Bugaluu :: Sports

Nico O’Reilly had been presented with the prize by the side of the pitch before Pep Guardiola announced who he felt was a more deserving recipient. “Erling was for me the man of the match,” he said. Normally when Erling Haaland gets the individual honours, it is a reflection of extraterrestrial goalscoring exploits.

Not on this occasion. There are days when the numbers surrounding Haaland are low and high; his number of touches and goals respectively. As Newcastle were defeated at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, perhaps it was the other way around. For the eighth time in 11 games, he did not find the net. Yet he has never been more involved.

He had 43 touches, his most ever in a Premier League match. Haaland’s height and look makes him conspicuous even when he is not on the ball, but he had a ubiquity. The eye was drawn to his battle with Dan Burn, the Etihad looking the land of the giants. Haaland made O’Reilly’s second goal with the kind of ball he would appreciate himself – “I want that someone crosses to him,” said Guardiola – and kept on repelling Newcastle attacks.

Haaland made three clearances; only Rodri and Marc Guehi made more for City. Indeed, only twice in his Premier League career has the Norwegian had more in a match. It was one of those days when, not content with being City’s best attacker, he can look their finest defender. It prompted Guehi to remark that he doesn’t want Haaland to reinvent himself as a centre-back. “I think he should stay up front, for sure,” said the January signing. “I don’t want him to take my place.”

Erling Haaland goal rate has slowed since the turn of the year (Mike Egerton/PA) (PA Wire)

But Haaland is a magnetic presence in the penalty box, heading balls away. Newcastle supporters may have had flashbacks: for years Alan Shearer, in between becoming their record scorer, assumed the duties on the near post at corners.

“I’m not a big fan to put Erling to defend,” said Guardiola. “But he helped us, and I know after, how the people hug him and celebrate him and say they’re grateful for helping us. He’s an incredible, generous player, so today is a performance and I’ll never forget what Erling has done for us.”

Guardiola’s description of Haaland as generous was instructive. The theory is that strikers have to be selfish; the more goals they get, perhaps the more selfish they are. And 2026 has been an unusually barren spell for Haaland, but it has been a time when he has shown a sense of greater responsibility. He is part of City’s leadership group, one of those who organised the refund for supporters who paid for tickets for the dismal defeat to Bodo/Glimt.

With his nine-and-a-half year contract, he has a greater commitment. In turn, that may be making him more of a team player. He is not just a scorer. Guardiola was surprised to be informed that Haaland ranks second in the Premier League for assists, albeit some way behind the runaway leader, Bruno Fernandes.

“So the numbers are unbelievable,” said Guardiola and, once again, he was not talking about Haaland’s goal return. He has seven assists for the top-flight season, only one behind his personal best, in 2022-23. He has got more creative of late. Three have come in his last five games, all in different fashion. There was a pass for Rayan Cherki’s solo goal against Tottenham, a header down for Bernardo Silva’s predatory finish at Liverpool, now the cross for O’Reilly.

Erling Haaland and Pep Guardiola celebrate City’s win over Newcastle (Reuters)

That may be a consequence of Guardiola’s shifting tactics. As he has adopted a 4-2-2-2 formation, Haaland has been given a slightly wider brief, one of split strikers. He used to operate almost exclusively within the width of the penalty box. A glimpse at his touch map on Saturday showed 10 of them were to the right of the boxes.

Perhaps, as City have less control and play a more transitional style of football, forwards will have more touches and midfielders fewer; there was an old-style feel to the Newcastle game, more direct football, more swift breaks, more of a constant contest between Haaland and Burn.

Perhaps it helped Haaland that he was arguably fresher than at any stage of the campaign. Having sat out the FA Cup win over Salford, he had not played for 10 days. But it is notable, too, that Guardiola did not substitute him as he looked to hold on: Antoine Semenyo and Omar Marmoush came off but Haaland’s height meant he was indispensable for defending set-pieces.

“His work ethic is amazing. He was flying for every single ball against Dan [Burn],” said Guehi. “It’s not easy.” And Guardiola was thankful. He singled out Haaland for praise in a speech in the dressing room. “Sometimes I’m a critic of him,” the City manager added. “But today I said, ‘guy, without you it would not be possible.’”

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/erling-haaland-thriving-surprising-role-223027826.html 

Clarissa Shields won gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics [Getty Images]

Claressa Shields defended her undisputed heavyweight crown by beating fellow American Franchon Crews-Dezurn by unanimous points decision at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

In her first outing of an $8m (£6.1m) multi-fight deal, Shields was a 100-90 victor on the scorecards of all three judges as she retained her WBO, WBA, IBF and WBC titles.

The 30-year-old is unbeaten in 18 professional outings following the 10-round bout, which included plenty of fiery exchanges between Shields and 38-yer-old Crews-Dezurn.

“I felt like I had to take my time. Franchon hits hard and she’s tough,” said Shields.

“She was trying to cause an upset and got me with some shots.

“She’s a heavy-hitting diva and that’s one of the best fights I’ve been in my professional career, especially at 10 rounds. It was fun. I had to watch my ass every round.

“I think today I showcased my skills, my offence, my defence and body shots. I almost had her out in round seven, but she just wouldn’t go.”

Shields beat Crews-Dezurn three times as an amateur and on their professional debuts in 2016.

Boxing schedule and results 2026Watch every Born to Brawl episode

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/shields-beats-crews-dezurn-retain-072111181.html 

Flick talks Bernal, Cancelo, Lamine, Bardghji, Joan Garcia after Barcelona 3-0 Levante

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was a satisfied figure after his side delivered a convincing performance against Levante. 

With pressure building in the La Liga title race, the Catalan giants responded in the best possible way.

Speaking after the match, Flick made it clear that the early goal set the tone for everything that followed. 

“Scoring early was very important; we saw the confidence we had from the start. As the game progressed, we improved and deserved to win,” he began.

Bernal’s starting spot

The manager highlighted how the team grew stronger as the match unfolded. 

Marc Bernal was on the scoresheet. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

Against a deep defensive block, patience and structure were key, and Barcelona showed both.

One of the talking points before kick-off was the inclusion of Marc Bernal in midfield. Flick was asked whether he wanted more control in the centre of the park and how he assessed the youngster’s performance. 

The Barcelona manager explained the tactical reasoning behind his selection. 

“When you play with such a low block, you need help from the midfielders, who come up from the second line. Marc is a great player for the future. I hope he has a bright future if he stays healthy.”

On Joao Cancelo

Another player who caught the eye was Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese full-back was heavily involved in attacking phases and constantly pushed forward. 

Flick did not hold back in his praise. “He was fantastic, he created chances and that’s what I want to see. He showed his strengths. He can help us a lot.”

The victory also allowed Barcelona to regain the La Liga lead from Real Madrid, something Flick acknowledged but refused to overhype. 

“It’s important and positive. We had the opportunity after Saturday’s result and we took advantage of it. But there’s still a long way to go. Today we gave the response we needed.”

Lamine Yamal’s substitution

Lamine Yamal was taken off. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

There was also discussion around Lamine Yamal and his visible frustration after being substituted. Flick downplayed any drama surrounding the teenager. 

“What reaction? Was he angry? That’s normal. For me, the most important thing is that we won and we also have players who deserve to play, like [Roony] Bardghji. 

“I liked his attitude when he came on. That’s it. You guys make a big deal out of everything Lamine does. If he’s upset because he was substituted, that’s only human.”

The manager ended by praising two more key contributors. On Bernal’s overall display, he said, 

“He’s done a great job, he’s given us structure with the ball, he knows where he needs to be at all times, controlling the ball. I like watching him play,” and regarding goalkeeper Joan Garcia, 

“He helps us a lot in the back line and is very useful to us,” he concluded.

Source: AS

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/flick-talks-bernal-cancelo-lamine-072000662.html 

Celik will leave Roma in June

Celik’s future is increasingly becoming an international intrigue.

The Turk remains a permanent reference point in Gasperini’s squad, even though his contract with Roma expires on June 30, writes Giorgio Marota in Il Corriere dello Sport.

The full-back’s entourage is demanding a net salary of €4 million, a figure that Roma’s sporting management believes is unsustainable at this stage.

The proposal calls for a slight increase over the €2 million he currently earns, but without exceeding the €2.5 million mark.

Meanwhile, several major international clubs are beginning to suspect a possible free transfer, from Juventus to at least two Premier League contenders, including Fulham and Newcastle, not to mention rumors coming from the Bundesliga (Stuttgart are interested).

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/celik-leave-roma-june-064500883.html 

Everton predicted XI vs Man United: Toffees aim to end home hoodoo against in-form Red Devils

Everton host Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night, knowing this is a chance to reset the mood around their season.

Everton started the weekend eighth in the Premier League table, firmly in the European conversation.

Still, frustration is growing on Merseyside after six games without a win at home in all competitions. Another defeat under the lights would only worsen the unease.

However, Everton have already beaten United once this season and will take confidence from that win when they welcome the resurgent Red Devils for this tantalising clash.

Match preview

Everton boss David Moyes returns to face his former club at a delicate time. The 2-1 home defeat to Bournemouth before the break was particularly galling.

Everton were in control before eight chaotic minutes flipped the game. A chance to consolidate a European push slipped away.

Their home form is now a concern. They have lost five of their last nine Premier League matches on Merseyside, as many as in their previous 28.

The new 52,000-seat arena is yet to feel like a fortress.

In contrast, their away record has been excellent. It is the inconsistency at Hill Dickinson Stadium that is holding them back.

Meanwhile, Man United arrive in very different spirits. Since Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim, United have rediscovered rhythm and resilience.

No side has collected more points in 2026.

A stoppage-time equaliser from Benjamin Sesko at West Ham United extended their unbeaten run and underlined a growing belief. United are playing with freedom again.

Match stats

Everton are looking to complete just their second Premier League double over Manchester United after 2013/14. But the Toffees must be wary.

United have 19 away wins and 42 overall victories against Everton in the Premier League, more than any team has against another in the competition’s history.

Everton have lost five of their last nine home league games (W2, D2) while United are unbeaten in their last nine top-flight matches (W5, D4), their longest such run since 2021.

Everton team news

Jake O’Brien is suspended following his red card against Bournemouth, forcing a reshuffle in defence.

Long-term absentee Jack Grealish remains sidelined, but Seamus Coleman is back in contention and could return at right-back.

More likely, Moyes will roll with Scottish international (15-caps) Nathan Patterson at right-back. Tyrique George, 20, should retain his place in the attack.

Idrissa Gueye is available despite his dismissal at Old Trafford, while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will be eager to haunt United again after scoring the winner in November.

Everton predicted XI (4-2-3-1)

Jordan Pickford; Nathan Patterson, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitalii Mykolenko; Idrissa Gueye, James Garner; Tyrique George, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Iliman Ndiaye; Thierno Barry.

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/everton-predicted-xi-vs-man-064000403.html 

Marc Skinner: Man United women manager makes big promise to fans

Manchester United Women lost their first game since before Christmas to Chelsea in the FA Cup.

In spite of a fine effort, they were beaten 2-1 by their old rivals.

Proud

Head coach Marc Skinner spoke to the club’s official website after the game and gave his thoughts on the performance.

Responding to how he felt after the game, he stated, “Proud. Proud. So proud of the players. So proud of all the commitment. We’ve just played back-to-back-to-back games — travel away, travel at home — and to put in that performance epitomises everything we are. It epitomises our fans’ energy, our players’ energy. There’s something special about us, about this team.”

He also claimed that the loss “hurt”, but everyone could see how much the game meant to his players.

Skinner also claimed that the defeat will be useful, as it “will feed us for the next games coming up.”

The manager also added that he feels his side should have had a penalty and that he is hoping his team will get more luck in the upcoming League Cup final against the same opponent.

Skinner also revealed that his team changed shape and strategy during the match to try and take the win, but once again reiterated that it was his team’s effort that pleased him the most.

He claimed his team, “showed real commitment when things are against you and you can still fight. That shows special character. And if you’re at a special team like ours, that’s what you have to build.”

New additions

Comparing both teams, Skinner added that United have had to build more slowly and methodically over the years than Chelsea, but that they are finally getting to a place where they can compete.

He added, “the players we brought in this year have epitomised and galvanised the group and pushed us on to stronger things. We’ll come back from this stronger. We haven’t tasted defeat in a while, so it’s a little shock — but it gives us fresh impetus going into the next games.”

Fans in full voice again

A common theme in recent games has been the size of support that United have brought along to away games, both at home and in Europe.

Speaking on this issue, Skinner explained, “they’re the life force behind us — the golden thread in everything we try to do. Honestly, they mean the world to us.”

Featured image Maja Hitij via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/marc-skinner-man-united-women-064000667.html 

The Sporting Truibune’s Arash Markazi and CBS 2’s Jim Hill at the 2024 World Series at Yankee Stadium.

LOS ANGELES – Jim Hill wouldn’t want me to write this column, but this is one of the few times I must ignore the advice of a man I have looked up to for as long as I can remember watching sports in Los Angeles.

On Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers unveiled a statue of Pat Riley, the head coach of the Showtime Lakers, in a ceremony attended by Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Byron Scott, Michael Douglas and Michael McDonald, among others. Lionel Richie even took his courtside seat before the Lakers played the Boston Celtics, as John Tesh’s “Roundball Rock” blared through the arena. If the party had leaned any further into the 1980s, it might have been drenched in neon and simulcast on MTV.

The ceremony took me back to my childhood, watching Jim cover the Showtime Lakers for KCBS 2 and KABC 7. This month, Jim is celebrating his 50th year covering sports in Los Angeles. Next month, I’ll turn 46. Nearly every memory I have of sports in this city — from the Lakers’ 11 NBA championships to the Dodgers’ ifve World Series titles since 1980 — is connected to Jim talking to players in the locker room after the game.

The only thing more surreal than covering the teams I grew up watching today is doing it alongside Jim and calling him a friend.

I always dreamed of becoming a sportswriter in Los Angeles. At USC, I won the Allan Malamud Memorial Scholarship and the Jim Murray Memorial Scholarship, named after my two favorite Los Angeles Times columnists. Both Malamud and Murray died while I was a student at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks. I never had the chance to meet them let alone cover a game alongside them.

Television never felt attainable to me. I grew up with a stutter so severe that I would invent excuses to skip class on days when I had to present a book report. On the first day of school, when students were asked to stand and say their name, I would sometimes pretend I needed to go to the nurse’s office.

I’ll never forget the first time I saw Jim as a member of the media before a 2001 Lakers-Clippers game at Staples Center. I was a USC student freelancing for SLAM magazine. We were seated next to each other. He slapped me on the knee like we were old friends and introduced himself, as if I didn’t already know exactly who he was.

We stayed in touch as my career evolved as I became a staff writer at Sports Illustrated, senior writer at ESPN and a columnist at the Los Angeles Times. At every step, Jim would put me on the air, making me more comfortable with a microphone and a camera representing thousands of households. The kid who once struggled to say his own name was suddenly talking sports with Jim Hill on CBS in Los Angeles.

When I became an adjunct professor at USC, Jim was a regular guest speaker. I wanted my students to hear the same advice he once gave me: It’s all about relationships and hard work — and how inseparable the two are.

The contact list on Jim’s iPhone reads like a Hall of Fame program — legendary players and coaches, Academy Award-winning actors and directors, even a former United States president. But the relationships he nurtures daily are with beat writers and public relations directors across the city. While many anchors prefer the comforts of the studio, Jim has always preferred being in the thick of the action — at every game, every press conference, often seated in the front row, asking the first question.

One of the greatest honors of my career came during the 2020 World Series, when I was asked to fill in for Jim as the Dodgers faced the Tampa Bay Rays in Arlington, Texas. As thrilling as it was to watch the Dodgers win their first title since 1988, the celebration felt muted 1,500 miles from home during a global pandemic.

We made up for it in 2024 when the Dodgers beat the New York Yankees to win the World Series less than a month after my wedding. After finishing our postgame interviews in the clubhouse, Jim poured a bottle of champagne over my head while on the air and wrapped me in a hug.

Sunday was a celebration of Pat Riley and the Showtime Lakers. But as I watched Jim work the room after the ceremony as the only member of the media who covered every championship that team won it felt like something more.

It felt like a celebration of 50 years of Jim Hill telling the story of Los Angeles sports — and, in so many ways, shaping the dreams of a kid who grew up watching him do it. 

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/celebrating-jim-hill-50-years-063532916.html 

Klopp 2.0! Future Liverpool manager has announced himself

The former Liverpool manager had a knack for employing important and talented individuals around him. Pep Lijnders who is now at Manchester City was one of those people.

Another was Vitor Matos, who learned a lot under the guidance of Klopp.

He’s now at Swansea City where he was appointed as manager of the club back in November of last year. At the time, Swansea were really in the depths of the Championship and looked like they could even get relegated.

The club had won just two of their last 10 matches prior to Matos’ appointment. Now, they have gone onto win five of their last 10 matches and have lost just three games during the period.

Matos’ side are now comfortably safe from relegation and are now just six points away from the play offs.

At the same time Swansea also have the best home record under Matos.

What is admirable about Matos is not just the results or even the exciting playing style which is similar to Klopp’s heavy metal football, it’s more so with his man-management skills.

Matos has warmed to his players immediately. He is loved by the fans, and it seems like he definitely has a touch of Klopp’s personality.

It’s why the 37-year-old feels like a potential future Liverpool manager.

Matos is still early on in his career as a coach. But what he has shown so far is enough to put him on the club’s radar.

If he continues on the same trajectory, it’s entirely possible that he will prove himself to be good enough to take over the helm at Anfield and return to his former club to be employed in the role Klopp once was.

For now, keep an eye on him.

​https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/klopp-2-0-future-liverpool-063500499.html