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Football

City Cruise Past Wydad in Club World Cup Opener Behind Foden-Doku Brilliance

In the stifling heat of Lincoln Financial Field, even a rotated Manchester City side had more than enough firepower to dispatch Morocco's Wydad Casablanca, cruising to a 2-0 win in their Group G opener at the FIFA Club World Cup on Wednesday. Early goals from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku sealed the deal before halftime, and although the match tapered off in intensity, City's control never wavered — even after going down to ten men late on. Pep Guardiola, playing the long game with this tournament's demanding schedule, left several first-choice names — including Erling Haaland, Rodri, and Bernardo Silva — on the bench. But in a reminder of City's absurd depth, his second string didn't miss a beat. **Early Strike Sets the Tone** It took all of 86 seconds for City to open their Club World Cup account. Savinho's cross, aimed low and with pace, was spilled by Wydad keeper Mehdi Benabid. Foden, alert as ever, pounced on the loose ball and rifled home with a first-time strike that left the Moroccan defence shell-shocked. The goal set the tone for the rest of the first half — City crisp and clinical in possession, Wydad reactive but dangerous on the break. The African champions nearly stunned the crowd in the 15th minute when forward Cassius Mailula attempted a bold lob from midfield, catching Ederson off his line but missing just high. Minutes later, Thembinkosi Lorch came within inches of converting Mohamed Moufid's low cross, sliding in at full stretch but narrowly missing contact. **Doku Doubles the Lead** What is the City's response? Ruthless. Just before the interval, Foden turned provider, whipping in a curling corner that eluded everyone except Jeremy Doku at the far post. The Belgian winger timed his volley to perfection, smashing it home to make it 2-0 and effectively extinguish Wydad's hopes of a comeback. ![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/Fe1Aw9y8FB9frWnAINXVVO3sjxFON3FvQfbAjiLG.png) **Second Half Slows, Red Card Adds Drama** With temperatures soaring into the mid-30s Celsius, the second half took on a more pedestrian pace. Guardiola made changes — introducing Rayan Cherki and eventually Haaland — while Wydad pressed higher but lacked bite in the final third. Cherki, making his club debut after a €40 million move from Lyon, nearly announced himself with a goal, his curling effort from distance drawing a sharp save from Benabid. Haaland, eager to add his name to the scoresheet, was denied late on in a one-on-one by the inspired Moroccan keeper. City's night ended on a sour note when Rico Lewis was shown a straight red card in the 88th minute for a reckless studs-up tackle on Samuel Obeng. Although the challenge sparked brief protests, it had little impact on the final outcome. **What's Next** City, level on points with Juventus but behind on goal difference, will face Al-Ain on Sunday in Atlanta — a match that could secure their place in the knockout stage. Wydad, meanwhile, faces a must-win clash against the Italian giants in Philadelphia on the same day. Guardiola may have gambled with his squad rotation, but his team's class shone through — another efficient step forward in City's global conquest. **Next Fixtures:** Manchester City vs Al-Ain – Sunday, June 22 (Atlanta) Wydad Casablanca vs Juventus – Sunday, June 22 (Philadelphia)

Football

Juventus Youngsters Run Riot in 5-0 Club World Cup Rout of Al-Ain

Under the bright lights of Audi Field and in front of a buzzing Washington crowd, Juventus made a thunderous statement of intent in their Club World Cup opener — a ruthless 5-0 demolition of UAE's Al-Ain, powered by braces from Randal Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceição. In a match billed as a potential banana peel for the Italian giants, it turned instead into a showcase of swagger and surgical execution. Kolo Muani struck twice in the opening 45 minutes, Conceição dazzled with goals on either side of halftime, and Turkey's Kenan Yildiz added his name to the scoresheet with a piece of individual brilliance. It was Juventus at their most electrifying — youthful, fearless, and unforgiving. **Turbocharged from the Start** Manager Thiago Motta, in his first full season in charge, rolled the dice on his younger core — and the gamble paid off handsomely. The midfield was commanded by the elegant Khephren Thuram, who dictated the tempo with authority from deep, while the flanks buzzed with invention thanks to the relentless energy of Conceição and the composed buildup of full-back Alberto Costa. In the 11th minute, Costa combined with Yildiz in a flowing triangle before whipping in a perfect far-post cross that Kolo Muani buried with a thumping header — a finish that set the tone for the evening. Barely ten minutes later, Costa again featured prominently, this time cutting the ball back for Conceição, whose deflected strike soared past Rui Patricio for 2-0. Yildiz added a third before the half-hour mark, slicing in from the left and curling his finish off the inside of the post — a moment that drew gasps of admiration from the crowd and left Al-Ain's backline completely undone.![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/DoWYgCP9pizrH2pHdgqsLnVcrIfCsOTGtcmuaNsl.png) **A Ruthless Edge** Just before the break, Juventus punished Al-Ain for pushing too high. Thuram picked the perfect pass between defenders, and Kolo Muani, timing his run expertly, finished coolly with the outside of his foot — his fifth goal in his last six games. That strike all but sealed the contest at halftime, but Juventus weren't done. In the 58th minute, Conceição — relentless all night — breezed past his marker and fired a low shot past Patricio for 5-0. Even as the tempo dipped, substitute Douglas Luiz nearly added a sixth late on, while Kolo Muani was only denied a hat-trick by a sharp Patricio save. Al-Ain, the twice Asian champions and 2018 Club World Cup runners-up, were outclassed. Their lone bright moment came early in the second half when Kodjo Laba drew a fine save from Michele Di Gregorio. A disallowed goal moments later only deepened their frustrations. **What It Means** With Manchester City also winning their Group G opener against Wydad Casablanca, Juventus sit joint top, but with a superior goal difference. Their next match — a clash with Wydad in Philadelphia — could all but secure a place in the knockout stage. For Juventus fans, this was more than just a win — it was a glimpse into the club's future. From Thuram's elegance to Conceição's flair and Kolo Muani's killer instinct, this new generation looks ready to carry the torch in style. **Next Fixtures:** Juventus vs Wydad Casablanca – Sunday, June 22 (Philadelphia) Al-Ain vs Manchester City – Sunday, June 22 (Atlanta)

Football

Real Madrid Held to 1-1 Draw by Brave Al-Hilal as Alonso's Debut Falters in Miami Heat

Xabi Alonso's managerial debut with Real Madrid was supposed to mark a new chapter. Instead, it opened with a sweltering stalemate — a 1-1 draw against Saudi challengers Al-Hilal in a testy Group H clash of the FIFA Club World Cup at the Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday. Despite flashes of flair and a promising first-half lead courtesy of 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia — stepping in for the fever-stricken Kylian Mbappé — Madrid was undone by old flaws: wasted chances, defensive lapses, and in the end, a costly missed penalty from Federico Valverde. Al-Hilal, marshalled smartly by Simone Inzaghi and anchored by the commanding presence of Ruben Neves and Yassine Bounou, did more than just stand their ground — they rattled Real's rhythm and pressed with conviction in punishing Miami heat that turned the game into a war of endurance. **Garcia Glimmers, but Madrid Wilts** With Mbappé sidelined and the Miami humidity draining both stamina and strategy, Real needed new heroes. Garcia answered early, capping off a silky team move in the 33rd minute with a calm, chipped finish over Bounou after a precise assist from Rodrygo. But just as the champions began to ease into cruise control, Al-Hilal struck back. A clumsy pull by Raul Asencio on Marcos Leonardo gifted the Saudi side a penalty, which Neves tucked home with precision in the 41st minute. Alonso, patrolling the touchline with urgency, looked on as Real's creative engine stuttered. New recruit Trent Alexander-Arnold, lured from Liverpool with high expectations, had a forgettable outing — defensively exposed and offensively absent. ![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/lHAANbhwuSZ4uFWkTXaG8KPIUEccqanUw05qqbBm.png) **Al-Hilal's Rising Belief** If Real Madrid were expected to dominate, Al-Hilal defied the script. From the opening whistle, they attacked with ambition. Salem Al-Dawsari was a constant menace down the flank, while Milinkovic-Savic orchestrated play with guile. In the second half, as the crowd of nearly 60,000 roared and the temperature soared past 33°C, the Saudis bent but never broke. Arda Güler's thunderous strike kissed the crossbar, Garcia was again denied by a cat-quick Bounou, and still, the underdogs held on. **Drama at the Death** Real's best chance for a winner came in the dying seconds. A VAR-reviewed handball on Al-Qahtani earned Los Blancos a lifeline — a penalty in the 90th minute. But Valverde's tepid shot lacked both power and placement, and Bounou — cool as ever — smothered it. It was a miss that summed up Real's night: ideas without execution, effort without edge. **Looking Ahead** With RB Salzburg and Pachuca yet to play in Group H, the pressure is now firmly on Real Madrid heading into their second match against the Mexican side. For Al-Hilal, a win over Salzburg could all but seal a historic qualification. For Alonso, the honeymoon is already over. Madridistas demand more than glimpses of potential — they demand results. But on a night when the world's most decorated club met the continent's boldest underdogs, it was Al-Hilal who walked taller — and deservedly so. **Next Fixtures:** Real Madrid vs Pachuca – Sunday, June 22 Al-Hilal vs RB Salzburg – Sunday, June 22

Cricket

Football

Historic Heartbreak for Nepal as Netherlands Prevails in Record Third Super Over

In a match that will be etched in cricketing folklore, the Netherlands clinched a breathtaking victory over Nepal after an unprecedented third Super Over—the first such occurrence in international cricket history—spoiling what was Nepal's landmark 100th T20 International appearance. Playing in the opening fixture of the triangular T20I series at The Grange, Edinburgh, Nepal, and the Netherlands produced an edge-of-the-seat thriller that refused to end in regular time. Ultimately, the Dutch held their nerve to triumph in one of the most dramatic T20I matches ever played. Nepal's Milestone Match Turns into a Marathon Battle Nepal, chasing a target of 153, fought tooth and nail to keep their hopes alive until the very end. With five required off the final ball of the 20th over, debutant Nandan Yadav—a tailender with little fanfare—lashed a nerveless boundary to level the scores and trigger the first Super Over.What followed was pure theatre.![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/SVSSFIQ62pjFWqJeBm37f9dJhNhgZXqDKz5ofNjd.jpg) **Super Over I: Nepal Strike Early, Dutch Respond** The first Super Over saw Kushal Bhurtel explode with the bat, hammering 18 of Nepal's 19 runs off Daniel Doram, including two sixes and a four. But the Dutch weren't to be outdone. Michael Levitt and Max O'Dowd matched Nepal's tally with composure under pressure against Karan KC, dragging the match into uncharted territory—a second Super Over. **Super Over II: A Blow-for-Blow Exchange** With fatigue mounting, Captain Rohit Paudel handed the ball to left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi. However, Scott Edwards and O'Dowd smacked 17 runs with two mighty sixes. Nepal replied with grit. Rohit and Dipendra Singh Airee scraped together 17 runs, with Dipendra blasting a last-ball six to once again keep Nepal alive.![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/mYdRuCjmnWFjvhjOZ0ADOhV4Xnd9RAayBjJg8Vcs.jpg) **Super Over III: Final Twist in the Tale** The drama turned to despair for Nepal in the third Super Over. Rohit was bowled first ball by Jack Lyon-Catchett. Rupesh Singh followed soon after, caught behind as Nepal were skittled for zero—an anticlimactic end to a heroic effort. Levitt then walked in and ended it in a flash, depositing the first ball over the ropes and sealing a famous Dutch victory. Brave Nepal Falter at Final Hurdle Earlier in the match, the Netherlands posted 153, with a disciplined Nepalese bowling unit keeping them in check. Nepal's reply was anchored by Paudel and Bhurtel, but the innings faltered late. It took debutant Yadav's last-ball heroics just to extend the game. Nepal also handed T20I debuts to Kiran Thagunna and all-rounder Rupesh Singh, marking a new generation stepping onto the big stage amid high pressure. **What It Means** With this victory, the Netherlands opened their account in the tri-series after an earlier defeat to Scotland, moving to second place in the standings. For Nepal, it was a tough pill to swallow—coming so close in their centurion T20I—but they'll take heart from their spirited display.

Football

Dominant Madhesh Crowned U-16 National One-Day Champions

In a commanding display of youthful prowess and disciplined cricket, Madhesh Province clinched the TB Shah Memorial U-16 National One-Day Cricket Tournament title on Saturday, outclassing Bagmati Province by seven wickets at the Kalinchowk Cricket Ground in Birendranagar. Chasing a modest target of 113, Madhesh made light work of the run pursuit, wrapping up the contest in just 13.4 overs while losing only three wickets — a performance that not only sealed the trophy but underscored their growing dominance at the grassroots level. **Mandal, Mukhiya Lead the Chase** Opening the innings with positive intent, Madhesh's top-order showed maturity beyond their years. Santu Mandal played the role of a finisher to perfection, anchoring the innings with a composed and unbeaten 43, while Ayan Mukhiya remained not out on 29, ensuring there were no hiccups along the way. Sushant Singh chipped in with a brisk 12, and by the time the third wicket fell, the result had already swung decisively in Madhesh's favour. Bagmati's bowlers, led by skipper Prasidh JC, who picked up two wickets, struggled to contain the flow of runs. Kamal Sahi added one scalp, but the lack of early breakthroughs allowed Madhesh to dictate the tempo. ![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/iHy8OK1lfVkvv5jsM0kfOrSH4qUYvGLIsebnVlIS.jpg) **Bagmati Collapse Under Pressure** Earlier in the day, Bagmati's decision to bat first after losing the toss proved costly. They were bundled out for just 112 runs in 33 overs, never quite recovering from a series of early jolts. Captain Prasidh JC tried to steady the innings with a fighting 25, supported by Rohit Thakur (22) and Ashish Gupta (17), but the inability to form substantial partnerships hurt their total. Madhesh's bowlers showcased exceptional discipline and variety. Rohan Yadav led the attack with a fiery spell, bagging 3 wickets, while Rajeev Kumar Sada and Salman Ali Mansoori delivered crucial breakthroughs, claiming two wickets each. Their collective effort ensured Bagmati never got a foothold in the match. **# A Title Earned, A Statement Made** With this victory, Madhesh Province has not only lifted the coveted TB Shah Memorial U-16 trophy but also sent a clear message about the depth and promise of their young cricketing talent. Their blend of aggressive batting, clinical bowling, and astute captaincy has been a hallmark throughout the tournament — and Saturday's win was the perfect culmination of that form. As the sun set over Kalinchowk and medals were draped around proud shoulders, the rising stars from Madhesh walked off the field not just as champions but as torchbearers of the province's cricketing future.

Football

Historic Glory at Lord's: South Africa Clinch World Test Championship Title, End 118-Year ICC Trophy Drought

After more than a century of near-misses, heartbreaks, and the haunting shadow of cricketing infamy, South Africa has finally etched its name in the annals of cricketing greatness. The Proteas lifted their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title with a commanding five-wicket victory over defending champions Australia on the hallowed turf of Lord's Cricket Ground. It is South Africa's first major ICC triumph in 118 years, the last being the Champions Trophy win — a title from a bygone era that has long felt like a distant memory. This victory, however, resonates far deeper. It's not just a championship win; it's a resounding statement of redemption. **Chasing History and 282 Runs** Resuming the fourth day of the final on a solid 213 for 2, South Africa remained composed under pressure, chasing a target of 282. The architect of the chase was none other than Aiden Markram, whose masterful 136 off 206 deliveries — laced with 14 crisply timed boundaries — anchored the innings and South Africa's dreams. Captain Temba Bavuma, a symbol of grit and quiet leadership, chipped in with a valuable 66 off 134 balls, blunting Australia's pace trio and setting the tone for a measured chase. Wiaan Mulder (27*) and David Bedingham (21) provided the final touches as South Africa crossed the finish line with five wickets in hand — and a nation exhaling a 118-year-old sigh of relief. ![](https://bootballer.com/storage/media/posts/fuff3liJEFj7hVmbL76dh3uIoGoFou0DzbqBwwvp.jpg) **Australia Falter Despite starc's Resistance** Australia, the powerhouse and reigning WTC champions, saw their title defence crumble despite moments of individual brilliance. Mitchell Starc led with both ball and bat — his three wickets were crucial in delaying South Africa's march, and his defiant 58 off 136 balls in the second innings offered a glimmer of hope. But it was never enough. Australia had earlier been bowled out for 212 in the first innings and then again for 270 in their second. South Africa, dismissed for just 138 in their first innings, trailed by 74 but stormed back with pace and poise. **Rabada Leads Ruthless Attack** South Africa's pace battery, led by the ever-reliable Kagiso Rabada, played a crucial role in turning the tide. Rabada's figures of 4 wickets in Australia's second innings set the tone, with Lungi Ngidi (3 wickets) providing critical breakthroughs and Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, and even Markram chipping in with one apiece. Their bowling effort not only restricted Australia to a modest lead but also set up a chaseable target that the team's top order clinically executed. **A Nation Redeemed** For South African cricket, long burdened by the 'chokers' tag and years of underachievement on the global stage, this triumph represents a seismic shift. At Lord's — the spiritual home of cricket — they stood tall, not just as victors, but as vindicated. From the heartbreak of 1999 to the turbulence of the transition years, this win is both a culmination and a beginning.

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