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      in Soccer

      Poland vs Holland LIVE SCORE: Weghorst comes off the bench to save Dutch again with late winner – latest updates

      by

      HOLLAND have beaten Poland 2-1 in their opening game at Euro 2024. Robert Lewandowski replacement Adam Buksa bagged the opening goal of the game for the Poles with a brilliant header. Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo levelled soon after with a deflected strike. But ex-Man Utd man Wout Weghorst came on with 10 minutes to go and scored his side a winner just two minutes after coming on.
      Kick-off time: 2pm BST
      Stream/TV: BBC One/BBC iPlayer
      Poland XI: Szczesny, Frankowski, Bednarek, Salamon, Kiwior, Urbanski, Romanczuk, Zielinski, Zalewski, Szymanski, Buksa
      Holland XI: Verbruggen, Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake, Reijnders, Schouten, Veerman, Gakpo, Simons, Memphis
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERS”Tough match”
      Netherlands star Cody Gakpo: “It was a tough match and a tough opponent.
      “They scored first and it was a little more difficult, but we created a lot of good opportunities and we had to be more clinical – overall I think we performed pretty well.
      “We have to analyse the game and see where we could hurt them more. Obviously we are a team that never gives up.”
      Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedWhat’s next?
      Well, you’ve got about 40 minutes of rest before we’re straight back to it, folks.
      Up next is Slovenia vs Denmark at 5pm, before the big one as England get their tournament underway against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.
      I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve copy and pasted Gelsenkirchen this week.
      Gareth is readyCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedSpot on
      Patrik Schick nailed on to score for the Czech Republic against Portugal on Tuesday then…
      Credit: X
      Copy linkCopied”He is clinical”
      BBC pundit Ashley Williams: “Wout Weghorst is anticipating before the defender that the ball will where he needs it to, on his left foot and that’s a good finish.
      “That’s exactly what he brought him on for. Just one moment.
      “We were talking at half-time that they had a few half chances that hadn’t been put away. He gets his half chance and he is clinical with it.”
      Copy linkCopiedMr 100%
      Wout Weghorst has scored with his past three shots at major tournaments. If you remember, he got two against Argentina at the World Cup.
      Copy linkCopiedGroup D
      It’s early days, but Netherlands lead Group D.
      France and Austria are in action tomorrow with Didier Deschamps fancied to get their competition up and running in style.
      Here’s what the remaining fixtures look like;

      17 June: Austria vs France
      21 June: Poland vs Austria
      21 June: Netherlands vs France
      25 June: Netherlands vs Austria
      25 June: France vs Poland

      France are in action on MondayCredit: UEFA
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      FT: The Dutch clinch three points!
      They’ve not exactly struck fear into the hearts of the likes of France, England, Germany and Spain – but Ronald Koeman’s side did well to comeback from a goal down in Hamburg.
      Good character and very impressive strength in depth sees them to a nervy 2-1 win over Poland. The Poles were far better than expected, especially without talisman Robert Lewandowski.
      But… Wout Weghorst off the bench is simply inevitable.
      Wout Weghorst celebratesCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      94: Poland now pushing a few more into the Dutch half. Obviously goal difference isn’t hugely important with the H2H record the first decider in this competition.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      92: Not a huge amount coming from Poland in these dying minutes. Holland slowing things down and trying to take the sting out of proceedings.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      90: Five minutes added time.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      89: Kind of a win for strength in depth. Ronald Koeman has plenty of options to choose from on his bench, hugely important in long competitions like the Euros.
      Obvious statements aside, Bart Verbruggen is tested when saving from Karol Swiderski before Jakub Piotrowski slams the rebound into the side netting.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      87: Bartosz Bereszynski comes on for Bartosz Salamon for Poland. Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven also replaces Nathan Ake for the closing stages.
      No sign of a late fightback, yet.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland
      85: The Oranje fans are going ballistics inside the Volksparkstadion. No idea what they are singing but it must be along the lines of Wout Weghorst being the best player of all time. I’m sure…
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-2 Holland – Weghorst
      82: And there it is! Would you believe it, Wout Weghorst gives Holland the lead with his first touch!
      That’s surely going to be the winner for Ronald Koeman’s side. It took him less than 120 seconds!
      Nathan Ake spots the run inside the penalty area and finds Weghorst with a slick diagonal pass and the big man converts at the first time of asking. That’s his seventh goal in his last 11 international caps.
      Wout Weghorst of the Netherlands celebratesCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      81: Unleash the Wout! Battering ram Wout Weghorst arrives to replace Cody Gakpo. Memphis Depay also departs with Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong. He’s no stranger to late goals for Xabi Alonso’s side…
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      80: Skipper Piotr Zielinski is off. Jakub Piotrowski comes on as the armband is given to goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
      Final 10 minutes in Hamburg.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      77: The Dutch have had 20 shots so far in this contest, which is their most in a game at a major tournament since 2014 against Costa Rica. I suspect there’ll be a few more before the day is over.
      Just three of those on target, mind.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      74: Chance! An unmarked Stefan de Vrij heads over from a corner. He shouts at himself for not at least getting that on target.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      73: Ronald Koeman’s changes have made a difference. Substitute Donyell Malen has given Poland something different to think about with his movement, and they are sitting extremely deep to combat his introduction.
      Not clinging on, but Poland aren’t comfortable.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      70: Just a half-chance for Memphis Depay, whose touch lets him down. Jerdy Schouten finds him inside the penalty area but the ball bounces off his shin and straight to goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
      But there’s no rest for Szczesny, who then makes himself big to deny Denzel Dumfries after a good overlap on the right channel.
      Bartosz Salamon holds back Memphis DepayCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      68: Donyell Malen creates some space on the edge of the penalty area but Denzel Dumfries’ cross/shot goes wide. Karol Swiderski then goes on a mazy run forward but doesn’t really have any options alongside him.
      There’s a goal left in this, folks. Maybe a couple.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      65: Just over 25 minutes left. We remain all-square at Volksparkstadion but this one really could go either way.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      63: Poland have clearly lulled us all into a false sense of security. They’ve let off the handbrake over the last five minutes and have created two or three half chances.
      Nicola Zalewski smashes the latest one over after some good work from Jakub Moder.
      Ronald Koeman’s reacts by sending on Donyell Malen and Georginio Wijnaldum for Joey Veerman and Xavi Simons.
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      60: Save! That’s a very solid chance for Poland to regain the lead. The ball is worked over to the unmarked Jakub Kiwior at the back post, who controls and draws a good save from Bart Verbruggen with his legs.
      Karol Swiderski fights for the ball with Netherlands’ defender Stefan de VrijCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedPoland 1-1 Holland
      58: Karol Swiderski and Bartosz Slisz replace Nicola Zalewski and Kacper Urbanski for Poland. That’s Swiderski who injured himself when celebrating a goal in Poland’s most recent friendly with Turkey.
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      in Boxing

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

      by

      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

      by

      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

      by

      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.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Spain 3-0 Croatia LIVE RESULT: Euro 2024 latest as Alvaro Morata sets Spain on their way to flying start in Group B

      by

      SPAIN got their Euro 2024 campaign off to a flying start with a 3-0 win over Croatia!Former Chelsea forward Alvaro Morata opened the scoring before Fabian Ruiz and Dani Carvajal added goals before half-time.Croatia thought they had a lifeline with 10 mins remaining but Bruno Petkovic’s goal – tapping home after missing from the penalty spot – was ruled out after a VAR check.Italy and minnows Albania complete Group B, and they play tonight.
      Kick-off: 5pm BST
      TV channel/ live stream: ITV 1
      Spain XI: Unai Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Cucurella; Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Morata, Nico Williams
      Croatia XI: Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Majer, Kramaric; Budimir
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSMatch report
      Here’s your full match report for today’s game, written by the one and only Dan King out in Germany.

      Copy linkCopiedFull-time match stats
      This is how the match stats look at full-time.
      Unusually for La Furia Roja, they didn’t dominate possession, but they were ruthless in front of goal and made the most of their chances.
      The match stats as Spain took on Croatia in Group B
      Copy linkCopiedRemember the name, Lamine Yamal
      This seemed like the day Lamine Yamal announced himself really to the world.
      Everyone in Spain already knew him, and how good he has been for Barcelona this season, but for many this would be their first time watching the 16-year-old magician.
      To me, he looks like a second coming of Riyad Mahrez, with an even higher ceiling.
      His assist today was simply sublime, a curling ball from the right-hand side, delivered first-class from his left boot.
      It was set up perfectly for Dani Carvajal to finish on the volley.
      He was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet himself, as he was played in on goal by Pedri only to be denied by a fantastic Dominik Livakovic save.
      He was sensational, and is fully deserving of all the plaudits he is set to receive for that performance.
      Bring on Italy.
      Remember the name, Lamine Yamal
      Copy linkCopiedMorata the killer in the group of death
      Alvaro Morata became a meme during his time at Chelsea, and might not be the first name who pops into your mind when you think of elite strikers.
      But at international level, his credentials as a top class number nine cannot be denied any longer.
      He is the third highest scorer in Euro’s history behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Michel Platini, and added another goal to his tally against Croatia today.
      He was played through by a fantastic pass by Fabian Ruiz, and was the coolest man in Berlin as he slotted the ball past Dominik Livakovic.
      Only Cristiano Ronaldo and Michel Platini have scored more Euro’s goals than Alvaro MorataCredit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedFULL-TIME: Spain 3-0 Croatia
      FT. That’s all for this one, and Spain are instantly put in a commanding position in group B, dominating what could be their toughest opposition of the three group games.
      It was far from a perfect performance by the Spaniards, but they certainly showed they have got what it takes to compete with the big boys.
      Watch out for La Furia Roja.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      90+2. Spain are working hard here to keep their clean sheet intact.
      Dani Olmo gets back to support Marc Cucurella who is being troubled by Majer.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      90. There will be five minutes of added time at the end of this one.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      86. Lamine Yamal has been replaced by fellow Barcelona star Ferran Torres.
      He has been absolutely sublime today, and is certainly a star for the future and for today, picking up a beautiful assist.
      Copy linkCopiedPENALTY MISSED, GOAL DISALLOWED: Spain 3-0 Croatia
      Rodri brings down Petkovic for a Croatian penalty, which is taken by Petkovic and saved by Unai Simon!
      Perisic is first to the rebound, and passes it across for Petkovic to tap home, and he does!
      HOWEVER!
      VAR intervenes and deems that Perisic had encroached on the penalty area and the goal is ruled out.
      Copy linkCopiedPENALTY! Spain 3-0 Croatia
      It’s a penalty for Croatia!
      Petkovic has an open goal in front of him after a huge mistake by Unai Simon, but Rodri brings him down before he can tap it home.
      Yellow card for Rodri.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      75. A great pass from Sucic is played out wide to Perisic, who delivers a cross into the middle.
      Easily claimed by Unai Simon.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      72. Another change for Croatia, as Petkovic replaces Kramaric, who has been poor today.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      70. Gvardiol loses possession for Croatia, and Lamine Yamal is cheered once more.
      The 16-year-old has cooked him today.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      67. Morata is unable to continue here, and boots the ball out of play in order to be substituted, but the Spanish manager decides NOT to make a change.
      He is pottering around the pitch now, seemingly trying to force a change.
      He does eventually get it, and comes off alongside Nico Williams.
      They are replaced by Mikel Merino and Mikel Oyarzabal.
      Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are replaced by Luka Sucic and Mario Pasalic for Croatia.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      62. Mateo Kovacic makes another fantastic run through the Spanish midfield, and plays it into Majer, but the attack breaks down.
      The ex-Chelsea man has been a delight to watch today, but has been somewhat let down by his teammates.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      60. A change for both teams, as Dani Olmo comes on for Pedri, and the legendary Ivan Perisic enters the pitch for Croatia, replacing Ante Budimir.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      57. Spain have a free-kick, which is taken by Lamine Yamal, but hit straight into the wall.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      54. SO CLOSE FOR YAMAL!
      That is a golden opportunity for the 16-year-old.
      Pedri does really well when driving forwards, and lays the ball off perfectly into the path of Yamine Lamal.
      He is running onto it and looks to sweep it into the back of the net, but is denied by a fantastic Livakovic save.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      53. A lovely move from Croatia there, as Kovacic does really well to find Majer who is further forward.
      He plays a lovely ball into Kramaric, but the number nine loses it again.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      50. Promising attack for Croatia, who come forward thanks to a gorgeous pass from Luka Modric into Andrej Kramaric.
      He cuts inside, but loses his balance and a shot lashed at goal by Gvardiol is easily blocked.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 3-0 Croatia
      48. Spain come forwards once more as they catch Croatia trying to play out from the back again.
      Morata plays it into Marc Cucurella, but Spain lose possession with Fabian Ruiz.
      Copy linkCopiedBACK UNDERWAY: Spain 3-0 Croatia
      46. Spain get us back underway here for the second half.
      No changes from either side.
      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats
      This is how the match stats look at half-time.
      Spain are dominating the scoreline, despite Croatia having the lion share of possession.

      Copy linkCopiedHALF TIME: Spain 3-0 Croatia
      HT. The referee calls the first half to a close after that superb goal from Dani Carvajal.
      Croatia will need a serious improvement in the second half if they are going to get back into this game.
      We will bring you some half-time analysis and full coverage of the second half very shortly.
      Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLL! Spain 3-0 Croatia
      DANI CARVAJAL MAKES IT THREE FOR SPAIN!
      IT’S AN ASSIST FOR LAMINE YAMAL!
      Spain play it short from a corner and Lamine Yamal picks it up before playing a Riyad Mahrez-esque pass curling onto the foot of Dani Carvajal. The captain taps it home past Livakovic to put La Furia Roja three to the good right on the stroke of half-time.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Spain vs Croatia LIVE SCORE: Euro 2024 updates as wonderkid Lamine Yamal, 16, starts for Spain – stream FREE, TV channel

      by

      SPAIN and Croatia are facing off in a mouthwatering Euro 2024 clash on RIGHT NOW!The Furia Roja and the Croats have been drawn in a gruelling group that also includes fellow favourites Italy and minnows Albania.On the team news front, Spain’s 16-year-old forward Lamine Yamal starts to make history as the youngest player to play at the European Championships.And whoever wins this match could set the tone for the top spot in Group B.
      Kick-off: 5pm BST
      TV channel/ live stream: ITV 1
      Spain XI: Unai Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Cucurella; Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Morata, Nico Williams
      Croatia XI: Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Majer, Kramaric; Budimir
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSSpain 0-0 Croatia
      6. Neat football from Spain, as they work the ball around the edge of the box.
      Fabian looks to thread a ball into Yamine Lamal, but the pass is just too heavy for the youngster.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 0-0 Croatia
      4. Le Normand looks for Alvaro Morata with a ball over the top, but it is well claimed by Livakovic.
      Mateo Kovacic picks the ball up in midfield here, and Croatia recycle possession.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 0-0 Croatia
      2. This feels like a home match for Croatia, the support they’ve got in the stadium looks like 6-1.
      Copy linkCopiedKICK OFF – Spain 0-0 Croatia
      0. Here we go!
      The referee gets the game underway, and it is Croatia who get us going.
      Copy linkCopiedLove is in the air
      Are you ready? These two certainly are!
      Living all of our dreams, I hope you’re happy Croatia…Credit: AP
      Copy linkCopiedFIVE minutes to go
      We are ready to get underway here.
      The players are walking out of the tunnel, led by Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal and Luka Modric.
      Kick-off is coming to you live, NEXT.
      Copy linkCopiedCucurella over Grimaldo
      Alejandro Grimaldo was arguably the best and most important player in Bayer Leverkusen’s unbelievable unbeaten domestic season.
      So you may be understandably perplexed as to why he’s been displaced in the starting XI for Spain by Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella.
      The Blues’ fullback had an underwhelming start to the season, but certainly ended it strongly playing as an inverted left back.
      He is probably considered stronger defensively by De La Fuente than Grimaldo, but expect to see the latter make an appearance if things are not looking up for Spain.
      Copy linkCopiedJoe Cole full of praise for Luka Modric
      Ex-England and Chelsea winger Joe Cole is absolutely full of praise for Croatia’s Luka Modric today:
      “I love Luka Modric, I think he is probably this generations best midfielder, I’d put him slightly above Toni Kroos.
      “He’s 38, approaching 39, to be doing what he is doing at his age is just sensational.
      “I think he’s the best midfielder of our generation.”
      “I think he’s the best midfielder of our generation”Joe Coleon beIN Sports
      Copy linkCopiedAre you ready? These guys are…
      Some absolutely fantastic fan outfits on display today.
      Some fantastic outfits on displayCredit: Reuters
      Spain are hopeful of another Euro’s heading back to their countryCredit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedFancy seeing you here!
      Spain and Croatia are no strangers.
      Not only were they involved in *that* Euro 2020 Round of 16 clash, they were also both involved in last year’s Nations League final.
      If you don’t remember when they met at Euro 2020, here’s a reminder for you.
      The game ended 5-3 (yes, you read that correctly) to Spain, in a thrilling clash that went to extra time before Alvaro Morata and Mikel Oyarzabal put the nail in the Croatian coffin.
      As for the Nations League final last year, is was La Furia Roja who lifted the trophy on penalties, with Petkovic missing the all important spot kick.
      Spain got the better of Croatia four years agoCredit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedWhat are the odds?
      This is a tough one to call, the first marquee clash of Euro 2024.
      We can’t predict it, so let’s take a look at the Betfair odds to help us out.
      Accoring to ex-Spain star Gazika Mendieta, it will be a draw:
      “How far will Spain get? I’d love to say the final. But from recent tournaments we don’t know which Spain side we will get. I think we are quite unpredictable in that sense.
      “I’ll go for a draw here, Croatia are still being run by Luka Modric, let’s say 2-2.”

      Spain 4/5
      Draw 15/8
      Croatia 16/5

      These odds are correct as of the time of publication according to Betfair.
      Copy linkCopiedLike a fine wine
      Who comes to mind?
      Thiago Silva? Andrea Pirlo?
      For me, it’s Luka Modric.
      The Croatian midfielder is an absolute spectacle, and still plays as though he was 23.
      He may have lost a yard of pace, but every time he plays he reminds us of the level of technical ability in a midfielder which is largely unparalleled in the modern day.
      Still winning Champions League medals in his club career, this is a man who may be getting on but is certainly still a titan in the European game.
      There are 22 years between him and Lamine Yamal, wild.
      Luka Modric is ageing like a fine wine at 38Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedLamine Yamal – record breaker
      When you talk about special talents, this man is right up there.
      Starting on the right wing for Spain, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player ever to feature at the Euros aged just 16 years and 338 days old.
      It happens on special day for the Spanish wonderkid, his father Mounir’s birthday.
      He might be young, but boy is he special.
      Having watched him a few times for Barcelona this season he is certainly a player to keep an eye on, and will surely cause Croatia a handful of problems.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain’s starting XI
      This is how Spain line up!
      Spain’s starting team to face CroatiaCredit: @SEFutbol – X
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia’s starting XI:
      This is how Croatia line up as they look to get the better of Spain
      Croatia’s starting XICredit: @HNS_CFF
      Copy linkCopiedThe key man for Spain
      This is a very, very talented Spanish national team.
      While the starting lineup is yet to be announced, you can be sure that there will be one man who is nailed on in midfield.
      That man is Manchester City’s Rodri.
      A defensive midfielder by nature, he is so much more than that.
      He has added goals and assists to his name this season, and absolutely loves a rocket from outside the box.
      If the national side can put together a similar unbeaten run to what Man City did this season with him in the team, they may well go all the way in this tournament.
      Luka Modric and co will need to be quick to try and dispossess him when they can.
      Rodri will be the key man for SpainCredit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedHello! Welcome to Spain vs Croatia!
      Good afternoon and welcome to what has got to be the best clash of the 2024 European Championships so far, Spain vs Croatia!
      The first game in the ‘group of death’ which also includes Italy and Albania who play later on.
      You have to imagine the winner of this tie will be the pacesetter in the group, so there is plenty to play for.
      Croatia have been a huge success story in recent years, but with an ageing squad this tournament will either reveal a few chinks in their armour, or show that they have aged like fine wines.
      As for Spain, they have been far from the side they were in the 2008 and 2012 championships, when they won it back to back, but have got an exciting crop of young players, and an experienced number nine too.
      It’s going to be an absolute belter of a game, so stay with us for full coverage of it!
      Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Hungary vs Switzerland LIVE SCORE: Embolo seals Euro 2024 win with audacious lob to fend off late fight back – updates

      by

      EURO 2024 continues today with another bumper day of action – and Hungary vs Switzerland is on NOW. Dark horses Hungary are led by Liverpool man Dominik Szoboszlai while ex-Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka will be hoping his Swiss side get off to a perfect start.
      Kick-off time: 2pm BST
      Stream/TV: ITV1
      Hungary XI: Gulacsi; Lang, Orban, Szalai; Fiola, Adam Nagy, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai; Varga
      Switzerland XI: Sommer; Schar, Akanji, Rodríguez; Widmer, Freuler, Xhaka, Ndoye; Duah, Aebischer, Vargas
      Get £50 in free bets for Hungary vs Switzerland at Euro 2024 with BetfredEuro 2024 FREE bets and offersThat’s all from Cologne
      The opening Group A games are done, and for Scotland and Hungary there is plenty of work to be done.
      They’ll get their chance again on Wednesday, but now the focus shifts to Group B.
      Spain will take on Croatia in Berlin shortly, and you can follow all the action with our live coverage.
      Goodbye.

      Copy linkCopiedSwiss defy Euros history
      With victory in Cologne, Switzerland recorded only their fourth win in 19 European Championship matches (D8 L7).
      And it is only the second time that the Rossocrociati have triumphed in their opening match of a Euros tournament, following a 1-0 success against Albania in 2016.
      Yet perhaps today’s win should have been on the card given recent results.
      Murat Yakın’s side have lost only one of their last 15 matches in all competitions (W7 D7) – a 0-1 defeat to Romania in qualifying for this event in November 2023.
      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Cologne Stadium
      The numbers look much better for Hungary after an improved second half, but they ultimately paid the price for a first period in which they were outclassed.

      Copy linkCopiedSwiss join Germany on maximum points
      It’s looking good for Germany and Switzerland after just two games of Euro 2024.
      Both countries registered resounding wins to take hold of the first two spots in Group A with the competition less than 24 hours old.
      With midweek games against Hungary and Scotland to come next, the top two could have qualification sewn up by Wednesday.
      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Hungary 1-3 Switzerland
      The full time whistle goes in Cologne and it’s a fine three points for the Swiss.
      Hungary made a game of it in the second period, but Marco Rossi’s men were never able to recover from a poor first half in which they were torn apart by Switzerland.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-3 Switzerland
      90+5. It’s the Switzerland supporters that can be heard now.
      They’re singing their side towards an encouraging three points that will start their Euro 2024 journey in style.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-3 Switzerland
      90+2. Switzerland start with a win – and it’s a wonderful moment for the returning Breel Embolo!
      Yann Sommer sends a hefty punt downfield, Willi Orban makes a hash of his header back towards his own goalkeeper, and in steals the Swiss sub.
      A lovely chest down puts Embolo in control, and he then cooly lobs over the stranded Peter Gulacsi.
      After all those months on the treatment table, Breel Embolo is smiling again and scoring again.

      Copy linkCopiedSealed in style!

      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      90. There will be five minutes of stoppage time.
      Five minutes for Hungary to rescue a result. Five minutes for Switzerland to hold on for an opening match win.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      89. Hungary are throwing everyone forward…
      …and, as a result, are leaving huge gaps at the back.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Bolla yellow card
      87. With men committed forward, Hungary are in danger of being caught on the counter.
      And that’s why Bendeguz Bolla has to put in a cynical challenge on Amdouni.
      Switzerland boss Murat Yakin also is cautioned for his complaints on the touchline.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Switzerland substitutions
      85. The Swiss move to shore their situation up with the introduction of two more players.
      A forward in Dan Ndoye goes off along with Remo Freuler as a pair of midfielders – Fabian Rieder and Vincent Sierro – come on
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      83. Ndoye attempts to seal it on the counter, but steers his shot wide of the near post under some desperate pressure from a defence that has begun to commit men forward.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      81. Inside the final ten minutes, and this one is still in the balance.
      Clive Tyldesley believes Hungary are knocking on the door, and while I don’t agree with that notion, they have been the better side in the second period.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Hungary substitutions
      79. Marco Rossi rolls his dice and turns to another striker in Martin Adam.
      He replaces Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, and also on is Marton Dardai.
      The other player to make way is defender Attila Szalai.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      77. Hungary have encouragement, but they’re struggling to find any real flow.
      The game has been littered with fouls in the past few minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Switzerland substitution
      74. Now we’re going to get a glimpse of Breel Embolo.
      The striker – a mainstay of past Switzerland tournaments – has barely played in the past year after an injury-ravaged campaign, but he’s given a chance to show his fitness levels here.
      He replaces a puffed-out Ruben Vargas.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      72. Hungary fancy their chances of rescuing something from this fixture now.
      Another cross from the left, this time driven in on the bounce has Varga sliding in at the far post.
      Before the striker can connect, however, Sommer leaps off his line to bravely claim.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Szalai yellow card
      70. Defender Attila Szalai is the first Hungary player to make his way into the referee’s notebook.
      The defender is cautioned for crashing into Dan Ndoye.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland – Switzerland substitutions
      68. Murat Yakin responds to that goal by making a double change.
      The Switzerland boss sends on Leonidas Stergiou and Burnley’s Zeki Amdouni for Silvan Widmer and Kwadwo Duah.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 1-2 Switzerland
      66. Game on in Cologne!
      There’s no mistake from Barnabas Varga this time as the striker outmuscles his marker to stoop low and head beyond Yann Sommer.
      Again the action stemmed down the left, on this occasion with Dominik Szoboszlai delivering with perfection from the flank after checking back on to his right foot.
      A little over a quarter of the contest remains, and Hungary have renewed hope.

      Copy linkCopiedOne back!

      Copy linkCopiedHungary 0-2 Switzerland
      64 Varga! Free header! Wide!
      It’s another glorious chance for Hungary with Sallai putting over a peach of a cross from the left.
      Schar misses his connection at the near post, and the presents a perfect opportunity for Varga to meet it…
      …and miss.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 0-2 Switzerland
      62. A win treble for Barnabas Varga.
      He forward is put through on goal, but a) mistimes his run and is offside; b) trips Ricardo Rodriguez to concede a foul; and c) shoots hopelessly over when one-on-one with Yann Sommer.
      Copy linkCopiedHungary 0-2 Switzerland – Freuler yellow card
      59. This is better from Szoboszlai though. He combines well with a teammate and escapes away from Freuler on the left.
      In fact, the Swiss midfielder’s only course of action is to pull back his opponent, leading to the game’s second yellow card.
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      in Soccer

      Germany vs Scotland LIVE – Euro 2024: Hosts face Tartan Army in eagerly anticipated opener – latest updates, FREE stream

      by

      EURO 2024 kicks off with a bang as hosts Germany take on Scotland in Munich – and the action unfolds TONIGHT!The winner will give themselves a fantastic chance of qualifying for the knockout rounds, so the pressure is on.Germany are aiming to lift the European Championship for the first time in 28 years.While Scotland are looking to reach the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time in their long history.
      Kick-off time: 8pm BST
      TV channel: ITV1
      FREE live stream: ITVX
      Germany team: To follow…
      Scotland team: To follow…
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Time to finally reach KO stage
      Scotland will be hoping to pip their Euro 1996 group agony rather reproduce their Euro 2020 woe.
      The closest the Scots came to reaching the group stage came in England 28 years ago – falling short by just one goal on goal difference.
      Holland bagged a late consolation goal in a 4-1 loss to England to edge out Craig Brown’s men, who beat Switzerland 1-0 in their group finale
      In contrast Scotland ended up with just one point and one goal in 2021 – with group winners England going on to reach the final.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany are ‘nervous’ and ‘have more pressure’
      Germany’s manager sounds a bit worried about stage fright.
      Julian Nagelsmann said: “We are a bit nervous but we have to have a certain nervousness.
      “We have more pressure than Scotland, so I’m sure they want to capitalise on that.”
      Copy linkCopiedNagelsman says Scotland have 4-5 good players’
      Julian Nagelsmann’s message to his Germany side about Scotland could be taken as a compliment or an insult.
      The hosts’ manager said: “Scotland have four or five good players and lots of players who have physicality.
      “It’s a team that doesn’t have world stars but that makes them very dangerous.
      “It’s an incredible development. It’s not kick and rush.
      “They can do that, but they can play football.
      “They lost 4-0 to Holland, but they were better than the Dutch.”

      Copy linkCopiedClarke warns Scots
      Steve Clarke has warned his Scotland team not to get caught up into the whirl of opening the Euros – and against such a successful team.
      The manager said: “It’s the opening game of a four-team section, we know what we have to do to qualify and that’s all we focus on.
      “The enormity of the opener is a bit of a sideshow and hopefully we don’t get too caught up in that.
      “It’s a difficult game. One of the mantras I’ve had is respect everyone and fear no one.
      “We know they’re a good team but hopefully we can show everyone we’re a good team as well.”
      Copy linkCopiedScots fans flocking around stadium
      Scotland supporters are already gathering in large numbers at the Munich Football Arena.
      We’ve still more than three hours to go before kick-off against the host nation.
      Here’s what fans can look forward to inside the stadiumCredit: Getty
      But the atmosphere is gently whipping up.
      Victory for Scotland would be one of their greatest ever results.
      And it will be a full stadium that greets Steve Cooper’s men.
      Sand here’s what it looked like when fans gathered in the ‘Marienplatz’ squareCredit: AP
      Copy linkCopied’Robertson would get in England team’
      Alan Shearer claims Andy Robertson would get in England’s first-choice team.
      Even if there were no fitness doubts over the likes of Luke Shaw, the ex-Three Lions striker believes the Scotland and Liverpool star has all the qualities needed to be first choice.
      Shearer told the BBC’s Match of the Day: Top 10 podcast: “He’s very very good.
      “In the modern day, you have to get up and down and you have to be good on the ball and have the ability to whip balls into the box, and he has all of that. 
      “For me he’d get into the England team no doubts. Even if everyone was fit he would still get in.”

      Copy linkCopiedTime to end the regrets
      Skipper Andy Robertson says it’s time Scotland didn’t let themselves down at a major tournament.
      Ahead of facing Germany tonight, the Liverpool left-back voiced his determination that Steve Clarke’s men should finally deliver – having never reached the knockout phase of the Euros or World Cup.
      Robertson stressed the Scots “do not want any regrets this time”.
      And he added: “We know that’s what’s at stake,
      “We’ve got a lot of incentive but one is becoming that legendary squad – that has to drive us forward.
      “We have to be at our best and if we can do that, who knows where we’ll be come 23 June.”
      Copy linkCopiedSuper Scots
      For Scotland their midfield could be decisive in winning games.
      Even without Ferguson the likes of Gilmour and McGinn will look to wrestle control of possession, with McTominay the key source of goals.
      Captain Andy Robertson is ever reliable and Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie can produce moments of magic too.

      Copy linkCopiedGutsy Germans
      Germany have a number of exciting players, perhaps none more so than Florian Wirtz who was a key part of Bayer Leverkusen’s invincible Bundesliga-winning team.
      The 21-year-old scored 11 goals and produced 12 assists in the league this season, and has 17 caps to his name, with one goal.
      Finding a way to get the best out of him and fellow midfielder Musiala will be pivotal for Nagelsmann, and the role Havertz plays could be key.
      Mikel Arteta got Havertz back to his best this season operating as a false nine, but Nagelsmann has tended to prefer playing Nicolas Fullkrig as the focal point in attack.

      Copy linkCopiedIt’s HERE! Welcome to SunSport’s live blog of the Euro 2024 opener between Germany and Scotland
      The day we are waiting for is FINALLY here football fans as Germany host Scotland in the opening match of Euro 2024 – and the competition is set to throw up insane amounts of drama.
      Germany already carry the weight of expectation that comes with being the host nation.
      It is the first time they will host a major tournament since the 2006 World Cup, when they reached the semi-finals.
      That will be the minimum goal for Julian Nagelsmann and his side, though Germany have struggled in recent years.
      They were knocked out in the group stage of the previous two World Cups, while England beat Die Mannschaft 2-0 at Wembley at Euro 2020.
      However, with the likes of Mats Hummels, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz enjoying impressive campaigns for their clubs this season, there is a chance they could go far in the tournament.
      Scotland will have something to say about that with a lot of excitement surrounding Steve Clarke’s side.
      A superb qualifying campaign saw them finish second in their group ahead of a Norway team boasting Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard.
      They beat France and the Netherlands in March before drawing with Ukraine 0-0 on Monday, but appear to have got over the hiccup which saw them lose to Turkey and Austria in successive matches last year.
      Meanwhile Scotland lost just once in qualifying – in Spain, winning five of their eight games.
      However their form has dropped off since with defeats to Northern Ireland and the Netherlands, with the 2-0 win over Gibraltar a much needed confidence booster.
      But before we get into the thick of things, lets look at who could win the game for each country.
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