England reporter notebook: Problems remain but the joy is back for England after shoot-out win over Switzerland | Football News

England reporter notebook: Problems remain but the joy is back for England after shoot-out win over Switzerland | Football News


The joy has returned to this England camp. 

It is a joy that has permeated the majority of Gareth Southgate’s century of matches. A joyousness that the England manager has strived so hard to nurture. The joy which was disintegrating towards the end of a turgid last-16 game against Slovakia. It’s back. The joy is back.

The players have talked a good game throughout: “special bunch of lads”, “love spending time together”, “oblivious to the negativity outside”, “belief has never been stronger”. There’s been a consistent, almost monotonous message of positivity and unity exuding from the England squad ever since they first joined up at St George’s Park on May 28, well-nigh six weeks ago.

But until now, you didn’t quite believe it.

On the pitch, there has been obvious malcontent. Spats between John Stones and Kyle Walker. Jordan Pickford ranting regularly at his full-backs. Declan Rice frantically gesticulating towards team-mates. Jude Bellingham throwing his arms up in despair.

But finally, inside the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf, the unbridled joy and unity was there for all to see. The players embraced and danced and sang along with the tens of thousands of England supporters who spilled in a frothing mass of exultation in front of them. They were joined by the manager, 100 games in and still going. Strong-ish.

Penalty decision-making, tactical plans and England’s streetwise nature were on the agenda during Gareth Southgate’s press conference following the Switzerland win

Southgate had been forced to cower under a shower of plastic cups and abuse that rained down on him from some fans as he left the pitch in Cologne after the dismal 0-0 draw with Slovenia. That was just two weeks ago. Now here he was, orchestrating the crowd, roaring back at them, applauding their loyalty. Boy, how the mood has changed.

Let’s have it right – there are still a host of problems within this England team and the way they are playing. Problems which could be horribly exposed against a strong Netherlands team on Wednesday in Dortmund. But you cannot help feeling that this team now has a special momentum, having reached just about as close to rock bottom as you can get, and escaping. Twice.

Perfect penalties

Image:
England players celebrate after defeating Switzerland on penalties to advance to the semi-finals of Euro 2024

Penalties do not hold the same fear for this current generation of England players. That is some statement in its own right. England’s horrible history with spot-kicks is written large into the fabric of our national sport. But what we saw in Dusseldorf was very different. In so many ways it was restorative, and it was special.

The captain, Harry Kane, admitted as much when I spoke to him post-match – and he, England’s best penalty taker, was forced to watch along with the rest of us tortured souls from the pitch side.

Cole Palmer – yet to start a game in this or any major tournament – stepped up first. Ice-cold Cole.

Jordan Pickford displayed all the antics he has learned from so many spot-kicks of the past. He told me post-match that the referee had threatened to book him if he didn’t get back on his line quicker. Treading that fine line. His famous water bottle – a miniaturised encyclopaedia of which Swiss players would shoot where – was bang on. It said Manuel Akanji would go to his left. Pickford dived left. England were ahead.

Jude Bellingham did as was expected. Class personified. No drama or surprise there.

And then there was Bukayo Saka. A man who has become the figurehead of resilience and positivity in this England squad. A shining light for our society, in so many ways. He was the best player on the pitch in the quarter-final. He scored the equaliser with a brilliantly cultured curler. And he stood up to be counted – again – on the biggest stage, when his last Euros shoot-out had ended in devastation, and a horrific raft of criminal, racist abuse.

Captain Harry Kane praised Bukayo Saka’s mentality after stepping up to take a penalty in England’s win over Switzerland

When he scored, with such defiant aplomb, the entire English media pack around me rose as one to herald him. That is not something you see often. It is frowned upon by UEFA. Journalists are supposed to be neutral, professional, reserved. So to see each man and woman in the media tribune roaring their unanimous approval and affection for Saka – it felt like redemption. It felt special.

Ivan Toney told me after the game that he didn’t feel any more nerves than he did when taking a penalty for Brentford. He looked in the goalkeeper’s eyes, waited for Yann Sommer to move, and stroked the ball without even looking at it. Extraordinary.

Then came Trent Alexander-Arnold – the man who had looked broken when I saw him walk towards the England bus after he’d been unceremoniously substituted shortly after half-time against Denmark in Game Two. England’s best ball-striker couldn’t miss, could he? Nope. Game over.

Five perfect penalties. One superb save. England were through.

Tired bodies – but 3-2-4-1 must stay

So what comes next? Well, the toughest thing for England now is recovery. Two successive games of 120 minutes. Two games which have been incredibly draining both physically and emotionally. Pickford told me England had been through the trenches. They need time to rejuvenate. But they don’t have time.

Whereas there was a six-day gap building up to the quarter-final against Switzerland, there is just a three-day gap before Netherlands in the semi-final. Half as much time to recover and prepare.

The good news is, Southgate seems to have struck a new system that allowed his players to perform at a much higher standard. The manager and his assistant Steve Holland deserve huge credit for that. In the space of three days, they ripped up the plan that had personified England’s tactics for the best part of three years, and they started again with a new formation, a new way of playing. Their performance against Switzerland for much of the 90 minutes was their best of the tournament. 3-2-4-1 must stay.

Gareth Southgate attempts to prevent Harry Kane falling into the England dugout
Image:
Southgate attempts to prevent Harry Kane falling into the England dugout

For the first time, England had width. Kieran Trippier and Saka hugged the touchline. England found it much easier to get out of defence, and the interminable backwards and sideways passing that had punctuated their first four games was much more rarely seen. I still have concerns about the big gaps that the formation creates in the middle of midfield. But Kobbie Mainoo was hugely impressive alongside Declan Rice in plugging those gaps and getting England ticking.

The fact that England were so dominant for three-quarters of the quarter-final, and yet still had no shot on target before Saka’s equaliser, is a major worry. It is inexplicable. On several occasions, Saka got goal-side of Michel Aebischer, only for his cut-back to find no England foot.

Kane still isn’t right, physically, I am sure of it. He would have gobbled up one or two of those crosses if he was. Bellingham and Phil Foden must do much more with their runs into the box. Foden in particular must recapture his goalscoring genius for Manchester City, if he is to help England to a Euros crown.

Nevertheless, he impressed me with his link-up play. I don’t think he has had a bad game for England in the last few matches, and his influence is growing. The understanding and communication between the two ‘number 10s’ worked.

Southgate’s Shaw dilemma

Luke Shaw returned to action against Switzerland as a sub
Image:
Luke Shaw returned to action against Switzerland as a sub

Southgate has a huge call to make about Luke Shaw. The plan was to give him 15 minutes of action as he recovers from a hamstring injury that has starved him of any football since mid-February. He played 45 minutes against Switzerland. How has that affected him physically? Is he stronger or weaker for the experience? Only Southgate and his medics will know. The manager will then have to decide if Shaw can start a high-intensity semi-final, four days after his first game in almost five months. That would be a huge, huge ask.

His left foot on the left flank would be a big plus. Trippier has been hugely impressive in his reliability and his versatility. He has been a stalwart of the Southgate era. But he is a right-back, playing on the left flank. I suspect he might keep his place for the semi-final.

Kieran Trippier
Image:
Kieran Trippier may retain his spot on the left side

Monday and Tuesday will be big days for England. They are the only training days they have to perfect their tactics for Netherlands. And, knowing Southgate’s schedules, Monday will be an introduction to his and assistant Steve Holland’s thinking, before plans are finalised on Tuesday.

Even for England’s harshest critics – of whom there were many in white shirts that I spoke to in the bars of Dusseldorf leading up to the quarter-final – they surely must be full of admiration for the sheer guts and character that this team has shown. A 96th-minute overhead kick to keep them in the tournament, then a spotless set of spot-kicks in the quarter-final to help them progress.

Out of almost sheer willpower, England have dragged themselves to a major semi-final, having won just one of their five matches in 90 minutes.

That character and never-say-die determination should not be underestimated. It won’t be enough, on its own, to nobble Netherlands. But it’s got them this far, and they are now just one match away from a Euros final in Berlin.

Who plays who in the semi-finals?

Today on Sky Sports Racing: Well-bred Kikkuli seeks Group One glory | Racing News

Today on Sky Sports Racing: Well-bred Kikkuli seeks Group One glory | Racing News



The Sky Sports Racing cameras are on the continent this weekend, with some top-quality action from Deauville in store on Sunday…

3.07 Deauville – Kikkuli and Devil’s Point seek Group 1 glory

The Harry Charlton-trained Kikkuli returns having finished an agonising second behind Haatem in the Group 3 Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot and a similar effort would see him go close as he steps up to Group 1 company for the first time.

David Menuiser has enjoyed plenty of Group 1 placings this season and Devil’s Point bids to follow up his German 2000 Guineas with Benoit de la Sayette replacing Silvestre De Sousa in the plate.

Iberian will hope to bounce back from his heavy 2000 Guineas defeat, while French 1000 Guineas runner-up Kathmandu remains lightly raced and should be considered for the Brian Meehan and Sean Levey combination.

4.15 Deauville – Spycatcher bids for repeat success

Karl Burke’s Spycatcher produced a sparkling display to comfortably claim this contest last season and he seeks a repeat success having finished fifth in this grade at Newcastle last weekend.

Richard Hannon’s Shouldvebeenaring has performed with credit despite meeting with defeat on his five starts this season and this tough four-year-old is sure to be in the mix under Sean Levey.

Last year’s second Batwan is worth a mention after his solid runner-up effort at Chantilly last month.

3.40 Deauville – UK raiders Miaharris and Fair Angellica contest Listed prize

Owen Burrows saddles Miaharris who showed improved form when finishing a narrow third in the Group 3 Prix Texanita at Chantilly and she is fancied to progress again with the step up in distance likely to suit.

Richard Hughes’ Fair Angellica has an excellent strike rate winning four of her six starts, but she will need to improve on her recent Sandringham defeat as she steps up in class under Ryan Moore.

Sunday’s racecards | Latest Sky Bet odds

Watch every race from Deuaville live on Sky Sports Racing on Sunday July 5.

Gareth Southgate: Did the England boss get lucky or does he deserve credit for Euro 2024 win over Switzerland? | Football News

Gareth Southgate: Did the England boss get lucky or does he deserve credit for Euro 2024 win over Switzerland? | Football News


England’s prospects looked bleak when Breel Embolo poked in Switzerland’s 75th-minute opening goal in Dusseldorf. Gareth Southgate, overseeing his 100th game in charge of the national side, was staring at the very real possibility of it being his last.

Later, in the warm glow of victory, he would talk up the performance as England’s best of the tournament so far. But at that point, a goal down with 15 minutes to go, his side were yet to even muster a shot on target. Improved, maybe, but with little to show for it.

As in the last-16 against Slovakia, though, when Jude Bellingham’s overhead kick forced extra-time, England only needed one to make the breakthrough, Bukayo Saka the scorer this time as his stunning strike, having cut inside from the right, crashed in off the post.

It felt like he had got Southgate out of jail. This, even more than Bellingham’s goal against Slovakia, came out of nothing; a flash of individual brilliance in another blunt collective display.

Penalty decision-making, tactical plans and England’s streetwise nature were on the agenda during Gareth Southgate’s press conference after the game

But it should be noted, too, that it would not have occurred at all had his manager heeded widespread calls to move Saka to the left rather than persist with him on his preferred side.

So, did Southgate get lucky or does he deserve credit?

Maybe both things are true. Maybe it doesn’t matter anyway. The key point, after all, is that, following a penalty shootout in which the coolness of England’s takers bore stark contrast to the nerves of those watching, they are in the last four, the dream still alive.

Fans are entitled to wonder, though, why, as Switzerland boss Murat Yakin made early changes, Embolo’s opener arriving roughly 10 minutes after the introductions of Steven Zuber and Silvan Widmer, Southgate again delayed, not making his first substitutions until England had fallen behind.

This apparent inertia has become a feature not just of this tournament but Southgate’s tenure as a whole. And yet, as against Slovakia, when he himself admitted Ivan Toney’s displeasure at only being sent on in stoppage time, it all worked out in the end.

Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett delivers his verdict on England’s win over Switzerland

Southgate could point to Toney’s role in Harry Kane’s extra-time winner in that game. Against Switzerland, he can point to the fact that, in Cole Palmer, Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold, three of his substitutes, once they finally made it on, scored in the shootout.

Should it be this difficult? Southgate has been at pains to point out that performances and playing style only count for so much at major tournaments. But England, while successful to this point, have made the supposedly easy side of the draw look anything but.

For all their attacking talent, they remain oddly listless in front of goal. England are semi-finalists and yet they rank 12th among the 26 teams at the tournament for shots on target, below four sides who played fewer games. They rank in the same place for expected goals.

The numbers look even less inspiring when taking the two knockout ties in isolation. England have generated chances worth a meagre combined total of 2.18 xG despite twice going to extra-time. Their three goals have come from only five shots on target in 240 minutes of action plus stoppage time.

England have only won one of their five games in 90 minutes and even that, the 1-0 victory over Serbia in their opening group fixture, felt like a struggle after a promising start. Most fans would agree it has felt like a struggle watching the subsequent games too.

At times, Southgate has seemingly floundered.

Captain Harry Kane praised Bukayo Saka’s mentality after he converted his penalty

His Alexander-Arnold midfield experiment was abandoned after two games. The chosen replacement, Conor Gallagher, only lasted 45 minutes of the goalless draw against Slovenia.

Some of his consistent calls, such as his continued use of Kieran Trippier on the left and his persistence with an out-of-sorts Kane up front, have invited even more scrutiny.

Ultimately, though, for Southgate, and regardless of what happens next, England’s presence in the last four represents a continuation of a fine record at World Cups and European Championships.

England have never previously reached the quarter-finals of four consecutive major tournaments, as they have under Southgate. This is the third time he has led them to a semi-final. There is frustration that silverware is yet to arrive but his achievements already outstrip those of his more illustrious predecessors.

Image:
England players celebrate their penalty shootout victory

His in-game decision-making remains an area of concern and it will be more sternly tested by a stronger opponent in the Netherlands. But England’s coolly-dispatched penalties underlined the quality of their preparation and the manner in which their mentality has been overhauled. Another late comeback showed their spirit.

Southgate has issues to address and questions to answer but he is responsible for that preparation. He has fostered that spirit.

This England side are far from perfect. The truth is they have progressed to the last four in spite of their performances rather than because of them. But they are there, with a chance of going further. Southgate will make it to 101 games as a minimum.

British GP Qualifying: George Russell beats Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris to Silverstone pole as Red Bull hit trouble | F1 News

British GP Qualifying: George Russell beats Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris to Silverstone pole as Red Bull hit trouble | F1 News



George Russell edged out Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton and McLaren’s Lando Norris to pole position for the British GP as the race’s three home drivers waged an intense fight to head Sunday’s Silverstone grid.

For the first-time ever in the history of the British GP, and the first time anywhere in F1 since 1968, the front three positions on the grid will be taken up by a trio of British drivers.

Russell, who won last week’s Austrian GP after profiting from the collision between Norris and Max Verstappen, took his second pole in four races by a 0.171s margin from Hamilton after a final lap of 1:25.819.

On a difficult and disappointing day world championship leaders Red Bull, Verstappen qualified only fourth after his pace was compromised by floor damage sustained when an error sent him through the gravel at Copse corner amid on-off rain during a frantic Q1 session.

Sergio Perez spins and beaches his car in the gravel bringing out the red flag and he is out in Q1!

But qualifying was again far worse for team-mate Sergio Perez whose recent woes deepened after he spun out at the same turn, beached his car in the gravel and qualified on the back row in 19th place.

With the Red Bulls out of the pole picture, Russell, Hamilton and Norris took centre stage in front of the passionate home Silverstone crowd and turned the battle for pole in to an exclusive all-British fight.

Karun Chandhok analyses George Russell and Lewis Hamilton’s fastest laps during qualifying of the British GP.

Oscar Piastri was fifth in the second McLaren with Nico Hulkenberg again impressing in qualifying to take sixth, ahead of both Ferraris as the Scuderia suffered fresh disappointment.

Carlos Sainz was only seventh while Charles Leclerc was knocked out in Q2 and will start from 11th.

More to follow…

British GP Qualifying: Top 10

1) George Russell, Mercedes

2) Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes

3) Lando Norris, McLaren

4) Max Verstappen, Red Bull

5) Oscar Piastri, McLaren

6) Nico Hulkenberg, Haas

7) Carlos Sainz, Ferrari

8) Lance Stroll, Aston Martin

9) Alex Albon, Williams

10) Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin

Sky Sports F1’s live British GP schedule (all F1 sessions on Sky Showcase)

Here’s what you can look forward to during coverage of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.

Sunday July 7
8:15am: F3 Feature Race
9:50am: F2 Feature Race
11:50am: Porsche Supercup
1:30pm: Grand Prix Sunday – British GP build-up
3pm: The BRITISH GRAND PRIX
5pm: Chequered Flag: British GP reaction
6pm: Ted’s Notebook

F1’s summer triple-header concludes with the big one, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Watch every session live on Sky Sports F1 and Sky Showcase, with Sunday’s race at 3pm. Stream every F1 race and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership – No contract, cancel anytime

PGA Tour: England’s Aaron Rai shares halfway lead at John Deere Classic with Harry Hall one back | Golf News

PGA Tour: England’s Aaron Rai shares halfway lead at John Deere Classic with Harry Hall one back | Golf News


England’s Aaron Rai shares the lead at the halfway stage of the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic with countryman Harry Hall just a shot further back.

Rai – who topped the leaderboard going into the final round of last week’s Rocket Mortgage Classic before eventually finishing in a tie for second behind Cameron Davis – shot a bogey-free, eight-under 63 in Illinois on Friday to rise to 14 under for the event.

CT Pan matched Rai’s efforts on the day – the Taiwanese player’s blemish-free round featured a 100-foot chip for eagle at the 14th – and he is locked with the Englishman at the head of the field.

Image:
England’s Harry Hall registered five birdies on a blemish-free Friday

The pair are one stroke clear of Hall, who shot a five-under 66, and two better off than a group of six players on 12 under, including Hayden Springer and Sungjae Im.

Springer carded a 59 in his opening round but had to settle for an even-par 71 a day later as he missed a three-foot par putt and also carded a double-bogey late on at TPC Deere Run.

He said: “It wasn’t too bad. It was a little windier today, probably played a little tougher.

“I kind of hit some bumps on the back nine but more just mental errors and not making those short putts than anything else.”

The best of Hayden Springer’s first round at the John Deere Classic, as the American shot only the 14th sub-60 round in PGA Tour history

Rai continues fine form

Rai, Hall and Springer are each looking to land their first PGA Tour titles, although Rai has won twice on the DP World Tour, including at the 2020 Scottish Open when he beat Tommy Fleetwood in a play-off.

Rai said: “I’ve been playing well tee-to-green for large parts of this season and that’s kind of continued over the last few weeks.

England's Aaron Rai during round two of 2024 John Deere Classic (Getty Images)
Image:
England’s Aaron Rai shot an eight-under 68 in the second round of the John Deere Classic

“A couple of weeks ago I spent quite a while on the green. My dad gave me a couple of tips.

“I’ve started working with John Graham as well, a putting coach who is based out here. Putting all that together has definitely translated onto the course.”

C.T. Pan, PGA Tour Golf (Associated Press)
Image:
CT Pan’s sole victory on the PGA Tour to date came at the 2019 RBC Heritage when he beat Matt Kuchar by one stroke

Two-time John Deere Classic champion Jordan Spieth notched two late birdies to make the cut with a four-under 67 but is eight shots adrift heading into the weekend at six under par.

The 2013 and 2015 winner said: “We had yesterday morning with no wind and a chance to really take advantage.

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“I had 18 holes of a couple under yesterday, and unless you’re absolutely perfect from there, there is not much of a chance of winning.

“That doesn’t mean you don’t go out and try and shoot 10 under the next day.”

Watch the third round of the John Deere Classic live on Sky Sports Golf from 5pm on Saturday. Coverage of the final round then begins at 5pm on Sunday.

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Shakur Stevenson vows to shut up doubters and become ‘best boxer ever’ | Boxing News

Shakur Stevenson vows to shut up doubters and become ‘best boxer ever’ | Boxing News


Shakur Stevenson has vowed to quieten his doubters when he returns to the ring to defend his WBC lightweight title against Artem Harutyunyan in his hometown.

Stevenson meets Germany’s Harutyunyan in Newark, New Jersey in what will be the first defence of his WBC lightweight world title, live on Sky Sports on Sunday at 1am.

In November 2023, the 27-year-old won the vacant WBC title to become a three-division world champion when he unanimously outpointed Edwin De Los Santos in Las Vegas, but the bout drew boos due to its hesitant and slow-paced performance

“I just want to shut up the people that don’t know nothing about boxing, I call them casuals,” Stevenson said.

“I think a lot of people doubt me because they try to make certain fighters invisible and I just don’t believe that logic.

“I think anybody can be beat on any given day, and honestly, I’m a lot to deal with within myself so I don’t know how people could even put me as an underdog but let’s do it.

“I expect to perform at the highest level. Be sharp, be smart. I will entertain. I will sit there and beat guys up in my own way.

“They’re going to see boxing at the highest level. I’m planning on showing somebody who mastered the art of hitting and not getting hit while being entertaining.

“My plan is to become the best boxer ever.

“And being the best boxer ever is somebody who has mastered the art of hitting and not getting hit and that’s what I plan on showing come July 6.”


Live Fight Night International


Sunday 7th July 1:00am


Stevenson, a southpaw, relied on using footwork and single punches, predominantly his lead right. He landed jabs that scored, hinting at his capabilities but he was far too sparing with any power punches from his backhand against De Los Santos on his last time out.

Stevenson’s name was linked with Vasiliy Lomachenko for a while but the two have never fought each other to date, with the Ukrainian boxer dropping George Kambosos Jr in the 11th round to win the IBF lightweight title in Perth in May.

“Lomachenko probably feels he’s got a better chance to win going in that direction,” Stevenson said.

“I mean it’s a business deal, he’s not looking for the biggest challenges, he’s looking for the biggest money so I get it.

“I’ve been saying I would like to fight Teofimo Lopez, that would definitely be an intriguing fight to make,” he added.

“He went on air and said he would never fight me, he did an interview not too long and said he wouldn’t fight me, something that doesn’t even make sense.

“I don’t know what he’s talking about but I would love to fight him.”

Speaking on a potential fight between Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis and Lomachenko, Stevenson said: “I think Tank is younger and fresher so he should do his thing, because I know if it was me, my game plan would be to use my age and my youth and beat him up.

“But I don’t know, it could be a tricky fight because I don’t think that Tank has ever seen anybody with Lomachenko’s footwork either and with the experience in the ring, it could be a tricky fight

“Everyone may think that Lomachenko is a super underdog but he may have a chance.”

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Portugal 0 – 0 France

Portugal 0 – 0 France


Theo Hernandez struck the winning penalty for France after Portugal’s Joao Felix had hit a post in the shootout following a 0-0 draw to send Didier Deschamps’ side into a Euro 2024 semi-final with Spain.

There were no tears this time from Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been overcome by emotion during Portugal’s last-16 win over Slovenia, but, despite converting his own spot-kick, the 39-year-old’s final Euros campaign ended in defeat. He was left to console outstanding 41-year-old team-mate Pepe at the end of it all.

Ronaldo was on the fringes for much of the cagey contest, although both sides will feel they could have won it in the second half of normal time. France’s Mike Maignan produced two sharp stops to keep out Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha before smothering Ronaldo’s follow-up backheel, while Randal Kolo Muani saw his shot blocked by Ruben Dias at the other end before Eduardo Camavinga scuffed beyond the far post from close range.

Impact sub Ousmane Dembele grazed a post in the final moments of the 90 but extra-time saw these recent European champions err on the side of caution. A half-chance for Ronaldo was hacked over as Pepe and Dayot Upamecano celebrated blocks like goals.

France yet to score from open play

France have reached the Euro 2024 semi-finals without scoring a single open play goal. Their goals have come from two own goals and a penalty.

The major talking point of that extra period was Kylian Mbappe coming off at half-time, having sustained a blow to his face earlier in the match. France’s star man – masked and nursing that broken nose – must have been in serious discomfort to step off the pitch before the shootout but his compatriots were perfect from 12 yards.

Joao Felix was the only player to miss, whacking his effort against an upright, which presented Hernandez with the chance to send France into the final four and a showdown with Spain in Munich on Tuesday.

Analysis: Ronaldo centre stage again – but was this his curtain call?

Image:
Cristiano Ronaldo takes on Theo Hernandez

Even with superstar Kylian Mbappe on the pitch, attention is drawn towards Cristiano Ronaldo. His penalty shootout spot-kick summed up the theatre which surrounds him. The dramatic intake of breath. The staggered run-up. And the big celebration when he impressively thumped the ball in.

But while he may have played his part in Portugal’s two shootouts in the knockout stages of these Euros, his contributions during normal play have been less convincing. He was isolated here and spurned the half-chances when they did come his way.

Ronaldo goes goalless

For the first time in his career, Cristiano Ronaldo has failed to score at a major international tournament. He had scored at the other 10 he had played in.

With Portugal failing to link up in the final third, Goncalo Ramos – who famously scored a hat-trick when he replaced Ronaldo as a starter at the World Cup – and Diogo Jota were sat on the bench presumably wondering when they would get a go. The nod from Roberto Martinez never came.

The Portugal manager stood by Ronaldo until the very last. And perhaps this will be the final time we see him at a major tournament. His final Euros has ended without an in-game goal and a demonstration – to observers from outside the Portugal camp at least – that it is time to move on to the next generation.

Team news

  • Portugal were unchanged from the shootout win over Slovenia, with Cristiano Ronaldo again leading the line.
  • Randal Kolo Muani made his first start of the tournament in place of Marcus Thuram, while Eduardo Camavinga took Adrien Rabiot’s place in midfield.

Stats: Story of the match

Who plays who in the semi-finals?

Will Greenwood: England have strength, guile and rock stars to take on All Blacks | Rugby Union News

Will Greenwood: England have strength, guile and rock stars to take on All Blacks | Rugby Union News


Former England international Will Greenwood says Steve Borthwick’s side have the “rock stars” to challenge New Zealand when they face them in the first of two Tests on Saturday.

England take on the All Blacks in Dunedin, live on Sky Sports, and are high on confidence after strong performances against Ireland and France in the Six Nations before scoring eight tries in a 52-17 victory over Japan last month.

World Cup finalists New Zealand are one of the toughest tests that Borthwick’s side has faced to date, with many believing that England will struggle to get a win over the three-time World Cup champions.

However, Greenwood believes England are a strong side that shouldn’t be underestimated, especially now that they have started to put the “sparkly bits on the cake”.

Highlights of England’s eight-try victory against former head coach Eddie Jones’ Japan in Tokyo

“England are building but it is harsh to say building now,” Greenwood told Sky Sports News.

“They have a really good team. They have a strong culture, strong dog, a little bit of subtlety and guile, they have got a couple of rock star players who can pull rabbits out of hats.

“It is going to be an absolute belter.

“Steve Borthwick is a five-year-plan kind of guy. He came in nine months before the World Cup, didn’t feel he had enough time, and yet made a semi-final.

New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has named his first-ever All Blacks team as they prepare to take on England in Dunedin

“He is a nuts-and-bolts kind of coach, get the set-piece sorted, sure up the defence a bit, then slowly and surely put a couple of sparkly bits on the cake.

“That is what he is doing and he is backing youth. Fin Smith on the bench, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Tommy Freeman, Alex Mitchell. He is not afraid to give these guys a go and he has built a pretty powerful unit up front.

“It is a fascinating game because New Zealand are a fantastic rugby team but they have had a whole heap of change, a brand new coach, and they haven’t had a hit out.”

England’s summer fixtures

  • Saturday June 22 – Japan 17-52 England
  • Saturday July 6 – vs New Zealand (8.05am), live on Sky Sports
  • Saturday July 13 – vs New Zealand (8.05am), live on Sky Sports

‘Saturday full of mouth-watering matches’

England’s match against the All Blacks is the first of four huge matches taking place on Saturday and you can watch them all live on Sky Sports Action.

New Zealand vs England is live from 7.30am, before Australia vs Wales from 10.30am, South Africa vs Ireland from 3.30pm and Argentina vs France at 8pm.

“It is a mouth-watering trio of games,” said Greenwood, who was part of the last England team to beat the All Blacks in New Zealand in 2003.

“England vs New Zealand followed up by Australia vs Wales. Australia with Joe Schmidt in charge, then Warren Gatland for Wales with a huge amount of pressure.

“Gatland offered his resignation almost on the spot after the Six Nations, that was turned down, so he is back in the saddle and they are trying to build a squad that can go and perform in a World Cup in two or three years.

“Then we finish with South Africa vs Ireland. Rassie Erasmus has picked 12 World Cup finalists, Ireland have gone with a few new faces.

“They think they have been the best team in the world but failed at the quarter-final stage again. There are so many sub-plots.”

Watch England against New Zealand live on Saturday from 7.30am on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event (8.05am kick-off). Stream rugby’s summer internationals in 2024 and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership. No contract, cancel anytime.

PGA Tour: Hayden Springer shoots historic 59 at John Deere Classic | Golf News

PGA Tour: Hayden Springer shoots historic 59 at John Deere Classic | Golf News


Hayden Springer has become the 14th player to record a sub-60 round on the PGA Tour after shooting a 12-under 59 in the first round of the John Deere Classic.

Springer carded eight birdies and two eagles, holing from just outside 12 feet on the final green for the last of his birdies to break the 60 barrier.

The 27-year-old American fired an eight under 27 on the front nine at TPC Deere Run, the lowest nine-hole score on Tour since 2000, then went quiet for several holes. He was nine under thru 16 holes when he holed out from the rough for eagle at the par-five 17th.

That put him one birdie away from the elusive 59. He found the centre of the 18th fairway, put his second shot about 12 feet from the pin and drained the putt.

His feat comes less than two weeks after Cam Young shot 59 at the Travelers Championship which was the first 59 since 2020. Jim Furyk holds the PGA Tour record with a 58 at the 2016 Travelers Championship and he has also carded a 59, along with Scottie Scheffler, Kevin Chappell, Brandt Snedeker, Adam Hadwin, Justin Thomas, Stuart Appleby, Paul Goydos, David Duval, Chip Beck, and Al Geiberger.

“I am feeling good. I am kind of at a loss for words in terms of being able to do that,” said Springer after signing his card.

“It is one of those rare things in golf, so to have that opportunity and pull it off is pretty special.

Springer struggled to contain his emotion after shooting a historic 59 in round one at the John Deere Classic

“It is special to be able to do that. I played well last week but it has been a little bit tough to find anything and get stuff going and go low.

“It is special. It feels good to be standing here and to have had a good round of golf.

“I didn’t actually think I could make that shot [on 17] but I did and that kind of changed the momentum.”

Hayden Springer of the United States reacts after a birdie putt on the 18th hole for a score of 59 in the first round of the John Deere Classic
Image:
Springer celebrates after holing his birdie putt on the 18th hole for a score of 59

Springer had missed seven of his last nine cuts but did finish 10th at last week’s Rocket Mortgage Classic.

He is ranked 236th in the world and has never won on the PGA Tour. He turned pro in 2019 but, after losing his card, he earned his way back on tour via Q-school last December.


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Wimbledon: Andy Murray beaten in men’s doubles alongside brother Jamie | Tennis News

Wimbledon: Andy Murray beaten in men’s doubles alongside brother Jamie | Tennis News


Andy Murray was given a hero’s reception as he began his final Wimbledon
alongside his brother Jamie but the Centre Court crowd could not inspire them to victory.

Playing together in men’s doubles at the All England Club for the first time, the pair had hoped to write a memorable last chapter in an incredible story.

But the two-time former singles champion and seven-time Grand Slam doubles champion Jamie were beaten 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 by Australian duo Rinky Hijikata and John Peers.

Murray’s final rodeo on the most important stage of all has arrived. Denied the chance to play singles by his troublesome back, the Scot fittingly signed up for a fraternal pairing before adding mixed doubles with Emma Raducanu.

The excitement fizzing around Centre Court was reminiscent of the atmosphere before a final rather than a first-round doubles match, which are usually relegated to the outside courts in the gloaming.

The brothers’ father Willie made a rare appearance in their support box along with mother Judy, Andy’s wife Kim and his oldest two daughters, eight-year-old Sophia and six-year-old Edie.

Image:
Murray (right) and Jamie Murray were all smiles despite defeat

As the doors opened to welcome the players on to the court, the packed crowd rose together to acclaim the two-time singles champion.

The tennis seemed almost incidental, but it would go against everything that has made Andy so loved and respected if his main priority was not trying to win the match.

It took less than three games for the 37-year-old to wince and hold his lower back after an awkward movement but he quickly shrugged it off, and there was nothing to choose between the pairs until the tie-break, when the Australian duo saved a set point before taking their first opportunity.

A collective groan grew louder when Andy faced three break points in the opening game of the second set but he saved all of them and then let out a huge roar when the brothers clinched the first break of serve.

The Murrays are unbeaten together in Davis Cup but the last of those matches came nearly eight years ago and they were not always in sync here. A break up quickly shifted to a break down and, soon after, an early exit.

“It was really special, we never got the chance to do it before, the way it worked out there was a chance this year, he asked me and it was a bit of a race against time to get out here, it physically wasn’t easy but I’m glad we were able to get out here and do it one time together,” said Andy.

What’s coming up on Sky Sports Tennis?

Find out all the ways to watch tennis on Sky Sports, including the US Open, ATP and WTA tours

In the run-up to the final Grand Slam of 2024 – the US Open – you can watch all of the biggest tennis stars in action live on Sky Sports as they compete across the hard-court season.

  • Hamburg Open (ATP 500) 15-21 July
  • Newport Hall of Fame Open (ATP 250) 15-21 July
  • Swiss Open (ATP 250) 15-21 July
  • Bastad Open (ATP 250) 15-21 July
  • Palermo Ladies Open (WTA 250) 15-21 July
  • Hungarian Grand Prix (WTA 250) 15-21 July
  • Prague Open (WTA 250) 21-26 July

Watch the WTA and ATP Tours throughout 2024 on Sky Sports Tennis. Stream Sky Sports Tennis and more with a NOW Sports Month Membership. No contract, cancel anytime.