The annual charity clash between an England XI and a Rest of the World side is due to take place at West Ham’s London Stadium on Sunday, May 31, but its ITV presenting duo face a scheduling conflict with the Champions League final
Daniel Orme Trends Writer
10:25, 21 May 2026
Arsenal’s Champions League final showdown with Paris Saint-Germain has thrown this year’s Soccer Aid into turmoil. The annual charity clash between an England XI and a Rest of the World side is due to take place at West Ham’s London Stadium on Sunday, May 31.
While the match itself remains unaffected, the presenting lineup for the occasion could be a different matter entirely. Dermot O’Leary and former Arsenal star Alex Scott are both scheduled to play a prominent role in the ITV broadcast, yet discussions are ongoing with bosses regarding their absence from rehearsals due to the Champions League final.
Arsenal are set to face PSG in Budapest the day before, with both Scott and O’Leary eager to be in attendance. However, Soccer Aid bosses are keen to have both presenters back in the UK to ensure their participation in rehearsals.
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Speaking on Radio 5 Live, O’Leary said: “We are in negotiations at the moment. It’s not looking good. Ticket is ok. The problem is my contractual obligation to Soccer Aid. The Champions League final is the day before – it’s a huge problem for me.”
When asked whether he required rehearsals, he replied: “I don’t.” He went on to suggest that “everyone else involved” needed a run-through. O’Leary added: “Also I’m doing it with Alex Scott, one of the Arsenal greats.
“No. Right now, we’re in a perilous state of negotiation, put it that way, which I don’t think we’re going to win.
“It’s just people getting nervous understandably about us not getting on said flights and not making it. And also they want to rehearse on Saturday, bearing in mind I’m a producer of Soccer Aid.”
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Despite his reluctance to attend rehearsals, O’Leary was careful not to understate the significance of the event itself: “It’s quite a responsibility to be there. I do take it quite seriously – it’s for charity.”
Several high-profile names have already been confirmed for this year’s Soccer Aid. Former England internationals Joe Hart, Wayne Rooney, Theo Walcott, Jill Scott, Steph Houghton and Toni Duggan are all set to feature, with celebrity support coming from the likes of Paddy McGuinness, Owen Cooper, Angry Ginge and many more.
Meanwhile, Edwin van der Sar, Leonardo Bonucci and Jordi Alba will line up alongside Chris O’Dowd, Maisie Adam and Simon Neil for the World XI. The dispute over Soccer Aid rehearsals comes in the wake of Declan Rice’s rallying call for as many Arsenal supporters as possible to make the journey to Budapest.
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Speaking following the Gunners’ semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid, he said: “Bring it on, bring it on, I’ll be ready. I want every Arsenal fan out there, 200,000 of you, come out. Let’s try and do it because we’re going to need all the support, all the energy and let’s make it special.”
Bangladesh roared with the ball on Thursday morning, handing Australia a historic humiliation in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Opting to bat first, Australia endured their worst start in ODI history, slumping to 0/3 within the first two overs. The carnage began with Taskin Ahmed, who cleaned up Matthew Short off the fourth delivery of the match. In the following over, pacer Mustafizur Rahman struck twice, dismissing Cooper Connolly and Matt Renshaw for ducks.
With no runs on the board, it marked Australia’s lowest score for the loss of three wickets in ODI history since 1971. Overall, this was only the fourth instance of a team slipping to 0/3 in men’s ODI cricket.
Bangladesh, which won the first game by 86 runs on the DLS Method, is targeting a maiden ODI series win over Australia. The Australian squad is under pressure and under strength, missing frontline pace bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood and Mitchell Starc.
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Pacer Riley Meredith, who played his only previous ODI against the West Indies in 2021, replaced Liam Scott in the only change to Australia’s XI from the first game.
“We will bat first. We can improve all three facets of the game, small margins, but we’re looking to improve. Riley Meredith replaces Liam Scott. Just a bit more pace for us,” said Australia skipper Josh Inglis at the toss.
Opening batter Saif Hassan made way for Soumya Sarkar as Bangladesh also made only one change.
“It was an excellent first match and a great opportunity today (to win the series). We need more partnerships with the bat, the bowlers are doing well, and we need to build momentum. One change: Soumya Sarkar replaces Saif Hassan,. It’s unfortunate for Saif, but Soumya is batting well in the last few matches and has the experience,” said Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
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(With Agency inputs)
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has arrived in the United States, along with two other countries, which means watch parties are being organized.
World Cup Watch parties will begin Thursday, June 11 – when Mexico hosts South Africa – with several bars and restaurants showing the games for patrons to enjoy. And then the excitement continues on Friday, June 12, when the United States plays Paraguay.
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The Elmont Swim Club is one of the venues that will be having a unique watch party – in the water on Friday evening.
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“We’re excited to bring fans together for a World Cup experience that feels completely different from a traditional watch party,” said Philip Pedregon, Beverage Director at The Elmont. “This is what the Elmont Swim Club is all about – creating a fun, energetic atmosphere where people can cool off, enjoy great company and celebrate big moments together.”
The Tin Man, a local bar franchise, will unveil limited-edition pint glasses for Mexico and the USA on Thursday and Friday.
Jun 8, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a FIFA soccer ball in locker room A during a tour of Kansas City Stadium ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Here is a roundup of places to enjoy the World Cup games in El Paso.
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Watch the World Cup 2026 at the Dome Bar
The Dome Bar inside the Paso del Norte Hotel in Downtown El Paso invites World Cup fans to come out and pair your favorite games with cocktails at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 11; 7 p.m. Friday, June 12; and 1 p.m. Friday, June 19.
Sunú plans opening on Thursday, June 11 for World Cup
Sunú, a new Mexican restaurant, will hold its grand opening at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 11, just in time for World Cup 2026 watching.
Seating inside Sunú Taqueria Molino at 610 N. Mesa St. is seen Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. The restaurant is scheduled to open June 11.
The restaurant at 610 N. Mesa St. has several TVs on its walls for watching the game.
Hooters across Texas to show World Cup games
Hooters locations in Texas could be home base for watching the matches this summer, offering food and drink deals every day of the week.
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Enjoy several summer offers including ½ pound of steamed shrimp ($9.99), one pound of snow crab legs ($19.99), 10 buffalo shrimp served with fries ($9.99), 10 boneless wings served with fries ($9.99), 22-ounce Michelob Ultra Big Daddy drafts in a collectable cup ($5.99), 22-ounce Modelo Big Daddy Mugs ($6.99) and Corona bottles ($5).
Elmont Swim Club to have first night viewing party
The Elmont Swim Club will kick off World Cup season with its first-ever Night Swim Viewing Party on Friday, June 12 at 240 W. Castellano Drive.
The Elmont Swim Club will officially open the 2026 swim season on Sunday, April 12. The resort at 240 W. Castellano Drive has a fun children’s area as well as a couple of slides and a pool with lazy river.
Guests are invited to watch the match live from the pool and enjoy a one-of-a-kind summer viewing experience featuring discounted Swim Club admission beginning at 5 p.m. The Swim Club will remain open until 10 p.m. for the special event.
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The evening will include special promotions and tastings from Michelob Ultra, Stella Artois and NÜTRL, along with games, contests, prizes and giveaways throughout the night.
To help build the atmosphere ahead of kickoff, Suavecita FM will broadcast live on-site from 5 to 7 p.m. The U.S. vs. Paraguay match will be shown live from 7 to 10 p.m., giving fans a chance to swim, cheer and celebrate alongside fellow supporters.
The Night Swim Viewing Party is the first of several World Cup watch parties planned at The Elmont.
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For more information about The Elmont Swim Club, admission, season passes and upcoming events, visit theelmont.com.
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Tin Man to offer limited-edition Mexico pint glass
All Tin Man locations will offer a limited-edition Mexico pint glass Thursday, June 11. Fans are invited to watch the 2026 World Cup, starting at noon.
All Tin Man locations in El Paso will offer a limited-edition Mexico pint glass Thursday, June 11. Fans are invited to come watch the World Cup 2026, starting at noon.
The bar will also offer a limited-edition glass for the USA on Friday, June 12, at p.m.
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Locations: 2301 N. Zaragoza Road., 1300 Airway Blvd., 1495 George Dieter Drive., 13500 Eastlake Blvd., 4935 N. Mesa St., 7729 Paseo del Norte Blvd., and 11100 Sean Haggerty Drive.
The District to offer World Cup Watch party
The District, at 1160 Airway Blvd. Suite DA, will host a World Cup 2026 watching party at 1:00 p.m. It will offer food and drink specials, including $3 Tecate and Modelo beers, $0.40 Hornitos, and a $9 grilled chicken wrap with fries.
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It will also offer a watch party for the USA team at 7 p.m. Friday, June 12, with drink specials during the game.
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A Touch of Germany to have World Cup Sunday, June 14
A Touch of Germany, 1550 Hawkins Blvd, Suite 16, will host a watch party for Germany as it takes on Curaçao at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 14. Come hungry, because the restaurant will offer Leberkäse for $11.99 during the match. Information: 915-595-8888.
Plaza Hotel to offer World Cup watch party.
The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park invites the public to watch World Cup soccer Friday, June 12 at La Perla. During the game, the rooftop bar will offer tacos and margaritas.
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United States will play Paraguay at 7 p.m. MT/8 p.m. CT.
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St. Augustine Pizza Pub to host World Cup watch party
A staff member places a cooked pizza onto a plate during a pizza-making class at Saint Augustine Pizza Pub on March 11, 2026, in East El Paso, Texas.
St. Augustine Pizza Pub, 1691 N. Zaragoza Road, will be showing the World Cup matches, starting at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 11. The pub will offer $2 Tecates, $5 Clamatos, and $4.50 for local beers.
Fire up the grill, wave the flag, and most importantly, grab your clubs because it’s time to celebrate America in style. Whether you’re chasing birdies on the Fourth or enjoying a summer round with friends, there’s no better way to show your patriotic spirit than with a red, white, and blue golf outfit.
We did you a solid and laid out what we think is the perfect Independence Day golf fit — and it can be shipped and ready before the holiday.
Vineyard Vines brings the bold with this new polo. Featuring a vivid flag-inspired design and lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, it’s built to keep you comfortable whether you’re on the golf course, at a backyard barbecue, or watching fireworks later that evening. It’s the most American golf shirt we think you’ll find anywhere.
1 thing we really like: The American flag design makes a statement without sacrificing comfort and the ultra-soft Sankaty performance fabric feels great even on the hottest summer days.
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Vineyard Vines American Flag Golf Polo
A festive, high-performance polo that combines all-American style with all-day comfort.
We know it’s expensive, but if you really want to add a touch of classic Americana to your golf wardrobe, consider this hand-stitched needlepoint belt from Smathers & Branson. Featuring an American flag design, premium Italian leather backing, and a solid brass buckle, it’s a timeless accessory that pairs perfectly with your favorite patriotic golf outfit.
1 thing we really like: The attention to detail between the hand-stitched flag pattern, full-grain Italian leather, and solid brass buckle, this belt feels like a piece you’ll wear for years, both on and off the course.
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Smathers & Branson American Flag Golf Belt
A 100% hand-stitched needlepoint belt lined with full grain, Italian leather and a brass buckle.
By July, we’re hoping your legs are tan enough to hop on the short shorts trend and the Chubbies Everywear Shorts (In Navy Baby) are designed to look great on practically anywhere. With lightweight stretch fabric, water resistance, and plenty of practical storage, these versatile shorts deliver comfort and performance at a reasonable price. And if you don’t want the 6″ version, Chubbies also makes longer options.
1 thing we really like: A great price for a summer staple that have plenty of stretch.
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Chubbies The Navy Baby’s 6″ Men’s Golf Shorts
Lightweight shorts with ample stretch for added comfort.
Whether you’re teeing off on a cool morning or looking for a lightweight layer later in the day, the Good Good Jimmy Quarter-Zip delivers comfort and performance in a clean, athletic package. Its four-way stretch fabric allows for a full range of motion, making it an easy choice for golfers who want versatility both on and off the course.
1 thing we really like: The four-way stretch fabric and athletic fit make it incredibly comfortable and wearable anywhere.
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Good Good Jimmy Men’s Golf Quarter Zip
A lightweight performance quarter-zip designed for comfort, mobility, and everyday wear.
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Complete your patriotic golf outfit from the ground up with FootJoy’s ProDry Stars & Stripes golf socks. Designed for all-day comfort and performance, these socks feature moisture-wicking technology, cushioned support, and a secure fit that keeps you comfortable through every hole.
1 thing we really like: Short socks are out and long socks are in and these ProDrys rep Old Glory better than most, and the cushioning and moisture-wicking performance on these socks are fantastic.
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FootJoy ProDry Striped Crew Socks
Patriotic performance socks that deliver comfort, support, and all-American style.
If the rest of the outfit brings the loud colors, maybe we can tone it down a bit at the feet level with the MC80’s from adidas. Blending timeless golf style with modern performance technology, the adidas MC80 Golf Shoes are made of waterproof leather for a classic look.
1 thing we really like: The combination of traditional golf aesthetics and BOOST cushioning is outstanding. You get the look of a classic golf shoe with the comfort and energy return of a modern athletic sneaker.
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adidas MC80 Men’s Spikeless Golf Shoes
A premium golf shoe that combines classic leather styling with cutting-edge comfort and performance.
Top off your patriotic golf look with a cap that blends vintage-inspired style and modern comfort from an American equipment manufacturer. The Ping Karsten O.G. Performance Cap features a classic rope design, breathable mesh back, and added stretch for a comfortable fit whether you’re walking 18 holes or enjoying a summer holiday BBQ after the round. And of course, the front of the cap has that classic Mr. Ping logo that we love.
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1 thing we really like: The combination of the throwback rope styling and stretchy performance fabric gives this hat a unique look that’s both stylish and incredibly comfortable to wear all day.
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Ping Karsten O.G. Performance Cap
A retro-inspired performance cap with modern comfort and an easy, all-day fit.
Designed with athletes and golfers in mind, these lightweight performance shades feature mirrored red lenses, non-slip grips, and specialized Knockterra lens technology that resists sweat, water, and fingerprints. They’re perfect for long summer rounds under the bright sun.
1 thing we really like: The non-polarized Knockterra lenses are a standout feature, providing enhanced depth perception on the course. Nice price, too.
Feb 9, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Former running back LeSean McCoy speaks during the Legends NFL Party. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images.
Former NFL running back LeSean McCoy is not a fan of Kyler Murray, reigniting his beef with the Minnesota Vikings quarterback this week by saying Murray isn’t good enough to be cocky.
McCoy has a long, documented history of ripping Murray; his recent comments were merely the latest chapter in the saga.
McCoy’s Latest Murray Criticism Adds Heat to Vikings QB Race
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray wears his helmet during the opening day of organized team activities at team headquarters in Eagan. On May 26, 2026, Murray participated in Minnesota’s first OTA session, beginning offseason installation work and taking early steps toward establishing himself within the Vikings’ revamped quarterback room. Mandatory Credit: YouTube.
McCoy: Murray Isn’t Good Enough to Be Arrogant
Chatting on the Speakeasy podcast, McCoy was not shy about unloading his latest Murray take, saying, “But you know what I hate? I hate a super cocky, arrogant player that’s not that good. That’s a little above average. That is Kyler Murray.”
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“He plays like high school Texas football. He runs around and back there just trying to make plays like this high school football stuff.”
McCoy last played in the NFL in 2020, is a two-time Super Bowl champion, and isn’t unafraid to uncork juicy takes on the internet.
Past Comments from McCoy
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A couple of years ago, Murray mentioned his 43-0 career in high school, touting the accomplishment because he played ball in Texas. McCoy replied on social media, “lol and what has that gotten u ??? Mid NFL career??? What we talking bout?”
In 2022, McCoy went on another Murray-related rant, saying, “He’s trash. Overhyped. Overrated. He plays like a high school player. Runs around, runs backward, he does a circle, the ballerina circle, then goes left, goes right, turns all the way around again, then looks for a wide receiver. That’s not how you play quarterback.”
“He ain’t Mahomes. Let me tell you about Mahomes real quick: the majority of Mahomes’ passes are based on timing. Third step, hit, boom, ball’s out. Fifth step, boom, ball’s out. Now sometimes he goes off script, we all can do that but not every pass!”
McCoy flat-out doesn’t like the guy. He says the same thing about Murray every time he talks about him.
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“Every pass, Murray is holding the ball, let’s make a miracle. Every game he’s played. Watch him play. It’s really embarrassing, to be honest. Like, who’s coaching this kid? He ain’t reading no coverages,” he continued his tirade and crusade.
“When a quarterback is running around like that all day, all night, all game, that’s because he’s not reading any coverages.”
Murray Not Universally Loved
Murray isn’t for everybody. When the Arizona Cardinals baked in a “study hall clause” into his contract — later removed — many determined he was a lazy, no-good video game player. The narrative died down thereafter but never truly vanished.
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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray takes a snap during a road game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. On Dec. 3, 2023, Murray directed Arizona’s offense while continuing his return to action, showcasing the mobility and playmaking skills that have defined his NFL career. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports.
He’s also never won a playoff game, so when his ardor for video games is mentioned, the assertion is that he doesn’t love football as much as his peers and spends too much time on other hobbies. Ask a casual fan about Murray, and there’s a decent chance they mock for a) his height b) video games c) his attitude.
The guy probably needs a playoff win or two to dull the perception.
A Change of Scenery in 2026
Thankfully for Murray’s sake, he’ll get a bit of a clean slate this season. Murray will work alongside a “quarterback whispering” head coach and playmakers like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jauan Jennings, T.J. Hockenson, Aaron Jones, and Jordan Mason. He’ll also have a Top 3 defense from the last two seasons at his back, led by Brian Flores.
Murray has never quite had a setup like this.
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Our Cole Smith noted on Murray in May, “He was selected to back-to-back Pro Bowls in 2020 and 2021 after throwing for a combined 48 touchdowns, rushing for another 16, while completing 68.1% of his passes for 7,758 yards. Murray hasn’t been the same since, only starting 41 of 64 games in that time. But he believes Kevin O’Connell can help him return to Pro Bowl form.”
“O’Connell has confidence in Murray, but what is the quarterback’s own level of confidence in this new environment? The bigger question remains what the on-field product will look like. Reporters were able to look upon practice on Wednesday and saw a glimpse of what this offense can look like with Murray.”
Murray looked wonderful at organized team activities.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray surveys the field during a home contest against the Washington Commanders at State Farm Stadium. On Sept. 29, 2024, Murray guided Arizona’s offense in an early-season matchup, working through progressions and directing drives as the Cardinals evaluated their offensive identity. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
Smith added, “There could have been plenty of excuses made for why Murray didn’t execute the play. Instead, he avoided disaster and made the defense pay. Murray said his confidence is unshakeable. He displayed that on and off the field in his first action in front of reporters.”
“If he can continue stacking days like this throughout the summer, there will likely be no question about how the quarterback competition ends.”
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But according to McCoy, he’s just too arrogant and cocky to make it work.
Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker
Suncorp Stadium will play host to Friday’s
Round 15 NRL game between Dolphins and
Sydney Roosters. The game kicks off at 8:00 pm with Dolphins heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Dolphins vs.
Sydney Roosters
game and give you our free tips and bets.
The Dolphins have a golden opportunity to strengthen their top-four credentials when they host an Origin-depleted Sydney Roosters outfit at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night. After a difficult start to the season, the Dolphins have surged into contention with five consecutive victories, showcasing one of the most dangerous attacks in the competition. The Roosters remain well placed inside the top four themselves, but the absence of several representative stars leaves them facing a major challenge. While Sydney has dominated this matchup since the Dolphins entered the NRL, the circumstances are very different this time around. The Dolphins retain much of their attacking core and arrive full of confidence, while the Roosters will rely on inexperienced combinations across key positions. Momentum and continuity appear firmly in the hosts’ favour.
Go Media Stadium will play host to Saturday’s
Round 15 NRL game between New Zealand Warriors and
Cronulla Sharks. The game kicks off at 5:30 pm with New Zealand Warriors heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the New Zealand Warriors vs.
Cronulla Sharks
game and give you our free tips and bets.
A blockbuster Saturday afternoon clash awaits in Auckland as the Warriors return home to face a Cronulla side chasing a fourth straight win. The Warriors have established themselves among the competition’s elite this season and return to Go Media Stadium for the first time in two months. Cronulla has quietly rebuilt momentum after a mid-season dip, stringing together three successive victories to move firmly into finals contention. Both teams are missing key forwards through Origin and injury, placing extra importance on the battle between the halves and outside backs. The Sharks have enjoyed recent success in Auckland and handed the Warriors a convincing defeat earlier this season, but the hosts have improved dramatically since then. With both clubs sitting comfortably inside the top eight, this shapes as one of the matches of the round.
New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Teams
Warriors team: 1. Taine Tuaupiki 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Ali Leiataua 4. Adam Pompey 5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Te Maire Martin 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Jackson Ford 11. Leka Halasima 12. Jacob Laban 13. Erin Clark 14. Samuel Healey 15. Tanner Stowers-Smith 16. Demitric Vaimauga 17. Marata Niukore 18. Kayliss Fatialofa 20. Luke Hanson
Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Samuel Stonestreet 3. KL Iro 4. Mawene Hiroti 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Niwhai Puru 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Jayden Berrell 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Siosifa Talakai 15. Billy Burns 16. Jesse Colquhoun 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Hohepa Puru 19. Oregon Kaufusi 22. Sione Katoa
A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits on display before kickoff at U.S. Bank Stadium ahead of a matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. On Oct. 19, 2025, fans gathered in Minneapolis as the Vikings prepared for another important regular-season test in front of a packed home crowd. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images.
Expecting big things from outside linebacker Dallas Turner in 2026? How about second-year wideout Tai Felton? Neither of those men is the most logical breakout candidate for the 2026 Minnesota Vikings — because that distinction belongs to left tackle Christian Darrisaw, says CBS Sports.
It’s a bizarre selection for a breakout player, as Darrisaw broke out five years ago.
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Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw pursues a loose football during fourth-quarter action against the Los Angeles Rams at U.S. Bank Stadium. On Dec. 26, 2021, Darrisaw recovered a fumble during a pivotal sequence, showcasing hustle and awareness in a hard-fought contest late in the regular season. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports.
CBS Sports: Vikings Breakout Player = Christian Darrisaw
Zachary Pereles nominated a breakout player for each NFC team this week, landing on Darrisaw for Minnesota: “If you ask Vikings fans, they’d probably say it’s past time for Christian Darrisaw to become a star. The left tackle showcases elite talent when he’s on the field. The issue is he hasn’t been on the field enough: zero full seasons.”
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“He has played in just 17 games total the past two seasons after signing a four-year, $113 million extension in July 2024. He then tore his ACL and MCL in October and struggled with knee issues for seemingly all of 2025.”
Pereles is correct with his first sentence. Minnesotans are not looking for Darrisaw to achieve stardom. They want him to be healthy.
“He’s an absolute road grader in the run game; since Darrisaw arrived in 2021, the Vikings have a 46% rushing success rate with him on the field and a 41% rushing success rate without him,” Pereles added.
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“In 2025, that would have been the difference between the NFL’s 17th-best rushing attack and its 31st-best rushing attack.”
DJ Record Scratch
Pereles is right about one thing — Vikings fans considering Darrisaw a stud. From their perspective, he broke out sometime in mid-2021 as a rookie.
In fact, during the dark years of 2021 and 2023, Darrisaw was a bright spot, a player fans could tout as, “At least we have Darrisaw.” That crowd spends more time wondering why Darrisaw has never reached a Pro Bowl, despite a Pro Bowl resume, than labeling him as a breakout candidate.
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Most would’ve picked the aforementioned Turner for the “breakout” candidacy, as outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard was traded in late April. It’s finally time for Turner to start after the Vikings traded the farm to get him in 2024.
But nope — CBS Sports says Darrisaw could be on the cusp of something big in 2026.
Career Resume for Darrisaw
Darrisaw’s track record is clear: when healthy, he is one of the best left tackles in football.
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Since 2021, the Vikings have witnessed his prowess over 3,440 total snaps — 2,216 in pass-blocking and 1,224 in run-blocking. His performance has been exceptional, highlighted by an overall grade of 90.4 in 2022, followed by 82.4 in 2023 and 81.4 in 2024. PFF ranked him seventh among all offensive tackles after the 2023 season, noting his career-best 85.3 pass-blocking grade, which was third in the NFL.
Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw prepares for the snap during a road matchup against the Washington Commanders at FedExField. On Nov. 6, 2022, Darrisaw anchored Minnesota’s offensive line while continuing his emergence as one of the NFL’s premier young left tackles during a successful Vikings campaign. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports.
The 2023 season is particularly significant, as Darrisaw maintained his elite blindside protection despite Minnesota cycling through four quarterbacks: Kirk Cousins, Joshua Dobbs, Nick Mullens, and Jaren Hall.
His run-blocking grades have been consistently strong: 90.6 in 2022, 73.9 in 2023, 82.3 in 2024, and 69.8 in 2025. His pass-blocking grades show even greater consistency: 82.4, 85.3, 79.9, and 71.3 from 2022 to 2025.
PFF recognized his potential early, ranking him among rookie left tackles with the lowest pressure rates since 2010 after his first season.
The primary concern, of course, revolves around his recent availability. Darrisaw has played in 58 games and started 56 over five years. His talent undeniably qualifies him as a franchise left tackle; the Vikings simply need him to complete a full season.
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Actual Breakout Candidates?
If one classifies Darrisaw’s breakout label as bogus, here’s the real list of possible Vikings contenders in 2026:
Tai Felton (WR)
Jordan Mason (RB)
Myles Price (WR)
Bo Richter (OLB)
Dallas Turner (OLB)
Jay Ward (S)
Rookies, too — the Vikings have about 30 on the roster right now — could break out, but no one considers a rookie shining for the first time all that remarkable. It happens.
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Dallas Turner watches drills during minicamp at the team’s training facility in Eagan. On June 10, 2025, Turner continued his offseason development as coaches evaluated young defenders and installed schemes ahead of training camp, with expectations rising for the former first-round draft pick. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images.
Darrisaw said last week that his knee feels its best in two years, notable because he tore his ACL in October 2024. Mankato Free Press‘s Abbie Parr noted, “Darrisaw, who’s entering his sixth season with the Vikings after being drafted in the first round in 2021, wore a leg sleeve but no knee brace during Thursday’s organized team activities practice.”
“He participated in everything from O-line drills to 7-on-7 work. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said the team had planned on Darrisaw being available in this part of the NFL calendar and that he’s been participating ‘pretty much in totality.’”
He turned 27 last week.
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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
Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu and teenager Tanvi Sharma entered the women’s singles quarterfinals with straight-game wins with over their respective opponents at the Australian Open Super 500 badminton tournament in Sydney on Thursday. Third seed Sindhu prevailed over compatriot Isharani Baruah 22-20 21-12 in a round of 16 match that lasted 42 minutes. In another all-Indian contest, 17-year-old Tanvi, who stunned fifth seed and world No. 11 Chiu Pin-Chian of Chinese Taipei on Wednesday, beat Malvika Bansod 21-13 21-15 to continue her progress.
Sindhu will take on Chen Su Yu of Chinese Taipei, but a tough match awaits Tanvi as she is now pitted against top seed Akane Yamaguchi of Japan.
It was curtains for Tanya Hemanth as she lost 12-21 15-21 to second seed Pornpawee Chochuwong of Thailand.
The Indian men’s doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and MR Arjun progressed to the quarterfinals with a 21-17 21-7 win over Australian combination of Michael Owen Dylan Soedjasa. They will next play Chen Cheng Kuan and Liu Kuang Heng of Chinese Taipei.
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However, the Indian mixed doubles pair of Dhruv Rawat and K Maneesha exited the tournament after suffering a 19-21 18-21 defeat against Japan’s Akira Koga and Natsu Saito in the second round.
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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It seemed a bit, let’s say, irregular over the past few years to see NFL quarterbacks who had never won or even played in a Super Bowl surpass Patrick Mahomes as the league’s highest-paid quarterback.
That’s changing starting in 2027.
On Wednesday, Mahomes vaulted over the entire quarterback pack in agreeing to a new contract with a two-year extension that is worth $504.75 million and ties him to the Kansas City Chiefs through the 2033 season. ESPN was first to report the news.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes walks off the field after an NFL game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Kansas City, Mo., on Oct. 19, 2025.(Reed Hoffmann/AP)
The deal is not yet signed but has been in the works for weeks between Mahomes’ representatives at Equity Sports and Chiefs general manager Brett Veach and his team.
The extension means Mahomes now has a contract from 2026 to 2033 worth over half a billion dollars over eight seasons. That represents the first NFL contract to climb over the half-billion-dollar mark.
Mahomes can climb as high as $522.25 million if he meets incentives.
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And this: When $239.05 million in new money kicks in starting in 2027, Mahomes will be averaging a reported $64 million per season.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes takes off his helmet after defeating the Buffalo Bills during the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., on Jan. 26, 2025.(Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
That beats the $60 million per year on an annual average basis Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott gets as the NFL’s current highest-paid quarterback.
And it certainly blows away the $45 million per year average Mahomes has been getting since signing his current contract in 2020.
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Back then, Mahomes signed a 10-year contract worth $450 million. It made him the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL.
But in the ensuing years, players including Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert, Brock Purdy, Tua Tagovailoa, Jared Goff, Trevor Lawrence, Josh Allen, Jordan Love and Prescott signed deals worth more on an annual average basis.
And you know how many Super Bowl championships all those higher-paid QBs boast?
Zero.
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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is interviewed by Netflix reporter Stacey Dales after a win against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Dec. 25, 2024.(Barry Reeger-Imagn Images)
Mahomes has helped the Chiefs reach five Super Bowls. And they’ve won three.
That alone suggests Mahomes was underpaid while averaging $45 million per season. That, of course, can be debated because Mahomes hasn’t exactly posted career statistics in recent years.
His annual passing yards have declined each of the last three seasons since he posted a career-high 5,250 passing yards in 2022.
But the statistics are affected by the talent level around him. The Chiefs have had offensive line issues and the wide receiver cast has been in flux and often inconsistent in recent years.
The important thing is whether the Chiefs believe Mahomes to be worthy of a raise. They’ve answered that question.
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