceremony prompted a backlash in South Korea, according to a report in ‘Japan Times’.
OCA Director General Husain Al Musallam declared that the allocation of rooms for the athletes and their support officials is now complete and there are no more concerns left to be addressed.
“Every athlete, every official, every coach have an accommodation. There is no single accredited person without accommodation. And they have all other logistics,” he said.
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Asian Games have grown bigger over the years with the number of athletes from the 45 countries even exceeding that of the Olympic Games. Al Musallam said in addition to the 17,000-plus athletes and support staff, there is also another 5000 technical officials for the conduct of different sports.
“Asian Games cannot be compared with events of any other continental federations,” the Kuwaiti said.
Asked if building an Athletes Village would have been a better idea, now that the lack of accommodation has kicked up a controversy, Musallam said, “First of all, we wish we have an Athletes Village but we also have to be flexible. We also have to think about the cost of the Games.
“We need to listen to organisers, how they look for the future after the Games. It’s very easy to insist on Athletes Village, you spent such amount of money to build it and then we need to see what’s going to happen after the Games.
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“Yes, an Athletes Village with a five-star (rating) is good but at the end of the day we need to be practical.” On the increasing number of sports and number of athletes in the Asian Games over the years, the OCA DG said, “You cannot just talk about athletes and then put restriction or obstacle on their participation. I am supportive of the increase in the number of athletes, not decrease the athletes to support the sport.
“Because now with the current political crisis and conflicts in Asia and around the world, we need sport, the world needs sport at this moment more than anything else.” Musallam also defended the introduction of wooden container-style huts for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which some athletes have criticised as cramped for space.
“The container-style accommodations were meant to reduce cost and also for sustainability. May be this may lead to smaller countries being able to host the Games at a reduced cost in the future,” he reasoned.
Ikram said the upcoming editions of the Asian Games in Doha (2030) and Riyadh (2034) will have an Athletes Village.
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“For the next two Games, we are already having the Athletes Village. Doha has already inaugurated the Athletes Village. But the OCA will not have a very blind approach that we should have an Athletes Village. We have to take care of the legacy of that Village.
BROSSARD, Que. — So much of goaltending is about mindset, and it’s hard to imagine Jakub Dobes having a better one heading into his first official season as Montreal Canadiens starter.
That he’s unwilling to even acknowledge the job is his to lose — after an electric run from last trade deadline to Eastern Conference Final put him in pole position — is proof positive his head is in the right place.
“I don’t really look at it” as a job to lose, Dobes said after Thursday’s camp-opening practice. “We have a really good trio of goalies right now. (Samuel Montembeault and Jacob Fowler) are awesome. They were supporting me. I think it’s unfair to come here and say it’s my spot. We will be battling all three together for a spot, and whoever gets the start on the 29th will play. Whoever plays better deserves to play. So, that’s the mentality.”
Perhaps the cautionary tale Montembeault wrote last season helped Dobes adopt it.
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Seeing the Becancour, Que., native come in without any real threat of being knocked out of that chair before he was not only ejected from it but also relegated to the third one had to have reinforced to Dobes just how tenuous the starter’s job is.
Montembeault earned it and was extended a long leash to keep it after finishing top-five in the NHL in goals saved above expected over 62 appearances the season prior.
But seeing the six-foot-three goaltender trip over it to fall so far from grace would provide a valuable lesson to any backup in his presence — but especially one of Dobes’ age and experience level.
The Ostrava, Czech Republic, native was just 24 years old at the start of last season. He was just 16 games into his NHL career. And he, too, went on to experience dramatic highs and lows over a very short period.
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It’s a good thing Dobes has that in perspective.
“I kind of remember the struggles, too,” he said. “People can say it was a really good season, but I remember that I wasn’t always at my best or I struggled a bit, too. I take that into consideration, and every day I will try to prove myself. I want to repeat (last season’s success) and (also) win the Stanley Cup. I feel like we were pretty close, but not close enough. So, I don’t think I’m satisfied with what happened last year, because we needed to get past Carolina and then Vegas, so that’s still seven more wins away. So no, I don’t think anything changed. I will try to be better than I was last year.”
He was dynamite from last trade deadline through the end of the regular season, winning 10 of 14 games and posting a .924 save percentage. And no goaltender was better in the playoffs, with a league-leading 13.3 goals saved above expected through 19 games pushing him to a level few thought he’d attain when he was taken in the fifth round of the 2020 draft.
Heck, it was even somewhat unforeseeable Dobes would get there so soon after he failed to unseat a struggling Montembeault from October through the beginning of December.
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It was at that time that Fowler was recalled from the American Hockey League’s Laval Rocket to the Canadiens, and the highly touted prospect didn’t waste a minute before showing Dobes he was a threat to leapfrog him on the depth chart.
The 21-year-old, who went 69th overall in the 2023 draft, went back down and then came back up. He ended up going 9-6-2 through his first 17 appearances in the league. He posted a .908 save percentage and 2.43 goals-against average. And in the process, he served notice he’d arrived ahead of schedule.
Now Fowler is fighting to stay, to keep Montembeault on the margins, and to push Dobes for the net.
He’s got the talent to steal it — and probably would, if Dobes felt too high on himself.
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Instead, the six-foot-four, 215-pound goaltender made it clear on Thursday just how grounded he is.
“I might not even be here after two weeks,” Dobes said. “Two weeks is such a long time, especially in this market. It’s hard to predict the future. I try to take it day by day. Today was a good practice and tomorrow I will try to be even better because I feel like I could be.
“I’m just trying to enjoy everything. I’m 25 years old, playing in the best market in the world. I try to enjoy every day and not think too much ahead because the time flies and you’ve got to live in the present.”
That feels like the best way to take advantage of the opportunity Dobes has in front of him.
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Saturday Night Hockey setup
Lines and pairings from Thursday remained the same Friday.
Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis confirmed the A group (featuring Nick Suzuki’s line) would remain in Montreal while the B group (featuring Mike Matheson and Noah Dobson) would go to Toronto for games against the Maple Leafs Saturday night.
Manchester United suffered a painful Carabao Cup exit on Wednesday after throwing away a 2-0 lead to lose to Brighton at Old Trafford.
The defeat ended a 50-year record for United. The last time the club lost at home after taking a two-goal lead was in 1976, when Sir Alex Ferguson was still managing St Mirren.
United’s latest setback came only days after their 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, increasing the pressure around Michael Carrick and his players.
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Fans showed their anger after the final whistle. Many supporters left the stadium before the players completed their traditional lap of appreciation, while others stayed behind to boo the team and question the players as they headed towards the tunnel.
Carrick made eight changes to his starting XI, with teenager Shea Lacey among those given an opportunity. The youngster made the most of his chance by scoring in the eighth minute with a well-taken finish.
The goal made Lacey the first teenager to score on his first Manchester United start since Marcus Rashford achieved the feat in 2016.
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However, United struggled to maintain control of the match. Brighton gradually took charge and eventually completed the comeback.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said his team deserved the victory.
“The longer the game went, the more we had control. I thought we deserved to win,” he said.
Carrick did not disagree with that assessment, admitting that his team had not produced enough to prevent another disappointing result.
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United have now lost three games this season, while they have recorded only two victories. The latest defeat also ended their hopes of winning the Carabao Cup.
Carrick said he was particularly disappointed for Lacey, whose impressive first start was overshadowed by the team’s collapse.
“It’s a shame that Shea’s moment, such a great moment for him, for his family, his friends and the whole academy, gets a bit lost, unfortunately,” Carrick said.
The United manager also spoke about 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, who had been expected to make his senior debut. Carrick said the club must be careful with the youngster because of his age and wellbeing.
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“He’s a young boy, he’s 15, and for me, definitely, and from a club point of view, looking after our younger players, their welfare, their wellbeing, their exposure, we’ve got to be really conscious of that,” he said.
Despite the growing criticism, Carrick insisted he does not feel under pressure.
“I don’t feel under pressure,” he said. “What bothers me is winning games, having a good feeling around the place and a good feeling around the group to know we’re moving in a good direction.”
United now have one match left before the international break, with Fulham waiting at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
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After a difficult few weeks, another poor result could increase the pressure around the club.
Saturday’s $1 million Shorts at Randwick is a date apprentice jockey Mollie Fitzgerald is eagerly awaiting, marking her debut ride in a Group race aboard the capable mare Flying For Fun.
The 24-year-old, who is indentured to Annabel and Rob Archibald, has previously ridden in three Listed races but is thrilled that trainer Bryce Heys has entrusted her with the reins of his dual stakes winner in a race renowned as a key audition for The Everest.
“It’s an awesome opportunity. A very ‘pinch myself’ moment,” Fitzgerald said.
“She’s a beautiful mare. I’ve had the benefit of riding her in a trial, but it’s so exciting. It’s what you dream of, to be in these races, so I’m really looking forward to it.”
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Flying For Fun, a daughter of Heys’ former top sprinter Spieth, captured the Starlight Stakes (1100m) in November and later demonstrated her quality by winning the Maurice McCarten Stakes (1100m) in March.
Her subsequent runs in Adelaide resulted in two unfortunate Group 1 placings; she surged home to narrowly miss out in the Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) and was unable to gain a clear passage when midfield in the Goodwood (1200m).
She has a strong record when fresh, and while the outside draw in barrier 12 presents a significant challenge against horses like Joliestar, Headwall, and Everest slot holder Ninja, Flying For Fun has shown promising form in two lead-up trials, with Fitzgerald aboard for the initial one.
“It was her first trial and she wasn’t asked to do much, but I had a lot of horse underneath me,” Fitzgerald noted.
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“James (McDonald) trialled her at her second trial and he was pretty happy with her as well. You can feel the difference being on those quality horses.
“She’s a model of consistency. She tries very hard, and she loves her racing. Towards the end of her last prep, she was ridden a bit more quietly and you do need luck from back there, but she has raced in good races and been honest.”
Fitzgerald’s booking for Flying For Fun is a one-off arrangement for now, but she is determined to make the most of this significant chance and hopes it might pave the way for more opportunities.
“It’s just an awesome opportunity. Hopefully everything goes right on Saturday, and we’ll see what comes of it,” she remarked.
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Fitzgerald’s Randwick engagements also include the Luke Pepper-trained Brave Xena in the Highway Handicap (1000m), marking a reunion after she partnered the mare to victory in a similar race during the summer.
“There’s not much of her, but she’s beautiful,” Fitzgerald said.
“I won a Highway on her, and she’s honest, so I’m looking forward to getting back on her. She’s got a tricky draw (barrier 12), but she’s probably good enough to overcome that.”
Explore the best racing betting markets for the Shorts at Australian betting sites.
A wrestling star suffered a brutal rejection on the latest episode of TNA Impact.
John Skyler has apparently developed a crush on Mila Moore, Mustafa Ali’s Secretary of Strategic Affairs. Moore has been closely associated with Ali’s Order 4 faction in TNA Wrestling, while Skyler is also part of the group.
Thanks for the submission!
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Skyler previously tried to ask Moore out, but a phone call interrupted his attempt. He decided to give it another shot this week and even came prepared with roses. Unfortunately for him, things went from awkward to heartbreaking very quickly.
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Skyler once again found Moore on the phone with somebody and overheard part of her conversation. The TNA Wrestling star realized that she was discussing him and apparently had no interest in going on a date. Here is what Moore said during the call backstage:
“John Skyler… Yeah, John. No, we’re talking about the same John. He was gonna ask me out on a date? I would NEVER go out with someone who looks like John Skyler! Are you kidding me? He was not gonna ask me out – that’s a joke, you’re joking, right? Aww… that’s sad. That can’t be real. John Skyler, really? Urgh. You have to be kidding me. Who would believe that? How’d he believe that?”
A hopeful John Skyler immediately turned into a man who looked like his heart had been broken. As you can see in the clip below, he dropped the roses upon hearing Mila Moore’s harsh words:
Interestingly, this could turn into something much bigger for John Skyler. As part of Order 4, getting rejected by someone close to Mustafa Ali could potentially create some entertaining tension within the faction. For now, though, Skyler simply has to deal with the heartbreak.
Mila Moore previously had her referee shirt ripped off in TNA Wrestling
This isn’t the first time Mila Moore has found herself at the center of an unusual TNA moment. Earlier this month, Moore served as the special guest referee during a match involving Jason Hotch and Order 4’s Agent 0. She heavily favored Agent 0, repeatedly frustrating Hotch during the bout.
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TNA Wrestling’s Tasha Steelz eventually had enough and attacked Moore. Steelz then forcibly removed Moore’s referee shirt during the broadcast, leaving her to retreat backstage in her bra. You can read more about that HERE.
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