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      in Soccer

      Slovenia vs Denmark LIVE SCORE: Euro 2024 latest as Kasper Schmeichel and Christian Eriksen start Group C clash

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      DENMARK are taking on Slovenia RIGHT NOW in the opening game of Euro 2024’s Group C – which also contains England.The Danes lost to England in the semi-finals of the last Euros and will be looking for revenge next week, but they first need to move past a tough Slovenia side.
      Kick-off time: 5pm BST
      Stream/TV: ITV 1
      Slovenia XI: Oblak; Karnicnik, Drkusic, Bijol, Janza; Stojanovic, Elsnik, Gnezda Cerin, Mlakar; Sporar, Sesko
      Denmark XI: Schmeichel; Andersen, Christensen, Vestergaard; Kristiansen, Hjulmand, Eriksen, Hojbjerg, Bah; Wind, Hojlund
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSSlovenia 0-0 Denmark
      5. The Danes are dominating possession in the early stages.
      Slovenia are really struggling to win the ball back from the opposition.
      Denmark play some nice, crisp, passing football.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 0-0 Denmark
      3. Hojlund is in the wars early on.
      As he looked to chase down the ball, he slips slightly and flies into the body of the defender.
      He is fine to continue but seems a little rattled by the impact.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 0-0 Denmark
      1. There is very little between these two sides.
      Only one goal separated them in their two games in qualifying.
      Denmark look to go on the offensive early on.
      Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Slovenia vs Denmark
      We are underway in the MHPArena.
      It is a packed-house for this opening match.
      Slovenia get the game started.
      Copy linkCopiedKick-off looms in Stuttgart
      As the players gather in the tunnel, all that can be heard is a cauldron of noise coming from the pitch.
      Slovenia has a population smaller than Greater Manchester, what an honour this must be for every player in that squad.
      Jan Oblak, despite being one of the best keepers in the world for some time, is making his first appearances in a major finals.
      Copy linkCopiedDanes cannot under-estimate threat
      While Denmark go into this game as favourites, they need to be wary of the threat of their opponents.
      Slovenia are on a six-game unbeaten streak coming into this game, which included a 2-0 victory over Portugal.
      They also amassed 22 points in qualifying and expect to compete in every game they play in Germany.
      Copy linkCopiedCarnival atmosphere in stadium
      As edge closer to kick-off, fans of both teams are getting into the party mood.
      It is a sea of colour in the MHPArena as Slovenia and Denmark look to go toe-to-toe as they did in qualifying.
      They know each other well and will need to utilise that in order to get a favourable result this afternoon.
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: EPA
      Copy linkCopiedHopes rest on young prodigy
      Benjamin Sesko has given Slovenian fans hope that they can do the unthinkable in Germany.
      With the young striker playing his domestic football in the country, having scored five goals in qualifying, the eyes of the world will be on him.
      RB Leipzig will not have to worry about losing their prized asset, with him having signed a new deal before the tournament.
      Copy linkCopiedHistory favours Danish attack
      Having won the tournament previously, Denmark also reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020.
      The country has a love for this tournament and will be hoping to surprise many again.
      In a group with both England and Serbia, they will be seeing this as a key game to get three points in the bag.
      Copy linkCopiedDenmark starting XI:
      A host of Premier League talent features in this Danish side that kicks off the tournament against Slovenia.
      1. Schmeichel, 3. Vestergaard, 6. Christensen, 2. Andersen, 17. Kristiansen, 23. Hjobjerg, 21. Hjulmund, 18. Bah, 10. Eriksen, 9. Hojlund, 19. Wind
      Credit: @xFootballWorld_
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia starting XI:
      This is the side ‘The Dragons’ have chosen to start their Euro 2024 campaign this afternoon.
      1. Oblak, 2. Karnicnik, 6. Bijol, 9. Sporar, 10. Elsnik, 11. Sesko, 13. Janza, 17. Mlakar, 20. Stojanovic, 21. Drkusic, 22. Cerin
      Credit: @nzs_si
      Copy linkCopiedHead to head record
      Slovenia and Denmark have met each other on six occasions.
      The Dragons have yet to beat The Danes to date.
      Denmark have won five of the previous encounters, with one ending in a draw.
      Copy linkCopiedDanes fancied for early victory
      Having previously won this tournament, the bookies cannot see past a win for the red and whites this evening.
      Slovenia – 4/1
      Draw – 21/10
      Denmark – 4/7
      All match odds brought to you by Betfair.
      Copy linkCopiedDanes looking for positive start
      Stuttgart is awash with a sea of colour as we head towards the game.
      Danish fans are out in force to lend their passionate support as ever to the national team.
      They know that it is the form in the tournament that is key and have upset the odds before, anything is possible.
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: EPA
      Copy linkCopiedExperience could be key to success
      Christian Eriksen has nothing to prove in footballing circles, the quality of the midfielder is undeniable.
      However, his last appearance in the tournament was a very emotional one for all involved and he will see this time as the opportunity for him to have a swansong in a Denmark shirt.
      His intelligence, vision and passing ability could be key for the Danes if they are hoping to make it out of the group and cause an upset in the latter rounds.
      Copy linkCopiedA tale of two strikers
      Both Slovenia and Denmark will be looking to young forwards to impress in Germany.
      Much has been said of Benjamin Sesko as he has been linked with a host of Premier League clubs due to his fine form with RB Leipzig.
      Despite having a tough first season at Old Trafford, Rasmus Hojlund will be hoping to show Europe what he is really made of as he leads the line for the Danes.
      Copy linkCopiedBoth sides with no pressure to feel
      Neither of these sides will be fancied to progress far in Euro 2024.
      This takes so much pressure off the teams and allows them to play with a freedom that could see them spring an upset.
      Denmark did this before in the tournament when they shocked the world in Euro 1992, beating Germany 2-0 in the final.
      Copy linkCopiedWelcome to Slovenia vs Denmark
      Two teams hoping to make the knockout stages of Euro 2024 meet at the MHP Arena as Slovenia and Denmark get their campaigns up and running.
      Benjamin Sesko will lead the line for Slovenia with the in-demand forward having turned down interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd before signing a new contract with RB Leipzig.
      Josip Ilicic has been brought back in from the international wilderness after being left out of the national team for three years. However, he scored a late winner against Armenia in their warmup matches and will be hoping to play a big part in Germany.
      Andraz Sporar is expected to play alongside Sesko however while Atletico Madrid number one Jan Oblak takes the captain’s armband between the sticks.
      For Slovenia, winger Benjamin Verbic was unable to complete the full training session on Wednesday and is a slight doubt but right-back Peter Stojanovic has made a full recovery from the muscle injury that forced him to miss both of their recent friendlies this month.
      Denmark boss Hjulmand was forced to make a late change to his squad as Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson succumbed to injury and had to be replaced by Zanka, one of four Brentford players in the squad.
      Christian Eriksen is fit and raring to go and will be hoping to put his nightmare Euro 2020 behind him, where he suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch. He recently scored a late winner against Sweden which sent the Danish fans wild.
      Bees’ midfielder Christian Norgaard missed training on Thursday but this was thought to be just a precaution to ensure that he was fit for this opening match of the tournament.
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      in Soccer

      Why isn’t Robert Lewandowski playing for Poland against Netherlands?

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      POLAND will be hoping they can reach the knockout stages of Euro 2024 later this month. They have a tough group with Holland, France and Austria also looking to make the round of 16. Robert Lewandowski has been Poland’s best player over the last decadeCredit: GettyPoland are up against Netherlands in their first game, but are without their star striker Robert Lewandowski. The Barcelona striker is Poland’s all-time top goal-scorer and has been a stalwart at major tournaments for them over the years. But he may miss the entirety of their Euro 2024 campaign in Germany. Why isn’t Robert Lewandowski playing for Poland against Netherlands?The former Bayern Munich man isn’t in Poland’s starting XI because of a thigh injury he picked up before the tournament started. “Lewandowski suffered a rupture of the biceps femoris muscle, which will exclude him from the first match of the tournament,’ Poland said in a statement.”We are doing everything so that Robert can play in the second match against Austria.”Lewandowski could miss remaining games against Austria and France if he fails to recover in time. With Group D being such a tricky one to navigate, the 35-year-old miss the entire tournament. Most read in Euro 2024Poland take on Austria on June 21 in their next game before finishing their group stages campaign against France on June 25. If Lewandowski does manage to get back to full fitness, it will be his sixth major tournament for Poland. More

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      in Soccer

      Who was Uefa General Secretary Henri Delaunay and why is the Euro 2024 trophy named after him?

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      HENRI Delaunay was such an influential footballing figure that he had one of the most coveted cups in the beautiful game named after him.With Euro 2024 already lighting up our summers, here’s everything you need to know about the former Uefa general secretary.The late Henri Delaunay is often referred to as the founder of the EurosCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskWho was UEFA General Secretary Henri Delaunay?Henri Delaunay was the first general secretary of Uefa and one of the biggest advocates for the European Championship.Often referred to as the founder of the Euros, his vision and dedication were instrumental in the competition’s creation.Born in Paris in 1883, he embarked on his football career when he was 20, taking on the role of secretary at French side Etoile des Deux Lacs.In 1906, at the tender age of 23, he was named as general secretary of the forerunner of the French Football Federation (FFF) — the French Interfederal Committee.read more on euro 2024By the age of 26 he was the club’s president and a big player in the FFF.In 1920, he was appointed by Fifa to help establish the Referees Committee.He was also heavily involved in the founding of Uefa in 1954, spearheading a move towards forming a group of Europe’s national football associations.Why is the Euro 2024 trophy named after Henri Delaunay?Throughout Henri’s life, he dreamt of an international competition comprised of just European nations.Most read in Euro 2024Few men have left such a distinct mark, by the sheer force of their personality, on such a universal activity as football, as Henri Delaunay50 Years of Uefa (2004)But before his dream came to fruition, he passed away in 1955 at the age of 72 — three years before the inaugural Euros (then called the European Nations’ Cup).This is why both versions of the trophy have been named after him.As the 50 Years of Uefa book published in 2004 put it: “Few men have left such a distinct mark, by the sheer force of their personality, on such a universal activity as football, as Henri Delaunay.” Who designed the Henri Delaunay cup?The original Henri Delaunay trophy was created by French jeweller Michel Chobillon in 1958.In 2008, Uefa commissioned a new version of the trophy, which was redesigned in 2008 by Asprey, London.Despite being bigger and heavier than its predecessor, the redesign retained the classic design elements of the original.It weighs in at 8kg, stands 60cm tall and features a wider base than the previous incarnation to support the extra weight.The new Henri Delaunay cup was first awarded in 2008 when Spain won the title.READ MORE SUN STORIESHeidi Beckenbauer blew a kiss to the sky after placing the trophy down before the Euro 2024 opener between Germany and ScotlandPrior to kick off in the Euro 2024 opener between Germany and Scotland in Munich, the late, great Franz Beckenbauer’s wife Heidi was tasked with bringing out the Henri Delaunay trophy.She fought back tears as she headed out onto the pitch at the Allianz Arena while fans clapped in appreciation.How England will line up after big names axed from Euros More

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      in Boxing

      Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin LIVE RESULTS: Latest as Tank KO’s challenger with brutal left hand

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      GERVONTA DAVIS is back in action TONIGHT in a tasty fight against unbeaten contender Frank Martin in Las Vegas.Knockout artist Davis hasn’t fought since his win against Ryan Garcia over a year ago and spent some time in jail – but is now ready to defend his WBA lightweight title once again.Martin represents a tricky challenge for Davis, having beaten Michel Rivera and Artem Harutyunyan in his last two bouts.
      Start time: Main event from midnight ET/9pm PST
      TV channels: Amazon Prime PPV
      No glove lost
      Ryan Garcia was involved in a brawl with boxer Caleb Plant at Gervonta Davis’ fight.

      Copy linkCopiedGarcia wants rematch
      Gervonta Davis gatecrashed Gervonta Davis’ fight with Frank Martin to demand a rematch – before embracing with his rival.
      He even wore a T-shirt with the words “rematch me b***h” after campaigning to face Davis again up in weight.
      But despite the bad blood, the two put that aside to embrace after Davis knocked out Martin in round eight.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis KOs Martin
      The champ has the likes of Vasyl Lomachenko, Shakur Stevenson and a rematch with Isaac Pitbull Cruz in his sights.
      He added: “All them guys are on my radar.”
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedDavis KOs Martin
      Asked if anyone can compete with him, Davis says: “I mean, I don’t know until they get in there with me but I’ve been around for a long time.
      “I’ve been training since I was seven-years-old, competing since I was eight so it’s like second nature.
      “It’s about staying focussed. Make sure my minds on the goal and it’s always to come out on top.”
      Credit: AP
      Copy linkCopiedDavis speaks out
      He continues: “No, his footwork wasn’t bothering me I knew that he was going to tire down.
      “So that what I was doing, just being a target there for him to tire himself out and I started picking him apart.”
      “Yeah, it’s like a little cherry but it’s okay it comes with the sport.”

      Copy linkCopiedDavis speaks out
      He adds: “No, his footwork wasn’t bothering me I knew that he was going to tire down.
      “So that what I was doing, just being a target there for him to tire himself out and I started picking him apart.”
      “Yeah, it’s like a little cherry but it’s okay it comes with the sport.”
      Copy linkCopiedDavis speaks out
      He says: “Yeah, just a little rusty but I’m back.
      “A couple pf rounds I feel I didn’t warm up completely like how I wanted to but I did warm up and got caught as the fight was going on.
      “But it’s okay, no excuses.”
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Whipping uppercut did the damage with Martin stunned but a follow up left hand closed the show.
      Another huge KO and Martin was left flat on his back and unable to beat the count.
      Clean-cut KO.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Davis gave away a lot of the opening half but stayed patient and confident in his timing and power.
      Towards the second half, Davis crept closer and closer and eventually landed the left hand that nailed Martin.
      Another highlight-reel KO for Tank Davis.

      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 8 – DOWN GOES MARTIN!
      Big left hand flattens Martin and Davis is already on the ropes celebrating…
      The referee makes it to the count of ten and that’s all she wrote.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 7 – Big round for Davis.
      At the start of the round, Davis landed big but Martin was able to return fire.
      Towards the end, Davis just teed off on Martin and despite one big counter left, it was Tank who let his hands go on a stationary target.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 6 – Left hands land for both to mark back and forth action.
      But Davis has Martin trapped in the corner a few times and lets his left hand go.
      Davis coming on now but Martin still looks sharp on the back foot.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 5 – Davis is on the front foot constantly and always threatening with the left.
      But Martin looks comfortable on the retreat and even lands a few counters on his way back.
      Although Davis did land a lovely lead right hook in the round. Best punch of his fight so far.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 4 – Davis really going searching for Martin and lets some left hands go.
      A couple of uppercuts whisk by but some do find the body and Davis looks to press forward now.
      Martin still boxing well on the back foot but it must be paying a toll. Maybe we could see a switch if Martin begins to feel the pace and pressure.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 3 – Davis really upping the pressure as he talks Martin with the high guard and lets his left hand go.
      But again, nothing major lands and it’s Martin who is connecting with telling counters.
      Davis also almost gets his feet in a muddle on a few occasions as he lunges in.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 2 – Martin pumps out the jab and catches Davis with a few left hands.
      Davis is walking forward with a high guard trying to find a big left hand or lead right hook but nothing doing.
      Martin holds on a dew times, maybe a sense he feels the power coming.
      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 1 – Good start from Martin.
      Very active with his lead right hand jab, going to the body and landing a good few left hands.
      Davis tucks up for most the round with a high guard but he didn’t offer much offensively. Maybe sussing Martin out.

      Copy linkCopiedDavis vs Martin
      Round 1 – Here. We. Go.
      Opening round, southpaw vs southpaw.
      It could be Martin’s strength and size against Davis’ speed, power and precision. Fascinating fight!
      Copy linkCopiedHere we go!
      Both men have walked out and are in the ring now.
      Legendary MC Jimmy Lennon Jr introduces both men to the Las Vegas crowd and it’s almost time!
      Davis’ WBA lightweight title with unbeaten records on the line.
      Copy linkCopiedSpar wars
      Davis and Martin once sparred in Vegas in a session which has been majorly disputed.
      But Martin told SunSport: “I don’t really go off the sparring session.
      “It’s not like we sparred multiple times and we know each other as fighters. 
      “It was a long time ago, I’m a way better fighter than I was then, he’s a way better fighter than he was at that moment as well. 
      “I don’t really go off the sparring session,” he says.
      “It’s not like we sparred multiple times and we know each other as fighters. 
      “It was a long time ago, I’m a way better fighter than I was then, he’s a way better fighter than he was at that moment as well. 
      Copy linkCopiedOn Ger way
      Tank has been out of the ring for 14 months since he stopped Ryan Garcia in their mega-fight that sold over ONE MILLION PPVs.
      It also gave the American the self-proclaimed title as the face of boxing with over £50million believed to have been made in his career.
      Davis now returns against unbeaten Martin, 29, in Las Vegas and does so in a bid to prove he is the best 135lb lightweight in the world.
      He said: “I just want to prove I’m the best at 135 and June 15th is just going to be a clinic.
      “He’s just going to be a stepping stone to where I want to be.”
      Copy linkCopiedDavis’ stunning rise
      Gervonta Davis has had the most stunning of rises from sleeping on the floors of crack dens to becoming one of boxing’s top stars.
      Davis grew up on the mean streets of crime-ridden Baltimore – home of gritty hit TV series The Wire.
      His parents were both believed to have battled the same crack cocaine addiction that was the central theme of the award-winning show.
      So it makes Davis’ journey to the top of boxing as a multimillionaire pay-per-view star even more impressive.
      Ahead of his fight with Frank Martin, he told Amazon Prime PPV: “I’m already a legend from where I’ve came from, for what I’ve done.
      “I’ve been through mad stuff; sleeping on floors, crack house, all that type of stuff, I’ve been through all that.
      “I ain’t got to prove nothing to nobody else. That’s why I will never get too hyped about the win after I win.
      “Because it’s like you’ve always got to do something over and over again until you’re done.
      “And there’s always going to be someone next, somebody next. So, I don’t feel I need to prove myself to these people.”
      Copy linkCopied’Just go 12 rounds’
      Frank Martin believes he’s found a has a pretty clear path to beating Tank – don’t get knocked out.
      Easier said than done against one of the hardest punchers in the whole sport, with 27 of his 29 wins coming via KO.
      Martin said: “Yeah, we know he’s always getting outboxed by guys.
      “Even in his last fight (a KO win over Ryan Garcia), he was getting out-boxed.
      “We’ve just got to go 12 rounds.”
      Copy linkCopiedMAIN EVENT TIME
      Up next is the headliner of the night.
      Gervonta Davis defends his WBA lightweight title against unbeaten Texan Frank Martin.
      It is his first fight since beating Ryan Garcia in April 2023 – when a short prison sentence followed.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedBenavidez vs Gvozdyk
      Benavidez refuses to give up on his dream fight against Canelo Alvarez as he opens the door to a move back down to super-middleweight.
      But his win over Gvozdyk makes his WBC mandatory for the belt owned by Artur Beterbiev.
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      in Boxing

      Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe LIVE RESULT: Gentleman RETAINS world title with dominant win over rival – latest

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      CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH kept hold of his WBO cruiserweight title after a dominant win over Richard Riakporhe at Selhurst Park.Billam-Smith first won the belt in the summer of 2023 when he beat Lawrence Okolie at his beloved AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium – and here he went into away territory to defend the strap against Crystal Palace fan Riakporhe, who had beat him in 2019.Earlier, Ben Whittaker impressed in a points win over Ezra Arenyeka and Jack Massey stunned Isaac Chamberlain to win the European cruiserweight title.What’s next?
      Ben Shalom just co-signed a matchup against Zurdo, while it’ll be interesting to see where next for Riakporhe after falling short here.
      CBS was asked, and said: “I thought it was 8-4 at worst, very comfortable and he caught me once. He’s a great fighter but just needs more experience at this level, he’ll be back.”
      Some within boxing circles this week have suggested Riakporhe struggled to make the weight and if so, perhaps a bridgerweight move would make sense – local rival Lawrence Okolie is still an option.
      CBS meanwhile, will likely rest over the next month or two before assessing his options in a division still lacking a true number one.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS: Career-best performance? “I think so”
      During his post-fight interview in the ring with Sky, Billam-Smith spoke at length about his team – paying tribute to Shane McGuigan and the rest of his coaches – as well as his own performance.
      The biggest difference between him and Riakporhe?
      “My experience, speed, gameplan. Shane is a master, the world’s best coach,” before insisting he wants a unification with WBA world champion Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez next Stateside. Revenge is sweet.
      Copy linkCopiedAND STILL! CBS avenges defeat, retains WBO world title
      116-111, 115-112, 115-112: Chris Billam-Smith successfully retains his WBO cruiserweight world title with a UD12 win over Richard Riakporhe!
      Riakporhe got his fight tactics all wrong on home soil and besides the right-hand, didn’t offer much more than excessive holding here.
      Questions over the Bournemouth man’s durability were answered, he rode hairy moments and a worthy winner at a chilly Selhurst Park.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS aloft on ring apron!
      Billam-Smith is lifted onto the top rope by head trainer Shane McGuigan as he celebrates, hands outstretched.
      Riakporhe looks a tad sheepish in response, and the art of body language suggests we all know who has won this. Scorecards coming!
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R12
      Final round time!
      Billam-Smith is up by my estimation, Riakporhe has the equaliser in his right hand and that will carry him until the final bell, if nothing else. As far as fight tactics are concerned, he hasn’t adapted well.
      Riakporhe lands low, twice in quick succession with no punishment, before CBS throws a fast flurry and eats one flush for his troubles.
      Finally, at long last, Riakporhe is deducted a point for leading with his head but it came about eight rounds too late.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R11
      Two more rounds left, and Riakporhe needs to bait CBS into leaving himself defensively open. Whether that be up close, or at distance.
      The excessive holding isn’t allowing him much scope to do so, and CBS walks forward after eating a right hand – talk about demoralising.
      CBS absorbs another right cross, before unloading body punches on the inside in return as the champion keeps shrewd point-scoring.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R10
      CBS had his best round in the eighth, Riakporhe’s right hand was a fitting response to cap the ninth and now, we’ve got a fitting finale.
      Another timeout is called so Steve Gray can lecture both yet whatever he said immediately gets ignored, as the clinching continues.
      CBS goes back to his jab, throwing some uppercuts in for good measure as the round essentially peters out.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R9
      Into the ninth and the duality of Riakporhe is on full display: he stings CBS with a right, then lands a low blow immediately afterwards.
      Billam-Smith can recover, timeout called and danger temporarily over.
      It resumes though, Riakporhe lands a cuffing right which doesn’t land clean, but disrupts the champion’s equilibrium as he staggers back towards the ropes. Big finish to the round and dearly needed!
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R8
      Billam-Smith lands his best shot for a while, curling Riakporhe into a corner as the challenger looks almost dazed.
      Panic stations over shortly afterwards, as CBS is pinned against the ropes in another holding sequence, before the champion lands a stinging left hook, right hand combo!
      Riakporhe staggers back to his corner after eating two more unanswered punches clean, CBS’ best round so far and you can tell by the crowd’s muted response… they need to encourage their man.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R7
      Into the second-half of this domestic world title fight we go, it’d be interesting to see how many times referee Steve Gray has paused this bout given how much clinching and excessive holding there has been.
      If you’re not going to punish it, why stop them?
      Riakporhe’s gumshield flies out midway through the stanza and there’s (yet another) reprieve, Billam-Smith right now doing enough to win rounds on the basis of pressure and cleaner work.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R6
      Another scrappy round but CBS is starting to chain his attacks together a bit more, uppercuts and body punching to boot.
      Riakporhe’s power still remains, as evidenced by a whipping right he lands in the final half-minute, but he needs to be busier and quickly.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R5
      A third of the way through and Billam-Smith remains a hittable target, so Riakporhe’s resolve will never waver – especially here.
      He lands a short right, then gets lectured by the official once more before CBS lands a nice uppercut and some body work up close.
      Riakporhe wizzes wide with a right, referee warnings becoming a persistent theme in this stop-start affair now.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R4
      Into the fourth they go, Billam-Smith sticks his tongue out after landing a two-punch combo with Riakporhe up against the ropes.
      The champion is starting to feel himself now, but can’t allow overconfidence to creep into his work with a heavy-handed challenger ready to respond at any moment. They trade downstairs.
      CBS’ jab is sharp but Richard’s right hand a far more scary prospect and that layer of jeopardy will only intensify the more they exchange.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R3
      By persistently complaining about Riakporhe’s illegal tactics, CBS is giving the referee a decision to make – but will that allow him to momentarily switch off at the wrong time? We’ll wait and see.
      Riakporhe lands a crowd-pleasing right but subsequent work is messy, before again being warned – this time for a low blow and shortly afterwards, leading with his head in the clinch.
      Ring any bells? Lawrence Okolie is ringside, after all.
      Billam-Smith lands some sneaky body punching to finish another scrappy round, packed with holding and frustration growing.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R2
      Billam-Smith begins the second round just as he finished the first, cunning work on the inside while Riakporhe looks to break space.
      Referee ticks both off as CBS is unhappy with Riakporhe holding, then the champion absorbs two cuffing right hands as they exchange jabs in centre ring. A more cagey stanza, that one.
      Copy linkCopiedCBS Riakporhe R1
      Here we go! A month shy of five years on from their first fight, the pair do battle again – both have improved since then, but who will show their mettle on the biggest stage here?
      Billam-Smith begins as the aggressor, referee separates them as Riakporhe finds himself against the ropes – twice – then the challenger lands a stiff right hand which wobbles Billam-Smith.
      Riakporhe tries maintaining distance with a few jabs, gets ticked off for illegal moves in the clinch as CBS’ dirty boxing works to the bell.
      Copy linkCopiedIt’s almost time…
      Billam-Smith in the ring, national anthem sung beautifully, now comes the fighter introductions. Repeat or revenge?
      Copy linkCopiedGlasner in the house
      Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner’s among the ringside audience enjoying the evening’s action at his new home – having taken charge of the south London club in February (W7, D3, L3).
      Wonder who he’ll be back in this headliner, surely the hometown hero right? Riakporhe’s in the ring now, Billam-Smith coming shortly.
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker wanted fun…
      It was quickly obvious, but here’s the light-heavyweight prospect’s words after banking ten rounds on his biggest show yet.
      He said: “I wanted the knock out – I was just having fun!”

      Copy linkCopiedOnly one more fight remains…
      MAIN EVENT TIME! Chris Billam-Smith (c) vs. Richard Riakporhe follows shortly for the WBO cruiserweight world championship.
      Ringwalks expected around 10.30pm after a promotional package, TV ad break and more besides as the atmosphere builds up again following, well, Whittaker’s uninspiring victory.
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker wins (shock!)
      100-89, 99-90, 99-90 the scores after ten rounds banked.
      As far as matchmaking is concerned, it’ll be interesting to see where they go with Ben next. Someone who can bring more from him is key.
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker vs Arenyeka R10
      Final round!
      Arenyeka’s wild forays forward continue, as Whittaker shuffles backwards happy to keep his distance and engage the crowd.
      Whittaker threatens another late flurry as the ten-second signal goes, Arenyeka survives to hear the final bell. A slow, painful shutout.
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker vs Arenyeka R9
      Even when Ezra lands clean, he overextends and gets excited far too early to warrant much of Whittaker’s respect in these exchanges.
      They exchange in the pocket, the fan favourite still playing with his food, and the referee looks ready to step in if he sees even a sliver of Arenyeka fading.
      Despite a fleeting moment up against the ropes, it doesn’t come and you know what that means…
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker vs Arenyeka R8
      The best way to describe this scene right now is, watching Whittaker go through the gears and treat Arenyeka like a sparring partner.
      Problem is, he’s stuck on gear two and doesn’t seem like he wants to raise that level. The intrigue has long disappeared, fans getting restless and we still have two more rounds!
      Copy linkCopiedWhittaker vs Arenyeka R7
      Okay, so I was wrong. This has lasted far too long!
      Arenyeka gets a point deduction for an elbow in the clinch, but it doesn’t spark Whittaker into any sort of activity before the bell.

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      in Soccer

      Italy vs Albania LIVE RESULT: Defending champs survive scare to get campaign off to winning start in group of death

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      DEFENDING champions Italy got their Euro 2024 campaign off to a winning start – despite suffering an almighty early scare.Group B is arguably the toughest in the competition and the Azzurri would have been keen to get three points on the board with games against Spain and Croatia coming up.Albania tore up the script just 23 SECONDS into the match, Nedim Bajrami scoring from a tight angle, but Alessandro Bastoni levelled and then Nicolo Barrella put Italy back in charge within 20 minutes.
      Kick-off: 8pm BST
      TV channel/ live stream: BBC One
      Italy XI: Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Calafiori, Bastoni, Dimarco, Barella, Jorginho, Frattesi, Pellegrini, Chiesa, Scammaca.
      Albania XI: Strakosha, Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj, Asllani, Ramadani, Bajrami, Asani, Seferi, Broja.
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThat’s all from Dortmund
      And it’s also the end of day two at Euro 2024.
      Italy have begun their European Championship defence just as they ended their victorious 2021 campaign – by fighting back from an early goal conceded to prevail.
      There are another three matches to look forward to tomorrow, and those include the arrival of England at this tournament.
      The Three Lions take on Serbia in Gelsenkirchen, and, as ever, we’ll be here with live coverage of every moment – you won’t miss a minute with at SunSport.
      Until then, thanks for joining us and goodnight.

      Copy linkCopiedAzzurri scoring streak continues
      Despite questions asking where the goals would come from, Italy extended their run of scoring in matches at the European Championship.
      The Azzurri have become just the third side to score in 10 successive games at the finals following England in June 2012 (11 games) and Portugal in 2004 (10 games).
      Copy linkCopiedBig guns hit the front
      Just as they have in Group A, the favourites to make their way out of Group B have begun with victories.
      After Spain eased past Croatia earlier today, reigning champions Italy have now defeated Albania after an intriguing contest in Dortmund.
      The top two will face each other on Thursday where the winner will likely confirm their progress to the knockouts.
      Next matches:

      Croatia v Albania (Wednesday)
      Spain v Italy (Thursday)

      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from BVB Stadion
      Nedim Bajrami’s goal after 23 seconds is the fastest goal ever scored at the European Championship finals…
      …while Alessandro Bastoni’s equaliser in the 11th minute is the third-earliest a Euros game has seen both teams score after Iceland v England in 2016 (6 mins) and Russia v Spain in 1964 (8 mins).

      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Italy 2-1 Albania
      The European champions begin their defence with a win – but they would made to work hard for it.
      Behind after 23 seconds, Italy fought back with two quick goals and then had ample opportunities to kill the game off.
      But Albania hung in there, and almost got their reward with seconds remaining, only for captain Gianluigi Donnarumma to deny substitute Rey Manaj at the death.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      90+5. In the game’s final attack, Mitaj gets caught in two minds as the ball is cushioned back to him inside the area.
      Curl a left footer into the top corner or step a cross up to a teammate at the back post? In the end, he does a combination of the two and the ball drifts behind for a goalkick.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      90+2. Inside four minutes of stoppage time, and the game is halted as the stewards deal incompetently with a one-man pitch invasion.
      The game will restart shortly, but for Albania, you feel their opportunity has just agonisingly passed them by.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      90. Manej in for the equaliser?!
      No! A vital touch from Donnarumma turns it the wrong side of the post!
      It’s a brilliant attack from Albania with the substitute taking down Asllani’s long pass on his chest to evade Calafiori inside the area.
      The flicked shot over the oncoming goalkeeper is good too, but credit to Italian stopper and skipper who gets a touch on the ball with his sliding body to divert it wide.
      The Albanian bench were up and celebrating, and to add insult to injury, the referee has awarded a goalkick.

      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      88. Luciani Spalletti, hands in pockets, is pacing about his technical area like an expectant father whose partner is in labour.
      He knows there is still work to do here to see victory out.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania – Albania substitution
      86. Sylvinho turns to Ernest Muci for the final minutes.
      The forward comes on for the man who is etched his name in football history with the fastest ever European Championship goal: Nedim Bajrami.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      84. Di Lorenzo is stopped in his tracks by an excellent Ramadani challenge.
      Will that start the late spur that Albania have been craving?
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania – Italy double substitution
      82. Spalletti opts for another two changes.
      He sends for more experience in the form of Matteo Darmian, and the intriguing forward that is Mateo Retegui.
      Taking a breather before the end are Gianluca Scamaca and Federico Dimarco.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      80. Inside the final ten minutes, and this is still very much in the balance.
      Italy have been the vastly superior side, but Albania still have hope and enthusiasm on their side – demonstrated by Manaj’s aggressive run into the box that has Bastoni under pressure.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania – Italy double substitution
      78. Luciano Spalletti makes his first changes of the night with a double switch.
      The Italy head coach sends on Bryan Cristante and Andrea Cambiaso in place of Federico Chiesa and Lorenzo Pellegrini.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      76. Back in the international fold, Armando Broja has seen 76 minutes of action – which is probably more than he managed during five months at Fulham.
      The striker has done well in tough circumstances, and is replaced by Rey Manaj.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania – Hoxha yellow card
      74. If Arber Hoxha was sent on to make a nuisance of himself, then he’s done just that…
      …by planting his elbow in the back of Frattesi.
      It earns the substitute a yellow card.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      72. The game has not so much entered a lull, but an intriguing period where neither side are really sure where to focus their energy.
      Both teams seem content for the match to progress with the score at 2-1.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      70. Not only are Albania yet to have a shot on target since their first minute goal, they also haven’t recorded a touch inside the Italy penalty area in this second half.
      However, you get the feeling, they’re okay with this for now.
      If the game hits the 80-minute mark with the deficit still just one goal, we could well see an attack-minded Albania for the final stages.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania – Albania double substitution
      68. The Albanians make the first move with Qazim Laci and Arber Hoxha introduced into the action.
      The oncoming duo replace Taulant Seferi and the occasionally impressive Jasir Asani.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      66. Neither Sylvinho or Luciano Spalletti has made a move yet in terms of their substitutes’ bench, but that could all be about to change.
      Players are being readied down by the dugouts.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      64. A series of Italian corners are as threatening as a group of primary school children in a tuck shop queue.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      62. The boos are getting louder because Italy are once again having a dominant period in possession.
      In response, Albania appear to be alternating between a 4-2-3-1, a 5-4-1 and a 9-1-0.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      60. Albania’s only shot on target came after 23 seconds of the contest.
      Of course, I don’t have to tell you how it panned out.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      58. The art of defending is knowing when to get rid.
      Mario Mitaj does brilliantly to deter Chiesa inside the penalty area, but then overplays and is eventually dispossessed.
      The ball ends up back with Chiesa, who unleashes a left-footed curler that swerves just wide of the far post.
      Copy linkCopiedItaly 2-1 Albania
      56. Strakosha is out quickly to deny Frattesi with his feet after a clever pass through from Dimarco.
      As it happens, the linesman ended up raising his flag for offside but the Albanian goalkeeper wasn’t to know that, and replays show that it was – again – very tight.
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      in Boxing

      Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin: Start time, live stream, TV channel, PPV price and undercard for massive fight

      by

      GERVONTA DAVIS is back in action tonight in a tasty fight against unbeaten contender Frank Martin.Knockout artist Davis hasn’t fought since his win against Ryan Garcia over a year ago. Gervonta Davis beat Ryan Garcia last year by TKO7Credit: APThe Baltimore native spent some time in jail following that fight but is now ready to defend his WBA lightweight title once again. Martin represents a tricky challenge for Davis, having beaten Michel Rivera and Artem Harutyunyan in his last two bouts. Davis will have to be on his A-game to produce an elite performance after so much time away from the ring, but if anyone has the sniper-like precision to get the job done, Davis does. When is Davis vs Martin?
      Gervonta Davis’ big return to the ring takes place on Saturday, June 15.
      The fight will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
      Ring-walks for the main event will get underway from around midnight ET/9pm PST.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Davis vs Martin will be shown live on Amazon Prime PPV in the US and UK.
      You can live stream the action from the Amazon Prime app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      A monthly subscription costs $8.99-a-month in the US and £8.99 in the UK.
      The PPV price has been set at $74.99 in the US and £19.99 in the UK.
      Davis vs Martin undercard
      Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin; For Davis’ WBA lightweight belt
      David Benavidez vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk
      Gary Antuanne Russell vs. Alberto Puello
      Carlos Adames vs. Terrell Gausha
      Mark Magsayo vs. Eduardo Ramirez
      Romain Villa vs. Ricardo Salas Rodriguez
      Elijah Garcia vs. Kyrone Davis More

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      in Soccer

      What are the German national anthem lyrics?

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      GERMANY had its opening game against Scotland for the 2024 Euros on Friday June 14, 2024.The German national anthem has a complicated history, but why and what do the lyrics mean? The German team at the opening game against Scotland in MunichWhat are the lyrics to the Germany national anthem?The German anthem is called ‘Deutschlandlied’ and has a long, complicated history.But it wasn’t until 1922 — when the Weimar Republic emerged from the wreckage of World War One — that it became the anthem of Germany.The third verse is now the only part sung and will be the one used at the Euros: “Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit Für das deutsche Vaterland!”Danach lasst uns alle streben Brüderlich mit Herz und Hand!”Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit Sind des Glückes Unterpfand; Blüh’ im Glanze dieses Glückes, Blühe, deutsches Vaterland!”What is the English translation of the German national anthem?In English, it translates to: “Unity and justice and freedom for the German fatherland!”Towards these let us all strive brotherly with heart and hand!”Unity and justice and freedom are the foundation of happiness; Flourish in the radiance of this happiness, flourish, German fatherland!”EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTWhat is Germany’s national anthem, ‘Deutschlandlied’ about?The ‘Deutschlandlied’ is about the aspiration for German unity, justice and freedom.It reflects the historical context of its time and has evolved to symbolise these values for the German nation today.The national anthem is also known as ‘Das Lied der Deutschen’, or ‘The Song of the Germans’.Who composed Germany’s national anthem, ‘Deutschlandlied’?The music was written way back in 1797 by the Austrian composer Joseph Haydn.The melody was originally written as a hymn for the birthday of Emperor Francis II of the Holy Roman Empire.Later, in 1841, August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben wrote the lyrics that are now associated with the anthem.This combination of Haydn’s music and von Fallersleben’s lyrics became the anthem that is used today, with the third verse being the official national anthem of Germany.Who is ‘Deutschlandlied’ about?The ‘Deutschlandlied’ is not about a specific person.Instead, it is a patriotic song that expresses the ideals of unity, justice and freedom for the German nation as a whole.Did it change after World War Two?Yes, the anthem changed after World War Two.Following the war, two verses were dropped from the anthem due to their nationalistic content.These included the infamous “Deutschland, Deutschland über alles”, which translates to “Germany, Germany above all”.Only the third stanza was sung in West Germany from 1952 onwards, and once the Berlin Wall came down and there was unification in 1990, it was adopted for the whole country.Germany Euro 2024 guideGERMANY’S reputation as tournament football’s greatest nation has taken a battering in recent years.
      The hosts haven’t won a knockout game in eight years and the pressure is on for them to get it right in front of their home crowd.MANAGER: Julian NagelsmannBright, young and a bit of a maverick. The ex-Bayern Munich boss is known for his flashy outfits and arriving for training on a skateboard. STAR MAN: Jamal MusialaThe 21-year-old former Chelsea star could have been playing for England and can make things happen out of nothing.How Germany attackToni Kroos will typically drop deep to take the ball off the defence with the Germans then overloading the side of the pitch the ball is on.That gives them the option of either passing through the congested area or attacking the other side with a crossfield ball to the man in space.How Germany defendGermany’s striker and the team’s five midfielders will form a diamond shape in the hope of preventing the opposition playing through the middle.Should opponents then play the ball wide, the German full-backs will be expected to press high up the pitch in an attempt to win possession.Read the full Germany Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags More