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Morten Hjulmand Backs Atletico’s Experience Ahead Of Real Madrid Derby

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Atletico Madrid midfielder Morten Hjulmand expects another fiercely contested Madrid derby when Diego Simeone’s side host Real Madrid on September 20 in LALIGA, but believes Atletico’s experienced players will be crucial in handling the pressure of one of Spanish football’s biggest fixtures. Talking to FanCode, the official broadcaster of LALIGA in India, The Danish midfielder acknowledged that the scale of Atletico’s task is significant, particularly given Real Madrid’s attacking quality, but dismissed the prospect of another high-scoring derby such as Atletico’s 5-2 victory over Real in the past.

“It’s unusual to get a win like this in a derby because it’s always very even. We almost never see this kind of result in the derbies,” Hjulmand said. “To win 5-2, that will be difficult. But our objective is, of course, to win at home against a very good opponent.”

For Hjulmand, pressure is an unavoidable part of representing Atletico, regardless of the opponent or competition. The midfielder said the team has experienced that pressure throughout the season, including in matches against Osasuna, Real Sociedad and Liverpool.

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“When you’re a player of Atletico, you always have pressure, no matter who you are going to play and which competition it is,” he said. “That’s a part of the game.”

Hjulmand believes Atletico’s experienced core can help the team navigate the intensity of the derby. He highlighted captain Koke, goalkeeper Jan Oblak and other long-serving members of the squad, along with the coaching staff, as important sources of guidance for the younger players.

“They’re used to dealing with these kinds of games and this kind of pressure,” Hjulmand said. “They are good to share advice with other players because they experienced it themselves. So, of course, when they open their mouths, you listen to what they have to say.”

The 27-year-old is also under no illusion about the threat posed by Real Madrid’s attack. Hjulmand pointed to the individual quality throughout their forward line and warned that Real possess players capable of changing a game on their own.

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“They have world-class players in their offensive, in every position,” he said. “They will for sure create chances and be dangerous also against us. We have to prevent as many chances as possible, but we know with the quality they have, it will be tough.”

Hjulmand was unwilling to reveal Atletico’s specific tactical plan for dealing with Real’s attacking threat, saying that those details would remain within the dressing room.

“We will analyse it inside the dressing room. And then I hope you will see the output on Sunday,” he said.

The midfielder also reflected on training under Diego Simeone and the increased intensity he has experienced since moving to Atletico from Sporting CP. According to Hjulmand, the demands of both training and matches have risen, with the greater intensity and quality of La Liga requiring a different approach.

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“His focus on the training is to train well, because if you train well, you play well,” Hjulmand said, referring to the demands of his coaching environment. “So, there has been a difference, of course. La Liga is a stronger league than the Portuguese league.”

Hjulmand also noted a tactical difference between his former club and Atletico. At Sporting, he said, his side was more dominant in possession and generally able to control matches, whereas Atletico faced opponents capable of imposing themselves on the game.

“Here we have stronger teams and teams that also can dominate the games as well,” he said. “So, it’s different, yes, but way more intense in the training and the games than in Portugal.”

The midfielder, who has previously spoken about the importance of regular playing time for young footballers, reiterated his belief that consistent minutes are more valuable for development than immediately joining a bigger club without a guaranteed role.

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“For young players, always seek playing time. That is the best advice I can give,” Hjulmand said. “If you are going to join a team where you can play as many games as possible, 90 minutes every week, make mistakes, learn from them, win, that will take you very far.”

He believes spending time at a lower level can ultimately provide a stronger foundation for a player’s career.

“I prefer to play in a lower team, start lower, but then play 90 minutes every week,” he added.

As for his own role in Sunday’s derby, Hjulmand identified balance as one of his key strengths. With the match likely to feature intense duels and transitions, he believes his ability to provide stability in midfield could prove important.

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“One of my best skills as a midfielder is the balance I bring to the team,” Hjulmand said. “In a game like this, where the intensity is very high and you have many duels, I think my balance can help the team.”

And against a Real Madrid side renowned for its ability to exploit space in transition, Hjulmand knows that discipline will be particularly important.

“Hopefully not give Real so many transitions, where we know they are very, very strong,” he said.

Atletico Madrid host Real Madrid on September 20 with the derby once again set to provide a test of Atletico’s defensive organisation, midfield control and ability to handle the pressure that Hjulmand believes comes naturally with playing for the club.

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2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville Saturday TV coverage: Watch | News

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The third round of the 2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville begins Saturday morning in North Carolina. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the tournament on Saturday, including full Biltmore Championship Asheville TV coverage, streaming details and complete Round 3 tee times.

How to watch Biltmore Championship on Saturday

We are officially at the halfway point of the inaugural Biltmore Championship, and one name sits alone at the top of the leaderboard: Neal Shipley. Shipley, a 25-year-old PGA Tour rookie, posted the low round of the day on Friday with a nine-under 62 to enter the weekend with the lead as he seeks his first Tour victory.

Just behind Shipley entering the weekend is another pro looking for that breakthrough first victory in Ben Kohles. The 36-year-old journey is coming off a career year on Tour that featured two top 10s and five top 25s in 2026. But still, that first victory has eluded him.

You can watch the third round of the Biltmore Championship Asheville on TV via Golf Channel, with coverage starting at 12:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.

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Below you will find everything you need to know to watch the third round of the 2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville.

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How to watch on TV Saturday

CNBC will kick of coverage of the 2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville with a half hour window from 12-12:30 p.m. ET, while Golf Channel will air third-round TV coverage for the remainder of the afternoon from 12:30-3 p.m. ET.

How to stream online Saturday

A live simulcast of Golf Channel’s Saturday TV coverage will be available on Golfchannel.com and the Golf Channel App.

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2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville tee times for Saturday: Round 3 (ET)

Tee No. 1

7:33 a.m. – Jeremy Paul, Webb Simpson, Harry Higgs
7:44 a.m. – Tyler Duncan, Ben Martin, Trace Crowe
7:55 a.m. – Adam Schenk, Peter Malnati, Karl Vilips
8:06 a.m. – John Parry, Billy Horschel, Mackenzie Hughes
8:17 a.m. – Paul Peterson, Zach Bauchou, Chad Ramey
8:28 a.m. – Jackson Koivun, Ben Silverman, Gordon Sargent
8:39 a.m. – Chris Kirk, Brice Garnett, Austin Eckroat
8:50 a.m. – John VanDerLaan, Zecheng Dou, Marco Penge
9:01 a.m. – Kevin Roy, Rico Hoey, Austin Smotherman
9:12 a.m. – Steven Fisk, J.T. Poston, Ben James
9:23 a.m. – Jackson Suber, Jacob Bridgeman, Pontus Nyholm
9:34 a.m. – Max Greyserman, Eric Cole, Seamus Power
9:45 a.m. – Neal Shipley, Ben Kohles, Ricky Castillo

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Tee No. 10

7:33 a.m. – Haotong Li, Johnny Keefer, Will Gordon
7:44 a.m. – Nick Taylor, Cam Davis, Lucas Glover
7:55 a.m. – Adam Svensson, Pierceson Coody, Zac Blair
8:06 a.m. – Jonathan Byrd, Kevin Yu, Cameron Champ
8:17 a.m. – Michael Thompson, Tyler Watts, Troy Merritt
8:28 a.m. – Nick Dunlap, Hank Lebioda, Blades Brown
8:39 a.m. – Michael Kim, Andrew Novak, Adam Hadwin
8:50 a.m. – David Skinns, Patton Kizzire, Takumi Kanaya
9:01 a.m. – Vince Whaley, Doug Ghim, Hayden Springer
9:12 a.m. – Davis Chatfield, Justin Lower, Chandler Phillips
9:23 a.m. – Corey Conners, William Mouw, Stephan Jaeger
9:34 a.m. – Andrew Putnam, Dylan Wu
9:45 a.m. – Isaiah Salinda, Chandler Blanchet

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Zab Judah delivers verdict on rumoured Shakur Stevenson vs Pacquiao fight: “Another dimension”

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Former two-division and multi-time world champion Zab Judah had addressed the controversy of a potential clash between Shakur Stevenson and Manny Pacquiao.

While yet to announce a date, location or opponent for his next outing, Stevenson has not ruled out a showdown with ‘Pac Man’, who comes off a contentious draw with Mario Barrios in July 2025.

Back then, Barrios was considered one of the sport’s weaker world champions but, nevertheless, Pacquiao received ample credit for almost claiming the WBC welterweight title.

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This was in spite of him coming off a near four-year layoff and being far removed from his prime, when the formidable Filipino was stopping the likes of Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton.

During that time, Stevenson had not even progressed to senior level as an amateur but, now, he happens to be one of boxing’s top five pound-for-pound stars.

The 29-year-old is also coming off arguably a career-best victory over Teofimo Lopez, who he dethroned to become a four-division world champion in January.

For Stevenson to even entertain the 47-year-old Pacquiao as an opponent is therefore disappointing to most, but Judah has told Ring Champs that, even now, a victory over the former eight-weight world champion would only improve his CV.

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“In my book, that’s a great look, because now he’s stepping into another dimension where he’s taking out a legend. He’s putting a legend on his resume.

“And let’s be honest here: when it’s said and done, the only thing they’re going to do is go back to your resume and say, ‘Who did he fight?’”

In reality, the majority of fans are unlikely to give Stevenson credit for defeating Pacquiao who, prior to facing Barrios, had lost a unanimous decision to Yordenis Ugas in 2021.

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‘Missed Jaspal Rana sir a lot’: Manu Bhaker gets emotional after Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony | Asian Games 2026 News

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'Missed Jaspal Rana sir a lot': Manu Bhaker gets emotional after Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony
Manu Bhaker and Jaspal Rana (Image credit: Agencies)

Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker remembered her late coach Jaspal Rana after carrying the Indian flag at the Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony on Saturday.Bhaker said she missed Rana during the ceremony, making the special occasion an emotional one. She carried the Indian flag alongside kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat.“Missed Jaspal sir a lot today, he was a flagbearer at the Asian Games. It was indeed an emotional day without his presence by my side,” Bhaker said after the ceremony.

Rana played key role in Bhaker’s career

Rana, a former shooter and coach, died on June 11 at the age of 49. He played an important role in Bhaker’s career and guided her to two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics.Bhaker had earlier spoken about Rana’s influence on her approach to opening ceremonies at multi-sport events.Rana had told Bhaker that she could attend such ceremonies only if she was the flag-bearer. Otherwise, he wanted her to watch them on television because her competitions usually started soon after the opening ceremony.

Rana’s advice made the moment more special

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Bhaker is competing at her third Asian Games. She missed the opening ceremony at her first Games in 2018 as she was based in Palembang, away from the main athletes’ village in Jakarta.She later attended the 2018 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony and recalled Rana’s advice to focus on her competition.That advice made Saturday’s occasion even more emotional as Bhaker herself walked out as one of India’s flag-bearers at the Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium.

Bhaker’s focus now on shooting

Bhaker is the only athlete from independent India to win two medals at a single edition of the Olympics.She will now turn her attention to the shooting competition. She is scheduled to compete in the women’s 10m air pistol, women’s 25m pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team events.

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Japan under pressure amid accommodation woes as Asian Games kick off

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High-spending Tottenham still winless after home loss to Aston Villa

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Fresh off a $400 million summer spend, Tottenham remains without a win in five Premier League games this season after losing 3-2 at home to Aston Villa on Saturday.

Johan Manzambi, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder who starred for Switzerland at the World Cup, made his first start for Villa and scored the opening goal against the run of play in first-half-stoppage time. He set up another for fellow new signing Nicolas Jackson, before Emi Buendia’s long-range strike in the 79th sent Villa on its way to a first league win of the campaign.

Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke grabbed late consolations for Spurs — its first league goals this season — but it is now two draws and three defeats in the league for Roberto De Zerbi’s team, which also lost in the English League Cup this week.

After back-to-back 17th-place finishes in the 20-team Premier League, Tottenham’s leadership oversaw a huge squad rebuild in the off-season in a show of confidence in De Zerbi.

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There’s been no payback so far in terms of results and De Zerbi — a combustible Italian coach — is under growing pressure heading into a long international break.

To make matters worse for Tottenham, World Cup-winning Spain right back Pedro Porro was forced off midway through the first half with an injury.

There are four more games on Saturday, including champion Arsenal at Brighton.

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The P/PTSD Perspective: 1 Rookie Stands Tall, Vikings Roster Moves, and Kyler Murray

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PurplePTSD works in partnership with Vikings Territory, similarly doing their utmost to offer top-notch coverage of the Minnesota Vikings. As a result, we’re promoting five of their top articles of the past month in “The P/PTSD Perspective.” Take a peek at some of their best stuff.

The P/PTSD Perspective: September 19th, 2026

1) 1 Vikings Rookie Stands Above the Rest: Can’t help but be impressed by the rookie fullback. Max Bredeson may have a few “screws loose” but that doesn’t stand in his way. Or, perhaps, that’s a main factor in making him effective. Keep an eye on #45 on Sunday.

NFL: Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings
Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) pushes for a touchdown during the second half against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images – Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

2) Vikings Announce Multiple Roster Moves: GM Nolan Teasley is somebody who is keen to uplift the talent beyond just the 53-man roster. An NFL football season inevitably involves injuries. Part of the process for the front office is to ensure the practice squad is nourished with ample talent to be ready for games.

3) Kyler Murray Situation Gets an Update from Kevin O’Connell: Over the course of the week, Mr. Murray got involved in limited work. Minnesota’s priority should be his long-term health and not what’s taking place just this week.

NFL: Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings
Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (1) drops back to make a pass during the second half against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images – Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

4) A Surprise Vikings Player Snags Major Praise: Seeing Justin Jefferson go off has a way of capturing the headlines. Likewise, Dallas Turner did tremendously well, leading to no shortage of praise. Consider somebody different.

5) Kevin O’Connell’s Key Benchmark Probably Went Up in Smoke: The skipper wants to work with his starting quarterback for the full season. Who wouldn’t? Pivoting toward Carson Wentz, though, for Week 2 is the correct decision.

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Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell in the 2025 preseason
Aug 9, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell reacts with cornerback Tavierre Thomas (37) before the game against the Houston Texans at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Enjoy the extra reading, Vikings fans.


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“I hope it clicks”, “Hand over the Premier League”

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Arsenal fans were overjoyed after three players were named together for the first time in the starting lineup for their Premier League fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion. The inclusion of star midfielders Bruno Guimaraes, Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in the Gunners’ starting lineup created a wave of excitement among their fans.

While Rice and Odegaard have been staples in Arsenal’s midfield for the last few years, Guimaraes was signed from Newcastle United for a reported £75 million fee earlier this summer. The Brazilian suffered an injury on his debut for the North Londoners – a 3-0 win over Manchester City in the FA Community Shield – and has made four substitute appearances since.

Fortunately for the defending Premier League champions, Guimaraes seems to have recovered completely and is set to start in their EPL clash against Brighton. Supporters took to X to express their excitement about seeing the 28-year-old in the middle of the park alongside Rice and Odegaard.

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One fan wrote:

“First game we will have Rice, Guimaraes and Odegaard starting. I hope it clicks.”

Another claimed:

“This midfield, handover the Premier League to me already.”

A supporter asserted:

“Rice-Bruno-Odegaard, we’ve got this.”

Another remarked:

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“Brighton aren’t ready for this.”

A fan simply wrote:

“The big 3.”

Arsenal have kicked their Premier League title defense off in style, scoring eight and conceding just one goal en route to four wins in their first four league encounters. Mikel Arteta will be hoping to build on the momentum and secure another positive result against Brighton, a game that will be played at the Amex Stadium on Saturday (September 19).

“We know what we’ve got” – Manager speaks out on reported Arsenal transfer target’s status at current club

Fabio Ingolitsch, the manager of Austrian side SK Sturm Graz, has responded to the rumours linking youngster Luca Weinhandl with a move to Premier League giants Arsenal.

A central midfielder by nature, the 17-year-old can also play as a wide midfielder on both flanks. In his 25 senior appearances for Sturm Graz thus far, he has bagged two goals and an assist and caught the attention of several top clubs across Europe.

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The Daily Briefing first reported Arsenal‘s interest in Weinhandl, claiming that they are planning to make a move in the January transfer window. Speaking to Krone, however, Ingolitsch claimed that he is not worried about the wonderkid being prised away despite the speculations.

The Austrian tactician said (via Caught Offside):

“These days, you can feed so much information to people that rumours start to circulate. We don’t care. We know what we’ve got in Luca. He’s a highly talented player who, at 17, plays as if he’s already played, I don’t know how many international matches. He’s a very special lad; we know that, and yet we can all put it into perspective, we’re very happy that he’s with us. He’ll be a huge help to us this year.”

It will be interesting to see if Arsenal pursue a move for Weinhandl in the winter transfer window.