Wembanyama has heeded the call of duty anew, agreeing to play for France in the latest window of the FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers. In a report from BasketNews, the 22-year-old center admitted that representing France will always be more significant than playing in the NBA.

“It means more because you wear it for much shorter periods of time. The intensity of the Olympic Games, for example, is something that happens over a matter of weeks, so everything is decided in the moment,” Wembanyama said. “There are very few games in an international career. Every one of them really matters.”

When will Wemby play for France?

France will face Slovenia on August 28 and Sweden on August 30. France lead Group L with a 5-1 record. Wembanyama last suited up for his home country at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they lost to Team USA in the gold medal game.

While the two-time All-Star is busy preparing for his fourth season with the San Antonio Spurs, he did not want to turn down the chance to play for the national team. That desire to wear the jersey for France once again is also driven by a thirst for redemption following what happened at the Olympic Games.

Wembanyama could have used the entire offseason to avoid basketball and fully rest after coming off a grueling campaign that saw the Spurs reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014. However, he chose not to, as playing for the national team is always paramount for him, similar to his fellow stars from Europe.

A new coach for Wemby

There will be adjustments for Wembanyama, as France are now handled by head coach Frederic Fauthoux. Still, the center noted that it should not pose a problem.

“I wouldn’t go as far as calling it crucial, but it’s a very important window for me, and for many others, to get to know the coaching staff and new teammates and to lay the foundations,” added the Defensive Player of the Year.

In addition to Wembanyama, Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud, and former NBA players Evan Fournier and Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot will also suit up.

After being waived by the Sacramento Kings, he is currently an unrestricted free agent, and the Wizards are regarded as an ideal fit. “A strong case could be made that the Washington Wizards may be the best spot for DeRozan since he could be a leader on and off the court for a team that expects to make a sizable jump during the 2026-27 season,” wrote Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

“Trae Young and Anthony Davis are two NBA All-Stars; AJ Dybantsa is the No. 1 pick, and this team has plenty of youthful options on the rise. If they were to add DeRozan, the Wizards would all of a sudden have a deep roster with plenty of scoring options, and they would perhaps be the most underrated threat in the Eastern Conference. Washington still has its full mid-level exception ($15 million) to offer DeRozan, which is more than any other team actively pursuing him,” Siegel added.

An ideal complement to the roster

The Wizards are expected to be one of the league’s most improved teams this upcoming season. Along with Bilal Coulibaly and Alex Sarr, the roster now features AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis, and Trae Young, while also boasting Khris Middleton off the bench. While experts still disagree on the team’s overall ceiling, adding DeRozan would undoubtedly elevate its standing.

The 6-foot-6 forward averaged 18.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 49.7% from the field. Having played in Toronto, Chicago, San Antonio, and Sacramento, he brings valuable veteran experience and proven versatility.

On a team like Washington, his experience and versatility would prove vital for accelerating young player development while offering a consistent and reliable option at forward.

Wizards face competition from contenders

While he represents a seamless fit for the Wizards, the organization is not the only team in pursuit right now. In fact, several win-now contenders are chasing DeRozan, including the Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat, while the Toronto Raptors have also emerged as a suitor. To win the chase, the Wizards must convince DeRozan of their status as an ascending power in the East.

Fortunately, following its latest roster makeover, the franchise is finally positioned to win big, which explains why the Washington Wizards have emerged in the race for several high-profile veterans.

Shanahan shut down any speculation regarding the star running back’s injury status. According to Adam Schefter, Shanahan stated that McCaffrey “would have practiced Tuesday if it weren’t a joint practice vs. the Chargers. 49ers also have no reason to believe that McCaffrey’s missed practice time is contract-related.”

San Francisco 49ers concluded their final open training camp session on Sunday, which McCaffrey missed. The team traveled to Southern California for a joint practice with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 49ers will face Chargers in their second preseason game on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Expecting a healthy McCaffrey

When healthy, McCaffrey ranks not only among the best running backs in the league, but among the best of a generation. In five of the six seasons in which he played at least 16 games, he finished the year with over 1,800 yards from scrimmage and surpassed 2,000 yards in three of those campaigns.

That said, those 16-game seasons have been interrupted by several years in which he played less than half a season. Since 2020, he has missed 37 games and frequently appears on the injury report.

Should McCaffrey protest his contract?

Regarding money, McCaffrey currently earns around $12 million per year, which ranks sixth among NFL running backs. While it might seem like he should rank higher on the list, the only player earning substantially more right now is Saquon Barkley at $18 million annually.

Everyone else falls within $1.5 million of McCaffrey’s current salary. That places Christian above average for his position as one of the NFL‘s top performers, meaning contract demands should not be a relevant factor for a potential holdout.

Head coach Ben Johnson shared an official update on the situation, indicating that Monangai’s availability for the Week 1 season opener is in jeopardy. Johnson declared that the 24-year-old ball carrier is considered week-to-week, according to Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic. “Bears head coach Ben Johnson says RB Kyle Monangai will be week-to-week,” Fishbain reported.

The club still has two more preseason games to play before the 2026-27 campaign begins, meaning Chicago will monitor Monangai every week moving forward. The running back is expected to be a key player during the regular season.

What happened to Monangai?

Bears running back Monangai recently suffered a lower-body injury during a practice session after hyperextending his right knee. Monangai is viewed as a potential breakout star for Chicago this upcoming season after showing promise during his rookie campaign. Chicago is likely to remain cautious with his physical condition for now, prioritizing his recovery ahead of the new NFL season.

The former seventh-round draft pick served as a relief option at running back last year, playing in all 17 games for the Bears with one start. He finished the season with 783 rushing yards and five touchdowns while adding 164 receiving yards on 18 receptions.

Monangai’s potential replacements

D’Andre Swift remains Chicago’s starting running back. While Monangai recovers from his injury, the Bears will likely give increased opportunities to Roschon Johnson, Britain Brown, and Salvon Ahmed during the preseason.

If Monangai is unable to suit up in Week 1, Johnson stands as the most likely option to back up Swift. Meanwhile, Ben Johnson will prepare his squad for its second preseason game. The Bears face the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, August 22.

In an exclusive interview with World Soccer Talk, Eason made it clear that Diomande will offer something Real Madrid currently lacks. “I think Real Madrid probably needs that right about now, you know? Barcelona has been dominating with the flashy players like Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and all those other guys, and now, Real Madrid has just taken a kind of a project player that is an exciting player to watch.

“I think they can appreciate that: ‘Okay, we’re going to make some changes, we’re going to add some pieces that are going to be dynamic and a little bit different from what we’ve been in the past.'” Eason makes a valid point. The side now managed by Mourinho features highly explosive players like Mbappe and Vinicius, but it lacks that dose of youth and unpredictability that Yan can offer.

Diomande in Golden Boy rankings

Barcelona players Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, alongside Real Madrid forward Yan Diomande, lead the race for the 2026 Golden Boy award, according to the recent top 100 update published by Italian newspaper Tuttosport.

Yamal appears in second place, though he cannot receive the award again after winning it in 2024. Meanwhile, Cubarsi claimed first place after playing all eight games for Spain in the latest World Cup, where they saw the defender recognized as the best young player of the tournament.

Diomande occupies the third spot after becoming one of the main new additions to the ranking. The forward made a significant leap thanks to the level he displayed in the World Cup.

Diomande’s arrival at Real Madrid

The forward left Leipzig to join Real Madrid for $144.6 million, an amount that could rise to $162 million with add-ons. This operation stands as the most expensive transfer in the history of the club, surpassing the signing of Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid now prepares for a season filled with high expectations. Alongside Diomande, interesting signings arrived, including Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, and Denzel Dumfries. It promises to be an intriguing matchup against Barcelona in La Liga and Spanish competitions, where fans will see what Diomande is truly made of if he logs minutes against Yamal’s Barcelona.

Curry made an appearance at the Golden State Valkyries’ home game against the Dallas Wings on Monday night inside Chase Center, also known as Ballhalla among Valkyries fans. The Warriors guard stopped to chat with the CBS broadcast’s sideline reporter, who asked him how he is preparing for his 18th NBA season.

“That number doesn’t even sound right,” Curry said with a smile. Curry proceeded to express his excitement for the impending NBA season. “But I’m excited. We’re going to take advantage of the rest of the offseason, but I think we have a, there’s a lot of health coming back. For me, I’m blessed to play this game. I feel good taking advantage of the offseason, and when September rolls around, hopefully these ladies are going to be celebrating some crazy things at the end of their season and roll right into ours.”

Warriors look to defy odds

While most do not place them among championship contenders, Curry and the Warriors are preparing for another potential run at an NBA Championship alongside Draymond Green and Steve Kerr.

Jimmy Butler remains on the mend, recovering from a torn ACL in his right knee, though reportedly ahead of schedule. However, the team will definitely need his presence for improved performance, a reality demonstrated last season.

Last season, Curry played in just 45 games, averaging 26.5 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.5 rebounds while playing 31 minutes per game. Still, the franchise’s success will ultimately depend on how healthy the roster remains.

Curry on return to Chase Center

Curry also made sure to show love to fans showing up and showed out at Chase Center during this season with the Valkyries. The Warriors open the 2026-27 NBA season against Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on Oct. 21 before returning home on Oct. 23 against the Memphis Grizzlies.

“It’s definitely reminiscent for sure, which is kind of a great vibe from Oracle to Chase in we play, and then what Ballhalla has meant for the last 2 yeas,” Curry added. “So hopefully they have a great end to the year. They’re obviously playing amazing basketball, and seeing that they have a great chemistry, it’s great to watch.”

Reese delivered a solid performance in his preseason debut, leaving a great impression despite logging limited minutes as the team prepares for the rest of the preseason and the start of the regular season. His head coach gave him props following the game, per SNY Giants.

“Yeah, I thought Arvell played really well,” Harbaugh said. “I really didn’t see anything I didn’t like. I don’t think anybody felt that way. The one thing we probably had a problem with was he tried to put himself back in the game. Somewhere in about the late second or third quarter, he ran out onto the field, and we had to grab him and say, ‘We gotcha out right now.’ He is looking forward to this week, I can tell you that.”

Reese’s performance

Reese did not play much in the NFL preseason opener, logging just 16 snaps, but he made an impact by recording two tackles. According to PFF, he led all rookie first-round defenders with an 88.2 grade, while Akheem Mesidor ranked second with an 81.6 grade.

Even though he was selected fifth overall as an edge/outside linebacker, Reese started at inside linebacker and recorded two tackles, including one solo, while playing 12 snaps on defense and four on special teams.

Reese, whom Harbaugh lauded for his assignment retention, took on blocks and proved solid in pass coverage even though the Vikings pushed the ball 54 yards on 10 plays on their opening drive. Reese was not the only rookie to make his debut for the franchise. Francis Mauigoa, the tenth pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, played 30 snaps in the game but did not make the same impact.

Reese looks to be a major part of the Giants’ defense this year, their first year under Harbaugh. He will hope to get more playing time in the next preseason game on August 22, when the Giants visit the Miami Dolphins. The team opens its regular season on September 13, hosting the Dallas Cowboys.

His return renewed attention to the physical style that defined his promising rookie season. SNY Giants shared a clip Monday on X featuring the former Arizona State standout discussing his running style and how he hopes to evolve it this season. Skattebo remains committed to his physical approach while looking to make more defenders miss in space.

“I like to run through people instead of around them. Hopefully, you’ll see more running around people this year,” Skattebo said. In Saturday’s preseason game against the Vikings, Skattebo worked with the first-team offense and carried four times for 19 yards.

What Skattebo aims to improve

The comment does not indicate that Skattebo intends to abandon the style that yielded solid results in his rookie season. Rather, it suggests he seeks to complement his power with greater agility, reducing unnecessary contact and creating more opportunities in open space.

This development could benefit NY Giants throughout John Harbaugh’s first season as head coach. Skattebo has shown that he can generate difficult yards and contribute as a receiver, but making defenders miss would add another dimension to New York’s backfield.

Harbaugh on Skattebo’s return

Afterward, Harbaugh was asked about the parts of Skattebo’s game that can get overshadowed by his reputation as a physical runner. “I don’t think he’s 100%. He would say he’s not,” Harbaugh said on Monday.

“But I got to see what you know about him already. I saw the foot quickness, the feel for the game, the explosiveness. It was good to watch him, good for me to see that.”

Skattebo’s comeback began after a brutal Oct. 26 ankle injury against the Philadelphia Eagles ended his rookie season. He suffered a dislocated right ankle and required surgery, wiping out the second half of a promising first NFL campaign.

Messi receives an 89 overall rating and transitions from RW to CAM, a significant shift for fans of the game since his stats complement the position very well—a change that had been long awaited.

This represents a major leap considering that after appearing with an 86 rating in FC 26, the Argentine now climbs to an 89. The three-point jump returns him to a far more prominent spot among world soccer’s premier figures. The new rating comes after a great World Cup with Argentina, where they reached the final, a performance that appears to have carried significant weight when revising his rating.

Messi’s card stats

The change also carries a symbolic component: at 39 years old, Messi demonstrates that he can still regain ground in a ranking increasingly dominated by younger generations.

His FC 27 card maintains his primary strengths, featuring 89 passing, 90 dribbling, and 87 shooting, while his new overall rating leaves him just one point shy of the group reaching a 90 rating.

It stands as one of the major storylines of these new ratings, especially as it reverses the downward trend that had accompanied the Argentine across recent EA SPORTS FC editions.

The top of the rankings

At the top of the men’s rankings, Messi is not alone in the upper tier: Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland share the top spot with a 91 overall rating. Right behind them sits a crowded group of stars at 90 overall: Rodri, Ousmane Dembele, Vitinha, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Thibaut Courtois, and Jude Bellingham. The list further confirms the growth of several players who represent the present and future of soccer.

Thompson has yet to approach the team to request a buyout, but NBA insider Marc Stein revealed that there has been communication between the two parties regarding his future in Dallas.

“There has indeed been direct contact this offseason between new Mavericks president Masai Ujiri and Thompson, but Dallas has maintained since mid-June that it prefers to trade Thompson if possible rather than buy him out,” Stein wrote Sunday night.

Heat express desperate interest in Klay

Stein established on a DLLS Mavs livestream that Miami Heat is “desperate” to add the sharpshooter, signaling the franchise may be willing to offer an intriguing option for Thompson.

“All we know is, Miami is desperate for Klay Thompson, but they want to sign him as a free agent. They would not be the only team interested,” Stein said. Among those other interested suitors, the Los Angeles Lakers could enter the mix following previous rumors regarding their interest.

Heat hold out for potential contract buyout

The situation creates a clear disconnect between both sides. The Mavericks want to receive compensation in exchange for Thompson, whereas Miami‘s preferred option would require the Mavericks to buy out the final year of his contract.

Miami has already shown reluctance to sacrifice NBA young talent in a prospective deal. Previous reports indicated the Heat were unwilling to include Nikola Jovic in trade negotiations for Thompson, complicating a direct agreement with Dallas.

A contract buyout would allow the Heat to sign Thompson without surrendering Jovic or other rotation players, but Stein’s latest statements suggest the Mavericks are not yet ready to take that route. Thompson has also made his priorities clear as he approaches the final stage of his career, recently stating that his main goal is to play for a team capable of making a deep playoff run and competing for another championship.

Injuries to veterans Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet proved to be significant losses for the roster. A report from Ramona Shelburne and Tim MacMahon for ESPN explains how KD could be involved in trade talks by the Rockets:

“Interviews with team sources and those with knowledge of the team’s operations reveal that the VanVleet injury, and the season-ending ankle injury to Steven Adams later on, impacted the team in ways that extended off the floor. Beyond the team’s glaring lack of playmaking, their absences created a massive leadership void that Durant and the team struggled to fill.”

Durant emerges as a trade option

This summer has been interesting, to say the least, as Houston has been trying to figure out what to do with Durant. The situation will likely drag on and may not find an immediate resolution, potentially stretching further into the season.

Durant’s name has reportedly been made available in trade discussions, which could begin to create a rift between management and the player. However, everything remains reportage for now as anticipation builds around what Durant’s future in the NBA will hold.

“Whether or not the Rockets look to continue their partnership with Durant is the big question at large, especially since they don’t view him as an ‘untouchable’ talent in trade talks on their roster,” NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote. “Houston viewed the opportunity to acquire Durant as a way to upgrade from Jalen Green and bridge the gaps in their lineup to contend in the West, but by no means was this addition viewed as a long-term commitment.”

A potential mistake by the Rockets?

From a statistical standpoint, letting Durant leave would be a total mistake. The forward remains one of the greatest scorers of all time and continues to deliver highly consistent production.

He averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game for the Rockets in 2025-26, proving he remains one of the premier scorers in the NBA. Furthermore, the public saw how much the Rockets’ offense struggled without Durant against the Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs. Therefore, if the front office decides to let him go, it must bring in someone of that same caliber.

Lendeborg has become one of the biggest stories of the Summer League, helping the Golden State Warriors capture the championship as he earned Tournament MVP and Championship Game MVP honors. While Curry was not in Las Vegas to watch the rookie in person, he followed every game on TV and spoke about him on the Dubs Talk show:

“I’ve watched all summer league games; I haven’t been there in person. He looks very confident, poised, competitive; he’s a champion, and I’m excited to get out there and figure it out with him. You know, rookies are awesome ’cause they bring such good energy to the locker room, especially guys with talent like him. So that’s what we need.”

Lendeborg’s Summer League performance

Lendeborg undoubtedly earned that attention with his performance in Las Vegas. He capped his Summer League run with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in the Golden State Warriors‘ 94-90 victory over Memphis Grizzlies.

Across six games, he averaged 14.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. He showed versatility and confidence, qualities that could immediately translate into a larger role with the Warriors.

Of course, dominating Summer League and playing a relevant role in the NBA regular season are not the same thing. However, the team will need Lendeborg to make that transition faster than expected.

Lendeborg’s opportunity on the wing

That stands as high praise coming from Curry, especially considering the two have not even shared the floor yet. But it remains an opportunity Lendeborg must continue to prove himself.

The Warriors enter the 2026-27 season with major uncertainty on the wing. Jimmy Butler remains sidelined after tearing his ACL, while Moses Moody is recovering from a ruptured left patellar tendon.

These absences have left the Dubs without two of their four primary options at small forward, which could create an opening for Lendeborg to earn big minutes.

Thankfully, on Sunday, the team got a positive update regarding the star’s status moving forward. “Nick Bosa is running well on the side, with D-line and other position drills underway. No support sleeve on right ACL,” reported Cam Inman of the Bay Area News Group on X.

Many concerns were raised after reports of Bosa’s knee issue emerged last week. As Inman referenced, Bosa missed the majority of last season with an ACL tear, one of many devastating injuries San Francisco 49ers suffered throughout the year, including an NFL season-ending injury to star linebacker Fred Warner.

Bosa’s return

All-Pro defensive end Nick Bosa was back on the practice field for the first time in over two weeks as he deals with tendinitis in his knee. The edge rusher was seen doing work off to the side, a sign that he is trending in the right direction.

San Francisco 49ers fans can let out a sigh of relief as one of the team’s defensive stars appears to be making favorable progress. Head coach Kyle Shanahan provided good news, stating that Bosa was listed as week-to-week due to the latest setback in his surgically repaired knee.

“Pretty normal thing with ACLs,” Shanahan said earlier this month. “Gotta be smart and be week-to-week. No concerns about it being more than that.” Bosa sustained a torn ACL in Week 4 against the New York Jets, which effectively ended his 2025 campaign. He was one of many 49ers stars to suffer a season-ending injury last season.

The Niners are less than a month away from the season opener on Sept. 10 against Los Angeles Rams in Australia, but there is still time for Bosa to be ready for the showdown. In 2025, the 49ers finished last in sacks with 20. A healthy Bosa would certainly increase that number, and San Francisco needs its defensive star if the team hopes to keep up with the rest of the NFC West.

On the injury front, several of their critical players have made progress toward a return to action: Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody. After they went down last season, Golden State Warriors struggled to stay afloat in the crowded Western Conference. But now, according to a report by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, they are moving toward a quick return that is going way ahead of schedule.

“Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, when are they going to be back? So far, so good for both of them; they’ve been looking good in their workouts, they’ve been progressing nicely, and there’s been no setbacks to this point,” Siegel reported.

“We’ve even heard some small hints about Jimmy Butler being ahead of schedule. Does this mean he’s gonna be back in December, early January? We don’t know yet; there’s no timeline that this team has put on these guys. We do know they’re ahead of schedule right now. Jimmy Butler is looking good, and he’s aiming to be back before the trade deadline.”

Injuries take a toll on the Warriors

Injuries have decimated the Warriors in recent years, plunging the franchise into difficult times. Following a 37-45 season in which the team finished 10th in the West, the squad can no longer be considered a title contender, but the return of Butler and Moody could help them stay competitive until they have the opportunity to significantly reinforce their roster.

At 36 years old, Jimmy Butler is in the final stretch of his career, and no one knows what to expect from him in the future. After tearing his ACL in January, he has been working hard in the gym to regain mobility and strengthen his leg.

It has been a difficult process for Butler, but his dedication has paid off as he aims to return before the All-Star break in February. Last NBA season, in 38 games, he averaged 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 51.9% from the field.

Moody awaits return

Moses Moody is also taking positive steps toward his return. He tore his left patellar tendon back in March, resulting in surgery a few days later. Like Butler, his injury typically requires a 9 to 12-month recovery time, but he has expedited the timeline after weeks of rehab and workouts.

While not a star, Moody provides crucial depth for the Warriors, and he proved he could deliver big numbers last season with averages of 12.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game on 44.0% shooting. Golden State hopes to have both players back as soon as possible and stay healthy to help Stephen Curry, who continues fighting for the franchise.

Kittle shared encouraging news with the media recently, suggesting his return could come sooner rather than later, according to Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area. “49ers George Kittle shared that he has been hitting planned markers and he is ‘getting close’ to a return,” Lee Chan wrote on X.

While Kittle remains cautious about providing an exact date for when he will put on pads, ESPN’s Nick Wagoner reported that the veteran tight end hopes to return to practice in short order. “Kittle said he’s hoping to be back in pads and at practice ‘sooner than later’ but declines to share timeline for that. He’s hitting speed numbers close to pre-injury levels. Says he’s still working to ensure both calves are at roughly the same strength levels,” Wagoner wrote.

Kittle eyes return for season opener

Kittle was referencing the tedious rehabilitation process that could position him for a Week 1 return following the injury he sustained against the Philadelphia Eagles on Jan. 11. Having him available would be massive news for San Francisco 49ers, though the staff must remain cautious to avoid a potential re-injury.

Kittle stands as one of the most vital playmakers in San Francisco 49ers’ offense, and quarterback Brock Purdy loves connecting with him on the field. His presence should relieve pressure from Purdy and make the offense far more dynamic. Should he fail to return by Week 1, players such as Christian McCaffrey will need to carry a heavier workload in the backfield and as a pass catcher.

San Francisco 49ers also brought back Deebo Samuel during the offseason, a player who has proven to be a versatile gadget option throughout his career. Adding Kittle back into the mix will only make the offense even more dangerous.

What happened to Kittle?

Kittle suffered a torn Achilles during San Francisco 49ers’ NFL wild-card round victory over Eagles in January. He was carted back to the locker room and quickly diagnosed with the season-ending injury.

Achilles tears typically carry a quicker recovery timeline than ACL tears, but returning to peak form can present challenges depending on a player’s age. Kittle turns 33 in October, meaning playing like his former self might prove to be more of an uphill battle than simply stepping back onto the pitch.

Following a foul on Luis Suarez, Messi stepped up to take the penalty. After taking a small hop before striking the ball, he shot, and his shot was saved by goalkeeper Brian Schwake. The ball fell to Sergio Reguilon, who scored the equalizer, but the play was overturned due to encroachment by the Spaniard. Still, the miss officially counted in the statistics against the star forward.

This marked the second penalty missed by Messi with Inter Miami (having converted five), bringing his tally to three consecutive failed attempts. His previous two misses came with the Argentina national team during the World Cup, first against Austria in the group stage and then versus Egypt in the round of 16.

What is Cristiano Ronaldo’s worst penalty miss streak?

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s worst streak of missed penalties stands at two consecutive failed attempts back in 2016. On March 20, 2016, playing for Real Madrid, he sent his shot over the crossbar against Sevilla in La Liga (though he later made up for it by scoring in open play).

The second miss came just five days later, on March 25, 2016, in his next match with Portugal. Bulgarian goalkeeper Vladislav Stoyanov saved his penalty in a friendly ahead of the Euros.

Until this current slump, Messi had never missed three consecutive penalties during a match throughout his professional career. The forward had gone through various periods of low efficiency from the spot and had even chained together two missed attempts, but he had never reached three in a row.

Messi’s career penalty record

This negative statistic contrasts with the overall numbers Messi has built over more than two decades. Between in-game penalties and shootouts, he has taken 162 penalties in his professional career, converting 125, seeing 28 saved by goalkeepers, and sending 9 wide or high. His overall effectiveness stands at 77.16 percent.

With Barcelona, he took 107 penalties and converted 82. With PSG, he scored two of three in regulation and converted his only attempt in a shootout. With Argentina, he has 25 goals in 32 attempts during matches and seven conversions in nine shootout attempts. With Inter Miami, he has converted all three shootout attempts and has five goals in seven attempts during regulation time.

How to watch Club America vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

The Liga MX matchup between Club America and Atletico San Luis can be watched on TV on TUDN USA. Fans looking for streaming options can catch the action live on TUDN.com, the TUDN App, and ViX.

Can I watch Club America vs Atletico San Luis for free?

You can stream Club America vs Atletico San Luis on ViX, which offers free streaming for select live events with ads and a Free Trial for Premium, though full access may require a premium subscription or a TV provider login via TUDN.com and the TUDN App.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Liga MX returns to action in the Liga Mx Apertura 2026 tournament with an important clash between Club America and Atletico San Luis, who face off for key points at Estadio Banorte on Matchday 4.

Las Aguilas have enjoyed a strong start to the tournament, recording positive results in both the Liga MX Apertura 2026 and the Leagues Cup, advancing to the quarterfinals of the binational tournament and looking to stay near the top of the standings in Mexican soccer.

America returns to Liga MX action eager to raise their level once again, remembering that in their last Apertura 2026 fixture they thrashed Santos Laguna 3-0, now hosting an Atletico San Luis side that is not experiencing its best moment.

On the other hand, Atletico San Luis have been unable to win in the domestic league, a poor run of form that was also reflected in the Leagues Cup, where San Luis lost to Inter Miami and Nashville SC. In their final match against MLS opposition, they drew with Orlando City but fell in a penalty shootout. In Liga MX, Atletico San Luis have managed just two points, coming off a 0-0 draw against Tijuana in their most recent Apertura 2026 fixture as they seek a major upset this Sunday at Estadio Banorte to turn their season around.

What time is the Club America vs Atletico San Luis match?

The match will be played on Sunday, August 16, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 7:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 6:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 5:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 4:00 PM

Reid addressed the media after the game, calling out the main issue that must be addressed. “Penalties,” Reid told reporters. “That would be the No. 1 thing to be cleaned up.”

Reid acknowledged there were good things from the loss, including watching the young guys perform for the first time. However, one of the biggest mistakes for Kansas City was discipline, as Chiefs committed 12 total penalties that stalled drives or kept possessions alive for Rams. Chiefs also racked up 101 penalty yards.

Injury update provided by Reid

Frustrating as even exhibition losses can be, most NFL fans know that player health can be the most important indicator of a successful preseason contest. With one exception, Chiefs seemed to come out of Saturday’s game healthy.

In the fourth quarter, international tackle Chu Godrick was announced as questionable to return due to an ankle injury. After the loss, Godrick was the only injured player head coach Andy Reid highlighted.

“As far as injuries go,” the coach began, “really, it was just Chu Godrick had an ankle sprain. Other than that, there were no other injuries.” Encouragingly, Reid did not mention rookie Jadon Canady. Canady briefly entered the medical tent in the fourth quarter before returning to the game.

Players who saw limited action

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce, wide receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, cornerback Mansoor Delane, pass rusher Ashton Gillotte, and newly signed defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah were dressed on the sideline but did not enter the game for the Chiefs.

Several other players had short workloads. Running back Kenneth Walker exited the game after the first offensive snap. The starting offensive line-tackles Josh Simmons and Jaylon Moore, guards Kingsley Suamataia and Kahlil Benson, and center Creed Humphrey were replaced after the first offensive possession.

Atlanta’s offense struggled to generate much production during Tagovailoa’s brief time on the field. “There’s plenty to clean up,” Stefanski said, according to The Associated Press. “I thought it was great being in our building, for a lot of us being in here for the first time.”

Tagovailoa played only nine snaps, completing three of five passes for 22 yards. Atlanta Falcons failed to score during either of his two possessions, with both drives ending in punts. Stefanski acknowledged that the offense “didn’t move the ball well” but stopped short of drawing any major conclusions about Tagovailoa based on such limited action. “It’s hard to give a grade on that sample size,” Stefanski said.

What Stefanski needs to fix with Tua

Stefanski and Atlanta Falcons face a tough task this offseason as they must make the most of their time to improve in areas where they failed, build chemistry, and optimize Tagovailoa’s performance.

The preseason represents an important adjustment period for Tagovailoa after spending the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins. Atlanta signed the veteran quarterback following his release from Miami this offseason, giving him an opportunity for a fresh start with Stefanski and Atlanta Falcons.

Stefanski knows all too well about having a circus in the quarterback room, and having another in Atlanta is simply not ideal. That is why, after his 2026 preseason debut, Tagovailoa cannot be the starting quarterback for the 2026 season. Unless Penix is simply not healthy, there is no way Stefanski starts his new job on the right foot by playing Tagovailoa. Some of the same problems that forced Miami to release him are starting to affect him in Atlanta.

Falcons waiting on Penix

There are still two more preseason games left for Tagovailoa to prove he should remain in the QB1 race. The more he struggles, the more Atlanta Falcons have reason to turn to Penix. It also proves why the Falcons’ quarterback room was always in shambles with Penix and Tagovailoa to choose from. Only time will tell us how this situation unfolds.

The former Miami Dolphins quarterback completed three of his five passes for 22 yards during his limited action. Atlanta failed to generate points on either of Tagovailoa’s two possessions, punting on both drives. Following the loss, Tagovailoa acknowledged that his performance fell well short of expectations, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.

“Definitely not up to standard, not even up to par. Start with the first drive, second play, just being able to catch the snap. Little things like that,” Tagovailoa said. “What we put out there is not a reflection of the hard work that we’ve put in the first two weeks of training camp, and it does no justice to the work our coaches have implemented. It starts with me. I’ve got to be better with that.”

Tua takes responsibility for the loss

Tagovailoa joined Atlanta this offseason following his departure from Miami, giving the 28-year-old quarterback a fresh start after six seasons with the Dolphins. His first game with Atlanta yielded mixed results, as the offense struggled to find its rhythm against Denver.

Despite the limited number of snaps, Tagovailoa placed responsibility for the offensive struggles on himself. “It starts with me,” Tagovailoa said. “I’ve got to be better. That’s it. . . . I’ve got to be better for our guys.”

Tagovailoa’s time on the field against Denver was short, but he showed signs of his production. He completed three out of five passes for 22 yards before Cooper Rush and Jack Strand took over quarterback duties for the remainder of the game.

Tua’s competition under center

Cooper Rush and Jack Strand both attempted more passes than Tagovailoa. Rush completed seven out of 19 passes for 62 yards and two interceptions. Strand was successful on six out of 12 throws for 50 yards while scoring a rushing touchdown. Still, Tagovailoa clearly has much more to give moving forward.

Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano could log his first minutes with LA Galaxy as they take on Dynamo today at Shell Energy Stadium in the restart of MLS following the Leagues Cup, though he is going to start on the bench, he is ready to play some minutes.

After remaining inactive throughout 2026, Lozano is closer than ever to returning to the pitch, thanks to LA Galaxy. ‘Chucky’ will join the list of Mexicans who have represented the club.

Lozano’s arrival in LA

Lozano arrived at LA Galaxy on loan from San Diego FC, a club that sidelined him following disagreements with head coach Mikey Varas. With the move, LA Galaxy added another Mexican player to their roster after Efrain Alvarez left the team.

LA Galaxy are going through an inconsistent stretch, having drawn their last two matches against FC Dallas (0-0) and San Jose Earthquakes (1-1). The squad suffered defeats against St. Louis City (1-3) and Los Angeles FC (0-3), though it managed a narrow 1-0 victory over America. With a record of 3 goals scored and 7 allowed in their last five games, LA Galaxy need the Mexican international to help them find the required level of play.

If he plays in the match, Lozano could reunite on the pitch with Hector Herrera, a player with whom he shared a locker room when Mexico national team featured both as top leaders at the time.

How Houston Dynamo enter the match

Houston Dynamo enter the match after stringing together a positive run with consecutive victories over New England Revolution (2-0), Sporting Kansas City (2-0), and a decisive win against Austin FC (3-0). Previously, they drew against DC United (1-1) and beat America de Cali (2-1) in a friendly, scoring 10 goals while allowing just 2 during this stretch.

Nashville currently occupy the top spot in the table with 40 points through 18 matchdays. However, Lionel Messi and company follow closely behind with 38 points, meaning a victory for the Herons in Nashville would elevate them to the top of the East.

A continental elimination left a bitter taste for Guillermo Hoyos’ squad. Now, the main objective is to remain near the top of MLS and reach peak form for the final stretch of the championship. A victory against Nashville would represent a statement win against one of their primary rivals for the top spot.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup

Lionel Messi will start against Nashville SC. The Argentine put behind a difficult personal period that kept him off the pitch for several matches, returning as a substitute against Leon. Now with improved match fitness, Javier Hoyos is confirmed to return him to the starting XI for a crucial match in the fight for the MLS leadership.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup: Dayne St. Clair; Noah Allen, Sergio Reguilon, Gonzalo Lujan, Ian Fray; Telasco Segovia, Yannick Bright, Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.

Nashville confirmed starting XI

B.J. Callaghan’s team must quickly shift focus back to domestic competition, where it has maintained a high-level campaign with few roster changes. The match against Inter Miami presents a direct opportunity to extend its lead at the top of the East to five points. The main challenge will be recovering energy following a demanding week against a direct rival.

Nashville confirmed lineup: Brian Schwake; Andy Najar, Jeisson Palacios, Maxwell Woledzi, Reed Baker-Whiting; Elias Saad, Matthew Corcoran, Sandvik Tagseth; Cristian Espinoza, Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar.

It was only after months of drama that Giannis was finally sent to Miami, but he is confident that it was the right move. In a recent interview with NBA Europe, the Greek Freak revealed his expectations for the upcoming season, starting with his own performance.

“This season I will dominate,” Giannis said via NBA Europe. “The things I want to prove are that I’m one of the best players in the NBA. To the fans: I want to say, we’re bringing back the Heat. My new season mindset is winning. When the opportunity comes, I will dominate. Miami, get ready for an exciting season.”

What is expected from Giannis and the Heat

Giannis was at the top of the NBA hierarchy as the leader of a Bucks team that dominated the East. But as the Bucks began to decline, Giannis faded into irrelevance, showing increasing signs of frustration. Now that he is free from the Bucks, Giannis is looking to set things right, and he has an opportunity in Miami, even though it will not be easy.

With Giannis leading the way, the Heat are expected to make a strong playoff run once again—something the squad has not achieved since Jimmy Butler’s fantastic performance in 2023. Now, Miami will attempt to replicate that success behind a dominant Giannis.

On paper, while Giannis has nothing left to prove, expectations could not be higher going into next season, and he will need total concentration to ensure a successful transition. Fortunately, all the evidence says that his game will carry over just fine.

Over 13 years in the NBA, he is a two-time MVP, NBA champion, and 10-time All-Star with career averages of 24.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game on 62.4% shooting from the field. He dominates both ends of the floor and is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s most elite superstars. Even so, the Heat can elevate his game higher than we have ever seen before.

Shams Charania reported shortly after news of the Schroder trade broke that the Cavaliers are still “strongly” pursuing both Kuminga and Watson while keeping the re-signing of James Harden as their top focus.

“The Cavaliers remain in constant communication with James Harden and his agents on a new contract to return to Cleveland while they strongly pursue two free agent forwards — restricted Peyton Watson and unrestricted Jonathan Kuminga — made more viable with Friday’s trade,” Charania reported.

What the Cavaliers gained

The Cavaliers free up about $6.8 million in cap space in this deal, reports Keith Smith of Spotrac, putting them approximately $29.6 million below the first apron of the luxury tax (and by extension about $40.3 million below the second apron).

That is still not enough room to trade for Watson or Kuminga and re-sign Harden, so either Max Struss’ salary will have to go out in any deal, or he will be traded elsewhere (Mann could also be moved again). Cleveland has more options now.

Cavaliers focused on Harden

Cleveland has remained in contact with Harden and his camp throughout the summer, Charania notes. Harden opted out of his $42.3 million player option for this NBA season to give the franchise room to chase players like LeBron James (who chose Philadelphia) or make a move for a player like Watson or Kuminga. Harden will re-sign with Cleveland for less per year but more total money across the multi-year contract.

On the flip side, if Cleveland is working to put together a better offer for Watson now that Schroder is gone, that could help guide Kuminga straight to Los Angeles. With the Lakers reportedly pursuing the forward the way that they are, they can only hope that will be the case. He should feel the same way, too, as LA has more for him.

Dallas is taking a risk by allowing Pickens to take the field on a one-year deal. If the wide receiver puts up another productive season, the value of his next contract will be much higher. Apparently, Jones is fine with that scenario and even admitted as much.

“He can come out here and have the year that he’s talented enough and mentally prepared to have, and that contract would be a lot bigger than it would’ve been,” Jones said Friday on Up & Adams. Wide receivers have been securing massive paydays in recent years, and Dallas has an in-house example after giving CeeDee Lamb $136 million over four years.

Prescott recognizes Pickens’ talent

Even without playoff success, Prescott has played great football in the regular season throughout his career. To maintain that momentum in the coming years, he has publicly urged Jones to lock up Pickens on a long-term deal.

Also speaking on Up & Adams with Kay Adams, Prescott championed his star target: “You know George, you know he loves football. And at the end of the day, it’s not for the money. However, he should get every dollar that he deserves because he’s a hell of a player, and we should probably give it to him sooner than later because it’s only gonna go up.”

To achieve success, the Cowboys will need to maintain their historical dominance within the division, a feat Prescott has masterfully accomplished throughout his career, though he will also need Pickens’ support.

Over his 10 seasons under center, the veteran signal-caller boasts an incredible NFC East record: going 10-5 against the Philadelphia Eagles, 13-2 against the Washington Commanders, and a staggering 14-3 against the New York Giants.

Pickens’ path to Arlington

Pickens originally arrived in Arlington via a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick (while Dallas also netted a 2027 sixth-round pick).

He immediately put together a career-best 2025 campaign, hauling in 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns. Despite those elite numbers, the front office opted to place him on the $27.3 million franchise tag for the 2026 NFL season.

The Cowboys have three preseason games coming up against the Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals, and New Orleans Saints before opening the 2026 regular season in a Sunday Night Football clash against the rival New York Giants on Sept. 13.

Jones recently spoke about the outcome of the Parsons trade during training camp in Oxnard, California. It has been nearly one year since the deal was completed, a move that shocked many fans at the time. Still, Jones expressed satisfaction and told reporters he has no regrets about letting Parsons leave.

According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Jones said: “Even though Micah is an outstanding talent [that] anybody would like to have, the bottom line is that I like what the result of the trade has ended up as I stand here today. You could say those picks got us key players, but the main thing that the Herschel Walker trade did, it caused me to be more aggressive and caused us to, if you will, take more risk because we had more picks.”

A risk they had to take

According to Jones, it was a necessary risk to continue growing for the future, especially given the picks they now hold and the options those assets provide. He added that it eventually allowed them to take more risks and improve the team.

“So, in a way, this actually created a mental part to us and to my role in it with me, to step out and make the moves and take, if you will, risks that are involved to be where we are today, with a complete makeover of the defense,” Jones said. Indeed, the Cowboys used Parsons’ departure to strengthen their roster in different areas.

Jones has already capitalized on Parsons trade

The Cowboys traded Parsons on Aug. 28, 2025, to the Packers in exchange for defensive tackle Kenny Clark and first-round draft picks in 2026 and 2027. These picks were subsequently used to acquire All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets and select defensive end Malachi Lawrence in the draft.

The trade also allowed them to generate significant salary cap flexibility, which proved very useful. It was key to signing safety Jalen Thompson, acquiring pass rusher Rashan Gary, and giving Williams his recent three-year contract extension.

Unfortunately for the Broncos, Nix will not take the field. Quarterback Bo Nix will not play in the Denver Broncos preseason opener at Atlanta, coach Sean Payton said Wednesday. Sam Ehlinger and Jarrett Stidham will each play a half against the Falcons on Friday night.

Nix is coming off two right ankle surgeries in the offseason but did not miss any snaps at training camp. Payton said he will play when the Broncos host the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 21 and again a week later against the Minnesota Vikings.

Waiting to see Nix

Payton said the decision to sit Nix has nothing to do with the rash of injuries on the offensive line, particularly at center, where the team has had three players get hurt, including Michael Deiter, whom Payton said is out for the season with a quadriceps injury. Starting center Luke Wattenberg (arm) and backup Alex Forsyth (ankle) are also sidelined.

Payton said the decision to sit Nix in the preseason opener was made a month ago, but that if this were the regular season, he would expect Nix to play and be 100%. The Broncos’ other starters are expected to suit up for about 15 plays.

What happened to Nix?

Nix suffered a fractured right ankle in the closing minutes of the Broncos’ AFC divisional-round playoff win over the Buffalo Bills in January, had an initial surgery to repair the fracture in the days following the game, and then had a follow-up surgery in April to treat bone spurs in the same ankle.

He missed most of the on-field work in the Broncos’ offseason program and threw on only a limited basis in their mandatory minicamp in June. Nix faces pressure this NFL season. During his rookie season in 2024, Nix played in 17 games. He completed 66.3% of his pass attempts for 3,775 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, while also running for 430 yards and four more scores.

Last season, the 26-year-old quarterback threw for 3,931 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, while completing 63.4% of his passes. He also chipped in with 356 yards and five touchdowns on the ground.

Signs point to the Falcons fielding their starters, meaning Tagovailoa is expected to play against the Broncos as the starting quarterback. The former Miami Dolphins starter, who signed a one-year deal with Atlanta, has a clear path to the starting job as long as Penix is limited to individual work and 7-on-7 drills in practice.

Cooper Rush, who was signed at the start of training camp to give the team another veteran at quarterback, will play behind Tagovailoa. Undrafted rookie Jack Strand will finish the game.

What to expect from Tua in his debut

Since he will likely play just one series, Tagovailoa might feel he has to do something spectacular in his limited time. However, that mindset could put the ball in danger and ultimately lead to a turnover.

Instead of trying to force things, he needs to demonstrate to the coaching staff that he understands and commands the offense. Showing poise under pressure, staying comfortable directing the game, and building confidence with both his coaches and teammates will be key.

Preseason games must be taken with caution, but Tagovailoa and the first team will likely have the opportunity to face off against some starters. It is a first test for Tagovailoa with the Falcons, but not one where he needs to lead a touchdown drive or deliver highlight-reel passes.

Tagovailoa must capitalize on the opportunity

Tagovailoa needs to display poise and protect the football while putting his best foot forward, especially given the tough competition for the starting spot. He must take advantage now while Penix is unavailable, so expect to see a committed Tagovailoa working to adapt to his new NFL team.

Mike Dunleavy Jr. said he would not deny Steph the chance to move if he so desired it. Speaking in a recent chat with The Athletic’s Anthony Slater, Dunleavy explained what it would actually look like if the veteran point guard opted out of San Francisco. “Ultimately, it’s his call, his decision, whether that’s allowing his contract to run out and move on,” Dunleavy said on Tuesday.

“Look, if he comes to me and wants to be moved, [controlling owner] Joe [Lacob] and I will talk it through. We wouldn’t love it. But he’s earned the right to do what he wants. But as far as the messaging or any idea that he’d be anywhere else, that’s not a thing we’re looking at, or he’s looking at.”

What the Warriors want to avoid most

Despite Dunleavy stating the front office would not stand in his way, letting the greatest player in franchise history leave without a fight would bring unprecedented pain to the organization, adding to the heavy criticism management has faced in recent years.

Curry remains in top form. As a four-time champion and two-time MVP, he is the greatest Warrior ever and is coming off another excellent NBA season with averages of 26.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, on 46.8% shooting from the field.

But at 38 years old, Steph is approaching the end of his storied career, and he wants to go out the way he deserves: as a winner. The problem is, the Warriors are not in a position to contend as currently constructed. Besides Curry and Kristaps Porzingis, they lack veteran scoring options.

Warriors dealing with major injuries

They are also dealing with major injuries to both Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody. For Dunleavy, the challenge this summer was finding the balance between talent and availability. The picture looks even worse considering the team did not pursue LeBron James or Giannis Antetokounmpo.

“Constructing [the roster], we had to make a decision between talent and availability,” Dunleavy added. “There was no perfect solution in terms of the combination of the two. We leaned a little bit more toward talent… We are taking on some risk there, but I think we value the talent over maybe finding guys that were perfectly healthy.”

Prior to Westbrook opting to retire, Shams Charania reported that he had offers from the Kings and the Wizards. He was offered a chance to return to the Kings as well as an offer to join a revamped Wizards team led by Trae Young and Anthony Davis, according to Charania.

“Russell Westbrook made the decision to step away from basketball ‘on his own terms’ despite receiving offers from the Kings and Wizards this offseason,” Charania reported. The revelation leads to the conclusion that Westbrook simply reached his limit with what the NBA has to offer, for better or worse.

Westbrook’s final season and career legacy

Westbrook had a standout season for the Sacramento Kings to conclude his NBA career over 64 games. He averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. He started 58 games for the team, which ultimately finished with a 22-60 record and 14th in the Western Conference.

Westbrook began his career in the 2008 NBA draft when he was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics with the fourth overall pick. He became a legendary player in the history of the Oklahoma City Thunder, spending 11 seasons with the franchise, many of which were spent alongside Kevin Durant.

The trio of Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Westbrook made the 2012 NBA Finals but ultimately lost to LeBron James’ Miami Heat in five games, resulting in a legend retiring without a championship.

After James Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets, the Thunder remained in contention, led by Durant and Westbrook. After Durant departed the team to join the Golden State Warriors, Westbrook stayed for an additional three seasons and was named MVP in the 2016-2017 NBA season after averaging 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists.

The Herons started the group stage on the right foot. Last Wednesday, Inter Miami earned a 4-2 victory over Atletico San Luis behind a brilliant performance from Messi, who scored two goals and delivered an assist in his return to the starting XI following the 2026 World Cup with the Argentina national team.

However, last Saturday Inter Miami fell 2-1 to Mexico’s Monterrey in an emotional match played without Messi. Early that morning, the Argentine captain received news that his father, Jorge Messi, passed away in Rosario following a months-long battle with an illness.

Inter Miami confirmed lineup

The primary question surrounding this match centers on Messi’s presence with the MLS franchise. However, the Argentine star will not feature this evening but is going to start on the bench following the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, creating a difficult situation.

Guillermo Hoyos is confirmed to line up as follows: Rocco Rios Novo; Ian Fray, Lujan, Micael, Noah Allen; Telasco Segovia, Casemiro, Rodrigo De Paul, Yannick Bright; Lovend’s Delinois, and Daniel Pinter.

Leon confirmed lineup

Mexico’s Leon enter this match with a perfect record and know that a victory will secure qualification for the quarterfinals. In its opener, the squad earned a 1-0 win over Nashville SC before defeating Orlando City 2-1, and it now heads to Miami seeking to lock up a spot in the knockout round.

Javier Gandolfi has delivered excellent results and is confirmed to field the following side: Oscar Garcia; Sebastian Vegas, Juan Guevara, Jhohan Romana, Ivan Moreno, Sebastian Santos; Ivan Rodriguez, Daniel Arcila, Fernando Beltran, Rodrigo Echeverria; Jordi Cortizo.

The Herons enter the final match of the opening phase with three points, following a 4-2 victory over Atletico de San Luis and a 2-1 defeat to Monterrey. The scenario grew more complex following results from the previous matchday. Charlotte’s loss to Pachuca and Cincinnati’s defeat against Atlas left a door open for Inter Miami, but Real Salt Lake’s blowout victory over Juarez raised the stakes.

Leon, managed by Javier Gandolfi, arrives with a perfect record of six points after defeating Nashville SC and Orlando City. They are the surprise team of the tournament and, if they do not lose in 90 minutes, they will become the first Liga MX side to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. The match also marks the first official meeting between the two clubs.

What happens if Inter Miami win vs Leon?

If they beat Leon in regulation time, Inter Miami will reach six points and preserve a mathematical chance of qualification. However, a win does not guarantee a top-four finish among MLS teams.

Miami needs Austin FC, Chicago Fire, and FC Dallas to lose their respective matches. They must also hope other trailing teams do not exceed six points, while improving their current +1 goal differential. Chicago, Austin, and Dallas must lose in regulation, while LAFC must not win in regulation.

None of these teams can win by a larger margin than Miami manages (if Miami’s margin is +2). If several clubs finish tied at six points, the first tiebreaker is goal differential, followed by regulation wins, goals scored, goals conceded, and Fair Play points.

What happens if Inter Miami and Leon tie?

In the Leagues Cup, all matches level after 90 minutes are decided via a penalty shootout. Each team receives one point, with the shootout winner earning an additional point.

If Miami wins the penalty shootout, they will finish with five points; if they lose the shootout, they will end with four points. In either scenario, they will be eliminated because they cannot reach the clubs that already have six or more points.

What happens if Inter Miami lose vs Leon?

A loss leaves the squad with three points and immediately confirms its elimination. It would also mark its earliest exit from the tournament since Lionel Messi’s arrival in 2023.

To add historical weight to the matchup, it is worth noting that despite being two historic European clubs, PSG and Aston Villa, which are without Emiliano Martinez, have only met twice in official competition.

Both matches took place in the 2024-25 Champions League quarterfinals. In the first leg, PSG earned a 3-1 victory in Paris, while Aston Villa secured a 3-2 win in England in the second leg. The aggregate score finished 5-4 in favor of PSG, sending the French club to the semifinals. That leaves each team with one win in their head-to-head history, though PSG claimed the overall tie.

What happens if PSG win vs Aston Villa?

If PSG win, the French team claims the trophy and is crowned Super Cup champion, as this single-game showdown features the winners of Europe’s top competitions in the Champions League and the Europa League. It would mark the first title of the season for Luis Enrique’s squad, while Aston Villa would walk away empty-handed.

What happens if PSG and Aston Villa tie?

The rule is straightforward. If the score remains level after 90 minutes, the match goes straight to a penalty shootout to decide the champion. No extra time will be played, meaning there will not be 30 additional minutes of play in the event of a draw—a rule fans have seen before.

This rule applies for a second consecutive season, after last year’s UEFA Super Cup was decided directly by penalties following a tie, with Paris Saint-Germain claiming the title against Tottenham.

What happens if PSG lose vs Aston Villa?

If PSG lose to Aston Villa, the French team will leave without the title, allowing Unai Emery’s squad to capture the trophy in an unexpected upset over the two-time Champions League winners. Furthermore, over the last 26 finals, the Europa League champion has won on only eight occasions.

How to watch Palmeiras vs Cerro Porteno in the USA

The Copa Libertadores matchup between Palmeiras and Cerro Porteno can be watched on TV channels beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Espanol. Fans looking for streaming options can catch the game live on Fubo and beIN SPORTS CONNECT.

Can I watch Palmeiras vs Cerro Porteno for free?

Yes, you can watch Palmeiras vs Cerro Porteno for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Palmeiras head into this round of 16 first leg with a solid performance at Allianz Parque, sitting in second place in their group. Their recent form shows three wins in their last five matches, with a 3-0 win in the Copa do Brasil as their most recent outing. However, Abel Ferreira will have to manage without Gustavo Gomez and Paulinho, both injured, while Alexander Barboza rests alongside other starters.

Cerro Porteno show impressive form, recording four wins in their last five matches and claiming top spot in their group. Ariel Holan’s team comes off a 3-0 win over Sportivo Luqueno in the Paraguayan Clausura, which boosts its confidence.

It is worth remembering that the Paraguayan side secured a surprise 1-0 victory at this same stadium during the group stage of the Copa Libertadores. The confirmed absence of left-back Blas Riveros represents a significant loss for the series.

What time is the Palmeiras vs Cerro Porteno match?

The match will be played on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 6:00 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 6:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 5:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 4:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 3:00 PM

How to watch Bolivar vs Sao Paulo in the USA

The Copa Sudamericana matchup between Bolivar and Sao Paulo can be watched on TV channels beIN SPORTS XTRA and beIN SPORTS XTRA en Espanol. Fans looking for streaming options can catch the game live on Fubo, ViX, Tubi and beIN SPORTS CONNECT.

Can I watch Bolivar vs Sao Paulo for free?

Yes, you can watch Bolivar vs Sao Paulo for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Bolivar arrive with positive momentum on two fronts. In the Bolivian Profesional Division, they currently sit in second place with 27 points, boasting a record of 32 goals scored and 15 conceded, trailing league leaders Always Ready with 33 points.

In the Copa Sudamericana, Bolivar advanced through the playoff stage, defeating Gremio 3-2 at home on July 24 and claiming a 0-1 victory in the return leg on July 31. Their last official match before the clash in La Paz came in the domestic league on August 9, where they earned a 4-2 win over Club Aurora.

Sao Paulo arrive from Brazil during a less favorable run in their domestic championship. In their last five official matches, they have recorded zero wins, two draws, and three losses, most recently falling 2-1 to Gremio on August 8, drawing 0-0 with Santos and 1-1 with Flamengo, and suffering losses against Athletico Paranaense (1-2) and Remo (0-1).

In the Copa Sudamericana, the Brazilian squad navigated the group stage with key results, including a 2-0 win over Boston River on May 27 and a 1-1 draw with Millonarios on May 20. Their most recent setback was the 2-1 defeat against Gremio, while the club has struggled to produce decisive victories across its last five fixtures.

What time is the Bolivar vs Sao Paulo match?

The match will be played on Sunday, August 11, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 8:30 PM
• Central Time (CT): 7:30 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 6:30 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 5:30 PM

In an intriguing turn of events, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin recently reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have held an interest in acquiring the 23-year-old forward, have emerged as a more “serious” candidate to land Watson.

“They made the Eastern Conference Finals last year. They were among the last four teams standing. They haven’t done much to adjust their roster since they lost Dean Wade. Obviously, they missed out on LeBron. We’re all aware of that. I’m told, though, that they are a ‘serious’ candidate to land Peyton Watson. There are other teams interested in Watson as well, but they are a serious candidate.”

Cavaliers in pursuit of youth

Although initial plans were different and the conversation primarily revolved around James Harden’s upcoming contract extension and his fit alongside Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, the panel agreed that Cleveland needs an upgrade.

A player like Peyton Watson (14.6 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.1 BPG) would certainly fit the bill. On top of his on-court production, Watson adds youth to the roster at just 23 years old with his entire career ahead of him.

How the Cavs could land Watson

Realistically, structuring a deal isn’t as big of an issue on the Cavaliers’ side. If Peyton Watson’s contract is assumed to be worth roughly $15-$17 million annually—which is what some project Denver’s current offer to be—Cleveland could create a package comprising Dennis Schroder’s $14.8 million contract and draft compensation, potentially one NBA first-round pick and a second-round pick.

Alternatively, in the unlikely situation that the Nuggets agree to Watson’s demands for a contract worth roughly $25 million annually, the Cavaliers may have a harder time formulating a package. However, given Denver’s payroll issues, Cleveland would only need to increase the draft compensation, potentially even swapping Dennis Schroder for Max Strus’ $16.6 million contract.

Still, it must be kept in mind that the Cavaliers currently have a payroll of $187.2 million. Once Harden signs his new contract, Cleveland’s flexibility will disappear. This would make it infinitely harder to acquire Peyton Watson even if he signs a low-value deal. Ultimately, any move the team makes will largely depend on two factors: Harden’s extension and Denver’s approach to clearing cap space.

The first step toward this potential move is already aligned thanks to current contractual schedules. Neymar is on track to become a free agent in January 2027, which would eliminate any transfer fee for the Florida club.

Meanwhile, Messi has a contract secured through the end of the 2028 season, setting up the perfect timeline for their paths to cross once more—an exciting prospect for everyone hoping to see them play together.

Strict MLS Rules and the designated player spot

The primary obstacle standing in the way of the Brazilian landing in Miami is found in the strict MLS Roster Rules and Regulations. MLS operates under a rigid salary cap, but permits a maximum of three Designated Players (DPs) per team. This exception allows clubs to pay unlimited salaries to three of their stars, ensuring that only a minimal fraction of those wages impacts the overall roster cap.

Currently, Inter Miami has its three coveted Designated Player spots fully occupied, with Messi serving as the immovable centerpiece of that structure. To sign a superstar of Neymar’s caliber, the Florida franchise faces a regulatory dead end: it is required to free up one of these spots before the start of the 2027 season, or the signing will be blocked by the MLS.

To clear a spot, management led by David Beckham and Jorge Mas will need to execute surgical moves in the transfer market. The only viable options are selling one of its current Designated Players to another league—with the remaining candidates being Rodrigo De Paul and German Berterame—sending one out on loan, or injecting General Allocation Money (GAM) to lower their salary charge against MLS rules and reclassify them as a standard roster player.

Here, the most likely scenario, given what it means for the club, is that German Berterame would be the odd man out due to his poor performance since arriving and his limited contributions to the team.

Financial engineering and the feasibility of a reunion

Even if Inter Miami manages to open up a regulatory DP slot, the base salary the club could offer on payroll would not come close to what Neymar is accustomed to earning. To entice the Brazilian, the club would have to replicate the “Messi Formula”: structuring a contract that offsets salary with external commercial deals, a percentage of global broadcast revenue, and potential sponsorships tied to the new stadium complex.

From a strictly sporting and organizational standpoint, the operation also carries a risk that the club must weigh carefully. The Brazilian’s medical history, marked by severe injuries in recent seasons, will force Inter Miami to evaluate whether committing a resource as valuable as a DP spot is worth it for a player who might not guarantee physical consistency through the grueling American schedule.

Melo revealed that Neymar expressed a desire to join Inter Miami. “I got in touch with a friend, and that friend told me that Neymar is going to leave Santos to play for Inter Miami starting in January,” Melo said on FMTV (Felipe Melo TV).

For now, there is no official announcement or publicly confirmed negotiation from Inter Miami, keeping the scenario as a potential market move looking ahead to 2027. Reports point to the American club as one of the most likely destinations for an eventual final chapter in the Brazilian’s career.

A reunion filled with magic

The scenario centers on the forward’s contractual situation. Neymar is under contract with Santos until December 31, 2026. If a renewal is not reached, he would become a free agent to decide the next step of his career. That status could facilitate an eventual arrival in MLS without Inter Miami needing to negotiate a transfer fee with the Brazilian club.

Messi, Suarez, and Neymar shared the attack for three seasons at Barcelona. Between 2014 and 2017, they generated 363 goals and 173 assists, figures that turned MSN into one of the most productive attacking trios in soccer history.

In the 2014-15 season, they scored 122 goals across all competitions. A year later, they elevated that number to a record 131, while in their final season together, they combined for another 110 goals.

Messi contributed 153 goals across those three seasons (58, 41, and 54). Suarez scored 120 (25, 59, and 36), while Neymar completed the output with 90 goals (39 in the first campaign, 31 in the second, and 20 in the last).

The Messi-Neymar connection

The connection between Messi and Neymar also produced extraordinary numbers. The two shared the pitch in 161 matches and combined directly for 56 goals, with Neymar assisting Messi 36 times and the Argentine returning the favor on 20 of the Brazilian’s goals.

The Florida team needs a combination of results to stay alive in the tournament featuring Liga MX and MLS clubs. A specific sequence of outcomes could eliminate Inter Miami from the Leagues Cup on Tuesday, a day before their game against Leon.

Jose Armando Rodriguez, who covers the team for Deporte Total, notes that if Charlotte, Cincinnati, and Columbus tie—even if they lose on penalties—and Real Salt Lake defeat Juarez, Messi’s team will be unable to secure a top-four finish in Group B, which is necessary to make the knockout phase.

How Inter Miami started in the Leagues Cup

The Florida club began its participation with a convincing 4-2 victory over Atletico de San Luis, but fell 1-2 to Monterrey on the second matchday. That defeat severely complicated its aspirations, as qualification no longer depends solely on what Guillermo Hoyos’ team does.

The 2026 Leagues Cup competition system establishes that the 18 Liga MX clubs compete in Group A, while the 18 MLS teams compete in Group B. Each side plays three matches against opponents from the opposing league.

A victory awards three points, while a draw gives one point to each team and an additional point to the penalty shootout winner. At the end of this phase, the top four teams from each league advance to the quarterfinals.

That is where the problem lies for Inter Miami. After two matchdays, the Herons have three points and need to win their final match to reach six. But even with a victory against Leon, Leo Messi’s team depend on favorable results in other matches to claim one of the four available spots for MLS clubs.

What is complicating Inter Miami’s path

The Group B landscape highlights the difficulty. Austin FC, Charlotte FC, Chicago Fire, Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, and FC Dallas have six points, meaning Inter Miami need these teams to drop points on the final matchday.

Additionally, LAFC has five points, and Real Salt Lake has four, while Nashville SC, Portland Timbers, NYCFC, Philadelphia Union, Orlando City, Seattle Sounders, and San Diego FC also have three points.

According to Marc J. Spears of Andscape, Simmons “is expected to be a full participant with ‘zero restrictions'” in the Australian men’s national team mini-camp in Melbourne, which starts tomorrow. As per Spears, Simmons “paid his own way to the camp,” aiming to showcase his improved health and compete for a roster spot on the national team.

The 30-year-old, most famously known for his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, reportedly has several NBA teams interested in his services. Spears even specified that one West squad had already offered a training camp invite.

What lies ahead for Ben Simmons

Simmons has not yet represented Australia in a senior international game after withdrawing from the national team during the 2019 FIBA World Cup and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. It is not entirely clear how much interest there is from Australian brass to call on the 30-year-old guard, who is dealing with plenty of uncertainty regarding his health.

The “mini-camp” in question refers to a player-led training camp in Australia that Ben Simmons is expected to participate in as he seeks to give his absolute best. Spears elaborated on this as well, stating:

“NBA free agent forward Ben Simmons is expected to be a full participant with ‘zero restrictions’ in a player-led Aussie men’s national team mini-camp in Melbourne beginning Monday, sources to andscape. Simmons took last season off in hopes of completely healing from injuries.”

“The three-time NBA All-Star paid his own way to the camp. A coach who worked out Simmons recently said he has regained his athleticism. The injury-plagued 30-year-old recently told andscape this is the best he’s felt in years. He last played with the Nets & Clippers in the 24-25 season.”

Simmons’ recent performance

In the 2024-25 NBA season, Simmons averaged 5.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 0.7 steals per game while shooting 52.0% from the field. With figures like these, the 30-year-old was still a solid asset on the roster.

According to Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, the Cavaliers are looking to ship Schroder out of town. They are more interested in bringing in either Peyton Watson or Jonathan Kuminga, which would fit more of a need than the backup point guard spot.

“The Cavs continue to discuss various trade packages involving Schroder, seeing if there is an opportunity to slightly reconfigure the roster or gain financial flexibility, which would help their pursuit of free agents Jonathan Kuminga and Peyton Watson,” Fedor wrote.

Cavaliers taking serious approach

The Cavaliers still have that chip on their shoulder and recognize they can offer much more and re-establish themselves as a contender with the roster they have. That is the main reason why James Harden still has not signed an extension.

Harden is willing to help the Cavs out so that they have enough money to bring in another guy. However, that likely won’t be enough. Cleveland might also have to make a trade in order to free up some money to bring in one of two forwards that they have on their minds.

Cleveland has very little cap flexibility at the moment to add another player. Anyone they add would push them closer to the second apron, which is where they finished a year ago. Doing the same now would be a big issue, as then the Cavaliers would face restrictions.

The situation with Kuminga and Watson

Kuminga has reportedly not been willing to sign a minimum contract. Several teams around the league have been trying to sign him to such a deal. Watson is still in a stalemate of restricted free agency with the Nuggets. Both of them would be hard to fit into the current cap structure without making some sort of trade.

Sam Amick of The Athletic previously reported that Leonard had a staggering list of demands for the Lakers. Behind his uncle and infamous business manager, Dennis Robertson, Leonard wanted the franchise to meet lofty conditions before he would consider signing with the purple and gold:

• Part ownership of the team
• A private plane that would be available at all times
• A house
• A guaranteed amount of off-court endorsement money

Robertson repeatedly demanded all these from Jeanie Buss, but the Lakers governor ultimately dismissed them due to obvious illegality under the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Kawhi’s suspicious decision

What was once puzzling now makes sense regarding why he ended up choosing that destination. In the end, Leonard joined the Clippers on a three-year, $103.1 million contract. At that time, no one knew that both sides had a handshake agreement that would create headlines across the NBA six years later.

New revelation in the investigation

After fully exposing Leonard and the Clippers’ ties to Aspiration through a dummy $28 million endorsement contract, investigative journalist Pablo Torre recently revealed another crucial detail, adding a new dimension to the case surrounding the star forward.

According to Torre, Leonard apparently has another hidden channel to receive off-the-books money from the Clippers. Daktronics, the manufacturer of Los Angeles’ scoreboard, has a secret multimillion-dollar sponsorship deal with Leonard.

The Clippers commissioned Daktronics for $100 million for the construction of the famous “Halo Board” at Intuit Dome, raising questions about how much Leonard earned through this secret deal with the electronics company.

Michael Grange of Sportsnet recently shared what he thinks the most likely outcome of the trade will be. “A negotiated settlement where the NBA gets to enforce some version of its rules, Ballmer can save face and Leonard can play for the Raptors,” Grange wrote.

“Whether Torre’s latest finding is new information to the NBA’s investigation or not, a report in The Athletic last month said a second no-show endorsement deal was already part of the investigation, the sense is that it won’t affect the next stage of the process, namely figuring out what the league is going to do with the information it has collected.”

What remains on pause

The trade that sent Leonard to the Raptors and Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick to the Clippers is still on pause, and it won’t be completed until the investigation is possibly over. There is still a chance for things to be cleared up before training camp, which will be good for the players so they can be with their new teams.

The league is working quietly to get things resolved quickly, and according to Grange, things have moved beyond the fact-finding stage. All of this comes without even an estimated timeline for when it might reach a conclusion.

What is new in the investigation?

Things continue to be extremely complicated for Kawhi Leonard. First, Leonard was under investigation for his Aspiration sponsorship. Now, he is under suspicion for a second sponsorship.

According to Pablo Torre of Pablo Torre Finds Out, Leonard was involved in a sponsorship with the LA-based crisis firm Daktronics’ Ballmer. An NBA insider told Torre that it was a case of history repeating itself. In other words, Leonard and company were trying to defy the rules of the NBA salary cap.

How to watch Club America vs Portland Timbers in the USA

The Leagues Cup matchup between Club America and Portland Timbers can be watched on TV channels Fox Sports 1, TUDN USA, Univision, and FOX One. But it does not end there, as it can also be enjoyed on streaming platforms broadcasting the game, such as MLS Season Pass, fuboTV, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, and the TUDN App.

Can I watch Club America vs Portland Timbers for free?

Yes, you can enjoy Club America vs Portland Timbers for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Both clubs recorded important victories on their first matchday of action, now headlining one of the matchups that promise to be among the most attractive of the Leagues Cup.

Club America have had a great start to the soccer semester, sitting as the current leaders of the 2026 Apertura in Liga MX and securing an important win on their first matchday of action in the Leagues Cup. The side managed by Guillermo Almada defeated San Diego FC 3-1 at Estadio Banorte, now traveling to Portland for their second matchday of the championship.

On the other hand, Portland is experiencing a great moment, registering big wins in their most recent MLS matchdays and a 5-2 thrashing of Puebla on the first matchday of the Leagues Cup. Following the humiliation over the Puebla squad, the Timbers look to maintain their dominance over Mexican clubs this Sunday in the binational tournament, where a win over the most successful team in Liga MX could skyrocket their morale and put them at the top of the standings for U.S. teams.

What time is the Club America vs Portland Timbers match?

The match will be played on Sunday, August 9, with kickoff scheduled for 10:15 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 10:15 PM
• Central Time (CT): 9:15 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 8:15 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 7:15 PM

How to watch Cruz Azul vs New York City FC in the USA

The Leagues Cup matchup between Cruz Azul and New York City FC can be watched on TV channels Fox Sports 1, TUDN USA, Univision, and FOX One. But it does not end there, as it can also be enjoyed on streaming apps broadcasting the game, such as Fubo TV, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, and the TUDN App.

Can I watch Cruz Azul vs New York City FC for free?

Yes, you can enjoy Cruz Azul vs New York City FC for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Cruz Azul managed to start their participation on a positive note, looking to position themselves among the top spots in the standings for Liga MX teams, a similar scenario to how their MLS rival arrives for this second matchday of the League Phase as they look to keep advancing in the competition.

The team managed by Joel Huiqui wants to elevate its level at the start of the season, remembering that the current Liga MX champions managed to secure all three points on the first matchday of action in the binational tournament after defeating Philadelphia Union 1-0 with a goal from Jose Paradela in the early minutes of the match.

Although La Maquina managed to be one of the few Mexican soccer squads to claim a win on Matchday 1 of the 2026 Leagues Cup, their performance must be replicated in this second commitment to uphold their name and avoid joining the squads that lost to MLS teams.

On the other hand, New York City FC also secured a victory in their first test of the tournament, defeating Santos Laguna 2-0 with goals from Tayvon Gray and Nico Cavallo. Following the resumption of MLS after the 2026 World Cup, NYC FC maintained an undefeated record, registering wins against Columbus Crew and Chicago Fire, a draw with Toronto FC, and a win over Santos on Matchday 1 of the Leagues Cup.

What time is the Cruz Azul vs New York City FC match?

The match will be played on Saturday, August 9, with kickoff scheduled for 7:40 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 7:40 PM
• Central Time (CT): 6:40 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 5:40 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 4:40 PM

How to watch Benfica vs Academico Viseu in the USA

Fans will be able to watch this match on TV channels beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Espanol, but there are also streaming options where they can catch the game, which are fuboTV, beIN SPORTS CONNECT, and Benfica TV INT.

Can I watch Benfica vs Academico Viseu for free?

Yes, you can watch Benfica vs Academico Viseu for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Benfica sit in third place in the standings and head into this league debut with mixed feelings. Their close to last season included two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches, an irregular performance for a club with its aspirations.

However, at home, the story was different: 11 wins and six draws without knowing defeat in the league. With Marco Silva in charge, the goal is to turn that domestic solidity into general consistency.

Academico Viseu return to the first division after securing promotion as runners-up of Liga Portugal 2. The team managed by Rui Ferreira has been characterized by a solid and pragmatic defensive approach, a key tool to compete in a higher tier. And they look to start on the right foot against one of the heavyweights.

What time is the Benfica vs Academico Viseu match?

The Primeira Liga match will be played on Saturday, August 9, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 3:30 PM
• Central Time (CT): 2:30 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 1:30 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 12:30 PM

How to watch Liverpool vs AS Monaco in the USA

The match will air on television on FOX Deportes and CBS Sports Network. However, there is an option for fans who prefer streaming to catch the action from anywhere. The streaming platforms to watch the game between Liverpool and Monaco are Fubo and Fox One.

Can I watch Liverpool vs AS Monaco for free?

Yes, you can watch Liverpool vs Monaco for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Liverpool head into this fixture with two wins and one loss in their preseason. The Reds defeated Sunderland 4-2 and Wrexham 1-0, but then fell 3-1 to Leeds United. The match against Monaco will also mark the home debut of Andoni Iraola as manager at Anfield, following his arrival to replace Arne Slot.

The Spanish coach took the reins of a squad that suffered major losses in the transfer market, with the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate. However, the board responded with signings like Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz. Additionally, Iraola faces defensive doubts due to injuries to Joe Gomez and Jacquet.

Monaco, meanwhile, face this test with Filipe Luis as their new manager following the departure of Sebastien Pocognoli. The Principality squad remains undefeated in its preparation, with a draw against Cercle Brugge and a 1-0 win over Getafe, thanks to a penalty converted by Paris Brunner. The French club reinforced its roster with Eric Dier, Lukas Hradecky, and Matthis Abline, but it also lost one of its main stars with the exit of Maghnes Akliouche.

What time is the Liverpool vs AS Monaco match?

The match will be played on Sunday, August 9, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30 AM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 9:30 AM
• Central Time (CT): 8:30 AM
• Mountain Time (MT): 7:30 AM
• Pacific Time (PT): 6:30 AM

How to watch Porto vs Alverca in the USA

Fans in the USA will have the option to watch the match on TV via beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Espanol. However, they will also have streaming options with fuboTV and beIN SPORTS CONNECT.

Can I watch Porto vs Alverca for free?

Yes, you can watch Porto vs Alverca for free in the USA by signing up for Fubo‘s 5-day free trial, provided you are an eligible new subscriber. The trial includes access to the channels carrying the match.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Porto sit in fourth place in the standings and head into the start of the season with momentum after winning the Portuguese Supercup with a tight 1-0 victory against Torreense. Francesco Farioli, architect of the club’s 31st league title, features reinforcements such as In-beom Hwang and Andre Silva. In their last five matches, the Dragons accumulated three wins and one draw, showing a solidity that supports their status as favorites.

Alverca sit in 17th place in the standings and are going through a difficult period, without wins in their last five matches while accumulating draws and losses.

The departure of their goalscorer Marezi to Almeria, along with Sandro Lima, Lincoln, and other forwards, left the attack severely weakened. Under the direction of debutant Sergio Ferreira, the club, partially owned by Vinicius Junior, faces a massive challenge to compete in the top flight.

What time is the Porto vs Alverca match?

The match will be played on Saturday, August 9, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM ET. Here are the kickoff times across the United States:

• Eastern Time (ET): 1:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 12:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 11:00 AM
• Pacific Time (PT): 10:00 AM

NBA guard Russell Westbrook was asked about his current free agency status during an interview with CNN’s Elex Michaelson regarding the nine-time All-Star’s wide-ranging community service. “I don’t (think about it) honestly,” Westbrook answered.

Michaelson asked if Westbrook wanted to play an 18th NBA season, and he responded: “I love playing basketball, and if it happens, it works and that’s my plan.”

Westbrook’s track record and performance

Westbrook was a star for the Oklahoma City Thunder between 2008 and 2019, earning eight All-NBA selections and winning the NBA MVP award in the 2016-17 season. Since then, he has maintained productive output, even averaging a triple-double with the Washington Wizards in the 2020-21 season—marking the fourth time in his career he achieved that feat.

Over the last four NBA seasons, Westbrook has alternated between starting and coming off the bench. Still, he has maintained a solid level, averaging 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 29.0 minutes per game last season with the Sacramento Kings.

Potential re-signing rumors

Speaking of which, the Sacramento Kings are “open to a reunion” with Westbrook, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater. However, the Kings “are also understanding that Westbrook might not be as interested in playing a reduced role behind prized rookie Darius Acuff Jr.”

Acuff represents the present and future of the Kings franchise. The 6’2″ guard was selected seventh overall in the 2026 NBA draft after averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game last year.

FIFA issued a statement alleging a concerted and ongoing effort by certain parties to undermine FIFA and its President Gianni Infantino, making it clear that it will not tolerate such actions.

“Echoing the recent statements of CONMEBOL and CAF, as well as discussions with FIFA Member Associations and Confederations from around the world, FIFA will not support, facilitate or tolerate any process concerning the election of the FIFA President that is inconsistent with FIFA’s Statutes, democratic procedures and established governance framework. The FIFA President was democratically elected by FIFA’s Member Associations and continues to serve with their mandate,” FIFA wrote in its statement.

“It is increasingly evident that there is a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine FIFA and its President. Those who do not have the support of FIFA’s Member Associations should not seek to achieve through allegation, insinuation or misinformation what they cannot achieve through FIFA’s established democratic processes.”

Tension between Infantino and the Confederations

Tension between Infantino and several confederations has increased in recent days. UEFA has openly questioned the FIFA president and cast doubt on his continuity, while CAF backed his candidacy for the 2027 election. CONMEBOL also spoke out in defense of FIFA’s established processes.

One of the main points of conflict was FIFA Forward Enterprise, a project through which Infantino sought to open the door to private investment in some of the governing body’s commercial rights. The proposal generated rejection among various federations and confederations and was ultimately withdrawn by FIFA, though differences between Infantino and his critics did not end with that decision.

“Recent reporting has included unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims concerning FIFA and its President. Speculation and insinuation should not be presented as fact, and repetition does not make an allegation true.

“The FIFA President has dedicated more than 30 years of his professional life to European and world football, contributing to significant change in the game and, in particular, to broadening access, resources and opportunity across world football. Change inevitably challenges established interests, but disagreement with that change cannot justify efforts to undermine the democratic mandate of FIFA’s President or the institution he was elected to lead.”

The Stance of UEFA and CAF

UEFA remains one of the main opposing factions against Infantino. The European confederation has stated that it lost confidence in the executive and demands guarantees that initiatives like FIFA Forward Enterprise will not be proposed again under similar conditions.

On the other side, CAF confirmed its backing for Infantino, and its 54 associations represent more than a quarter of FIFA’s 211 members. CONMEBOL also rejected any attempt to alter FIFA’s institutional structure outside of its democratic mechanisms.