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Pep Guardiola hails Arsenal, Mikel Arteta proud of Premier League triumph

SABC Sport — Wed, 20 May 2026 05:05:32 +0000

City needed victory at the Vitality Stadium to keep the title race alive, but the dropped points left Arsenal four clear at the top with only one match remaining.

The breakthrough came a day after Arsenal edged Burnley 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium to pile pressure on the defending champions.

"[I need to] congratulate Arsenal, Mikel and the backroom staff, the fans for the Premier League which they deserved," said Guardiola.

"I would love to have arrived in the last moment [and taken the title race to the last day]. Today the fatigue was there. Bournemouth had 12 days to prepare. The impact from the fresh players was not good enough. We fought a lot and we prepare next season."

At London Colney, Arsenal's squad watched City's match together through the club's official media channels before bursting into celebration at the final whistle.

Thousands of supporters gathered outside the Emirates Stadium also celebrated as confirmation of the club's first league title in 22 years arrived.

"We made history again, together. I cannot be happier, prouder for everybody that is involved in this football club. Let's enjoy the moment," Arteta stated after the City result.

The triumph marks Arsenal's 14th top-flight championship and their fourth of the Premier League era.

It is their first since the famous "Invincibles" season of 2003-04 and ends the club's longest title drought since winning their first league crown in 1931. The success also follows three successive runner-up finishes under Arteta.

Because Bournemouth held City to a draw, Arsenal will lift the trophy away from home after Sunday's final-day trip to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Arteta's side could yet make the season even more memorable when they face Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest six days later in Arsenal's first Champions League final since 2006. Arsenal have never won the competition and now stand one match away from a historic double.

Arsenal end 22-year wait to clinch Premier League title after Man City stumble

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 20:05:36 +0000

The decisive moment at the Vitality Stadium came in the 38th minute when Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi put the hosts ahead, leaving City chasing the game.

Despite sustained pressure, Pep Guardiola's side could only find an equaliser deep into stoppage time through Erling Haaland, a goal that ultimately proved insufficient as victory was required to keep their hopes alive.

The draw leaves Manchester City four points behind Arsenal with just one fixture remaining, confirming that the Gunners cannot be caught at the top of the table.

Attention had already been swirling around City even before kick-off, after reports emerged that Guardiola is set to leave the club at the end of the season. That development was widely viewed as a potential disruption to the squad's focus during the run-in.

For Arsenal, the triumph marks their first Premier League title in 22 years, their last coming in the iconic 2003/04 "Invincibles" campaign under Arsene Wenger.

It is also their 14th English top-flight championship overall, spanning both the Premier League and pre-1992 eras.

Mikel Arteta's side have finally converted a series of near misses into silverware. They finished runners-up last season, 10 points behind champions Liverpool, and were narrowly denied two years ago when Manchester City amassed 91 points to edge them by just two points.

After multiple seasons of coming close, Arsenal's sustained consistency has now carried them over the line as champions.

IPL: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashes 10 sixes to lead Royals to victory over Super Giants

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 18:05:35 +0000

Batting first, Lucknow reached 220/5 on the back of a dominant top and middle order effort. Josh Inglis set the tone with a rapid 60 off 29 balls, before Mitchell Marsh anchored the innings with a powerful 96 off 57 deliveries.

Marsh combined in a 64-run stand with Rishabh Pant, who made 35 but struggled for fluency despite the partnership.

Lucknow's innings also featured aggressive intent in the Powerplay, with Jofra Archer coming under sustained attack. Even so, Marsh's late acceleration ensured a commanding total, though it would ultimately go in vain.

Rajasthan's bowling effort was mixed, continuing a season-long issue with Powerplay control. Sandeep Sharma and Sushant Mishra both leaked runs through inconsistent lengths, while Brijesh Sharma also proved expensive. The standout performer was Yash Raj Punja, who returned 2/35 as the most effective bowler.

In response, Rajasthan's chase began explosively through Yashasvi Jaiswal, who struck 43 off a flying start and dominated the Powerplay, including a 23-run over off Akash Singh before being dismissed by him.

The surface at Jaipur played slightly tacky, yet Jaiswal's aggression set the platform.

The chase was then taken over by 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who produced a defining innings of 93 from 38 balls. He reached a 23-ball half-century and accelerated relentlessly, missing out on a century but effectively sealing the match.

Dhruv Jurel finished unbeaten on 53, guiding the side home with seven wickets in hand and five balls remaining.

Sooryavanshi's innings propelled him to the top of the Orange Cap standings, while Rajasthan's win lifted them above Punjab Kings in the table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Lucknow, meanwhile, suffered another defeat where a major batting effort was not enough to secure victory.

Coetzee happy to be back but admits more kilometres is needed

Liam Maconi — Tue, 19 May 2026 16:48:54 +0000

Coetzee who made a comeback after nearly two years away from the sport revealed to SABC Sport that he had just three months to prepare for the World Cup which took place in Germany and Hungary.

“I think it went well for where I am now. I only had about three months of training after my break so competitively I am not where I can be at the moment but I’m just taking it one small step at a time,” said Coetzee

READ: Danie "The Pitbull" van Heerden reveals Powerslap fight for July

“You can’t make up for lost time, so I need that time and kilometres on the water again. That will come in the next couple of months.”

On the reasons why he took such a lengthy time off Coetzee says mentally he needed a break coupled with a few setbacks but added that he wished he had started training six months ago.

Since Canoeing will not be at the 2026 Commonwealth Games the 34-year-old revealed his plans for the rest of the year.

“So there is a race coming up in July in Canada. It should be another World Cup event. I am not sure if that would be one I’d be going to, but it's a possibility.”

“The focus for me this year would be to stay at home and focus on training and then next year my big focus would be on competing internationally again.”

Photo credit: Bence Vekassy

Mamelodi Sundowns hit by travel setback ahead of CAF final in Morocco

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 May 2026 16:38:11 +0000

The Brazilians, who are using a charter flight, are set to face AS FAR in the return leg of the CAF Champions League final in Rabat on Sunday, carrying a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg at Loftus Stadium.

However, the travel setback has resulted in Sundowns effectively losing a full day of preparation ahead of the decisive encounter.

Coach Miguel Cardoso had already stressed the importance of rest and recovery following the physically demanding first leg, with the club’s medical team also working around the clock to manage several key players ahead of the trip to North Africa.

READ: Bafana Bafana learn 2027 AFCON qualifying opponents

Upon arriving for their scheduled departure, Sundowns were informed that their travel plans would need to be revised because of issues surrounding the landing permit for their chartered aircraft.

The public broadcaster understands the matter is expected to be resolved within 24 hours, allowing the squad to depart on Wednesday instead.

Sundowns had opted for this arrangement to ease the burden of using domestic airlines, which would have required another connecting flight to get to Rabat.

The club also anticipates several of their Bafana Bafana players to be selected by Hugo Broos for the FIFA World Cup in the Americas – and the planned schedule is to help keep them fresh following a demanding season.

Despite the delay, the club remains hopeful that the disruption will not significantly affect preparations for Sunday’s high-stakes clash in Rabat.

Sundowns last won the Champions League in 2016 under then coach Pitso Mosimane and want to become the first South African team to add a second star with rivals Orlando Pirates having also won the title in 1995.

Zwane urges AmaZulu to finish strong in Top Four race

Lonwabo Miso — Tue, 19 May 2026 16:14:23 +0000

Usuthu head into the last round of the 2025/26 campaign sitting fourth on the table and remain in control of their destiny in the race for a top-four finish.

A victory would guarantee them a place among the league’s top sides, while any slip-up could open the door for Sekhukhune United FC to move ahead should they collect maximum points in their fixture against Siwelele FC.

AmaZulu chairman Sandile Zungu has repeatedly stressed the importance of finishing inside the top four, describing it as a benchmark that reflects the club’s ambitions of consistently competing with the country’s leading teams.

Zwane admits his players will have to remain focused and disciplined against a Durban City side also eager to end their season on a high.

"We just have to get over the last hurdle which will be a very tough game against Durban City. Everyone wants to finish the season on a high and they are no easy customers. We are going to have to dig deep in order to collect maximum points."

READ: Bafana Bafana learn 2027 AFCON qualifying opponents

AmaZulu have spent a significant portion of the second half of the season inside the Premiership’s top four and at one stage even looked capable of pushing for a top-three finish.

Their consistency through March and April lifted expectations around the club before a series of disappointing results saw them lose momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Among the setbacks was the recent narrow defeat to Kaizer Chiefs, a result Zwane believes dealt a major blow to their hopes of securing fourth place earlier.

"We've had our ups and downs this season, and just like our last game, there's many other games that we could've easily collected maximum points from, but it wasn't to be.

"We can still be really proud of ourselves - especially the boys."

Zwane admits AmaZulu are disappointed to still be relying on the final weekend to secure their top-four ambitions after putting themselves in a strong position earlier in the season. The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor says his side had opportunities to cement their place but failed to fully capitalise when it mattered most.

Looking beyond the current campaign, Zwane believes AmaZulu are building a solid foundation that can help the club challenge even more next season.

The coach also highlighted the progress of several younger players within the squad, adding that the club intends to continue investing in youth development.

Lions host Leinster and Sharks face Ospreys as 2026-27 URC fixtures are confirmed

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:05:43 +0000

The reveal of next year's fixture list comes in the immediate aftermath of the 2025/26 regular season, which saw one of the tightest play-off races since the league was formed in 2022.

Next season's campaign will begin on Friday, 25th September and will conclude on Saturday, 15th May, with fixtures across Wales, South Africa, Ireland and Italy pencilled in for the opening round. There is also a more even spread of home and away fixtures and an optimised touring model for South African teams, who will each complete three two-game tours this season.

There will also be themed rounds this season, with further details to be confirmed later in the year.

The format of the season will remain unchanged, with the top eight teams progressing into the end-of-season play-offs as well as the Investec Champions Cup. The quarter-finals will begin on Friday, 28th May with the Grand Final also booked in for Saturday, 19th June.

Commenting on the fixture list and next season, Martin Anayi, URC CEO, said: "Publishing our fixtures earlier than ever before is a major achievement and an important step for our clubs, supporters, broadcasters and venues. Fan certainty is hugely important to us. The more notice we can provide around fixtures and kick-off times, the easier it becomes for supporters to plan their weekends, travel to games and follow their teams throughout the season.

"This has been a very collaborative process with our clubs and broadcasters, and we are grateful for the way they have worked with us to deliver a more balanced fixture list. The touring model has helped us create a better cadence of home and away games across the season, while also supporting improved kick-off scheduling.

"After the closest-ever Race to the Eight in 2025/26, we are preparing for another incredibly dramatic Vodacom URC season. The level of competitiveness across the league continues to grow and we know every round will have a major impact on the battle for Play-Off places, European qualification and, ultimately, the title."

2026-27 URC fixtures

Round One

Friday, 25th September

Benetton v Dragons

Connacht v Stormers

Ulster v Edinburgh

Saturday, 26th September

Lions v Leinster

Sharks v Ospreys

Munster v Glasgow Warriors

Zebre v Bulls

Scarlets v Cardiff

Round Two

Friday, 2nd October

Cardiff v Zebre Parma

Edinburgh v Stormers

Benetton v Connacht

Saturday, 3rd October

Lions v Ospreys

Dragons v Scarlets

Sharks v Leinster

Munster v Bulls

Glasgow Warriors v Ulster

Round Three

Friday, 9th October

Glasgow Warriors v Connacht

Dragons v Ospreys

Saturday, 10th October

Bulls v Lions

Stormers v Sharks

Zebre Parma v Edinburgh

Scarlets v Benetton

Ulster v Munster

Leinster v Cardiff

Round Four

Friday, 23rd October

Cardiff v Sharks

Connacht v Zebre Parma

Edinburgh v Lions

Saturday, 24th October

Bulls v Ulster

Stormers v Scarlets

Benetton v Glasgow Warriors

Leinster v Munster

Ospreys v Dragons

Round Five

Friday, October 30th

Connacht v Leinster

Glasgow Warriors v Lions

Saturday, 31st October

Stormers v Ulster

Bulls v Scarlets

Benetton v Edinburgh

Munster v Sharks

Dragons v Zebre Parma

Ospreys v Cardiff

Round Six

Friday, 4th December

Ospreys v Leinster

Edinburgh v Dragons

Saturday, 5th December

Lions v Bulls

Sharks v Stormers

Cardiff v Ulster

Scarlets v Connacht

Glasgow Warriors v Benetton

Zebre Parma v Munster

Round Seven

Friday, 18th December

Ulster v Ospreys

Munster v Scarlets

Saturday, 19th December

Zebre Parma v Benetton

Stormers v Lions

Cardiff v Dragons

Sharks v Bulls

Leinster v Glasgow Warriors

Connacht v Edinburgh

Round Eight

Saturday, December 26th

Dragons v Cardiff

Ospreys v Scarlets

Sunday, 27th December

Benetton v Zebre Parma

Edinburgh v Glasgow Warriors

Ulster v Connacht

Munster v Leinster

Saturday, 20th February

Lions v Sharks

Bulls v Stormers

Round Nine

Saturday, 2nd January

Sharks v Lions

Zebre Parma v Glasgow Warriors

Scarlets v Dragons

Connacht v Munster

Edinburgh v Benetton

Cardiff v Ospreys

Leinster v Ulster

Sunday, 3rd January

Stormers v Bulls

Round 10

Friday, 22nd January

Glasgow Warriors v Scarlets

Ulster v Sharks

Saturday, 23rd January

Lions v Zebre Parma

Stormers v Cardiff

Ospreys v Edinburgh

Benetton v Bulls

Leinster v Dragons

Munster v Connacht

Round 11

Friday, 29th January

Dragons v Munster

Glasgow Warriors v Ospreys

Saturday, 30th January

Lions v Cardiff

Stormers v Zebre Parma

Scarlets v Edinburgh

Leinster v Bulls

Benetton v Sharks

Connacht v Ulster

Round 12

Friday, 26th February

Munster v Benetton

Dragons v Ulster

Saturday, 27th February

Lions v Stormers

Bulls v Sharks

Cardiff v Glasgow Warriors

Zebre Parma v Scarlets

Ospreys v Connacht

Edinburgh v Leinster

Round 13

Friday, 19th March

Sharks v Edinburgh

Glasgow Warriors v Stormers

Connacht v Cardiff

Saturday, 20th March

Ulster v Zebre Parma

Bulls v Dragons

Munster v Ospreys

Scarlets v Lions

Leinster v Benetton

Round 14

Friday, 26th March

Glasgow Warriors v Zebre Parma

Scarlets v Leinster

Saturday, 27th March

Bulls v Edinburgh

Connacht v Lions

Sharks v Dragons

Cardiff v Munster

Benetton v Ulster

Ospreys v Stormers

Round 15

Friday, 16th April

Dragons v Glasgow Warriors

Edinburgh v Cardiff

Saturday, 17th April

Lions v Munster

Stormers v Benetton

Ospreys v Bulls

Leinster v Connacht

Ulster v Scarlets

Zebre Parma v Sharks

Round 16

Friday, 23rd April

Zebre Parma v Ospreys

Ulster v Leinster

Cardiff v Bulls

Saturday, 24th April

Lions v Benetton

Scarlets v Sharks

Stormers v Munster

Glasgow Warriors v Edinburgh

Connacht v Dragons

Round 17

Friday, 17th May

Dragons v Lions

Edinburgh v Zebre Parma

Saturday, 8th May

Sharks v Connacht

Bulls v Glasgow Warriors

Munster v Ulster

Scarlets v Ospreys

Leinster v Stormers

Benetton v Cardiff

Round 18

Friday, 14th May

Ospreys v Benetton

Ulster v Lions

Edinburgh v Munster

Saturday, 15th May

Bulls v Connacht

Cardiff v Scarlets

Sharks v Glasgow Warriors

Dragons v Stormers

Zebre Parma v Leinster

Returning stars boost Junior Bok squad for upcoming U20 International Series

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:05:10 +0000

The series will feature the SA U20s, as well as their counterparts from Chile, Fiji, and Georgia, and will be staged at three schools Ã¢- Rondebosch Boys' High School and Wynberg Boys' High School in Cape Town's southern suburbs, and Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.

The inaugural tournament follows on the heels of the recent SANZAAR U20 Rugby Championship in Gqeberha, where South Africa claimed the title after victories over Argentina and Australia, before drawing their final encounter against New Zealand at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Several familiar faces reported for duty at SAS on Monday, including f;yhalf Vusi Moyo, who recently made his United Rugby Championship debut for the Sharks, as well as his franchise team-mate Luan Giliomee and Siphosethu Mnebelele, both of whom are back in the squad after missing the Eastern Cape assignment due to injury.

Other players who sat out the Junior Boks' successful campaign in Gqeberha through injury and are now back in the mix include prop Kai Pratt, loose forward Vuyo Gwiji, and centres Pieter van der Merwe and Christian Vorster.

Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote noted the positive energy brought by returning players: "Seeing the smiles on those who have rejoined the camp after completing their injury rehabilitation says a lot. We are very glad to have them back with us."

The Junior Bok mentor reflected that while the U20 Rugby Championship was a valuable experience, the squad has pivoted quickly toward their forthcoming fixtures against Chile, Fiji, and Georgia.

"We achieved our mission in Gqeberha, but we now face a fresh challenge and must prepare accordingly," said Foote, adding that they have to hit the ground running, as there is limited preparation time before the opening round against Chile this Thursday.

SA Rugby U20 International Series fixtures

Thursday, 21 May 2026 - Rondebosch Boys' High School, Cape Town

13h00: Georgia v Fiji

15h00: South Africa v Chile

Tuesday, 26 May 2026 - Wynberg Boys' High School, Cape Town

13h00: Chile v Georgia

15h00: South Africa v Fiji

Saturday, 30 May 2026 - Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch

14h30: South Africa v Georgia

16h30: Fiji v Chile

Bafana Bafana learn 2027 AFCON qualifying opponents

Chad Klate — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:32:28 +0000

The draw, which took place in Egypt on Tuesday, 19 May, saw South Africa pitted against co-hosts Kenya, Guinea and Eritrea in Group D.

The opening two rounds of qualifiers is set for the September/October FIFA international window, with matchdays three and four earmarked for November, before the campaign is concluded in March 2027.

The qualifiers, which feature 48 teams in total following the completion of the preliminary round, will narrow the teams down to just 24, with the top two in each group progressing to the final PAMOJA showpiece.

In instances where the co-hosts are drawn into a group, only the team will ranked highest outside of Kenya, Tanzania or Uganda will qualify for the final tournament.

CAF have earlier confirmed that the opening match of the tournament is scheduled for 19 June 2027, with the final inked in for 17 July 2027.

READ: Chaine should be in the World Cup squad - Mabalane

Full draw:

Group A: Morocco, Gabon, Niger, Lesotho

Group B: Egypt, Angola, Malawi, South Sudan

Group C: Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Gambia, Somalia

Group D: South Africa, Guinea, Kenya, Eritrea

Group E: DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe

Group F: Burkina Faso, Benin, Mauritania, Central African Republic

Group G: Cemroon, Comoros, Namibia, Congo

Group H: Tunisia, Uganda, Libya, Botswana

Group I: Algeria, Zambia, Togo, Burundi

Group J: Senegal, Mozambique, Sudan, Ethiopia

Group K: Mali, Cape Verde, Rwanda, Liberia

Group L: Nigeria, Madagascar, Tanzania, Guinea-Bissau

Gavin Hunt calls for more respect for players after Lee Langeveldt farewell

Benjamin Leshoro — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:40:56 +0000

He was speaking after giving retiring goalkeeper Lee Langeveldt a cameo appearance in their final home game of the season, having served the club from 2017.

Langeveldt is also the sole survivor in the Stellies squad from the team that gained promotion to the top league in the 2018/19 season, and the coach says he insisted on giving him a few minutes to honour him.

"I think players in South Africa don't get enough respect. I told him that I was going to bring him on, whether we are 5-0 up or 5-0 down he was going to come on. He looked at me and said 'you don't have to', but he hasn't played in three years."

READ: Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies looking for seventh straight league title

Hunt believes South Africa should instil a culture of providing benefit games for players at the end of their careers, something he says died down over the years in the country.

The 39-year-old Langeveldt has been playing professional football for two decades and turned out for the likes of Santos and Golden Arrows among his other clubs. He had not seen much game time in recent years with Sage Stephens the preferred number one, and Oscarine Masuluke deputising for him.

"I think every player, a guy like Lee should have a benefit game. We need to create a littler bit more history and legacy in our game. We had it earlier in South Africa, but we haven't had it since then. I'm very emotional when it comes to these kind of things."

Danie van Heerden reveals Powerslap fight for July

Liam Maconi — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:17:24 +0000

van Heerden has waited with bated breath to compete in Power Slap since October 2025, when he beat Lorenzo Florean at Power Slap 15.

His record currently stands at 6 wins and 3 defeats in Powerslap. He was expected to compete in Powerslap 20 in Las Vegas in April but unfortunately due to the conflict in the Middle East it had been cancelled.

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, van Heerden added that if there are no further tensions in the Middle East, he will be flying to Serbia; however, he could not reveal who he is fighting.

“The latest, well I am going to give you a sneak peek here. It might be Serbia on July 30. Again, it all depends on the war, so fingers crossed for July 30 in Serbia. I am not allowed to reveal the opponent as they need to release it first, but hopefully that is the move,” said van Heerden

READ: Year of Africa in focus with WBC world title fight at Emperors Palace

The former Hoërskool Dr Malan scholar says it has been a waiting game for him as he was supposed to fight in Jereh in February, but was told the flight was cancelled a week before due to safety concerns. He was then expected to turnout in Las Vegas in April, but the war had still been active.

He says although the sport has not yet been legally sanctioned in South Africa as a combat sport he has received remarkable support from the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton Mckenzie, even revealing that the minister flew to see his fight in Abu Dhabi and met him in person and sat down next to the stage while he was competing.

“I mean Gayton flew down to my fight in Abu Dhabi. He met me in person and talked to me, he shook my hand. He actually met with Dana [White] as well regarding UFC and Powerslap, so the minister flew down and sat next to the stage while I was competing.

That's a different feeling. The minister of sports flew around the world to come see you perform, that was insane so again shoutout to Gayton. He is one of the only guys who gets out there and makes stuff happen.”

The former EFC Heavyweight champion in 2016 says South Africans have not caught onto the sport quickly enough because the rules system and techniques are not understood.

Sipho Chaine should be in the World Cup Squad - Dikgang Mabalane

Liam Maconi — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:03:37 +0000

The Buccaneers shot-stopper Chaine has set an all-time PSL record this season with the most number of clean sheets surpassing Ronwen Williams record of 18, he has already amassed a total of 20 with one league match remaining.

Chaine has not been included in the national team setup since the Africa Cup of Nations in December 2025.

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Mabalane says according to statistics along with Pirates’ position this season nobody can dispute the fact that Chaine deserves the call-up…

"It wouldn't make sense for him not to be there. When you look at Chaine's performance sheet and the statistics - how can you dispute that and what is the excuse for you not to put him there.

"Yes, everything is not about stats, but still, his stats match the position of Pirates because they're about to win the league, and I think that gives him an advantage to be in the squad."

READ: Miguel Cardoso backs healthy Downs squad to deliver Champions League glory

Chaine has started all 29 league matches for Orlando Pirates this season and has faced 52 shots on target while making 40 saves.

Mabalane says based on stats Chaine is on par with his former teammate Moeneeb Josephs, as being the best goalkeeper the club has had…

"Statistically, I think he's on par or has surpassed Moeneeb's record which makes him to be on the same level, if not better. Chaine is writing his own story and I think we should give him credit, but there is still room for him to establish himself and solidify his position for Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana."

Mabalane has also commended Kaizer Chiefs captain and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen saying he has done well especially towards the end of the season, however, he feels it will be decided on numbers who gets the nod for the World Cup.

The World Cup squad is expected to be announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings on 27 May.

PSG confirm Ousmane Dembele muscle strain ahead of Arsenal clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 12:05:45 +0000

The 29-year-old forward was substituted in the first half and replaced by Goncalo Ramos on the final day of the Ligue 1 season. After the match, PSG head coach Luis Enrique initially suggested the change was linked to fatigue, but the club later revealed the decision had been taken as a precaution.

In an official medical update released on Monday, PSG said: "Ousmane Dembele, who was taken off as a precaution during last night's match against Paris FC due to a muscle strain in his right calf, will remain under treatment for the next few days."

The timing of the injury has created fresh concern for the French champions ahead of their UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal at the Puskas Arena in Budapest on 30 May.

Dembele has been one of PSG's most important players this season and recently collected the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award for the second consecutive campaign. Despite struggling with injuries earlier in the season, the France international still delivered impressive numbers in the league, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists in 22 appearances.

He also played a decisive role in Europe, scoring seven Champions League goals this season. His performances against Bayern Munich in the semi-finals proved especially important, with Dembele finding the net in both legs to help PSG reach the final.

The winger has also been included in France's 26-man squad for this summer's World Cup, which begins on 11 June. PSG's medical staff will now work to ensure he is fit in time for the biggest match of the club's season against Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Durban City fail in first bid to retain Sundowns loanee Terrence Mashego

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:53:38 +0000

Mashego joined City on a season-long loan at the beginning of the campaign and quickly established himself as one of the club’s key players during a memorable return to the Betway Premiership for the KwaZulu-Natal outfit.

The Citizens also enjoyed success in the Nedbank Cup and remain on course to secure a top eight finish should results go their way against crosstown rivals AmaZulu in their final game of the campaign on Saturday.

Despite City’s desire to retain him, indications are that Mashego is expected to report back to Sundowns for pre-season, where he is understood to be ready to fight for his place in a highly competitive squad.

Sundowns have Aubrey Modiba, Devine Lunga, Fawaaz Basadien and the young Thato Sibiya all fighting for that position.

READ: Miguel Cardoso backs healthy Downs squad to deliver Champions League glory

Prior to his loan spell, Mashego had struggled for regular game time at Chloorkop due to that very strong competition and injuries.

The 28-year-old featured in 28 matches in all competitions this season and was widely regarded as one of The Citizens’ standout performers despite the instability caused by three coaching changes during the campaign.

Sundowns signed Mashego from Cape Town City during Rulani Mokwena’s tenure at the club in a high-profile move, beating Kaizer Chiefs in the race to conclude the deal for his signature at the time.

He immediately became a regular and eventually earned a place in the Bafana Bafana side coached by Hugo Broos for the AFCON in 2024, where South Africa secured a bronze medal in Ivory Coast.

Although injuries and limited minutes saw him lose his national team place, Mashego has shown flashes of the quality that once made him one of the country’s top full-backs. City may yet continue negotiations with the transfer window only closing at the end of August and ample time remaining for a possible agreement should all parties be willing to continue the relationship.

Home form the foundation of Kruger United’s promotion

Lonwabo Miso — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:02:55 +0000

Head coach Abram Mongoya believes their dominance at KaNyamazane Stadium laid the platform for their historic achievement, with the side completing the entire league season unbeaten at home.

“Very difficult one - these boys have gone the whole season unbeaten at home. It shows something, it shows character. I think as a coach also I can say I’ve only lost in a league game against Leopards last season, and I told them when I came in, I said I don’t want to lose at home.

“It’s one place, one fortress that they must make sure we don’t give things away. We don’t give away points.”

READ: Keanu Cupido confirms playing through pain in Champions League final

Despite already being confirmed as champions before kick-off, Mongoya admitted The Bees pushed his side hard in the derby and felt the visitors produced one of their better performances of the season.

“Good team today. They deserve to win, to be honest. Under normal circumstances, it’s just that they never scored and led us. They always came behind us, but it was a very top performance from The Bees as well.”

The Mpumalanga outfit secured the Motsepe Foundation Championship title after a crucial 3-1 victory over Black Leopards earlier this month, a result that opened an unassailable eight-point lead at the top of the standings with two matches still to play.

That triumph confirmed their elevation to the Premiership and ensured their final fixture of the campaign carried more celebratory significance than pressure.

Supporters turned out in large numbers for the Mpumalanga derby against neighbours The Bees, as Kruger United officially celebrated being crowned champions of the National First Division after collecting 62 points during the 2025/26 season.

The club’s consistency throughout the campaign, particularly on home soil, proved decisive in their push for promotion.

Kruger United now become only the second club from Mpumalanga to compete in the Betway Premiership, joining TS Galaxy in South Africa’s top division next season.

Their promotion also marks a significant milestone for football development in the province, with the club set to test themselves against the country’s elite in the 2026/27 campaign.

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies looking for seventh straight league title

Benjamin Leshoro — Tue, 19 May 2026 12:42:03 +0000

Sapula’s team have been the champions in the ladies top league for the past six seasons, and will be looking to extend that dominance in a much-changed format of the competition.

The former midfielder for their men’s team says winning is a lifestyle for them, and they will not want to deviate from what they have built for so many years.

Sundowns face a relatively unknown Diepkloof Ladies in their first match this coming weekend, who have been promoted from the Sasol League.

Sapula says it’s not a concern for them to play a potential banana peel at UJ Soweto Campus, and added that they prepare the same for every team they face.

"For us as defending Champions we have to be ready for anything. We have to be ready for strong competition from all the teams and we are not going to underestimate anyone. We have our own targets, and one of our targets right now is to win every football match."

READ: Keanu Cupido confirms playing through pain in Champions League final

He also says it’s important to stay hungry and try to improve every year, not only as a club but also for the players as individuals. He believes that’s the only way to make sure they stay ahead of the competition every season.

"We are not changing anything, actually, we want to do even better and we are hungrier to make sure that we defend the league. One way to do that is to make sure that you keep increasing the bar so that you can beat your own targets and create other bigger targets in the process."

Keanu Cupido confirms playing through pain in Champions League final

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 May 2026 12:18:30 +0000

The 28-year-old defender is understood to have dislocated his shoulder in Sundowns’ Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs less than two weeks ago, a setback that ruled him out of the two matches that followed.

Cupido’s inclusion in Sunday’s continental final came as a surprise, but the defender has since confirmed that the pain was being carefully managed.

"I had to take an injection, but I'll do anything for the badge. If the team needs me I have to be there through pain or whatever else, but I'm happy to be on the field again."

READ: Miguel Cardoso backs healthy Downs squad to deliver Champions League glory

Cupido agreed with sentiments that Sundowns could have put more daylight between them and AS FAR had they been more clinical.

The second leg will not be a walk in the park, he added.

"It wasn't that tough. I think we made it difficult cult for ourselves after getting good opportunities to kill the game off, but at the end of the day we still won and keeping a clean sheet was the most important thing for us.

"We know that they're a very good team and they have their supporters behind them, but if we stand together and unite as a team it'll be easier that side."

The centre back further credited the Moroccans as a quality team that should not be underestimated – especially ahead of the second leg.

Meanwhile, Cupido also reacted to comments by Sundown’s coach Miguel Cardoso that the player deserves to be considered for the Bafana Bafana squad heading to the FIFA World Cup in the Americas.

"It's up to the coach. If I do get chosen I'll be honoured and if I don't I will also be happy for the other guys who are going to the World Cup."

Alex Corretja not expecting big things from Novak Djokovic at French Open

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:05:52 +0000

The 24-time Grand Slam winner will head to the French Open with only three sets under his belt on the red dirt as he played only one tournament in the lead-up to Paris and that was the Italian Open where he lost 6-2, 2-6, 4-6 against qualifier Dino Prizmic.

Djokovic had an option to play at the Geneva Open this week to get more match practice before the French Open starts on 24 May, but when asked after his Rome exit about playing in Switzerland, he replied: "No. This year, no. I'll just go to Paris straight."

Age is no longer on his side while he has also struggled with a shoulder problem in recent months.

The 38-year-old added: "It's not an ideal preparation, to be honest. I don't recall last time I had in the last couple of years a preparation where I didn't have any kind of physical issues or health issues coming into the tournament. There's always something. Kind of a new reality that I have to deal with.

"It is frustrating. At the same time it's my decision to still perform in that kind of state and conditions. It is what it is."

Last year, the Serbian lost his opening matches at the Monte Carlo Masters and Madrid Open, but then opted to add the Geneva Open to his schedule and ended up winning the tournament to lift his ATP Tour career singles trophy.

He then went on to reach the semi-final at Roland Garros before losing in straight sets against Jannik Sinner.

Two-time French Open runner-up Corretja says a fully fit Djokovic will always be difficult to beat, but he warns that if he is not in peak condition, then he could struggle.

"I think it is, well, amazing that he's still around and he's still willing to do well," the former world No 2 told TNT Sports.

"I was happy enough to see him going to play in Rome, hopefully to get a few matches. When that didn't happen, I was thinking, 'Oh, maybe he's going to play Geneva again and try to see if he can play a few matches before Roland-Garros,' but it didn't happen.

"So I'm not so sure how he feels physically, if he's ready or not. It's not that easy to go from almost playing nothing to playing best-of-five [sets].

"But I believe he feels like, 'Okay, as the matches will go on and the tournament will go on, I will get the rhythm that I was missing in the last, let's say, weeks, nearly months'.

"So it's a bit tricky. He's got experience, and sometimes when you play Roland-Garros, it's about experience but also the physique needs to help you.

"I don't think there are more than, let's say, five guys maybe in the draw that can beat him if he's okay and if he's ready. If he's not ready, yeah, of course you can lose to anyone because tennis is so hard nowadays."

Miguel Cardoso backs healthy Downs squad to deliver Champions League glory

Mazola Molefe — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:26:59 +0000

Managing player fitness has been one of the biggest challenges for Cardoso and the Sundowns medical team throughout a demanding campaign packed with domestic and continental commitments.

Cardoso stressed that the strength of Sundowns lies in the quality and availability of their players, insisting that having a healthy squad could prove decisive this week.

"Sometimes the people think that the coaches are magicians, but no there isn't any magic. There are big players who can obviously be important assets, and we are on the level of the players who we have available. Some of the best players in the team were not able to give the necessary help to the team, but there is no team that can resist losing several players who are important especially when you play a lot."

READ: Brazil 2026 World Cup squad: Ancelotti drops Chelsea's Joao Pedro and Estevao

Sundowns had to substitute goal-hero Aubrey Modiba before the end of the first leg at Loftus, however, Cardoso would not give too much away regarding who could potentially miss out.

Cardoso sprung a surprise by naming Keanu Cupido as part of his defenders at the weekend despite suggestions he’d suffered a dislocated shoulder – forcing him to miss two Betway Premiership fixtures.

The coach sidestepped the question around the miraculous recovery.

The Sundowns mentor then urged fans to not overthink the 1-0 narrow lead and rather be positive about taking an advantage to Morocco.

"We have to get the energy, not from the result we could've got but rather from the result we have in hand. It's my third final in a row, but it's the first time I go into the second leg with a goal in advance, and all three finals are played away from home.

"We will fight to make the one goal advantage enough, a second goal would've been more fair for the level we showed in the first leg, but we are going to take the right energy and approach the second leg seriously."

Jamal Musiala in 'awe' of Bayern Munich attackers Harry Kane, Luis Diaz, Michael Olise

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 09:05:48 +0000

Across the 2025/26 campaign, Bayern's front three scored a combined 106 goals in all competitions, underlining their dominance in Europe and driving the club's historic attacking numbers.

Harry Kane led the way with 58 goals, including 36 in the Bundesliga, alongside goals in the UEFA Champions League, DFB-Pokal and Franz Beckenbauer Supercup. The England captain also secured the Bundesliga top scorer award for a third consecutive season, sealing the title with a hat-trick against Cologne.

Luis Diaz delivered a standout first season following his move from Liverpool, finishing with 26 goals and 18 assists across all competitions. His pace, directness and consistency made him a constant threat from the left flank.

Michael Olise also enjoyed a breakthrough year at the highest level, scoring 22 goals and producing 19 assists in the Bundesliga alone, earning him the Bundesliga Player of the Season award.

Speaking to Bundesliga.com, Musiala was full of praise for his teammates. On Diaz, he said: "For Lucho, his 1v1 ability is amazing, everything is always at 100%. I think his consistency is amazing."

On Kane, he added: "Harry is Harry. He has scored a lot of goals this season, you can learn a lot from him."

And on Olise, Musiala said: "Everything about him is fun to watch. He is definitely one of the best players in the world this season."

With all three forwards delivering in decisive moments, Bayern's attack has become one of the most feared in world football, combining goals, assists and consistency at an elite level.

If this trio continues in the same form, Bayern's attacking output could rise even further next season.

Sibabalwe Mahashe cleared of all wrongdoing after URC find video evidence inconclusive

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 09:05:02 +0000

Munster hooker Diarmuid Barron had alleged that Lions player Sibabalwe Mahashe had spat directly into his mouth during a ruck, leading to a halt in proceedings while the officials awaited the TMO verdict.

No evidence was found at the time, and as a result, the flanker remained on the field.

After consulting the footage post-match, it was confirmed that there was no "clear and obvious unsportsmanlike conduct" displayed by the accused, and as a result, no citing would occur.

The URC statement read: "The allegation of spitting that occurred in the Munster versus Fidelity SecureDrive Lions on Saturday, May 16 was reviewed the Citing Commissioner, Eugene Ryan (IRFU). Having examined all available camera angles, the video footage was inconclusive and there was no clear and obvious unsportsmanlike conduct by Lions No.6.

"The audio statement by No 16 of Munster is clear and he states that No 6 of Lions spat into his mouth but the audio statement from No.6 Lions contradicts this and he states that he had trouble with his gum shield after the upright contact before the ruck.

"He categorically denied the accusation of spitting. As such, no citing is feasible in this case."

Munster head coach Clayton McMillan stood by his man following the incident, saying: "He's been around a long time and we're not a team that plays silly buggers, so you'd imagine he felt, or he saw what he saw.

"We only have three or four angles available to us. I'm sure others might have a look at it, but that's not our job to do now.

"Other people will have a look and if there's something there to see, then they'll deal with it, and if there isn't, then we'll move forward. But in terms of Diarmuid's integrity, that's not in question."

'Stamford Bridge survival mission' - Roberto De Zerbi insists Tottenham must beat Chelsea

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 08:05:37 +0000

Spurs head into Tuesday night's clash knowing the stakes are high. A win at Stamford Bridge would all but guarantee survival, potentially moving them five points clear of the bottom three with just one match remaining. That scenario became even more significant after West Ham United were beaten 3-1 by Newcastle United on Sunday.

It also offers Spurs a chance to end a long and difficult run at Stamford Bridge, where they have managed just one Premier League win in 41 visits. Their last league victory there came in 2018, and the stadium has often been a challenging venue for them.

Despite the pressure and history, De Zerbi has made it clear there will be no cautious approach from his side.

"We can't start the game thinking to draw," he said. "We have to start the game, and we prepare the game, and we speak in the meeting, to win the games. Both games."

He also stressed that the focus must remain on performance rather than records or statistics.

"We spoke this morning about this record," De Zerbi explained. "But the most important thing is the spirit, the personality, to play a good game. To make points. Because the most important now is to stay up and to play in the Premier League next season."

De Zerbi believes the challenge at Stamford Bridge is difficult but not impossible, especially given Chelsea's recent form, with the Blues having lost six of their last seven league matches and also suffering defeat in the FA Cup final.

However, he was quick to praise the quality within the Chelsea squad, referencing his previous experience working with players such as Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill, Joao Pedro and Robert Sanchez during his time at Brighton.

"Stamford Bridge is difficult," he said. "Tough stadium because the players of Chelsea in this last 25 to 30 seasons have been fantastic. Fantastic players, fantastic managers."

He has also urged his Spurs players to stay composed under pressure, calling for "calm with blood" as they look to manage both the intensity of the occasion and their disciplinary record.

De Zerbi himself is also under scrutiny, as he is one booking away from a touchline ban. Even so, his message remains focused and direct.

"Always calm with blood," he said. "Personality with the right spirit, but anyway calm and focus just on the game."

Brazil 2026 World Cup squad: Ancelotti drops Chelsea's Joao Pedro and Estevao

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 07:05:59 +0000

Joao Pedro, 24, has been one of Chelsea's most consistent performers this season since his move from Brighton for around 60 million pounds. He scored 15 goals and added five assists in 34 Premier League appearances, form that many expected would secure his place.

The forward has also been involved in the international setup since making his debut for Brazil national football team in November 2023, earning eight caps and featuring in World Cup qualifying matches. He even started in Brazil's recent friendly against Croatia in April.

Despite that, head coach Carlo Ancelotti opted for other attacking options, including Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, Endrick, Neymar and Igor Thiago.

Reacting to the omission, Joao Pedro posted an emotional but measured message on social media.

"I tried to give my best at all times," he said. "Unfortunately, it wasn't possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused."

He added: "Joys and frustrations are part of football. From now on, I wish good luck to everyone who is there and I will be just another fan cheering for them."

Ancelotti later addressed the decision, admitting sympathy for the Chelsea striker.

"We were sad for Joao Pedro," he said. "For the season he had in Europe, he probably deserved to be on this list. But we chose other players."

Estevao's absence also comes as a setback, with the winger currently sidelined after missing recent matches due to a hamstring injury.

Brazil's squad still includes several Premier League names such as Gabriel Magalhaes, Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta, as the team prepares for what Ancelotti described as a carefully balanced selection process.

Brazil squad

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio).

Defenders: Marquinhos (PSG), Gabriel (Arsenal), Bremer (Juventus), Ibanez (Al Ahli), Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Wesley (Roma), Danilo (Flamengo), Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit).

Midfielders: Casemiro (Manchester United), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Fabinho (Al Ittihad), Danilo (Botafogo), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo).

Forwards: Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Endrick (Lyon/Real Madrid), Martinelli (Arsenal), Rayan (Bournemouth), Neymar (Santos).

IPL: Chennai Super Kings veteran MS Dhoni hints at imminent retirement

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 07:05:46 +0000

After CSK's five-wicket defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad, the atmosphere at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium already carried a sense of finality, with the franchise's playoff hopes all but extinguished and supporters denied the chance to watch Dhoni play one last time in yellow.

The former India captain did not feature in a single game during IPL 2026 after a calf injury ruled him out before the tournament began. Despite attempts to recover during the campaign, Dhoni never returned to action.

CSK coach Stephen Fleming had previously revealed that Dhoni was eager to come back, though the injury required careful management to avoid a setback that could have ended his season entirely.

After the match, Dhoni stopped short of formally announcing retirement, but his comments strongly hinted that the end may be near.

Speaking on Star Sports, former CSK teammate Suresh Raina revealed he urged Dhoni to play one more season, arguing IPL 2026 could not count as a proper goodbye because he never took the field.

"I told him 'you have given IPL 2026 a missed call. It won't count. You have to come back next year'," said Raina.

"He said 'my body is a little weak'. I said 'we are not believing anything. You have to play next year'. It's his personal call. I think he is positive. The team is also gelling well again."

Brad Gilbert urges Coco Gauff to be more aggressive with her serve at the French Open

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 07:05:25 +0000

For the second year running, Gauff lost in the Italian Open final, as Elina Svitolina overcame the American 6-4 6-7 6-2 on Saturday in Rome.

The 22-year-old, who was beaten by Jasmine Paolini in last year's final, had a chance to go a double break up in the first set, but the Ukrainian roared back to take the opener.

Svitolina made it a hat-trick of wins in the Italian capital, while Gauff was left to rue taking just three of her 17 break points.

As Gilbert, who coached Gauff for just over a year between August 2023 to September 2024, pointed out, while her first serve was at 64.6%, her second serve success rate proved costly.

The former world No 4, who was Gauff's coach for her 2023 US Open triumph, said she "won ugly" all tournament long, before Svitolina bested her.

And despite taking on biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan last August to help overcome her serving troubles, Gilbert thinks there is more work to do with her delivery.

He said on Tennis Channel, "She's winning less than 40% of her second serve points on the year and won less than that in this final. In this match, she was uncharacteristic on break points. Three out of 17, and she's been breaking about 45% on the year.

"Coco has a big serve. And they're using her first serve now almost a lot of times to start the point. So we don't have to hit second serves. But a number that you look at for Coco, and you kind of scratch your head and go, 'This number's got to get better'.

"And it's amazing that she's winning despite it. She's winning less than 40% of her second serve points on the year. Won less than that in this final.

"And one ace. I feel like I would like to see her be a little more aggressive on her first serve, especially when she has leads. Because she can hit her serve 125mph, and I think it always ups your kind of mojo when you can drop a few aces or serve plus one."

However, Gilbert was quick to stress that while her serve needs improvement, Gauff may be the best athlete on the WTA Tour.

He added, "But I feel like now, obviously she's got great resilience. She moves better than any other woman. But you feel like maybe if she starts to use the serve a little more aggressively, I think she'll start to win some more free points, which she needs to do."

Gauff will hope her serve is at its best ahead of her French Open title defence.

Unai Emery: Aston Villa have 50-50 chance to lift Europa League trophy

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 07:05:16 +0000

More than 10,000 Villa supporters are expected to descend on the Turkish city to cheer on their team, who are chasing a first major trophy in 30 years. Emery and his players are hoping to recreate the glory of the club's European Cup-winning side from 44 years ago.

Villa's squad arrived in Turkey on Monday evening and will train at the 42,000-capacity Tupras Stadium on Tuesday ahead of the eagerly anticipated encounter.

Although Aston Villa have been installed as favourites by bookmakers, Emery insisted the contest remains too close to call. The Spaniard labelled the clash "50-50" and warned against underestimating their Bundesliga opponents.

Emery also challenged his players to rise to the occasion on a stage that will be watched across the football world.

"Freiburg as well, they deserve to play this final because they performed fantastically and they did a fantastic way to reach this final," said Emery.

"To play this final is something both teams deserve, and now it's 50-50. It's a day when we are going to be the focus of the football world.

"My experience is the most important here with Aston Villa.

"With the players we have, with the process we did, and our own experiences are always in our mind when we are playing matches in Europe - like we have for three years now.

"Now it's the same, how we achieved this final, how we did the process here, this year, playing such fantastic matches in Europe, and achieving this final because we deserve it.

"But to play for a trophy is very difficult, and to win a trophy is 50-50 for us. There is still a lot of work to do for Wednesday."

The Villa manager is already the most successful coach in Europa League history and is now pursuing a fifth title in the competition.

Julian Schuster hails "stronger than ever" Freiburg unity ahead of Aston Villa clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 06:05:57 +0000

Speaking ahead of the Europa League showdown, Schuster reflected on the emotional impact of their semi-final win over Braga, which secured a historic place in the final.

"When you looked at people's faces and saw the glint in their eyes, you could feel what it meant to everybody," Schuster said. "Even before the game, there was already a feeling that something special could happen. Some people had already booked trips to Istanbul."

He added that the success has united the city in a way he has never experienced before. "The sense of support and solidarity is now even stronger than before. Football has that power to bring people together."

Schuster only began his coaching career in 2024 after making nearly 250 appearances for Freiburg as a player. In a remarkably short time, he has guided the club to a fifth-place Bundesliga finish in his debut season, a German Cup semi-final, and now a European final.

He admitted that such success was never part of his early thinking when he first earned his coaching licence in 2023. "It would have been presumptuous to think like that," he said. "I simply discovered that I enjoyed coaching and wanted to pass on knowledge. Three years later, I am in a final."

Looking ahead, Schuster stressed the importance of staying calm despite the occasion. "The danger is overloading the players with too much information. We have to keep things as routine as possible."

On the other side, Villa arrive with strong European pedigree under manager Unai Emery, who has won the competition four times, including success with Sevilla and Villarreal.

Villa also knocked out Nottingham Forest on their way to the final, while Freiburg's own journey included wins over Celta Vigo, Genk and Braga.

Freiburg's rise has also followed a series of near misses in domestic cup competitions, including a penalty shootout defeat to RB Leipzig and a late semi-final loss to VfB Stuttgart.

Now, Schuster stands one game away from the biggest moment in Freiburg's history - a European final at the Tupras Stadium in Istanbul that could change the club's future forever.

Lions dealing with growing injury list ahead of historic URC playoff clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 06:05:40 +0000

Morne van den Berg has returned to South Africa for treatment on a bicep injury after being forced off at half-time in the Lions' 24-17 defeat to Munster Rugby in Limerick.

The Springbok scrumhalf's setback adds to an already stretched squad as the Johannesburg-based franchise prepares for the knockout stage.

The Lions are already without influential loose forward Ruan Venter, who is recovering from a knee injury sustained against Leinster Rugby two weeks ago.

Further uncertainty surrounds captain Francke Horn and centre Henco van Wyk. Horn is set to undergo scans on a hamstring issue, while Van Wyk will be assessed for an ankle injury, with both players remaining in Ireland for further evaluation.

Adding to the challenge, the Lions have confirmed that players selected for this week's Springbok alignment camp in Cape Town will participate remotely. The camp group includes Horn, loose forwards Bathobele Hlekani and Siba Mahashe, scrumhalves Van den Berg and Haashim Pead, centre Van Wyk, and fullback Quan Horn.

The decision comes after the squad opted to remain in Ireland rather than returning to Johannesburg, with the team prioritising preparation for their quarterfinal against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium on 30 May.

The Lions finished seventh in the URC standings to secure their first-ever playoff appearance in the competition, setting up a rematch with Leinster in Dublin.

'I'm excited for more' - Hansi Flick signs new Barcelona deal

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 06:05:17 +0000

The German coach has committed his future to Barcelona until 2028, with the agreement also including the option of an extra year. Despite already guiding the club to five trophies since arriving, Flick made it clear he is not satisfied and wants even greater success.

Speaking after the announcement, Flick said the new deal was a signal that everyone at the club must continue improving.

"It's a big commitment for us to work harder than this season, to reach the best level with the team and to win titles," he said.

Flick admitted the club's biggest target remains the UEFA Champions League after falling short this season.

"This is normal for Barcelona. Everyone has the dream of winning the Champions League. We tried this season and we will try again," he added.

The former Germany coach also spoke about his strong connection with the club and praised the atmosphere inside the Barcelona dressing room.

"This club is amazing and very special," said Flick.

"The staff and the players are incredible. We've shared many fantastic moments already and I'm excited for more. We want to win more titles."

Flick also highlighted Barcelona's strong form in recent weeks, saying consistency had been one of the team's biggest strengths during the campaign.

Barcelona will finish their season this weekend with a trip to Mestalla to face Valencia before the squad heads off for the summer break. Flick is expected to return in mid-July to begin preparations for the new campaign as Barcelona look to build on another successful season under the German coach.

Arsenal keep title dream alive with tight Burnley victory

SABC Sport — Tue, 19 May 2026 05:05:22 +0000

Mikel Arteta's side knew anything less than victory would damage their title hopes, and although the performance was not always comfortable, Arsenal once again showed the resilience that has kept them in the race with Manchester City.

The Gunners dominated possession early on but had to stay patient against a stubborn Burnley side. Leandro Trossard came closest when he drove a powerful low strike against the post, while Martin Odegaard also threatened with an effort that flashed narrowly wide after a deflection.

Arteta was left frustrated midway through the first half when Bukayo Saka's penalty appeals were waved away following a challenge from Lucas Pires. Arsenal continued to push forward though, and the breakthrough finally arrived from another set-piece just before half-time.

Havertz rose above the Burnley defence to head home from Saka's corner, scoring Arsenal's 18th league goal from a corner this season. The assist also marked Saka's 50th Premier League assist for the club.

Burnley threatened after the break, with Eberechi Eze forcing a fine save that tipped his looping strike onto the crossbar, but Arsenal remained in control for long periods. Havertz later survived a VAR check after a strong challenge on Lesley Ugochukwu, allowing the German forward to stay on the pitch and finish the game.

Despite searching for a second goal to improve their goal difference, Arsenal eventually settled for another narrow victory - their third consecutive 1-0 win in the league.

The result means Arsenal will now watch Manchester City's clash with Bournemouth closely on Tuesday. If City fail to win, the Premier League trophy will return to north London before the final day of the season.

Arteta admitted after the match that he will become Bournemouth's biggest supporter for one night as his close friend Andoni Iraola prepares to face Pep Guardiola's side.

"The biggest ever!" Arteta said when asked if he would support Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

"For Andoni, the players and the supporters, we are all Bournemouth fans because we know what it means if they get a result."

The Arsenal manager also praised Iraola's work this season and said Bournemouth would provide a serious challenge for City.

"What he has done at that football club has been incredible," Arteta added. "The transformation and the way they play means they do not need any extra motivation."

Arteta revealed he plans to watch the match at home with his family, although he admitted the nerves may be difficult to handle.

"I will be in front of the TV, but I don't know how much I will be able to watch," he said.

The pressure is now firmly on Manchester City, while Arsenal have given themselves a genuine chance of completing one of the club's most memorable title triumphs in modern Premier League history.

Sunrisers Hyderabad secure place in IPL playoffs with five-wicket victory

Doug Mattushek — Mon, 18 May 2026 18:05:09 +0000

There was much on the line for both teams in Chennai this night, but SH's batting lineup came up trumps once again, sending CSK back to the chalkboard to figure out if they can sneak into the IPL playoffs.

The slow and grippy wicket provided some assistance for the bowlers, so when CSK set 180/7, it was not going to be straightforward.

SH did not get their usual explosive start. Billigerent openers Abishek Sharma (26) and Travis Head (6) were both back in the hut by the eighth over with just 56 on the board, well behind the required rate.

Former Proteas star Heinrich Klaasen injected life into the innings. He batted wonderfully with Kishan, scoring 47 off just 26 balls before getting stumped thanks to tweaker Noor Ahmend's deception.

Klaasen's effort took SH to the brink, but Kishan's creativity virtually got them over the line. He continued to find the boundary with consummate ease despite several agricultural swipes. He fell for a swashbuckling 70 (from 47) with nine balls left, but his teammates only needed six runs to book their place in the playoffs.

Earlier, it was a string of cameos that got CSK to 180. Sanju Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad raced to 31 off 14 deliveries before Pat Cummins drew the faintest of edges off Samson's willow.

Sakib Hussain clean bowled Urvil Patel (13) in the fifth over, then Cummins got his second in the tenth with a well-disguised slower ball that got rid of dangerman Kartik Sharma (32), leaving the hosts 90/3. In his next over, Cummins then put the ailing Gaikwad (15 off 21 balls) out of his misery.

South Africa's Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube then blasted 59 off the next 38 balls to propel CSK forward. It could have been more, but Brevis, who top scored for CSk with 44 from 27, fell to a superb inswinger from Eshan Malinga with two overs left.

SA padel pro relishing test against international stars at Pretoria P1

Chad Klate — Mon, 18 May 2026 15:27:03 +0000

Van Harte, a former junior national tennis star, is among a rising crop of players that have transitioned to padel, and is now making a rapid rise in the budding sport in the country.

As one of the top-ranked players in SA, the 25-year-old will get to test himself against some of the world's best at the Premier Padel Pretoria P1 event at SunBet Arena in July, and he is also excited to play in front of an expected packed crowd.

"You know what, what we can expect is that there will be a lot of support, just from the spectator side. You know the sport is so popular. I'm sure you've seen some of the stats come out that South Africa is really, really driving the sport. So, I think the support will be immense,” van Harte said.

“As far as a player I'm just kind of taking the moment in, I don't expect too much out of it but hoping to compete and do my best."

READ: Chippa United turn to Brandon Truter in bid to avoid relegation drama

With four years' worth of experience in the enclosed court, van Harte has previously featured on the International Padel Federation circuit and reached the Round of 16 at the FIP Bronze Indonesia II in Bali last year.

"No, this will be my first but I have played FIPs which is kind of just below the premier panel level. The FIB is the International Padel Federation so I have played a couple of those tournaments internationally, so I do have experience there but as far as Premier Padel, this will be my first,” he added.

Anathi Qolo leads Bok Women at Rugby Africa Women's Cup

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 15:05:24 +0000

No less than nine uncapped players are included in the touring group, who will look to defend the title South Africa won in Madagascar last year.

The tournament will take place from 23 to 31 May and the Bok Women will be in action against Uganda, Madagascar and Kenya at the RFUEA Sports Grounds.

Qolo, who captained the Isuzu Bulls Daisies to a fourth consecutive Pick n Pay Women's Super League title in April, is one of nine players who represented South Africa at the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup in England, while nine others are set to make their debuts for the Springbok Women.

There is also a return to international action for eight capped players who were not in the RWC squad last year. In total, 14 players from 2025 will make this trip to the continental showpiece of women's rugby.

Qolo captained the Bok Women to this tournament last year, and as was the case during 2025, a number of senior players will remain in Stellenbosch for strength and conditioning work. Seven other RWC participants are currently with the Springbok Women's Sevens squad, and two more are plying their trade in England.

Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin will not travel to Kenya but will remain in Stellenbosch to work with the conditioning group, with assistant coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September taking charge of the touring squad.

"We are repeating the exercise that worked well for us last season," de Bruin explained.

"We see this tournament as a perfect opportunity to blood new players and give some capped players proper game time, while for Laurian and Franzel, these three Test matches are ideal to gain experience.

"We are playing the USA in two Tests in early July, so I want to tick all boxes as we lead into a busy 2026 season.

"The Africa Cup squad will broaden our base, some players will get more Test experience, while at the same time, I can work with a core of senior players at home to get some match detail for USA and the Black Ferns done."

De Bruin said they are also rewarding players who excelled during the Pick n Pay Women's Super League, including a couple of players who earn a recall to the national side. Amongst them are the EP Queens scrumhalf Anacadia Minnaar, who played her only two Tests against Scotland in 2019, and Alichia Arries, who was capped twice in 2021.

Four of the uncapped players, Thandile Mazwi, Abigail Smit, Logan Welman and Zethu Gcaza, are recent graduates from the SA Rugby U20 Women's Week, highlighting that pathway to the national set-up for the younger generation of players.

Springbok Women fixtures

Saturday, 23 May:

13:00 - SA v Madagascar

Wednesday, 27 May:

13:00 - SA v Uganda

Sunday, 31 May:

15:00 - SA v Kenya

Springbok Women squad

Forwards: Yonela Ngxingolo, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Thandile Mazwi, Sanelisiwe Charlie, Anuschka Ekron, Roseline Botes, Anushka Groenewald, Abigail Smit, Nomsa Mokwai, Anathi Qolo, Zethu Gcaza, Nobuhle Mjwara, Faith Tshauke, Sinelitha Noxeke, Ntsako Mbombi, Logan Welman.

Backs: Insaaf Levy, Anacadia Minnaar, Mary Zulu, Thami Yeko, Aphiwe Ngwevu, Jakkie Cilliers, Naima Hlatshwayo, Nomawethu Mabenge, Alichia Arries, Shaunique Alexander, Chuma Qawe.

Chippa United turn to Brandon Truter in bid to avoid relegation drama

Mazola Molefe — Mon, 18 May 2026 14:50:54 +0000

Truter has been without a coaching role for the past year following his departure from Upington City in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and is now eager for a return to the dugout.

But the experienced mentor faces the immediate challenge of helping the Chilli Boys secure their Betway Premiership status.

The Eastern Cape outfit have already undergone four coaching changes this season, starting the campaign under Sinethemba Badela before turning to Luc Eymael, then Vusumuzi Vilakazi, who was sacked last week with assistant coach Hlanga Dikeni overseeing the team in recent matches.

Chippa suffered a 2-0 defeat at home against Golden Arrows on Saturday, sending panic to the hierarchy ahead of their season finale against Chiefs.

Truter was spotted taking charge of training on Monday afternoon, with expectations growing that a short-term agreement will soon be finalised and discussions over a longer stay are likely to depend on whether the club retains its topflight status.

READ: Magesi banking on home advantage for survival

Chippa remain in danger of slipping into the promotion/relegation playoffs should they lose to Chiefs this weekend and other results involving teams around them fail to go in their favour.

In that scenario, Truter would then have six more matches to guide the club to safety in a mini-league involving Cape Town City and Milford FC.

Kruger United have already secured automatic promotion to the Premiership after winning the second tier with several matches to spare.

Truter is regarded as a specialist in survival battles, having previously helped several clubs avoid relegation, while also guiding Moroka Swallows back to the top flight.

His coaching CV also includes spells with AmaZulu, Sekhukhune United and Richards Bay in the topflight league.

Attempts to contact his agent Basia Michaels proved futile before publish.

Pep Guardiola: Man City must stay in the title race with Arsenal

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 14:05:50 +0000

Despite their recent success, Pep Guardiola's attention remains fixed on the Premier League title race, with the City manager insisting the battle is far from over.

City still have two league matches left to play and remain dependent on Arsenal dropping points if they are to climb to the top of the table.

Guardiola has refused to concede defeat in the race and is determined to ensure the destination of the title is not decided until the final day of the campaign. The Spaniard's focus is firmly on keeping the pressure on Arsenal for as long as possible.

"The important thing is to arrive at the end with options.

"All we want is to be with our people in the last game to try to fight. To extend for these last four or five days what we have to do is win at Bournemouth."

City's run-in has come during a demanding stretch of fixtures, with the club unhappy about the scheduling of rearranged matches.

There was frustration over the timing of both their clash with Bournemouth and last week's encounter against Crystal Palace as the packed calendar continued to test Guardiola's squad.

On the upcoming clash with Bournemouth, he added: "They are 16-17 games unbeaten. The run is unbelievable.

"The only chance we have is to win the game. We have to break that run, otherwise it will be over.

"When you arrive in the last fixtures and you are playing for something important, and the opponent is not playing for anything it is always easier.

"That is not the case tomorrow and they have had 10 days just thinking about us. Now we start to think about them.

"But it is what it is. We are used to it. It is not complicated. We have to win."

Magesi banking on home advantage for survival

Velile Mnyandu — Mon, 18 May 2026 13:05:08 +0000

After 29 games played, Magesi find themselves at the bottom of the log with just 21 points, having won only four wins this season and all recorded at home.

Under Freese, the team won two matches, and these were big scorelines, a 3-0 victory against Siwelele and the biggest win, a 5-2 thrashing of Durban City, both wins recorded in April 2026.

With Richards Bay not standing any chance of making the top eight, even with a victory on Saturday, this is an advantage Freese and his Magesi team would be looking to take advantage of.

“Expectation, we are playing at home, what is expected is a good result at home. That’s it, there’s no other thing, and that’s the way it is, go back home, give it our best, and the positive result is expected at home,” the mission is simple for Freese and his troops.

“Dikwena Tsa Meetse” also need favours, to avoid the big drop, they will need Orlando Pirates to beat Orbit College at Mbombela stadium, a result that would keep the Rustenburg side on 24 points and do further damage to their goal difference. Orbit currently have the worst defensive record in the league, having conceded 45 goals and scored only 21 to leave them with a -24 goal difference.

Magesi have drawn six matches and lost nine on the road, with only five goals scored and 20 conceded.

They only produced one shot on target in Bloemfontein this past weekend, a stat Freese knows reflects the state of his team.

“Yes, but when we prepared but when we prepared, we also prepared to score goals and defend well. We also prepared to defend the set pieces, but this is where we let ourselves down today, the struggle to defend set-plays,” says Freese, highlighting their big challenges.

READ: Gavin Hunt says Stellies blew their top eight chances

The word is clear for the Limpopo side, win your home game and hope Pirates, who also need a win to clinch their first league title in 15 years, play their part in Mpumalanga.

But that could also not guarantee total survival, but at least a spot in the relegation play-offs.

Another team in the relegation quagmire is Marumo Gallants, who host Stellenbosch FC at home, but it will take a big win for Magesi and a loss for them to be drawn into at least a play-off finish.

With 25 points, Chippa United are slightly safer ahead of their final away match at the Moses Mabhida stadium against Kaizer Chiefs, they could depend on the Pirates’ win in Mbombela to take them out of the bottom again.

Gavin Hunt says Stellies blew their top eight chances

Benjamin Leshoro — Mon, 18 May 2026 12:22:55 +0000

Stellies remained in ninth position on the Betway Premiership standings despite a 2-0 win over Orbit College this past weekend, and have one last chance against Marumo Gallants on the last day to sneak in.

Hunt says they dropped points unnecessarily in the run-in, and made it difficult for themselves in the end.

"We've had our chances the last two weeks. You know we lost to Polokwane 1-0, then Pirates, even though they are a good side, we should have never lost that game and last week it was Durban City who were very good but I thought we could have won it there as well,” Hunt said.

“So, the last couple of weeks, we just needed a point here and a point there and we could have got ourselves in a much better position. Listen we were second bottom so let's build from that, be positive. The players have dug in, we really worked hard but there's been a lack of goals, there's been no two ways about it."

READ: Luan Munnik confident of reviving middle-distance running in South Africa

He does acknowledge that they had a difficult season in 2025/26, and the club was flirting with relegation when he took over in January.

He believes the work they’ve put in to get to where they are is still worth celebrating.

"As I said from where we were to where we are, the last couple of weeks we bugged it up, we stand a better chance to get into the top eight now, it's gonna be a bit difficult but still, we got a chance. We are happy with what we've got, we have 36 points,” he added.

The trip to Bloemfontein will be a difficult one for Hunt and his charges, as they face a Gallants side in desperate need of points themselves to avoid the chop.

He says they can only do their part and try to win the game.

"Well I think we'll just try to win the game and then whatever happens from there. You can't control anything else, it's the last day's situation so let's try and win the game,” the coach added.

“It won't be easy because Gallants are fighting for their lives in Bloemfontein on that pitch, you see that pitch. So, it won't be easy, at least try and win the game and then whatever happens, happens."

England call up South African star Benhard Janse van Renseburg

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 12:05:43 +0000

The 42-man squad will meet for a three-day training camp from Monday, 18 May at England's Performance Centre at Pennyhill Park in London.

The inclusion of Janse van Rensburg comes after World Rugby confirmed with England that he will be eligible to represent the Red Rose from 8 July. England begin their Nations Championship campaign against the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday, 4 July, followed by matches against Fiji and Argentina.

Janse van Rensburg, a former Junior Springbok, ran out for the Sharks and Cheetahs in domestic rugby before signing with the Bristol Bears in 2023. The burly centre impressed and was named in the Premiership Rugby Team of the Season for the 2023/24.

The Pretoria-born star also ran out for the Barbarians against the All Blacks last November.

England squad

Forwards: Jamie Blamire, Ollie Chessum, Arthur Clark, Alex Coles, Chandler Cunningham-South, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Alex Dombrandt, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Emmanuel Iyogun, George Martin, Beno Obano, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Guy Pepper, Henry Pollock, Vilikesa Sela, Kepu Tuipulotu.

Backs: Seb Atkinson, Charlie Bracken, Noah Caluori, Fraser Dingwall, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, George Ford, Tommy Freeman, George Furbank, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Archie McParland, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Adam Radwan, Tom Roebuck, Henry Slade, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Ben Spencer, Freddie Steward, Jack van Poortvliet.

Luan Munnik confident of reviving middle-distance running in South Africa

Charles Baloyi — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:53:54 +0000

Middle-distance athletes are often overshadowed by South Africa’s top sprinters, but Munnik and Tshite are quietly making their mark on the international stage.

The duo delivered impressive performances at the African Senior Championships in Accra, Ghana, on Sunday, with Munnik winning gold and Tshite taking silver in the 1500m final. .

Munnik believes the growing rivalry between them, along with the competition of athletes such as Jerry Motsau and Ryan Mphahlele, can help restore South Africa’s reputation in middle-distance running.

"I'd love to be the hope and yeah, I definitely think me and Tshepo have elevated the game. Tshepo would have probably got close to a medal at World Champs but he had an amazing indoor season, so I'm looking forward to seeing what we do, over next year and this year at World Champs and the Olympics. I think we just gotta keep doing what we're doing now. Like I said if we keep running fast times the rest of us are gonna push and that's gonna give the elite middle distance a name."

READ: Team SA shine in Ghana to defend African title despite challenges

Munnik has also called on Athletics South Africa to invest more in middle-distance running by increasing support for athletes, improving prize money, and creating more racing opportunities.

He believes regular competition against strong opposition is key to helping South African runners improve and compete consistently at the highest level internationally.

"I think in any form if we can have more support at a domestic level in South Africa, for example for a race like this, if they can fund races like this more prize money, more incentive, even at the coast, if they can run fast like the Cape Mile as we have in this race now. We just need more of that now, more opportunities it's gonna be better performances."

German Football Expertise Returns to Nelson Mandela Bay: Eintracht Braunschweig Coach Makes Second Visit in Three Months

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:22:00 +0000

The visit forms part of the growing partnership between the cities of Braunschweig and Nelson Mandela Bay, using football as a powerful tool for education, cultural exchange and youth development.

Over several intensive training sessions, many young players from local clubs, schools and community programmes participated in modern football drills focused on technical ability, tactical understanding, teamwork and discipline. Local coaches also benefited from specialised workshops and hands-on mentoring designed to create sustainable long-term development within the region.

The return visit highlights the commitment of both partners to building a lasting football development programme rather than a one-off international appearance.

The initiative also serves as an important activation of the official city partnership between Braunschweig and Nelson Mandela Bay, demonstrating how international cooperation can create meaningful opportunities at grassroots level. Sport has become a bridge connecting young people from different cultures while promoting social inclusion and community development.

Representatives involved in the programme have already expressed interest in expanding the collaboration further, including future coaching exchanges, youth tournaments and long-term academy partnerships.

David Walland, Executive Head of Harvest Christian School, welcomed the growing cooperation and highlighted its immediate impact:

“I would like to express our sincere appreciation and excitement regarding this developing partnership. Our coaches and players have already benefited significantly from the engagement with Eintracht Braunschweig, Schächter Sports, and The Football Union.”

READ: Miguel Cardoso reveals role in defusing VAR chaos during CAF CL final

The continued collaboration is already being viewed as a model for sustainable international sports development — one that combines football excellence with education, mentorship and long-term community impact.

Proteas Women prioritising fielding drills as T20 World Cup approaches

Benjamin Leshoro — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:10:30 +0000

Mashimbyi’s team has been guilty of some sloppiness in that part of their game in recent months, at times dropping what looked like routine catches at crucial stages of the match.

He says he’s been impressed with how some of the more senior players have shown good athleticism, and believes they’ll be ready by the time they play their opening game.

"We've got a good fielding coach working with them now to make sure that we are ready. This is the one thing that surprises me about the women's game, you have these old players that are moving like young players, Marizanne [Kapp], Shabnim [Ismail], you must just see how they move on the field, it's actually quite crazy,” Mashimbyi said.

“So, that's positive in terms of knowing what they are gonna give you on the field. So, for me as much as it might look like fielding has been a concern leading up to the World Cup but it's something that we're gonna actually put priority on and make sure that we don't slip up at the World Cup."

READ: Team SA shine in Ghana to defend African title despite challenges

Speaking of the experienced players, Mashimbyi also confirmed that captain Laura Wolvaardt will continue to open their batting alongside another former skipper Suné Luus.

It’s a partnership that has been somewhat of a genius move by him, and also helped them beat India 4-1 recently in their T20I series.

"The India opening pair decided that for themselves, I didn't decide that in terms of the performances that I've put together. I think if you wanna know that I'm stupid, it will be me changing that combination and it's not gonna happen because they've shown that they can actually bat together and put us in a good position to put teams under pressure,” the coach added.

Sunil Gavaskar: MS Dhoni unlikely to make Super Kings comeback against Sunrisers

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:05:18 +0000

Dhoni has not played throughout the campaign due to calf and ankle-related fitness issues and has been out of competitive cricket for over a year.

The anticipation around a possible comeback has intensified as CSK's playoff situation becomes increasingly precarious.

With the franchise sitting on 12 points, they must continue winning their remaining fixtures to stay in contention, and another defeat would severely damage or effectively end their qualification hopes.

That pressure has fuelled discussion among supporters about whether Dhoni could return for what would be CSK's final home fixture of the season.

However, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has moved to temper expectations, offering a more cautious assessment of the situation.

Speaking on the Star Sports programme Amul Cricket Live, Gavaskar suggested that reintroducing Dhoni at such a critical stage would be difficult, particularly given concerns over disrupting the team's balance in a must-win match.

He argued that CSK's current circumstances make it unlikely that a player lacking full match readiness would be brought straight back into action.

"The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It's their last home game at Chepauk, so naturally fans want to see MS Dhoni play," Gavaskar said.

"But he hasn't featured at all this season. In fact, he hasn't played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this stage.

"You need players who have been match-fit and playing regularly for the last six weeks.

"Dhoni is a complete team-man. I don't think he would want to disrupt the current combination."

Karl Hein set for Werder Bremen stay as Mio Backhaus departure nears

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 11:05:09 +0000

According to reports in Germany, Bremen are ready to activate the purchase option in Hein's loan deal with Arsenal. The move is expected to cost around three million euros.

The 24-year-old Estonia international only made two appearances during the campaign, but his performances convinced the club that he is ready for a bigger role next season.

Bremen now see Hein as their future first-choice goalkeeper, and that decision appears set to open the door for Mio Backhaus to leave the club this summer.

Backhaus enjoyed a strong season and has attracted interest from several teams across Europe. Reports in Germany suggest Bremen could demand around 15 million euros for the 22-year-old goalkeeper.

The club's plan would represent a major change in goal ahead of the new campaign, with Hein expected to take over as Bremen's number one if the transfer is completed in the coming weeks.

Team SA shine in Ghana to defend African title despite challenges

Charles Baloyi — Mon, 18 May 2026 10:22:50 +0000

Despite facing challenges away from the track and field, the South African team delivered an outstanding performance over six days of competition, collecting 21 medals made up of nine gold, four silver, and eight bronze medals to successfully defend their African title.

At the previous African Senior Championships held in Mauritius in 2024, South Africa finished with 19 medals, including nine gold, four silver, and six bronze medals.

The team travelled to Ghana with a relatively small squad of only 34 athletes, but they competed with courage, determination, and pride against some of Africa’s best athletes.

Throughout the championships, the athletes remained united and focused on their performances, refusing to let the off-field issues distract them from their goals.

Concerns around accommodation and conditions at the University of Ghana became one of the major talking points during the week.

Earlier in the championships, two-time national shot-put champion Aiden Smith voiced his frustration on social media regarding the treatment of athletes.

His comments quickly attracted attention and led to Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie stepping in to offer alternative accommodation for Team SA athletes.

However, despite the difficulties, the South African team chose to stay together with the official athletes at the University of Ghana.

There were also complaints regarding scheduling and timing during the competition, but the South Africans continued to rise above the disruptions.

READ: Miguel Cardoso reveals role in defusing VAR chaos during CAF CL final

Instead of allowing the problems to affect them, the athletes responded with impressive performances and medal-winning displays.

Smith led the way for Team SA after winning gold in the men’s shot put, continuing his excellent form this season.

Former world champion Luvo Manyonga also produced an emotional comeback by winning his first African senior title in the men’s long jump.

Kristi Snyman secured gold in the women’s high jump, while Ansuné de Beer added another gold medal in the women’s pole vault.

On the track, World Under-20 100m bronze medallist Bradley Nkoana continued his rise by winning silver in the men’s 100m sprint.

Leandri Holtzhausen also impressed by winning silver in the women’s hammer throw, while Wernich van Rensburg claimed bronze in the men’s 400m hurdles.

Another bronze medal came from Righardt Stander in the men’s decathlon.

Team SA finished the championships strongly on the final day of competition.

Luan Munnik won gold in the men’s 1500m, while Karabo More claimed victory in the women’s 1500m.

Rogail Josephs also added gold in the women’s 400m.

Silver medals were won by Tshepo Tshite in the men’s 1500m, Enya Pooler in the women’s heptathlon, and Mateo Le Roux in the men’s high jump.

Bronze medals were collected by Tshepang Makhetha in the men’s hammer throw, Zinzi Xulu in the women’s high jump, Mihlali Xhotyeni in the men’s 200m, Jana van Schalkwyk in the women’s javelin, and Douw van As in the men’s javelin.

'It's disappointing to lose' - Reece James urges improvement after Chelsea FA Cup heartbreak

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 10:05:55 +0000

The match was tightly contested throughout, with few clear chances for either side. City eventually made the breakthrough in the final quarter of an hour through a decisive finish from Antoine Semenyo, leaving Chelsea with little time to respond.

James, who returned to the starting XI after injury and operated in midfield, felt the game was decided by fine margins.

"It's disappointing to lose," James said. "If you take a step back and look at the game, not the scoreline, we matched them and went toe-to-toe. They had more of the ball in the first half but didn't really hurt us, and then they scored from a half-chance in the second."

He added that effort and commitment were not in question from Chelsea's side. "I tried everything and did everything I could. Everyone wanted to win. I can't question anyone's desire. We just didn't get the rub of the green."

James also praised teammate Levi Colwill, who has recently returned to the team after a spell out injured.

"Levi is huge for the club and the team," James said. "He's been a big loss this season, and since coming back he's looking really strong and helping us a lot."

With two Premier League matches remaining, Chelsea still have a chance of securing a European place, but James admitted the season has not met expectations.

"We need to rest, recover and get back on the training pitch to prepare for Spurs," he said, referring to their next match against Tottenham Hotspur.

"We've underperformed this season. I want to apologise to the fans for the lack of results. It's been difficult, but I hope we can pick it up soon."

'They are our 12th man' - Mikel Arteta calls on Emirates crowd to lift Arsenal vs Burnley

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 10:05:48 +0000

Arsenal go into the match aiming to strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League table, with pressure still on as Manchester City travel to Bournemouth on Tuesday.

Arteta stressed the importance of the home crowd and said the atmosphere created by supporters can transform his team's performance.

"They are our 12th man, and a magic player, I would say," he said. "When the stadium provides that level of energy, passion and optimism, living every action with the team, the value of that is infinite.

"You cannot measure it, and the team becomes different. It's as simple as that."

The Arsenal boss also referenced the side's recent 1-0 win over West Ham United, saying the squad is in a strong and focused place heading into the final stretch of the season.

"The team is really present, emotionally in a really good state," he added. "We have most players available now. Everybody is so enthusiastic and positive about how we can finish the season."

Arteta confirmed the squad remains united despite minor setbacks, with Ben White picking up an injury in the previous match, but insisted the focus is fully on the Burnley fixture.

"We focus on what is in our hands," he said. "That is preparing in the best possible way to beat Burnley."

Burnley arrive in north London looking to frustrate the league leaders, but Arsenal will be hoping their home crowd can once again provide the extra edge in a crucial moment of the title race.

Bulls coach Johan Ackermann still sees 'a lot to fix' ahead of URC knockouts

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 10:05:19 +0000

The Pretoria side booked a home playoff after a convincing 45-19 win over Benetton at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, setting up a last-eight clash with Munster a week from Saturday.

Ackermann, however, was quick to stress that there is still significant room for improvement, despite his side finishing the season strongly with five consecutive wins.

"There's still a lot of work to be done," Ackermann said. "There were soft moments and small mistakes that compounded pressure on ourselves. Those are the things we have to fix."

The Bulls boss stressed that attacking accuracy will be a key focus area in the build-up to facing the former URC champions.

"It's our general skill, finishing and decision-making that we have to focus on.

"You don't want to give away 14 points through soft moments and poor decision-making," Ackermann said of a sequence of play where the Bulls went from almost scoring to conceding.

"That's the part we have to fix because if there's more pressure on the game, like in a knockout match, it becomes very difficult to recover momentum.

"Myself and [assistant coach] Neil [de Bruin] want the players to have a go and we'll never fault a player for trying. But you must make sure you execute. It's all about execution.

"There were moments where we had four against two, or three against one, and then we kicked instead of passing. Then there were other situations where maybe we should have kicked.

"Those decisions and the execution around them are the areas we need to improve."

The Bulls now have a week off due to the EPCR finals break, with several players also expected to attend the Springbok alignment camp during the downtime.

Ackermann believes the home advantage will be important in the knockout stage, but warned that standards will need to rise significantly against Munster.

"It's always nice to play at home and hopefully we can use that to our advantage," Ackermann said.

"Munster are a quality side with a lot of good internationals. We know we'll have to lift our standards."

Contepomi relishing Barbarians role and showdown with Erasmus' Springboks

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 09:05:57 +0000

The Springboks' Nations Championship campaign begins against England in Johannesburg on 4 July, but before that they will host the Barbarians in Gqeberha on 20 June.

Argentina head coach Contepomi will be part of a star-studded Baabaas coaching setup that also includes former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson, Racing 92 boss Patrice Collazo and Los Pumas assistant coach Kenny Lynn.

It will be the second consecutive year the Springboks host the famous invitational side, after the Boks secured a dominant 54-7 victory in Cape Town in 2025.

As a player, Contepomi earned 87 Test caps for Argentina and also made five appearances for the Barbarians during his career.

However, this will be the first time he takes charge of the Baabaas in a coaching role, and he says he is relishing the challenge of facing the world's top-ranked team.

"I think being part of the Barbarians is a great honour. And I've been lucky enough to play in two tours with the Baa-baas. And now being asked to coach, it's a big honour," he told the Behind the Ruck podcast.

"But when they also showed me the calendar and they said coming and playing against the world champions, for me, it was a bigger honour, you know?

"I think it's a great opportunity. I love going to South Africa. And I think the way South African people live rugby is unbelievable.

"And I have lots of friends there. And being able to be part of the Baa-baas in South Africa, it will be a great experience for sure."

The 48-year-old said it's always "special" being involved with the Barbarians and revealed that there are a couple of reasons for that.

"I think two things. First of all, because you have to be invited to be part of that club," Contepomi explained.

"It's a great honour to be invited (and) to be part of it. And the second one, I think they still, in such a professional era, keep a very amateur spirit and sometimes even a way of rolling.

"So, for me, an older guy that lived the last part of the amateur era with a mix with professionalism, it's a great way of going back to rugby roots, you know?

"It's very special the way. And look, for me, the most important thing that rugby gives you is a friendship, knowing people, knowing different cultures.

"And that's exactly what you get in a Barbarians team, you know?

"People from everywhere in the world and sharing their experiences, having a good time, just playing for each other. And in this case, playing against the world champions, so it can't get better."

Contepomi has been ArgentinaÃ¢™s head coach since 2024 and has made significant strides on the international stage, with his side already recording wins over the Springboks, All Blacks, Wallabies and British & Irish Lions during his tenure.

The former playmaker said he is looking forward to the challenge of taking on the world champions and going head-to-head with their innovative coach Erasmus.

"I don't want to take it personally against the Springboks, you know? But I think the Springboks, because they are the world champions and I think at the moment, I don't know if it's even arguably, but they are the best team in the world," he said.

"And if you ask 100 people, 99 probably will say they are. So, playing against the best ones is all what you want, you know? And when you go and play against the best ones, obviously you want to beat them.

"And Rassie, I have lots of time for him because he's a great coach.

"And you know that he knows that they have like a target on their back because they are the best ones at the moment. So, it's a great honour to be able to go and play against them, you know? I'm looking forward (to it).

"We are very grateful that we'll receive them in August here in Argentina, because as I said, you want to play against them, you know?"

Antonio Conte drops "exit" hint as Napoli seal Champions League spot

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 09:05:48 +0000

The result ensured Napoli will compete in Europe's top competition next season, but Conte kept his future deliberately unclear after the match.

"There is one more match to go," Conte said. "I have a friendly rapport with the President."

He reflected on the job he has done since arriving, pointing to the state of the club when he took over.

"I arrived at Napoli during a moment of extreme difficulty, after the team finished in 10th place with a sense of depression around the club," he explained.

"I promised that when my time here was finished, I would leave behind a solid and ambitious group, capable of fighting and always causing problems for its opponents."

Conte also underlined his competitive philosophy for Napoli going forward.

"Remember I always said, we might not be the strongest team, but we must become the toughest. Napoli must cause problems every year for Juventus, Milan and Inter."

When asked directly about his future, he added: "The President has known my thoughts for a month already."

On the pitch, Napoli delivered a controlled and professional performance to secure their Champions League place.

Scott McTominay opened the scoring after finishing a first-time assist from Rasmus Hojlund, before defender Amir Rrahmani made it 2-0 from a corner delivered by Eljif Elmas.

Napoli dominated much of the contest, with Pisa already relegated and struggling for form, having now lost eight straight matches at the top level.

Goalkeeper Alex Meret was briefly called into action before half-time, but Napoli remained firmly in control throughout.

McTominay came close to adding a third, but it was late substitute finishing that wrapped things up as Hojlund stretched to turn in a drilled cross from Pasquale Mazzocchi in stoppage time.

The win leaves Napoli three points clear of AC Milan and AS Roma heading into the final match, with second place still within reach.

For Pisa, it was another difficult afternoon in a season that has delivered just one win in 26 league games, as they prepare to finish the campaign away at Lazio.

Chakaravarthy workload concerns overshadow KKR's playoff push after win over Gujarat Titans

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 09:05:41 +0000

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mystery spinner, a key figure in India's T20I success following their T20 World Cup 2026 triumph, is currently managing a left toe hairline fracture sustained against Delhi Capitals on 8 May.

He was forced to limp off during that match and subsequently missed KKR's fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, though he has still been used in high-intensity spells, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly questioning KKR's decision to deploy him for his full four-over quota.

The issue has reignited broader tension between national team management and franchise cricket, particularly with India facing a demanding international schedule after the IPL, including tours of Ireland and England.

Chakaravarthy, who has previously played through hand fractures earlier in the season and turns 35 in August 2026, remains under close scrutiny regarding his workload and long-term availability.

"I know for a fact that KKR physio is in touch with Team India physio [Kamlesh Jain]. There has been a communication from KKR to BCCI that in a previous match, Varun injured his left foot while saving a boundary," a BCCI official told PTI.

"It is understood that he has a hairline fracture. I believe as a centrally contracted player of the BCCI, his fitness is paramount and the BCCI medical team could intervene. Jain might be asked as to what was the input from the KKR medical team."

On the field, KKR continued their push for a late surge into the playoff places with a 29-run win over Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on 16 May.

Defending a commanding 248 against a side led by Shubman Gill, they moved to 11 points with two group-stage matches remaining, keeping their postseason hopes alive despite the off-field concerns.

Manuel Neuer injury dispruts Bayern Munich's DFB-Pokal Final plans

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 08:05:42 +0000

The 40-year-old was substituted in the 60th minute of Bayern's 5-1 Bundesliga win over FC Koln on Saturday after feeling discomfort in his left calf.

Despite finishing the matchday celebrations with his team, further medical checks on Sunday confirmed muscular issues that will require careful management.

Bayern's medical staff have since advised that Neuer "will have to take it easy for the time being", leaving his availability in serious doubt for the upcoming cup final against VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal on 23 May at the Allianz Arena.

The timing is a major concern for Bayern, with the final just days away. Neuer's leadership and experience remain central to the squad, particularly in high-pressure matches of this magnitude.

Away from club duty, Neuer had already retired from international football, but he was still named in a provisional 55-man squad by Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann for the 2026 World Cup. That inclusion had already sparked speculation about a possible return to the international stage, though this latest injury raises fresh doubts.

For now, Bayern will closely monitor their captain's recovery as they hope for positive signs ahead of a decisive week in their season.

'Nothing positive to say' - Luis Enrique furious as PSG lose before Champions League final

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 08:05:16 +0000

Despite already securing a fifth straight league title, PSG produced a flat display on Sunday, with their head coach openly questioning the team's attitude and intensity.

"Nothing positive to say about this match," Luis Enrique told reporters after the game.

"When you play football without ambition or intensity, this is the sort of thing you'd expect to see.

"I knew before the match how difficult it would be to play this sort of game with no objective, but I'm a bit disappointed."

The defeat raised concerns about PSG's focus ahead of their biggest test of the season. The French champions are now without a competitive match until May 30, when they face Arsenal in the Champions League final.

Luis Enrique admitted motivation will be a key issue in the build-up, especially after a long and successful domestic campaign.

"I think my players need to overcome difficult matches and stay motivated," he said.

"The final part of the season will be more complicated than usual because last year we played in the French Cup final and that was very motivating for us.

"But there are still two weeks to go before what I'd call the most important match in our history, and I certainly hope that by that day, there'll be no need to motivate the players."

PSG will now turn their attention fully to preparing for the European final, where Enrique is demanding a response from his squad after a warning sign in their final league outing.

Cooper Connolly breaks 18-year IPL sixes record in stellar debut season for Punjab Kings

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 08:05:10 +0000

Connolly achieved the feat during Punjab Kings' clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala on Sunday, a contest played under bowler-friendly conditions.

Despite the challenging surface, the left-hander produced a brisk 38 off 27 deliveries, striking two sixes in the process.

Those maximums carried him to 32 sixes in his debut IPL campaign, allowing him to surpass former Sri Lankan great Sanath Jayasuriya for the most sixes hit in a maiden IPL season.

Jayasuriya had previously held the record since the inaugural 2008 edition, when he smashed 31 sixes for Mumbai Indians.

Connolly has emerged as one of Punjab Kings' standout performers this season, particularly through his productive partnership with Priyansh Arya, which has become one of the franchise's biggest positives during the campaign.

The Australian has drawn praise for both his clean shot-making and his ability to adjust to varying match situations and conditions.

The Western Australia batter has already registered a century this season and has compiled 473 runs in 13 matches at an average of 47.30 and a strike rate of 162.4.

Away from the IPL, Connolly represents Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield and Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League. He has also broken into the Australian national side across all three formats, featuring in one Test, eight ODIs and 11 T20 internationals.

Miguel Cardoso reveals role in defusing VAR chaos during CAF CL final

Mazola Molefe — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:57:17 +0000

During Sunday evening’s first leg clash at Loftus Stadium, the system unexpectedly went offline moments before the second half, creating uncertainty around whether the match could continue under the competition’s regulations.

The visitors were initially reluctant to restart the game without the technology operational but Cardoso played mediator in the interest of the image of African football.

"Today I saw a lot of sports spirit between the players, the coaches and the staff. Even when the VAR was not working you saw me speaking with the coach and we told each other, guys we represent Africa, we need to give a good example to the world after what happened in the AFCON and we have to play this match. Even without VAR let's go and I think it was very beautiful to see how everybody understood with each other,” Cardoso said.

“We saluted each other in the end and that's the spirit of the teams, the will to win will never take the match in the direction that we don't want to see. We can play fantastic football that makes both coaches proud and Africa proud because we are showing ourselves to the world and I think I want people in Portugal to see how beautiful the game can be here.

“How the game has levelled because sometimes people outside don't think that it exists because the idea that passes outside is that in Africa the football is played with kicks in the front or technically but tactically not good and that's not the reality. We need to show that to the world.”

READ: Unathi Mabena proud of team effort despite opening defeat to Sundowns

Sundowns go into the return match in Rabat this coming Sunday with a narrow advantage and Cardoso hopes they are able to protect that lead to be crowned champions of Africa in North Africa.

"The most important thing is that we understand that we can because we know that we can compete at this level with the best teams of the season and make a wonderful game,” the coach added.

“I think we made a wonderful game obviously that you would know and I also know that we could have scored for several times a second goal that obviously would give a more comfortable result but it's clear that we have to play for a victory in terms of scoring a goal over there because that is obviously the advantage that the team needs to fight for."

Wayne Rooney: Mohamed Salah's attitude hurts Liverpool, Arne Slot must drop him

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:05:49 +0000

Rooney described the Liverpool winger as "selfish" following the club's recent struggles and questioned his influence on the side during a disappointing campaign.

The criticism came after Salah claimed Liverpool must return to being a "heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear" in the aftermath of a damaging 4-2 defeat to Aston Villa, which appears to be critical of head coach Arne Slot.

"That is the football I know how to play and that is the identity that needs to be recovered and kept for good. It cannot be negotiable and everyone that joins this club should adapt to it," he said in a social media post.

The loss left the defending Premier League champions in danger of missing out on Champions League qualification.

"I find it sad at the end of what he's done and what he's achieved at Liverpool. It's not the point for him to come out and aim another dig at Slot," Rooney stated on the Wayne Rooney Show.

"He wants to play heavy metal football, so he's basically saying he wants Jurgen Klopp football. Now I don't think Mo Salah can cope with that type of football any more. I think his legs have gone to play at that high tempo and high intensity.

"If I was Arne Slot, I'd have him nowhere near the stadium in the last game. I had it with Alex Ferguson. I had a disagreement and fallout and at Alex Ferguson's last game at Old Trafford, he left me out of the squad for that reason.

"He's almost just dropped the grenade and said he doesn't trust and believe in Arne Slot and almost thrown his team-mates who are going to be there next season and let them have to deal with that as well and put them into a position."

The 33-year-old Egyptian forward announced in March that he would leave Liverpool at the end of the season, concluding a hugely successful nine-year stay at Anfield.

Salah has scored 257 goals for the club and helped secure six major trophies, while also winning a record four Premier League Golden Boot awards.

Despite netting 29 league goals during Liverpool's title-winning campaign in Arne Slot's first season in charge, Salah has struggled to reproduce that form this year, scoring only 12 goals in 40 appearances.

"I think Salah's trying to vindicate himself and make himself feel better because he's had a very poor season," added Rooney.

"So I think he's been very selfish in what he's done in the two occasions. It's a shame and fans will be on his side, but I think when you look deeper into it and having been in a dressing room in a similar situation to that as well, Mo Salah knows exactly what he's doing.

"That's your manager. You can't publicly disrespect him twice the way he has and get away with it. And that's where if I was Arne Slot, I'd have to pull rank and just say, listen, you're not coming anywhere near the place on Saturday, whether you like it or not. I really doubt he will do it, but I think he should.

"Of course he deserves a good send off but does he deserve it just for this? It's the second time he's done it. it's just a shame to see one of the great icons of Premier League players leave the Premier League probably in this situation."

Kieran Trippier leads 'emotional farewell' as Newcastle confirm four departures

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:05:17 +0000

Among those leaving are defenders Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, along with club doctor Paul Catterson and goalkeeper Max Thompson, whose contract has come to an end. The quartet were acknowledged during a lap of appreciation after the match, which Howe described as a "special but emotional" moment for everyone involved.

Speaking after the game, Howe reflected on the scenes around the stadium and the impact of those departing.

"Every time we walk around at the end of the season it is a really nice moment to reflect," he said. "But today was slightly different because we are focusing on Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Paul Catterson and Max Thompson.

"They are people who have done a really great job for us, on and off the pitch. They have given incredible service to the club and we are going to miss them. In football, nothing stays the same."

Trippier, who captained Newcastle in his final appearance at St James' Park, was singled out by Howe for his leadership and influence within the dressing room.

"I am delighted for him personally," Howe said. "He is brilliant on the pitch, but also off it. He has a stabilising effect in the dressing room, brings positivity in difficult moments, and inspires those around him. Wherever he goes next, he will be a big asset."

The Newcastle head coach also praised his side's performance in their final outing of the season, a strong display against West Ham United, winning 3-1, insisting his players maintained high standards despite having little at stake competitively.

"It would have been easy for people to say we had nothing to play for," Howe added. "But we have a duty to perform at our best. I was really pleased with the attitude and the way we went about the game."

The afternoon at St James' Park ended with applause, reflection, and farewells, marking the end of a significant chapter for both players and staff at the club.

Sharks scoop scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl from Saracens

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:05:04 +0000

The South African cut his teeth at the Bulls before heading North to pastures new in England with Saracens in 2021. The nippy No.9 earned 123 caps for the English giants, scoring a try in the 2023 Premireship final to help them secure the title.

Now, the six-time Springbok returns to the republic. He replaces World Cup winner Grant Williams, who is headed to Japan.

"Looking at the last five years as a whole, it's not always been easy, but it has been so worth it," said the 30-year-old in a statement.

"Being a centurion for this great club, winning the PREM and captaining this side on the odd occasion is something I am very proud of.

"For me and my family, Saracens will always have a special place in our hearts. I am leaving here with no regrets and peace in my heart, knowing that I gave this place and the people everything I had while I was here.

"I want to thank my wife for sacrificing so much so I can play for this club. This will always be Olivia's first home, and the first team she saw her dad play for. Thank you!"

Van Zyl joins Bradley Davids, Jaden Hendrikse and Canada international Ross Braude as the other scrumhalves at the Durban Franchise.

Jannik Sinner confirms complete tennis detox after relentless schedule

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 07:05:01 +0000

Sinner joined Novak Djokovic as the only player to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments as he completed his set in front of his Italian fans after defeating Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4.

It also ensured his incredible winning run in ATP Masters tournaments continued, as he won his sixth successive title at this level, in a run that dates back to the Paris Masters at the back end of 2025.

However, the world number one has expressed some concerns that he is reaching the end of his physical capacity after an exhaustive run of winning over the last few months, so he made it clear that he will not be getting back on a tennis court for a few days.

The French Open is a week away and Sinner needs the Roland Garros title to complete his set of Grand Slams, with a tennis break the path he will follow over the next few days.

"The priority is to recover as much as I can in the next two to three days," said Sinner.

"There is not going to be a lot of training, Tennis, zero. Physical, [my team and I] need to see.

"I want to be with my family as well, in this moment. Switching off tennis, then from Thursday onwards, I think I will be in Paris, preparing, and we'll see how it goes. For now, it's important to rest."

As he reflected on his latest remarkable achievement, Sinner suggested completing his full set of Masters title was even sweeter after he sealed the deal in front of his home fans.

"There's no better place to complete this set," Sinner shared. "It has been a very, very interesting tournament already back in the years. In 2019, I had my debut here on this court. I always felt very positive, but in a different way, a lot of attention, a lot of emotions going through. It means a lot.

"I believe for an Italian, it's one of the most special places we play tennis in. To win at least once in my career means a lot to me.

Sinner has now won all five ATP Masters events in 2025, with Djokovic in 2015 the only player who has claimed more after winning six in 2015.

Sinner also joined Rafael Nadal as the only player to win all three ATP Masters titles on clay in a season since the format's introduction in 1990 and he will now head into the French Open as the red hot favourite.

Unathi Mabena proud of team effort despite opening defeat to Sundowns

Mpumi Manyisi — Mon, 18 May 2026 06:48:51 +0000

The highly anticipated clash between the two rivals drew a packed crowd at Tsakane Stadium in Ekurhuleni on Sunday afternoon, as Amakhosikazi made history by playing their first official match in club colours.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mabena admitted her side gave Sundowns too much space but was encouraged by the overall performance and support from the fans.

“I think the players were trying to see how the opposition would push us. We now have to go back to the drawing board, correct our mistakes and prepare for the next fixture. I think we gave Sundowns too much respect, we allowed them space and got punished.

“But other than that, I am happy with the performance and thankful to the fans who came out in numbers to witness the club making history with our ladies playing their first match today,” said Mabena.

READ: Phuti Mohafe livid despite Polokwane City top eight guarantee

The Glamour Girls currently sit 13th on the league table, behind Vaal North West University.

Mabena says the defeat served as an important lesson ahead of their next encounter against JVW.

“We will have to review this match and take note of our mistakes. I think this game served as a wake-up call, which will help us as we prepare for our next fixture against JVW,” added Mabena.

The 46-year-old mentor also believes the team combinations will improve with time as the squad continues to build chemistry.

“We picked up a couple of injuries and knocks from this game, so we need to make sure the players recover well. I am happy with what they brought performance-wise. The combinations are coming together - we just need to fix a few things for the players to build better synergy,” she expressed.

Aaron Rai becomes first Englishman to win PGA Championship in over 100 years

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 08:23:36 +0000

Rai became the first English winner of the Wanamaker Trophy in more than a century and the first non-American champion in 10 years.

The 31-year-old carded a brilliant five-under-par 65 to finish nine under overall, ending three shots clear of Spain's Jon Rahm and overnight leader Alex Smalley.

Rai surged clear with birdies on the 11th, 13th and 16th before effectively sealing victory with a stunning 69-foot putt on the 17th green - the second longest made all week.

"It is very surreal," said Rai, who has been dealing with an intermittent neck injury this season.

"It has been a frustrating season, so being stood here is outside of my wildest imagination."

American Justin Thomas briefly held the clubhouse lead after a 65 lifted him to five under, alongside Sweden's Ludvig Aberg and Germany's Matthias Schmid.

But Rai's accuracy off the tee and calm approach on Aronimink's punishing layout proved decisive as he steadily separated himself from the chasing pack.

"I definitely wasn't trying to hole that putt," Rai said.

"The shadow of the pin gave a really nice line for the last 10 feet so that helped with the visual.

"It just tracked really well - it was amazing to see it go in."

Rai becomes only the eighth Englishman to win a major since World War Two and follows Rory McIlroy, who defended his Masters title in April, in giving UK golfers victories in the first two majors of the year.

McIlroy closed with a one-under 69 to finish five shots behind after failing to capitalise on the par fives and bogeying the driveable 13th.

"I'm proud that I gave myself a chance," the world number two told BBC Sport NI.

"But there are three holes I'll rue - not birdieing the two par fives and then making bogey at the driveable par-four. Those three holes cost me a chance to win."

Rahm briefly shared the lead after birdies at the opening two holes but could not keep pace with Rai, while Åberg's challenge faded after three bogeys in four holes around the turn.

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler also failed to mount a charge, finishing seven shots adrift in a tie for 14th after another difficult week on the greens.

Records tumble as indomitable Jannik Sinner dominates Rome Masters

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 06:05:53 +0000

The world number one's straight set victory against rival Ruud was Sinner's sixth consecutive success in ATP Masters tournaments, continuing a winning record that stretched back to the Paris Masters at the back end of 2025.

But it wasn't entirely straightforward. Sinner weathered an early wave of Ruud aggression, as the challenger won eight of the first nine points to take a quick 2-0 lead. However, the Italian then settled and found his timing, getting on the board in the third game as the dominance started.

Sinner broke Ruud immediately at the start of the second set, blasting a backhand winner down the line. There was only going to be one winner after that break.

"I think this year was the 50th year since an Italian won and I am really, really happy," Sinner said in his on-court interview.

"There was a lot of tension on both sides, it was not perfect tennis from both of us, but I am really happy. [It has been] an incredible past two and a half months. I try to put myself in the best possible position every time and do the best I can. Not every day is simple, but I am really, really happy."

Meanwhile, Ruud was full of compliments.

"I have to congratulate Jannik for his first title here," said the Norwegian.

"What you are doing this year is hard to describe with words. As someone who is also playing tennis at the highest level, to realise what you are doing is hard to describe."

Sinner's success in an hour and 45 minutes extended his winning run to 29 matches and also made him the first Italian man to win the competition since Adriano Panatta in 1976.

He also broke Novak Djokovic's record of successive wins in ATP Masters matches when he beat Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals in Rome and he has now extended that record to a staggering 34 matches.

His latest ATP Masters title allowed him to join Djokovic as the only other player to win all nine of the marquee tournaments on the ATP Tour.

While money has not been Sinner's motivation for some time after his staggering run of success over the last couple of seasons, he has pocketed another 1 million euro following his win in Rome.

That addition to his all-time prize money sees Sinner closing in on Andy Murray, who sits in fifth place in the all-time prize money charts with career earnings on court of $64,687,542.

He is set to overtake the Scot when he plays at the French Open and with Carlos Alcaraz out of that tournament, there is a very good chance that Sinner will move ahead of his big rival in the prize money stakes at Roland Garros.

Alcaraz has $64,997,598 in prize money and sits in fourth place in the all-time list, with Sinner's total now standing at $64,507.489.

Michael Carrick backs Luke Shaw "to lead Man Utd" next season

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 06:05:48 +0000

Shaw scored his first goal in more than three years during United's dramatic 3-2 Premier League win over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday. The 30-year-old has also been close to ever-present this season and could start every league match if he keeps his place for the final game against Brighton next week.

After struggling through injury-hit seasons, Shaw has re-established himself as one of United's most reliable players. He managed only 19 Premier League appearances across the previous two campaigns, but the reduced fixture schedule this season has helped him stay fit and regain top form.

United are expected to target another left-back during the summer transfer window, yet Carrick insisted Shaw's experience and leadership will still make him an important member of the squad.

"I think when there's so many games it's not easy for anybody," Carrick said. "Sometimes injuries and other things are part of football, so to start every game is a fantastic achievement.

"Next season is different and there will be different runs of games, but that comes with experience and understanding your body and managing yourself properly.

"He's at that stage now where he's got a lot of experience. He's been here a long time, he knows the club, he knows the highs and he's been through the difficult moments as well. His experience will be valuable, however many games he plays."

Shaw's strong season has also boosted his hopes of returning to the England squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America. He has not played for England since the Euro 2024 final, but he has been included in the provisional 55-man long-list.

Carrick backed Shaw, Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo to earn places in the final 26-man squad.

"I certainly think so," Carrick said about Shaw's chances. "The consistency, his performances, his experience and the qualities he brings make him a fantastic full-back.

"I think all three of them have helped their chances recently for sure."

Hansi Flick hails Robert Lewandowski farewell after historic Barcelona LaLiga run

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 06:05:43 +0000

The win ensured Barcelona became the first side in LaLiga history to win all 19 of their home league matches in a single season. The achievement was made even more remarkable because the club played across three different stadiums during the campaign - Estadi Johan Cruyff, Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys and Spotify Camp Nou.

Flick said the supporters had played a huge role in the team's success throughout the season.

"It has to do with the team and the connection with the fans," Flick said. "It's an amazing feeling because they give us 10 per cent more. The fans know when we need them."

The German coach also praised his players for their defensive effort against a dangerous Betis side.

"Today it was a bit difficult, but we wanted to win. It was incredible to see how we defended against a fantastic team like Betis."

The match also marked the final home appearance for veteran striker Robert Lewandowski as a Barcelona player, with the Polish forward receiving an emotional farewell from supporters after the final whistle.

Flick admitted replacing Lewandowski would be one of the club's biggest challenges moving forward.

"It was a perfect farewell," Flick said. "It was very emotional and you could see that he has Barca in his heart."

"I'm very grateful to Robert. He's a fantastic person and a world-class player. For the last 20 years he has been the best number nine in the world and it will not be easy to find his replacement."

Flick also explained why so many foreign players and coaches quickly develop a strong connection with Barcelona.

"Barca are the best club in the world and the people of Barcelona are incredible," he said. "Every day when I walk down the street, people are very friendly. You can feel it comes from the heart, and that's why people fall in love with Barcelona."

Barcelona celebrate, Girona sink and Valencia complete great La Liga relegation escape

SABC Sport — Mon, 18 May 2026 05:05:41 +0000

Girona slipped into the relegation zone after defeat to Atletico Madrid, while already-relegated Oviedo continued to struggle at the foot of the table.

FC Barcelona wrapped up a flawless home La Liga campaign with a 3-1 victory over Real Betis at Camp Nou.

The champions dominated early and eventually took the lead through Raphinha, whose free-kick caught Alvaro Valles off guard. Betis thought they had equalised earlier through Abde Ezzalzouli, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Barcelona slowed after the break, but Betis gifted them a second goal when Hector BellerÃƒn's poor back pass allowed Raphinha to score again. Isco pulled one back from the penalty spot to give the visitors hope, but Joao Cancelo sealed the win with a superb strike from outside the box.

The victory ensured Barcelona completed a perfect home league season for the first time since 1959/60.

Rayo Vallecano boosted their European hopes with a deserved 2-0 win over Villarreal CF.

Sergio Camello opened the scoring with an excellent finish before Alemao doubled the lead early in the second half after a clever pass from club legend Oscar Trejo in his final home appearance.

Despite the defeat, Villarreal had already secured qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League. Rayo, meanwhile, stayed firmly in the race for a UEFA Conference League place after extending their unbeaten run to eight matches.

Valencia CF secured their La Liga survival in dramatic fashion with a thrilling 4-3 comeback win over Real Sociedad.

Real Sociedad struck first through Aihen Munoz, but Valencia responded quickly as Javi Guerra and Hugo Duro turned the game around before half-time.

The hosts fought back strongly after the interval. An own goal from Cesar Tarrega and a finish from Orri Oskarsson suddenly put Sociedad 3-2 ahead, while Valencia were reduced to 10 men after Eray Comert's red card.

Valencia refused to give up. Guido Rodriguez headed in a late equaliser before Guerra completed the comeback in stoppage time with a brilliant solo goal. The victory confirmed Valencia's safety and also kept alive their outside hopes of European qualification.

Girona FC dropped into the bottom three after a 1-0 loss against Atletico Madrid.

Girona missed several early chances before Ademola Lookman scored the decisive goal after combining with Antoine Griezmann, who was making his 500th Atletico appearance.

Girona pushed hard throughout the match, but goalkeeper Jan Oblak produced several excellent saves to deny them. The defeat extended Girona's winless run to nine matches and left them needing a victory on the final day to have any chance of survival.

Atletico's win kept them firmly in the race to finish third in La Liga alongside Champions League-bound Villarreal.

Sevilla FC confirmed their survival despite a 1-0 defeat at home to Real Madrid.

Sevilla started brightly, but Vinicius Junior finished calmly after good work from Kylian Mbappe to give Madrid the lead. The visitors controlled large parts of the match afterwards and comfortably protected their advantage.

Although Sevilla lost, results elsewhere guaranteed their place in La Liga for another season. Real Madrid also extended their unbeaten run against Sevilla to 15 matches.

Deportivo Alaves moved closer to survival with a tense 1-0 victory over already-relegated Real Oviedo.

Toni Martinez scored the only goal after good work from Abde Rebbach in the first half. Oviedo dominated possession for long periods but failed to seriously test Antonio Sivera as Alaves held firm.

The result means Alaves only need to avoid defeat on the final day to guarantee safety.

Levante UD earned a massive 2-0 win against RCD Mallorca to move three points clear of the relegation zone.

Carlos Espi opened the scoring with Levante's first shot on target before Kervin Arriaga headed home late on to secure the points.

Mallorca's situation worsened after the defeat. They will begin the final day inside the relegation zone and must win to keep their survival hopes alive.

Elche CF climbed further away from danger with a 1-0 victory over 10-man Getafe CF.

Victor Chust scored with a powerful strike from distance before Getafe captain Djene Dakonam was sent off late in the first half.

Elche could not find a second goal after the break, but they remained in control and held on for a crucial victory. The result left them two points above the relegation zone heading into the final weekend.

Athletic Bilbao guaranteed their La Liga status after drawing 1-1 with RC Celta de Vigo.

Celta took an early lead through Williot Swedberg, but Athletic responded after the break when Inaki Williams converted from close range.

Athletic pushed hard for a winner, but goalkeeper IonuÃˆ› Radu produced several important saves to preserve the draw. The point kept Celta on course for UEFA Europa League qualification heading into the final round of fixtures.

Mamelodi Sundowns claim slender advantage in CAF Champions League final

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 20:05:02 +0000

Aubrey Modiba scored the decisive goal in an entertaining and highly competitive encounter, curling home a superb free-kick in the 38th minute to give the Brazilians the breakthrough they deserved after a dominant first-half display.

The victory gives last seasonÃ¢™s CAF Champions League runners-up a narrow edge heading into the decisive second leg in Rabat next Sunday, although the tie remains finely balanced.

Sundowns controlled possession from the opening whistle and created several promising opportunities during the first half, applying sustained pressure on the Moroccan side. Their persistence paid off when Modiba stepped up to deliver a brilliantly struck set-piece that left AS FAR goalkeeper Reda Tagnaouti with no chance.

The start of the second half was delayed by approximately 20 minutes due to technical issues involving the VAR system. Once play resumed, Sundowns continued to dictate proceedings and created numerous chances to extend their lead.

Colombian striker Brayan Leon was particularly wasteful in front of goal, missing at least three clear opportunities that could have put the home side firmly in control of the tie.

Kutlwano Letlhaku also came close late in the match, forcing an excellent save from Tagnaouti, while midfielder Teboho Mokoena rattled the crossbar with a powerful effort in the closing stages.

Despite failing to add to their advantage, Sundowns will take confidence from a disciplined defensive performance and their overall dominance ahead of the return leg.

The second leg will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday, 24 May, where the winner on aggregate will be crowned CAF Champions League champions.

RCB books IPL playoff spot while DC hold their nerve against RR

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 18:05:33 +0000

RCB dominated their clash against PJBKS from start to finish, outclassing them with bat and ball as Punjab's collapse in the 2026 IPL continued.

Bengaluru batted first and smashed their way to 222/4 from their 20 overs, thanks to rollicking half-centuries from Virat Kohli, who hit a well-constructed 58 off 37 balls, and Venkatesh Iyer, who was the star of the innings with 73 off just 40 balls.

They were ably supported by Devdutt Padikkal (45 off 25 balls) and Tim David (28 off 12 balls), with all five batters who came to the crease getting into double figures.

Harpeet Brar was by far the best bowler for Punjab, returning figures of 2/35 from his four overs, with everyone else going for more than nine runs an over.

Yuzendra Chahal and Lockie Ferguson really struggled, with both going for over 40 runs despite only bowling three overs each.

PBKS's run chase got off to the worst possible start with Priyansh Arya going for a duck in the first over and Prabhsimran Singh following shortly afterwards for just two.

There was some fight lower down the order, with Suryansh Shedge getting 35 off 22 balls, Marcus Stoinis hitting 37 off 25 balls and Shashank Singh blasting 56 off 27 balls, but it was all too little too late as they fell to a 23-run defeat.

Rasikh Salam starred with the ball for the Royal Challengers with figures of 3/36 from his four overs, including the key wicket of Singh.

In the other game on Sunday, the Delhi Capitals chased down the 193 total set by Rajasthan with just four balls to spare.

RR batted first and got off to a great start with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46 off 21 balls), Dhruv Jurel (53 off 40 balls) and Riyan Parag (51 off 26 balls) all getting scores, but a collapse in the second half of their innings curtailed the total they were able to set.

Mitchell Starc showed once again why he is regarded as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world by picking up the key wickets of Parag, Donovan Ferreira, Ravi Singh and Dasun Shanaka, even though he was a bit expensive in conceding 40 runs.

Lungi Ngidi was exceptionally tight, going for just 24 runs in his four overs while also picking up two wickets.

In response, Abishek Porel and KL Rahul got the Capitals off to a flyer, both scoring over 50 in building an opening partnership of 105 runs.

A middle-order wobble made things closer than they perhaps should have been but a brisk 34 off 18 balls from Axar Patel helped DC get over the line in the final over of their innings.

Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers for RR, returning figures of 2/35 from his four overs, while everyone else struggled.

Adam Milne struggled to find his length and went for 41 runs in 3.2 overs, including 10 runs off the only two balls he bowled in the final over of the innings.

West Ham's Premier League relegation fears deepen with Newcastle defeat

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 18:05:12 +0000

Nick Woltemade opened the scoring at St James' Park after just 14 minutes following a defensive mistake from the visitors, before a quick-fire William Osula goal just four minutes later.

Osula then sealed the result with his second of the night after 64 minutes, before a spectacular consolation goal from Castellanos in the 68th minute.

The result leaves the Hammers on the verge of relegation, sitting 18th place in the league standings with 36 points from 37 games Ã¢” two adrift of Tottenham Hotspur, who have a game in hand against Chelsea on Tuesday.

West Ham made a bright start to the match, and a cross from Aaron Wan-Bissaka briefly threatened before a promising break by Osula at the other end ultimately fizzled out.

Bruno GuimarÃƒ£es fired into the arms of Mads Hermansen in the West Ham goal as he tried his luck from distance.

Osula then displayed some impressive trickery to ease his way past the West Ham defence, only for his shot to deflect to safety. There were appeals for a penalty as the ball brushed the arm of Tomas Soucek, but VAR ruled the incident accidental.

But Newcastle were soon ahead after 15 minutes when Woltemade slotted home from close range following a poor misplaced pass in defence from Hermansen. Ollie Barnes picked up the ball and teed up Woltemade perfectly for a side-footed finish from close range.

West Ham's relegation fears only worsened when, after a superb passing move, the ball was laid off for a buzzing Osula, who slotted home from the edge of the 18-yard area.

Hammers' boss Nuno wasted no time in making changes, introducing Taty Castellanos for Jean-Clair Todibo and changing the defensive shape, abandoning three at the back in favour of a flat back four.

The impact was almost immediate, with Castellanos forcing Newcastle stopper Nick Pope into a reaction save on the half-hour mark after a superb run and cut-back from Crysencio Summerville.

Pope then batted away the rebound from El Hadji Malick Diouf, while Callum Wilson was disappointed he could not get on the end of a dangerous Summerville free-kick in the box just minutes later.

Osula thought he was in again after 35 minutes, but the ball from Guimaraes over the Hammers' defence was just out of reach.

West Ham were certainly more competitive as the half unfolded, with Summerville a constant threat down the flank. A 40th-minute Diouf free-kick was hammered well wide, while a curling ball from Jarrod Bowen was headed clear with Castellanos lurking.

Nuno would have been encouraged by the response from his players, and they started the second period on the front foot, with an early goal the priority.

Diouf wanted a penalty after going down in the box under the challenge of Malick Thiaw, but the referee was unmoved.

Wilson was then beaten to the ball by Sven Botman at the back post following a deep cross from Diouf on the left.

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe introduced Joe Willock for Sandro Tonali in the 53rd minute, with the Italian seemingly withdrawn because of a slight hamstring strain.

Some good attacking interplay allowed Mateus Fernandes to find space for a shot, but he failed to test Pope, while Guimaraes came inches away from a third Newcastle goal with a curling effort that had Hermansen well beaten.

Pablo and Mohamadou Kante were brought on for Soucek and Wan-Bissaka just past the hour mark in one final throw of the dice for West Ham.

But no sooner had the changes been made than Newcastle went three goals to the good, with Osula bagging his second of the afternoon in the 64th minute.

The goal came from a loss of possession following a throw-in, with Osula playing a couple of one-twos with Willock.

There was still some fight left in the travelling side, and Castellanos pulled a goal back with a superb volley after latching onto a long ball forward from Hermansen.

There were calls for a Hammers penalty after Wilson was brought down in the box by Lewis Hall, but play was allowed to continue.

Bowen may have done better with a shot on the run that he hit straight at Pope, while Castellanos smashed an effort from close range against Pope's crossbar in the dying minutes of the match.

There was a moment of applause from the home fans as Kieran Trippier made way for Anthony Elanga, with Trippier making his final appearance for the club at St James' Park.

Osula, meanwhile, made way for Yoane Wissa following a superb performance that ultimately condemned West Ham to defeat and left their Premier League place very much in doubt.

West Ham complete their 2025/26 Premier League season at home to Leeds United next Sunday. If Tottenham take a point from their last two games, against Chelsea or Everton, they will stay up.

Red Devils clinch third after breathless battle against Forest

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 14:05:55 +0000

The sunbaked pitch was quick to provide action, with Luke Shaw taking one touch then firing the ball into the bottom corner to end his lengthy goal drought in the fifth minute.

Manchester stopper Senne Lammens denied a superlative strike from Morgan Gibbs-White after a defensive calamity from the hosts that went unpunished midway through the opening stanza.

Goals were fast and furious in the second half. Elliot Anderson planted a perfect delivery onto the head of Morato, who headed home his first Forest goal for the equaliser.

But 120 seconds later, Matheus Cunha pounced on a loose ball inside the area to snatch back the initiative for the home side. However, the goal wasn't without controversy, as Bryan Mbeumo looked to have touched the ball with his arm before his blocked shot fell to the Brazilian.

The twists and turns continued. United's Bruno Fernandes notched up a record-equalling 20th assist of the campaign, finding that man Mbuemo, who produced a smart finish to put Michael Carrick's men 3-2 up.

But Forest bounced back. An attack down the far side of the park saw Anderson fire in another cross, which found Gibbs-White's left foot as he opened up his body and side-footed the ball past a hapless Lammens.

Old Trafford then came to a standstill with Casmiro's departure after four seasons with the Red Devils.

The entertaining affair continued to ebb and flow with sparkling attacking football, with a brilliant save from Forest Matz Sels denying Joshua Zirkzee at the death.

Lions unfazed about returning to Leinster for URC knockout

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 12:05:27 +0000

With the sun setting on the league phase of the URC, the final standings came into sharp focus. The final out went down to the final whistle of Munster's clash with the Lions on Saturday, where the Irish giants emerged 24-17 victors.

But the real winners of the weekend were the men from Johannesburg, as they secured their first-ever quarterfinal berth and spot in Europe's premier club competition, the Champions Cup. Their immediate reward? A trip back to Dublin to face reigning URC champions and four-time Champions Cup winners Leinster.

The Lions faced Leinster just two weeks ago, going down 31-7.

"These two fixtures against Leinster and Munster were exactly what you need going into a quarterfinal," said van Rooyen after the Munster loss.

"You talk about quality opposition, tough conditions, and quality teams - that's exactly what Leinster and Munster are.

"There are enough positives to get excited about the opportunity ahead. Leinster might be European champions by then, and you're playing against them in Dublin. The energy and focus for that should look after itself.

"It's about whether we can rise to the occasion and find a way to play our game against them."

The Lions are still in Ireland after their two-match tour. When asked about logistics, van Rooyen indicated they could stay up north until the quarterfinal.

"Both options are still alive," he said.

"We just need to assess the injuries and then make a good, informed decision on whether we stay here and prepare or head home to recover before coming back."

Ayesha Moosa reflects on first season in Spain

Liam Maconi — Sun, 17 May 2026 14:03:19 +0000

CD Argual's first season in the Segunda Federación Femenina Group 2 saw them finish 8th on the final log standings.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Moosa, who is back in South Africa for the off-season, says she will have more confidence in her game when she goes back to her club.

“For me, it was my first experience abroad playing international football. There was a lot of learning for me, especially in Spain, because their tactics are on a much higher level,” said Moosa.

“Also, me joining the team, the coach saw a lot of potential in me so he started putting me in other positions that I haven’t played in so that was also good learning for me.

"I played three or four positions in the past season which I haven’t done before, and just overall, I enjoyed it and it was one of the best experiences.

"To be going back there now with a better understanding just gives me more confidence in my game.”

READ: Moodaly-Salgado: New league format will attract more fans

Moosa shared insight into the standard of coaching in Spain compared to what she was accustomed to back home.

“For me, obviously I feel the intensity of the tactics is much higher as well as the coaching. They recognise things faster and they have so many plans in place for one game," she added.

"In South Africa we’re used to a standard 4-3-3 or we play one simple formation and that’s it for the rest of the game, but in Spain it constantly changes, it’s not just one formation.

"There are times where you just have to realise these moments and change from there which are things I have never experienced here from a coaching level or playing level."

One of the biggest differences for the 22-year-old is also the level of investment and support the women's game receives in Spain.

"I think Spain is one of the best at their tactics, men and women’s football is amazing just to see. It’s like a little dance of their own.

"And the intensity of the game is naturally faster because players understand their game and fortunately there we are able to focus a lot more on football.

“Here [South Africa], unfortunately, we do not have a professional league so we are always lacking in resources, and gym and all of that stuff so I think that naturally makes the game faster as well," Moosa concluded.

Robyn Moodaly-Salgado: New league format will attract more fans

Mpumi Manyisi — Sun, 17 May 2026 13:43:58 +0000

This comes after the South African Football Association launched the revamped competition, which will now be played across two streams – the Super Era and the Super Rise.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Moodaly-Salgado says the two divisions could make the league more competitive this season.

"I think it's a good idea going forward with regards to obviously getting more spectators, because that's what we want, we want more limelight on the women's football game," said the former Banyana Banyana midfielder.

"Yes, it's going to be challenging, like the previous coaches have said, you need to start from game one, but overall I'm very excited, I think it's going to be nice and competitive and ultimately get spectators."

READ: Mabena excited ahead of Gauteng Sasol League season opener

The Bedfordview-based outfit avoided what many viewed as the “group of death” and will compete in the Super Rise, alongside newcomers Ramatlaohle FC and City Lads FC.

Moodaly-Salgado believes there is still plenty of hard work required for JVW to compete strongly in the group.

"I think I speak for all the players, we honestly just cannot wait to get out there and play football, it's been a long pre-season," she added.

"But looking at our group, I know we speak about 'group of death' but we're not in an easy group either – opponents like the ones in our group are ones where you really need to grind and get as many points as possible, so it's two halves and we're also ready!"

The Sharks' silverlining is their youth

Doug Mattushek — Sun, 17 May 2026 11:05:56 +0000

There's no doubt: the men from Durban underperformed. The Bok-laden squad was unable to advance past the Round of 16 in the Challenge Cup, or recover from their disastrous start in the URC season and make the playoffs. Eight wins from 18 matches left them tenth on the table, nine points off qualifying.

Of course, there were positives. The Sharks went back-to-back against the in-form Stormers, won nine out of 12 home games and more recently, unearthed many great young talents. For one, teenage sensation Zekethelo Siyaya has stepped his way into many a headline in the last month. The 18-year-old beat 32 defenders in his four URC matches.

Then there's Vusi Moyo, who was solid at flyhalf against Zebre on Saturday, and just 19-years-old. Flanker Matt Romao and flyer Jaco Williams are 20. The powerful Jurenzo Julius lives up to his moniker - the Boogeyman - every match at just 22. Then forwards Nick Hatton and Phatu Ganyane are 23, along with winger Litelihle Bester.

All these players ran out for the Sharks in the last few weeks and impressed in their own way.

"One positive that was great to see is the youngsters putting their hands up," reflected Pietersen.

"It's always a tough decision as to when to blood them in a campaign, but through injuries, it gave these players opportunities to show their worth.

"A guy like Vusi did that today [Saturday]. He was a bit nervous at the start, which is normal as a 19-year-old.

"Even a guy like Jurenzo showed his worth and is more of a senior guy in the team now. The same counts for Jaco, Litelihle and Siyaya, who we have in the backs that impressed this season.

"We also have Matt in the forwards with Nick Hatton and Phatu as a breakthrough player. It's exciting for what we're busy building.

"It's also good for me to work with this squad depth, which is better than last season. We want to come back next season with the mindset of not just competing, but we want to win. That's the challenge to the group."

Zooming out, Pietersen was happy with the pride shown by the players in the last four months, momentum he will take into the 2026/27 season.

"I'd say we showed resilience throughout the season and restored some pride in the jersey since December until now," Pietersen said.

"There was fight in every game. Unfortunately, some results didn't go our way. Some people will see it as disappointment, but I see it as a learning curve. To find your identity, you need to have one.

"We showed today [Saturday] that we can be physical, fast and relentless, and it's part of our identity we want to continue working on next season."

Jose Mourinho Real Madrid future 'should be decided this week'

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 11:05:08 +0000

Mourinho left Real Madrid 13 years ago as one of the most successful manager's in the club's history and his win rate of 72% has not been matched since his departure.

Los Blancos have been through a slew of high-profile leaders in that time, including the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso but none have been able to match the highs of the Mourinho era.

The Portuguese boss is currently contracted to Benfica and helped them to third place finish in the 2025-26 Primeira Liga season.

Mourinho has repeatedly side-stepped questions about a potential return to Real Madrid in recent weeks but has finally admitted it could be on the cards.

"My future should be decided this week," he said at a press conference.

"I need time. I need space. I need time to make my decision. This week I think will be very important.

"I don't have a proposal from Real Madrid. But to hide, to say there is nothing, I cannot do that. There is something. But not with me directly."

Despite leaving the club the better part of a decade and a half ago, he revealed he has retained close ties with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

"We are close for 13 years, nut that doesn't mean I've been in the club for the last 13 years or that I am going to be. We were always close and that doesn't mean anything I believe," he said.

He has an exit clause in his Benfica contract that would allow him to leave for Ã‚£2.6m, which would not be seen as much of an obstacle for a club of Real Madrid's stature.

He has other options on the table too, having been offered a new contract by Benfica and he also been approach to take over the Portugal national team after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Blitzboks not taking past success for granted ahead of next World Champs

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 11:05:04 +0000

The absolute joy of the HSBC SVNS Cape Town crowd - when the Blitzboks won a consecutive home tournament at DHL Stadium in December last year - was shared by Jobb.

Five months later, Jobb has now shared that special moment with his teammates in Perth, Vancouver and New York, where the Blitzboks were crowned HSBC SVNS series champions.

And when the HSBC SVNS World Championship kicked off in Hong Kong, Jobb was again part of the squad that made history by becoming the first from South Africa to be crowned champions in the Far Eastern city, with Jobb scoring tries and making crucial turnovers in all those tense finals.

Four in a row after sitting out for so long is not enough and he wants more, Jobb said with a broad smile as the Blitzboks finished another gruelling session at their Stellenbosch base. This time, they are preparing for the final two legs of the World Championship to be played in Valladolid, Spain (29-31 May) and Bordeaux, France (5-7 June), and the Kakamas-born speedster is adamant that if he can have it his way, more is to come.

"I was sitting in the Cape Town crowd and as happy I was for the guys, so determined was I to make sure sure I am on the field when we play again," said Jobb, who turns 27 on Wednesday.

"I did well in pre-season, but was not selected for the Dubai and Cape Town legs, which hurt to be honest. But I looked at myself, rather than blaming others and decided to work even harder."

Already strong in his faith, Jobb make some lifestyle changes as well: "I was running and training with my wife and brother-in-law at Kuilsriver Rugby Club every day during our December break, just trying to fine tune my game even further and changed some of my eating and social habits."

When Blitzbok coach Philip Snyman announced his first squad in 2026, Jobb was named to travel to Singapore and Perth.

He doesn't have many happy memories from the Singapore tournament, but mentally Jobb could put a red card for a high tackle during his previous visit to the National Stadium behind him.

Jobb made his debut during the Hong Kong and Sinagpore leg in 2023, a season where the Blitzboks struggled. In 2024, he was injured at crucial times, but last season the breaks (and some misfortune) came.

"I was selected to go to Vancouver and got a red card and when I got my next opportunity, in Singapore in 2025 I was red carded again and that almost broke me, to be honest," said Jobb, who only had four tournaments in three seasons to show at that stage of his career.

The 2025 season finished on a high for the Blitzboks, when they won the inaugural World Championship in Los Angeles, and when Snyman named a group of fringe players to play in the Africa Cup in Mauritius last year, Jobb sent a strong reminder that he is still around with a good display of his abilities.

Singapore 2026 was soul cleansing for Jobb as he delivered a strong performance, and in Perth a week later, a decisive performance against Fiji in the final rewarded his commitment made in the DHL Stadium in December: he was finally part of the trophy lift. That continued in Vancouver, New York and Hong Kong.

"The players are really working hard for each other, our training sessions are intense and full of detail, and I am happy to be part of that," said Jobb.

"Playing wing in sevens does not mean you can just stand on the outside and waiting for someone to pass you the ball, you have to have an all-round game on attack and defence."

Snyman will only announce his travelling squad to Spain and France later in the week, so Jobb is not taking anything for granted in a season that delivered so much already: "Of course I want to be in the squad as we are not yet done for the season. We have done well, but we can still do better and that is why we are working hard in training. It is a great environment and to be part of this is what I hoped for."

The Blitzboks depart for Spain on Sunday.

Phuti Mohafe livid despite Polokwane City top eight guarantee

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 17 May 2026 12:37:16 +0000

Rise and Shine were held to a 1-1 draw by relegation-threatened Marumo Gallants at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium yesterday as they reached the 40-point mark from 30 matches.

However, Mohafe was livid with what he described a lacklustre send-off for their supporters before praising his charges for their overall effort during the 2025/26 season.

"I'm not happy with the result and I'm not happy with the performance either, it was a very dismal send-off for the supporters, we were second-best in every move that we wanted to do," said Mohafe.

"We couldn't win the second balls, we couldn't win the first balls, we couldn't combine 10 passes, only in three moments were we able to combine 10 passes and we looked good.

"We were passive and reactive, so we didn't even deserve to draw this match, they should have beaten us, but by the grace of God, we managed to defend better. But the goal we conceded also leaves a lot to be desired.

"But I think for the progress of the team, we have shown consistency and progress in terms of the top eight finish, and we have shown the resilience of not losing matches."

READ: Kruger confirm no technical team changes following promotion

Mohafe said their initial target was to achieve a top six position, but could see themselves drop to eighth, depending on Durban City’s final result on Saturday.

"It is very much important because the target for us was to finish at number six, so if we had won this match it was going to be possible for us to finish at number six," he added.

"Now it's a matter of finishing at number eight, I think we will finish at eight – we were supposed to finish at number six, but we'll plan better and see what we can do going forward."

Chelsea announces Xabi Alonso as new manager

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 10:05:17 +0000

Former Liverpool midfielder Alonso sensationally led Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2023-24 in his first managerial role at a top club after retiring as a footballer.

That performance led to his appointment as head coach of Real Madrid in May 2025, but poor form in LaLiga and a lack of cohesion within the superstar squad resulted in his leaving Los Blancos by mutual consent in January 2026.

He has been out of work since then but has remained a much-sought-after leader with many suspecting he was set to replace Arne Slot as Liverpool boss at the end of this season.

However, with Slot looking increasingly likely to stay on as Liverpool manager, Alonso has pivoted towards another Premier League club in Chelsea.

The Spaniard has penned a four-year deal with the London side and will begin his tenure on 1 July 2026.

"Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in world football and it fills me with immense pride to become manager of this great club," he said in a statement.

"From my conversations with the ownership group and sporting leadership, it is clear we share the same ambition. We want to build a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level and fighting for trophies.

"There is great talent in the squad and huge potential at this football club, and it will be my great honour to lead it. Now the focus is on hard work, building the right culture and winning trophies."

The Blues sit ninth in the 2025-26 Premier League standings with one game of the season to play and have been without a head coach since Liam Rosenior was sacked in April.

Notably, Alonso will join as the club's manager, not the head coach, meaning he will have far more influence over Chelsea's backroom affairs than Rosenior was afforded.

The signing is seen as a significant coup for the Blues as Alonso was considered one of the top managerial candidates on the market, as they look to re-establish themselves as one of the top clubs in England.

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, Fulham head coach Marco Silva, Crystal Palace bos sOliver Glasner and former Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas were believed to be the other leading contenders for the position.

Julian Nagelsmann coy over suspected Manuel Neuer return to Germany fold

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 10:05:02 +0000

Neuer retired from international football in 2024 but has enjoyed another fantastic season with Bayern Munich, helping them to reclaim the Bundesliga title.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper is still considered one of the best shot stoppers in Germany and his experience and ability to marshal a defence are invaluable assets to any team he plays for.

Rumours began to swirl of a sensational return to international football after Neuer was included in Nagelsmann's provisional 55-man squad, which is set to be reduced to 26 players ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

However, despite all indications pointing towards Neuer being included in the final squad, Nagelsmann refused to confirm or deny anything.

"Neuer retired of his own free will, he has repeated that several times and that is why it is not even useful to constantly discuss it," he told reporters.

"The list [of 55 players in the provisional squad] won't be published, so I won't comment on it.

"What I can say is that there are a lot of players on it, because there are 55 of them. As I just said: there are 62 phone calls, so seven are missing.

"It is always our duty to include and evaluate all eligible players who hold a German passport and are healthy. And as I said, that list also includes players who haven't even played during my tenure, but who still hold a German passport and have had a decent Bundesliga/Premier League season or whatever."

Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany added fuel to the fire by stating the Neuer was clearly the best goalkeeper in Germany, but backtracked somewhat by saying he did not want his comments to be seen as putting pressure on Nagelsmann to select the veteran in his Germany World Cup squad.

Tumi Ramokgopha targets podium at World Athletics U20 Championships

Charles Baloyi — Sun, 17 May 2026 11:48:02 +0000

The junior world champs will take place from 5-9 August at the famous Hayward Field in Eugene, with the talented sprinter, who won bronze at the Commonwealth Youth Games, relishing her opportunity to continue her rise on the global stage.

Ramakgopa, the SA junior 100m hurdles record holder, says she is travelling to the United States with one goal in mind – reaching the podium and making the country proud.

“Luckily, it’s not a big deal for me because I’ve been racing against seniors since I was 15 years old. I actually enjoy it because it pushes me to improve all the time," the 18-year-old told SABC Sport.

"I don’t want to get too comfortable, and competing at that level motivates me. My main focus this year is the World Juniors, and that is the biggest goal for me.”

READ: Simbine explains decision to miss African Athletics Championships

Ramokgopha admitted that the previous World Junior Championships did not go according to plan, but she believes she is now more mature, experienced, and ready to challenge for a medal.

“This year feels like redemption for me. The goal is definitely to make the podium. I feel confident and believe I can make history,” she added.

The Kempton Park-based athlete, who is currently studying towards a BA General degree at the University of Pretoria, says her long-term dream is still to break the South African senior hurdles record.

“That remains the ultimate goal in my career, and I want to run as fast as possible. But right now, my focus is fully on Eugene and trying to win a medal there,” Ramakgopa said.

Meanwhile, Athletics South Africa has announced a 51-member preliminary squad for the global championships, including 27 male and 24 female athletes who have met the federation’s qualifying standards.

The final team will be confirmed in June, giving athletes who have not yet secured their places another opportunity to qualify before the championships begin.

Image by Athletics South Africa/Cecilia van Bers

Continental redemption on the line for Mamelodi Sundowns, Miguel Cardoso

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 17 May 2026 10:15:50 +0000

The Portuguese tactician has suffered heartbreak in his previous two final appearances – first with Esperance and then with Sundowns last season.

Cardoso, who views reaching three successive finals as a significant achievement, is now eager to finally lift Africa’s premier club trophy while also ending The Brazilians’ decade-long wait for continental success.

"I will never take whatever happened in the previous final matches as a failure or whatever happens in the next final," said Cardoso.

"I feel I belong to a very [small] group of coaches that arrived and had the possibility to experience consecutive Champions League finals in their careers, and it's a privilege to be among them.

READ: Cardoso calls for Portuguese coaches to be celebrated

"Obviously, if I look back, do I regret anything that I did? I don't because I worked so hard in preparation for all those matches, and I also know that just small details didn't allow us to arrive at the trophy.

"Yesterday I was sitting down with my son, who came to watch the match, and we were discussing what we achieved in this period we've been at Sundowns and what we want to achieve for the future.

"And obviously there are pages we want to open and objectives we want to achieve, and this is obviously the main one that we have at hand now.

"So let's leave it fully with the compromise of preparations that allows us, whatever happens in the end, to feel that we did our part, and let's control the details so that we make it fall in our favour."

Cedric Kaze: Progress evident as Kaizer Chiefs narrow gap on top two

Velile Mnyandu — Sun, 17 May 2026 10:05:17 +0000

Following their hard-fought 1-0 win over AmaZulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium yesterday, Chiefs are on course to match their biggest points tally in the last six years of 57 points from the 2019/2020 season.

Having failed to make the top eight just last season, Kaze says some progress has been made in this Betway Premiership campaign.

"Yeah, I would say there was not any dominant team in the league this season and everyone was competing, and I believe we were also very close until late January," said Kaze.

"But also it's a lesson that we learnt on what we could have done differently, maybe to stay in contact with the log leaders, but if you see the difference between the points we have now and the previous season, it's true there's a big difference. But this team also deserves better things."

READ: Siwelele want Mashiane, Zwane only as free agents

Immediately after scoring the lone goal of the match, Glody Lilepo received his second booking for taking off his shirt, but Kaze defended the DR Congo international.

"I would say it was an unfortunate situation with Lilepo, he's a player with big experience and he should know better because he already had been booked in the first half," added the coach.

"But that's football and I also understand his emotions when he scored because a human being without emotion is not a human being.

"But, you know, we got the three points and everything is good, so we need to just concentrate on the last game against Chippa United."

Finn Allen reveals how getting dropped helped him get back to his best

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 08:05:43 +0000

Allen has been instrumental in KKR's last two wins with scores of 100 not out off 47 balls against Delhi Capitals and 93 off 35 balls against the Gujarat Titans on Saturday.

The performance against GT was particularly impressive given it was against one of the strongest bowling attacks in the competition.

It has been a long time coming for Allen, who arrived at KKR with a weight of expectations on his shoulders as a big overseas signing but began the campaign in poor form that resulted in him losing his place in the first team.

The New Zealand opener and wicket keeper revealed he was struggling mentally after the slow start and being out of the team allowed him to refresh and reset.

"I was probably a shell of a human for a bit there. And it was all self-inflicted," he said after being named Player of the Match in the win against GT.

"I think, you know, when you go out of the side, you have time to relax and take a breath and, I guess, look at things from a different perspective. I love playing cricket.

"I love batting but I probably wasn't enjoying it as much as I should have at the time, because I was putting so much pressure on myself.

"So yeah, look, having those few games off really did me a good thing. And yeah, it's a great learning for sure."

Allen says he was trying to force the play too much initially and is now playing each ball on its merit and not put too much pressure on himself to hit a boundary if the shot was not on.

"Today it was definitely tricky at the start. We knew that was going to be the case. Two of probably the best opening bowlers in the comp as well," he said.

"So I think, to be honest, I had a plan of just hit what I got. And if I didn't get the ball, I wanted just try and get off strike or just not get out really.

"So it was one of those wickets and then, yeah, I just wanted to be there for a long time. Especially once Ajinkya Rahane got out, I knew I had to take a bit of responsibility.

"I think it's just for me keeping my intent early, trying to get in good positions. If it's there, try and hit it for four or six.

"And if it's not, just try and get off strike. I'm just trying to get in stronger positions so I can be more consistent, you know, that's going to help me combat the ball moving off the wicket and the swing. That's the plan really, just try and keep it simple."

Siya Kuse seals redemption to win WBC World Title

Rynhardt Kuhn — Sun, 17 May 2026 09:29:55 +0000

This is what the newly-crowned champion had to say on the preparations and the execution of his dream, the second time around.

"Working with Manny Fernandes and sparring the Malajika brothers has never been easy, but this time I pushed myself a lot every day in the gym so that I can make history for my country and my province," said Kuse.

"When I look at the records of the WBC, there is no one from the Eastern Cape, so I think I’ve made them proud.”

The two fighting men were circumspect in the first two rounds but in the early moments, “One Way” successfully planted some traps and was hopping in and out of the exchanges without taking any real damage.

As is customary with WBC World Title fights, the scores were made public after the first four rounds and, at that point, one judge had it level, while one judge favoured Kuse and the other Jerusalem.

READ: Promnick wins SA Title in closely contested war

In the lead up to the fight Kuse also mentioned that he was working on his speed and power, which were the two ingredients that propelled him to victory against the tough as nails “El Gringo”.

Fighting out of his southpaw stance, Kuse was having a field day with his straight-left down the pipe and from time to time threw in the odd right hook that connected flush on his Filipino opponent.

By the 8th round, Kuse was leading the fight quite comfortably on all three scorecards, while Jerusalem was starting to bleed profusely, and the damage was starting to have an effect.

Kuse may have survived a flash knockdown in the 11th but he did not appear shaken after what was a commanding display of great speed and technique.

There are still those who believe the South African did enough to win the first fight in the Philippines, but this result at Emperors Palace was emphatic.

The final scorecards read: 111-116, 112-115, 112-116 – all in favour of the first-ever WBC champion from East London, only the fourth South African WBC Champion in history, and the first to win the coveted belt on home soil since the great Dingaan Thobela in 2000.

URC quarterfinal fixtures and dates confirmed

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 07:05:56 +0000

The most intense playoff race in URC history went all the way to the final whistle of Round 18, where the result between Munster and the Lions put the rubber stamp on a fascinating slate of quarterfinal matchups.

The results from Round 18 ensured that the four home teams were ranked; Glasgow Warriors (1), Leinster (2), Stormers (3) and Bulls (4). The away teams will be Munster (5), Cardiff (6), Lions (7) and Connacht (8).

The 2024 champions, Glasgow Warriors, will get the Play-Offs underway on Friday, May 29, when they take on Connacht at Scotstoun. This will be followed by three games on the Saturday with the Bulls taking on 2023 champions, Munster, the Stormers welcome Cardiff to Cape Town, and defending champions Leinster hosting the Lions.

The qualification of both Cardiff and the Lions means that 14 of the 16 teams in the league have reached the last eight in the past five seasons.

URC playoffs

Quarterfinals

Friday, May 29

QF1: (1) Glasgow Warriors v (8) Connacht

Venue: Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow

KO: 20:45 SA

Saturday, May 30

QF4: (4) Bulls v (5) Munster

Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria

KO: 13:00

QF3: (3) Stormers v (6) Cardiff

Venue: DHL Stadium, Cape Town

KO: 15:30 SA

QF2: (2) Leinster v (7) Lions

Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin

KO: 21:00 SA

Semi-Finals - Saturday, June 6

SF1: Winner QF1 v Winner QF4

SF2: Winner QF2 v Winner QF3

URC Grand Final - Saturday, June 20

Winner SF1 v Winner SF2|

Mohammed Salah slams Liverpool decline in scathing statement

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 07:05:45 +0000

The Reds were beaten 4-2 by Aston Villa at Villa Park on Friday night, surrendering a place next season's Champions League to the Villans in the process.

It was the club's 12th defeat of the season under manager Arne Slot this season and means they will end the campaign without a win away from home against any team in the top nine of the Premier League this season.

Salah has fallen out of favour at Anfield and will depart the club at the conclusion of the season and this is not the first time he has gone public with the frustration.

Back in December, he revealed his relationship with Slot was nonexistent and that he felt that he was being blamed and "thrown under the bus" as an excuse for the Reds' poor form.

Despite his imminent exit, the Egyptian striker still seems to care deeply about the future of the club and claims big changes are needed if Liverpool is to become the force it once was under Klopp.

"I have witnessed this club go from doubters to believers, and from believers to champions. It took hard work and I always did everything I could to help the club get there. Nothing makes me prouder than that," he posted to social media site X on Saturday.

"Us crumbling to yet another defeat this season was very painful and not what our fans deserve. I want to see Liverpool go back to being the heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear and back to being a team that wins trophies.

"That is the football I know how to play and that is the identity that needs to be recovered and kept for good. It cannot be negotiable and everyone that joins this club should adapt to it.

"Winning some games here and there is not what Liverpool should be about. All teams win games.

"Liverpool will always be a club that means a great deal to me and to my family. I want to see it succeed for long after I have moved on.

"As I've always said, qualifying to next season's Champions League is the bare minimum and I will do everything I can to make that happen," the statement concluded.

After the defeat to Villa on Friday, the increasingly under-pressure Slot acknowledged the frustration of the club's fans following a disappointing season and promised things would improve.

"I can understand at this moment of time that they don't have a lot of confidence or a lot of feeling that things can be much better next season," Slot said.

"But I think then they are underestimating what a window can do, what a new start can do, and I think we know quite well what to improve."

The Dutch manager also blamed a slew of injuries to key players for their lack of consistency this season.

"If you miss nine players that can start a game of football, and almost all of them are starters for us or have been for large part of the season, then if you add that to what you can improve in a window and add that to players that are playing for the second season in the Premier League, that will automatically lead to much more," he said.

"I don't think the differences are so big, only doing in a few situations the right thing can already have a best massive upwards possibility."

Resurgent Elina Svitolina reigns supreme in Rome

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 07:05:42 +0000

Svitolina produced some spellbinding tennis to defeat Gauff 6-4, 6-7, 6-2 in very slow conditions on a cold night in the Italian capital.

After falling short in last year's Italian Open final to Jasmine Paolini, Gauff was determined to come out on top this time out and raced into a first-set lead.

However, seventh seed Svitolina - who beat Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek on her run to the final - broke back twice to move 6-4 up.

Just when it looked like the match was slipping away from the American, the 22-year-old rallied and played an excellent tiebreak (7-3) to take it to a decider. However, the 31-year-old composed herself once again to claim a fourth WTA 1000 crown.

"Very hard to believe it's been eight years since I had this trophy here," said Svitolina on court afterwards.

"Very, very pleased with the two weeks here, but firstly, I want to say congrats to Coco for a great performance here. To your team as well.

"You're such a great champion and I hope to have more battles with you in the future. Then I want to thank my team. I had a tough loss in the final in Dubai this year and it was my 19th title and I was aiming for 20 before I finished my career.

"I want to thank the tournament for making it really great for us and improving every year. I really enjoy coming here and playing in Rome. These last two weeks I've been playing late matches and it's been unbelievable to see you guys staying up and supporting us. Day in, day out. You always make it very special. It's always one of my favourite tournaments."

Svitolina is now up to third in the WTA race, while Gauff remains in sixth. These two will be among the heavy favourites to win this year's French Open.

The Ukrainian's victory was her second WTA title of the season, following her victory at the ASB Classic at the start of the year in January.

Svitolina has a 28-7 win record now and she surely has more than an outside chance of winning Roland Garros later this month.

The 31-year-old now holds seven WTA Tour titles on clay and she has reached five quarter-finals at the Paris Grand Slam.

She holds a 73% win rate at the Grand Slam, which is statistically her best-performing major tournament by win rate.

Title race excitement good for PSL - Abdeslam Ouaddou

Velile Mnyandu — Sun, 17 May 2026 08:42:55 +0000

A goalless draw against Durban City on Saturday meant Pirates remain two points behind reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns, with a game in hand against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium next weekend.

A win would have seen Pirates take first position on goal difference, needing only to avoid a ludicrous defeat in Mbombela to confirm their first crown in 14 years, but Ouaddou says the suspense may be good for the PSL.

"I'm really, really confident, and my players have to be confident as well. It's the beauty of the PSL – Durban City came to play a strong game and it shows the interest in this league, nobody gives up," said Ouaddou.

"Of course, we can be disappointed but I think, for the interest of the PSL, it's really good – it means we keep the suspense until the end, something that during [the last] eight years you didn't have.

"It was unusual for you [media], I think, because during the last eight years you knew one month before who was going to be crowned champion.

"So let's push for one more week and we hope to really give the happiness and joy to our fans in the last game, but it will not be easy as well because we are playing against a team trying to save their position in the PSL so let's go to grab it."

READ: Sikhosana: Pirates and Sundowns gave their all

Ouaddou also highlighted that the league would not have been wrapped up at Orlando Amstel Arena despite people having their champaign ready to pop.

"We had 30 shots, I think, and 12 on target – it's not enough to win this kind of game, so of course we wanted to take the three points, and I want to be clear, not the title because a lot of people were celebrating and got out the champaign before the end," he added.

"We are clear, for us the target was to take three points in front of our fans and it didn't happen, but if you remember what I've been saying since the beginning of the season, the title will be decided maybe at the last game, and we are in [that situation]."

ðŸ-Œ ð”¹ð”¼ð•‹ð•Žð”¸ð• „™„ð”¼ð•„ ð•ƒð•†ð”¾ ðŸ-Œ

One more #BetwayPrem matchday to come, and this is how the log reads ðŸ‘

ðŸ”˜ Title to be decided
ðŸ”˜ Relegation battle continues
ðŸ”˜ Eighth spot still up for grabs

It's going to be ðŸ”¥#SABCSportFootball pic.twitter.com/ZTLELRoAv7
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) May 16, 2026

Grittty Munster edge Lions to secure URC playoff spot

SABC Sport — Sun, 17 May 2026 06:05:23 +0000

The Irish giants moved to fifth place on the table courtesy of the victory, while the Lions had already confirmed their quarterfinal berth thanks to Glasgow beating Ulster.

Lions started well in hostile territory, piling the pressure on the hosts, but it was Munster who crossed the whitewash first when Evan OÃƒ‡onnell bashed over from close range.

Fullback Quan Horn got the visitors on the scoreboard thanks to a perfectly timed intercept and a 70m run to score in splendid isolation under the poles.

With the Lions on attack, Munster would earn two yellow cards in quick succession. First, Andrew Smith stuck out his hand to prevent a pass, then Sean OÃ¢™Brien did the exact same thing on the other side of the field minutes later, reducing them to 13 men.

It looked as though they would get away with the infringements, but the Lions eventually capitalised, and Kelly Mpeku ran in an easy score.

But Munster fought hard with 14 on the park and nuggety number nine Craig Casey sniped over for a crucial try, sending them down the tunnel at 17-14.

In the 54th minute, after multiple waves of attack, Munster's Tom Ahern crashed over and JJ Hanrahan's conversion took the lead out to ten points.

Five minutes later, Chris Smith kept the Lions in touch with a penalty, which ended up being the final points of the match.

There were distasteful scenes later on. Diarmuid Barron accused one of the Lions players of spitting in his face, but TMO Stefano Penne found no evidence. The Lions camped in the Munster half for the remainder of the match, but couldn't land the knockout punch.

Tyla Promnick wins SA Title in closely contested war

Rynhardt Kuhn — Sun, 17 May 2026 00:59:37 +0000

The bout lasted the full ten rounds and in the end, Promnick had her hand raised in a fight that could’ve gone either way. Two of the three judges scored the contest in her favour, and the last judged viewed the fight as a draw.

The first few rounds was a period in which both fighters were visibly nervous and still collecting important data for the latter stages of the fight. After round five, Promnick took the initiative and closed the distance but at times she was caught by Nyanda as she looked to open up and look for the killer blow.

READ: Year of Africa in focus with WBC world title fight at Emperors Palace

Promnick, under the tutelage of Alan Toweel, has risen to become the youngest female South African Champion and she did so the hard way. In the build up to the fight, the undefeated boxer said that “this has been the toughest training camp I’ve ever been through, they just get more and more challenging, and I’m hoping that the champion will give me a test because I need tough tests at this stage of my career.”
Turns out Promnick was correct on both fronts, she endured the toughest and longest fight of her career after conquering a grueling training camp and now she is in a position to celebrate a major milestone in her career and use it as a foundation to build towards even greater accomplishments.

IPL: Kolkata Knight Riders ease past Gujarat Titans to maintain play-off goal

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 18:05:28 +0000

Asked to bat first on home turf, KKR endured an early setback when Ajinkya Rahane fell cheaply for 14 runs.

Finn Allen then launched a decisive counterattack, smashing 93 off just 35 deliveries to wrest control of the innings and shift momentum firmly in the hosts' favour.

He was well supported through the middle and death overs. Angkrish Raghuvanshi produced a composed yet aggressive unbeaten 82 from 44 balls, while Cameron Green provided further late fireworks with an unbeaten 52 off 28 deliveries.

Together, they propelled KKR to a formidable 247 from their 20 overs. For Gujarat Titans, Mohammed Siraj and Sai Kishore picked up one wicket apiece amid the onslaught.

Chasing 248, Gujarat Titans opened with captain Shubman Gill alongside Sai Sudharsan. Sudharsan struggled with injury for much of the innings, temporarily leaving the field before returning later after Gill's dismissal. Nishant Sindhu's stay was brief, contributing just one run.

Gill anchored the chase with a fluent 85 from 49 deliveries, while Jos Buttler added 57 off 35 to keep hopes alive.

Sudharsan finished unbeaten on 52 from 28 balls, but the Titans could not sustain the required rate.

Despite the late resistance, Gujarat Titans finished short of the target, handing KKR a crucial win in a shock defeat for the visitors.

Man City lift trophy after Antoine Semenyo nets FA Cup winner against Chelsea

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 16:05:46 +0000

Having already lifted the Carabao Cup in March, City completed a domestic cup double and handed Guardiola his 20th major honour as manager of Manchester City.

The win also kept alive their slim hopes in the Premier League title race, although they still require an Arsenal stumble to stand a realistic chance of reclaiming the crown.

After losing the previous two FA Cup finals, City were determined not to fall short again, but they initially struggled to penetrate Chelsea's organised defence.

Chelsea, meanwhile, threatened first when Moises Caicedo met a delivery with a powerful header that appeared destined for the net before Rodri produced a crucial clearance.

Enzo Fernandez later came close as well, flicking an effort onto the roof of the net, but Chelsea were ultimately punished midway through the contest.

Erling Haaland drove a low cross into the penalty area where Semenyo, holding off Levi Colwill, produced a brilliant right-heel flick to beat Robert Sanchez.

The strike was Semenyo's 10th goal since joining City from AFC Bournemouth in January, with the winger continuing the impressive form that has made him one of the club's standout signings.

City finished the stronger side and nearly added to their lead when Sanchez tipped Matheus Nunes' effort onto the post before also denying Rayan Cherki with an excellent save.

For Chelsea, the defeat deepened an already frustrating campaign. The London side failed to score in a Wembley final for a fifth straight occasion and missed the opportunity to qualify for the Europa League.

URC: Bulls secure home quarter-final with convincing win over Benetton

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 16:05:41 +0000

Coached by Johan Ackermann, the Pretoria side looked in control early on and raced into a 14-0 lead within the opening 12 minutes.

Sergeal Petersen crossed first after a sharp midfield break from Canan Moodie created space out wide, with Handre Pollard adding the conversion to make it 7-0 after only four minutes.

The Bulls doubled their advantage in the 12th minute when Willie le Roux marked his 400th professional appearance with an unopposed try, which was also converted. Benetton responded through Louis Lynagh, although the missed conversion left the visitors trailing 14-5 after 18 minutes.

The home side continued to dominate territory and possession, and their forwards were rewarded in the 29th minute when Johan Grobbelaar powered over from close range.

With the Bulls still needing one more try to secure the crucial bonus point, Cobus Wiese delivered it eight minutes before half-time after Cameron Hanekom took a quick-tap penalty. Pollard converted to stretch the lead to 26-5.

Benetton refused to fade away, however. Rhyno Smith gathered a Bulls chip kick to score under the posts just before the break, narrowing the deficit to 26-12 at half-time.

The Italian outfit then piled on further pressure when Lynagh scored his second try early in the second half, with Smith converting to cut the gap to seven points at 26-19.

The Bulls regained control in the 58th minute as Petersen grabbed his second try of the afternoon to settle nerves and restore momentum.

Late scores from Mpilo Gumede and Ruan Nortje eventually saw the Bulls pull away comfortably and seal an emphatic 45-19 triumph.

Bayern, Dortmund, Freiburg celebrate UCL football as St. Pauli and Heidenheim relegated

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 16:05:41 +0000

At the other end, St. Pauli and Heidenheim were relegated automatically, while Wolfsburg survived long enough to reach the relegation play-offs.

League champions Bayern qualified for next season's UEFA Champions League alongside Dortmund, RB Leipzig and VfB Stuttgart.

Bayer Leverkusen finished their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Hamburg after coming from behind late in the second half.

Patrik Schick missed a first-half penalty for Leverkusen before Fabio Vieira curled Hamburg ahead just after the hour mark. The home side rescued a point when Nicolai Remberg accidentally headed into his own net from a free-kick.

The draw secured a UEFA Europa League place for Leverkusen, while Hamburg ended their impressive return season in 13th place.

Borussia Dortmund ended the season on a high with a 2-0 away victory over Werder Bremen.

Serhou Guirassy finally broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with a close-range header after several earlier chances. Bremen pushed for an equaliser, but Gregor Kobel made an important save before Yan Couto added a late second from Karim Adeyemi's assist.

Dortmund finished with 73 points, their best Bundesliga return since the 2018/19 campaign.

Union Berlin gave interim coach Marie-Louise Eta a memorable send-off with a dominant 4-0 win over Augsburg.

Andrej Ilic scored twice in the first half as Augsburg struggled badly defensively. Andras Schafer added a superb long-range strike before substitute Jeong Woo-yeung completed the scoring late on.

The heavy defeat ended Augsburg's hopes of sneaking into Europe.

Bayern Munich finished their title-winning season in historic style by thrashing Cologne 5-1 and setting a new scoring record.

Harry Kane starred with a hat-trick as Bayern reached 122 league goals for the season, the highest total ever recorded in one of Europe's top five leagues. Tom Bischof and Nicolas Jackson also scored, while Said El Mala replied for Cologne.

Vincent Kompany's side had already wrapped up the title, but they closed the campaign in dominant fashion.

Borussia Monchengladbach crushed Hoffenheim 4-0 to end the visitors' UEFA Champions League hopes.

Goals from Tomas Brolin, Haris Tabakovic, Kevin Diks and Robin Hack secured an emphatic victory for Gladbach. Hoffenheim's problems worsened when Tim Lemperle was sent off early in the second half.

Despite the defeat, Hoffenheim still secured a UEFA Europa League place after finishing fifth.

Wolfsburg kept their Bundesliga survival hopes alive with a tense 3-1 victory over St. Pauli.

Konstantinos Koulierakis opened the scoring before Abdoulie Ceesay equalised for St. Pauli early in the second half. Wolfsburg regained the lead through an own goal by Nikola Vasilj before Dzenan Pejcinovic sealed the result late on.

The defeat confirmed St. Pauli's relegation alongside Heidenheim, while Wolfsburg moved into the relegation play-off spot.

Heidenheim were relegated after suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Mainz.

Phillip Tietz gave Mainz an early lead before Nadiem Amiri finished a sharp counterattack shortly before half-time. Heidenheim improved after the break but failed to find a goal despite hitting the woodwork.

The loss left Heidenheim in 17th place and sent them back to Bundesliga 2.

SC Freiburg secured European football with an impressive 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig.

Jan-Niklas Beste opened the scoring before Igor Matanovic doubled Freiburg's advantage. Assan Ouedraogo briefly gave Leipzig hope, but Matthias Ginter and Derry Scherhant sealed a convincing win for the hosts.

Freiburg guaranteed at least a UEFA Conference League place and now turn their focus towards their upcoming UEFA Europa League final against Aston Villa.

VfB Stuttgart secured a place in next season's UEFA Champions League after holding Eintracht Frankfurt to a dramatic 2-2 draw on the final day of the Bundesliga season.

Sebastian Hoeness' side made the stronger start and moved ahead after 10 minutes when Chema Andres powered home a header from Chris Fuhrich's corner.

Stuttgart looked in control when Nikolas Nartey doubled the advantage late in the second half after a sharp passing move involving Fuhrich and Deniz Undav.

Frankfurt responded through Jonathan Burkardt, who converted a penalty in the 72nd minute after being fouled by Alexander Nubel. Deep into stoppage time, Frankfurt were awarded another spot-kick after Chema AndrÃƒ©s handled inside the area, and Burkardt calmly scored again to rescue a point.

Despite letting a two-goal lead slip, the draw was enough for Stuttgart to finish fourth and qualify for the Champions League after Hoffenheim suffered a heavy defeat to Borussia Monchengladbach elsewhere.

Pirates held by Durban City as Betway Premiership title race goes to final day

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 15:05:53 +0000

The Buccaneers now head into the final game of the season knowing victory over Orbit College next week will secure the league crown, while anything less could hand the title back to rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.

Pirates dominated possession for long spells and created the better opportunities throughout the contest, but a combination of resilient defending from Durban City and inspired goalkeeping from Fredrick Asare frustrated the home side.

The hosts started brightly and threatened early through a long-range effort that forced the Durban goalkeeper into a save for a corner inside the opening minutes.

As the first half progressed, Pirates steadily increased the pressure. A dangerous low ball into the area was brilliantly blocked in the box before another deflected effort forced Asare into an excellent low save shortly before half-time.

Despite the sustained pressure, the teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Pirates resumed the second half with renewed urgency and almost found the breakthrough through Oswin Appollis, who endured a frustrating afternoon in front of goal despite repeatedly finding promising positions.

The winger first stretched desperately to meet a chipped delivery before later glancing a header narrowly wide of the far post after a dangerous cross into the box.

Durban City continued to threaten and nearly stunned the home crowd with a lively attacking sequence midway through the second half that saw three efforts blocked inside the Pirates area.

With tension growing around the stadium, Pirates threw numbers forward in search of the decisive goal.

Appollis came closest in the 74th minute when he unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, only for Asare to produce another outstanding save low to his left.

Pirates continued to pile on the pressure in the closing stages, with another curling effort flashing inches wide before Asare again denied the hosts late on with a strong double-handed save.

Durban City's defence, however, stood firm under relentless pressure as Pirates were denied the victory they needed to clinch glory.

Ten-man Kaizer Chiefs dent AmaZulu's top-four hopes with narrow win in Durban

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 15:05:08 +0000

The home side fashioned the first chance of the match after Sandile Mthethwa saw his eighth-minute header saved following a Riaan Hanamub cross, with Keegan Allan failing to convert the rebound.

Kaizer Chiefs resorted to long-range efforts, but only Nkosingiphile Ngcobo could force a save from Olwethu Mzimela from a set-piece shortly before half-time.

Usuthu were again the first team to put a shot on target in the second half, with Chiefs shot-stopper Brandon Petersen making a good save to deny former player Hendrick Ekstein in the 55th minute.

Amakhosi responded two minutes later as chances began to come, with Reeve Frosler being denied by Mzimela, who tipped his shot over the crossbar to keep the scores level.

AmaZulu striker Athini Maqokola came close to scoring in the 66th minute, but his effort went just wide of the goal before Glody Lilepo punished them with an excellent finish to give the visitors the lead.

However, Lilepo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for taking off his shirt during his goal celebration, leaving his side with 20 minutes to negotiate with 10 men.

The Soweto giants were able to maintain their lead as both teams could not find a way past either goalkeeper, with substitute Tashreeq Morris coming closest for Chiefs, while Mthethwa tested Petersen from distance.

The result sees AmaZulu still needing a win to ensure they finish in fourth spot after fifth-placed Sekhukhune United drew against Richards Bay.

Sharks end URC season in fine style with eight-try victory over Zebre

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 13:05:59 +0000

Having already fallen out of playoff contention before the final round, the Durban side produced another dominant attacking display after last week's big win over Benetton, running in eight tries against the Italians at Kings Park.

The Sharks started brightly and opened the scoring through Jaco Williams after a slick attacking movement involving Nick Hatton. Although Vusi Moyo missed the conversion, the hosts continued to dominate territory and possession early on.

Zebre briefly threatened to upset the hosts when Malik Faissal crossed following sharp footwork, but that advantage did not last long.

Siya Kolisi - playing his final game in Durban - led from the front with a powerful display and scored twice before half-time, first bursting through a gap off a well-timed Ox Nche pass before later crashing over from a maul after the hooter.

Zekhethelo Siyaya also added a superb solo effort, stepping his way through the defence as the Sharks pulled clear.

The second half followed a similar pattern as the Sharks' physicality and attacking intent overwhelmed the visitors.

Moyo capped a free-flowing move to score shortly after the restart before Manu Tshituka powered over following sustained pressure close to the line.

Andre Esterhuizen was at the heart of much of the Sharks' best attacking play, helping to create tries for Le Roux Malan and Ross Braude in quick succession as the hosts pushed beyond the 50-point mark.

Zebre managed late consolation tries through Simone Gesi and Giovanni Quatrini, but the result was never in doubt as the Sharks comfortably controlled proceedings.

'It's time to move on' - Robert Lewandowski confirms Barcelona exit

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 12:05:43 +0000

The veteran striker announced the news through a video posted on Instagram, where he reflected on some of his best moments in Barcelona colours. Lewandowski thanked the club, supporters and president Joan Laporta for what he described as one of the greatest chapters of his career.

"After four years full of challenges and hard work, it's time to move on," Lewandowski wrote. "I leave with the feeling that the mission is complete. Four seasons, three championships."

The Poland international also paid tribute to the Barcelona fans, saying the support he received from the first day at the club would never be forgotten.

"I will never forget the love I received from the fans from my very first days. Catalonia is my place on earth," he added.

Lewandowski arrived at Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2022 and quickly became one of the key figures in the club's rebuilding project. During his time at Camp Nou, he helped Barcelona win three La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups.

Despite turning 37 later this year, the striker remained an important player for Barcelona. He scored 119 goals and provided 24 assists in 191 appearances, numbers that underlined his impact during a period in which the club returned to competing for major honours.

Barcelona also released an emotional farewell message for the forward, thanking him for his contribution and describing him as "Culer forever."

Lewandowski is expected to say goodbye to supporters during Barcelona's final home game of the season against Real Betis on Sunday.

Attention will now turn to his next move, with clubs from Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer in the United States reportedly interested in signing the experienced striker ahead of next season.

Alexandra Eala staying grounded as clay-court progress fuels rise on WTA Tour

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 10:05:21 +0000

Despite dropping out of the top 32 following the Miami Open, where ranking points from her breakthrough semi-final run were removed, she has remained composed and focused, maintaining a consistently positive mindset.

The 20-year-old's presence on tour has grown steadily, with strong travelling fan support at events around the world reinforcing her rising profile, alongside widespread praise for her potential and engaging personality.

Her steady trajectory across surfaces has reinforced expectations that she will continue to climb the rankings as she accumulates match experience and adapts to the physical and tactical demands of the elite circuit.

Eala has also begun to establish herself against elite opposition, regularly facing top-ranked players on tour and recording notable wins against high-level opponents.

Each match has added to her development, exposing her to situations and environments she had not previously encountered.

"I think that it feels like it's only the start of the season, but we're already almost in May. So I think time flies by really fast, and when you think about it, so much has happened, and I've had a lot of ups and downs already," she told reporters.

"I like to say that what I learned also from last year and what's continuing to unfold is that when I have a bad loss, or a tough moment, it's not as bad as it seems, and when I have a good win, it's also not as good as it seems."

She added: "I'm grateful that I've had the opportunity and I've won a couple of matches and had some deep runs, right? So the level is also increasing of the opponents that I play on a consistent basis, so I think that's something that's really challenging.

"I think this year I've improved my fitness a lot, so I'm trying to get to a point where I'm able to use my fitness, and really, I think clay is the best place to do that."

Man Utd star Bryan Mbeumo reflects on 'dream' first season at Old Trafford

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 10:05:03 +0000

The Cameroon international arrived at United following a standout campaign in which he scored 20 goals for Brentford and attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. However, Mbeumo revealed his focus was always on a move to United, a decision he says he does not regret.

Speaking ahead of United's last home match of the 2025/26 season against Nottingham Forest, he said the progress made under the club's coaching staff has strengthened his belief.

"Of course, it's just like a good answer for my choice," Mbeumo said. "I always trust the process, trust my team-mates, trust all the staff who brought me here, from Michael Carrick. I'm really happy for what we have achieved and we just can't wait to go again."

Mbeumo also highlighted how quickly he settled at United, crediting the supporters for helping him feel at home from the start.

"Being accepted by the fans is something you always want," he said. "They are always behind us. They never stop cheering us. So being accepted by them is great for me."

On the pitch, Mbeumo has already made an impact, picking up two Player of the Month awards and playing a key role in United securing UEFA Champions League qualification. He also pointed to his favourite goal so far - a rapid strike at Anfield against Liverpool - not for its quality alone, but for its significance.

He also praised team moments, including a Bruno Fernandes free-kick against Bournemouth and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu's powerful strike at Arsenal. Mbeumo even recalled a standout save from Gianluigi Donnarumma in the Manchester derby, when a volley he struck looked destined for the net.

"I thought it was going in," he said. "It was a big, big save."

Looking ahead, Mbeumo believes finishing strongly remains important, with United targeting a top-three Premier League finish.

"To finish in the top three would be a really big message and a really big performance from everyone," he said.

Manchester United host Nottingham Forest in their next Premier League fixture on Sunday.

'They wanted it more' - Dobson admits Stormers were second best against Cardiff

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 09:05:26 +0000

The Stormers were comprehensively outplayed by their Welsh opponents on the night and looked tactically inept and ill-prepared for what was one of the most important games of the season, and now look certain to miss out on a top-two finish.

The game was even more important for Cardiff, however, who would have missed out on the playoffs entirely had they lost, and Dobson could do little but insist their opponents were more "desperate" on the night.

"A very disappointing performance," the Stormers coach said.

"I think we have to give Cardiff quite a lot of credit - they were desperate - and I'm sorry that their desperation meant more to them than our chance to host a series of playoffs in Cape Town.

"I thought their attack and defence was very good. They put us under pressure defensively, got yards on us, very clever attack, and they were just really desperate."

The Stormers once again wasted several try-scoring opportunities but as time went on, even the opportunities evaporated as they looked short of ideas.

"We had lots of areas of dominance and lots of opportunities that we probably wasted, very similar to last week," Dobson said.

"Failure to convert when we were five metres out and the fact that we didn't get a behaviour change there, is a problem for us."

A losing bonus point at least secured third place on the log and a home quarter-final in Cape Town, but Dobson and his coaching staff will be left wondering how that was all they managed to take from the season.

"We're going to have to regroup," he said. "We know what's in this group and we'll regroup quickly.

"We're a very bruised team who were beaten by the better team on the night and we'll have to do much better than this in the quarter-final."

Calum McFarlane insists Enzo Fernandez 'winning mentality' key for Chelsea in FA Cup final

SABC Sport — Sat, 16 May 2026 09:05:20 +0000

The Argentina international has already delivered decisive contributions against Pep Guardiola's side, including a last-gasp equaliser at the Etihad Stadium earlier in the campaign and a bundled finish from close range in another meeting.

He also arrives at Wembley fresh from scoring in the draw against Liverpool, continuing his habit of producing in key matches.

Interim boss Calum McFarlane has been clear about Fernandez's influence on the squad. "When it gets tough, you see the fight in him," he said. "You see him driving the group on, making tackles, fighting for every loose ball."

Fernandez, who will reach 150 starts for Chelsea in the final, has operated mainly as a No 10 behind Joao Pedro, using his energy and movement to press high and arrive late into the box. Eight of his nine league goals this season have come from inside the area.

McFarlane also highlighted his timing. "His runs into the box, his ability to get height and distance on his jump, his heading technique is really good," he said after the win over Leeds United.

His season has not been without controversy, including an internal ban following comments linked to Real Madrid, and a two-match exclusion earlier in the campaign under former coach Liam Rosenior.

But McFarlane insists the mentality is clear. "He's a winner," he said. With Manchester City defenders Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi expected to track his movement closely, Fernandez now has another chance to define a season at Wembley Stadium.

Local Start Time Venue	25 Oct at 02:00 PM
Local Time	25 Oct at 08:30 AM
Toss	Jain Irrigation won the toss and chose to batting
Country	India
City	Pune
Venue	Shinde High School Ground, Pune
Established	0000
Result	Ashtapailu Sports won by 7 wickets

Finished Pune Olympia T20 Trophy