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SAFA and Le Coq Sportif conclude five-year Partnership

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:48:59 +0000

Launched just prior to the global pandemic, the collaboration has been defined by landmark achievements and powerful moments in South African football.

Together, SAFA and Le Coq Sportif celebrated Banyana Banyana’s historic victory at the 2022 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and their qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

A standout initiative during this period was the launch of a special-edition black kit aimed at raising awareness of gender-based violence, and it was worn Banyana Banyana® as they made history by reaching the Round of 16 at a FIFA tournament for the first time.

The partnership also championed fan engagement and creativity through the “Designed By You” competition, which saw South African designer Lwazi Cedrick Ngcungama win the opportunity to design the national team jersey. This first-of-its-kind initiative reflected South Africa’s values of inclusion, empowerment, and collaboration.

Another iconic moment came with the unveiling of the silver “Ivory” kit, worn by Bafana Bafana® during their bronze-medal campaign at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

READ: Bafana book ticket to 2026 FIFA World Cup

The kit symbolized innovation and a bold departure from traditional national colours. Additionally, the pink kit worn by Banyana Banyana® in their high-profile match against England supported the Pink Drive campaign, raising awareness for breast cancer and showcasing football’s potential to drive social change.

“Our relationship started with many challenges but inspired a lot of on-field success for all our national teams, specifically our senior teams, Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana," said SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao.

"We want to thank Le Coq Sportif for the partnership and we wish them well in their future endeavours."

Ernst van den Berg, Director of Le Coq Sportif South Africa, added: “We are proud of the role we played in supporting South African football during this period and the memories we created together.

"From ground-breaking kit designs to shared historic achievements, it has been a privilege to stand alongside SAFA and the players who inspire the nation.”

As the partnership draws to a close, both SAFA and Le Coq Sportif reflect on a legacy of innovation, unity, and impact, on and off the pitch.

Eben Etzebeth heaps praise on Rassie Erasmus' incredible team-bonding skills

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:10:49 +0000

Erasmus has heavily rotated his squad again in 2025, using a total of 47 players, 45 of whom were deployed in Test matches, after using 50 players last year.

Etzebeth predicts that trend will continue next month when South Africa embark on their end-of-year tour with matches against Japan, France, Italy, Ireland and Wales.

The most capped Bok of all-time explains that while the players all have different reasons why they play rugby, they all have a common goal of making South Africa proud, with Erasmus managing the players brilliantly to ensure that the squad remains happy.

"Rassie deserves a lot of credit for the way he keeps the team together and engaged. How everyone gets the a chance to play and everyone knows they'll get an opportunity on tour whether it's against Japan, France, Italy or Wales," Etzebeth was quoted as saying at the launch of his autobiography Unlocked, at the N1 shopping centre in Goodwood last week by Rapport.

"The way Rassie and his coaching team keeps the team's psyche together is incredible."

With so many of the players coming from different upbringings, Etzebeth adds that while there are differing driving factors, there is a common goal among all of them.

"Every individual has their own personal drive, whether it be getting to 100 Test caps, or to provide for their family. We all come from different backgrounds," he said.

"But we all know what's going on at home when we're overseas, how people support us. People make videos, watch rugby on the streets, and in the malls because they don't have DStv.

With so many of the players coming from different upbringings, Etzebeth adds that while there are differing driving factors, there is a common goal among all of them.

"Every individual has their own personal drive, whether it be getting to 100 Test caps, or to provide for their family. We all come from different backgrounds," he said.

"But we all know what's going on at home when we're overseas, how people support us. People make videos, watch rugby on the streets, and in the malls because they don't have DStv.

"It's support that others don't get in their countries, rugby is almost like another religion in South Africa, and when we don't do well, people are angry with us, and we want it that way too."

This year, there has been more cheer than jeer for the Springbok fans with Erasmus' charges winning seven of their nine matches, defending the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate, Argentina Cup, Freedom Cup and claimed back-to-back Rugby Championship titles for the first time ever.

That run included a record 43-10 hammering of the All Blacks as South Africa handed their fiercest rivals their biggest ever defeat.

Dewald Brevis a bright spark but Proteas fall to defeat against Pakistan in first Test

Nasri Alexander — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:10:47 +0000

The tourists came into the fourth day on 51-2, still 226 runs shy of reaching a target of 277 in what was a dry, turning pitch at the Gaddafi Stadium.

The Proteas' hopes took a nose-dive in the first over of the day when first-innings centurion Tony de Zorzi was trapped in front by fired-up Shaheen Shah Afridi without adding to his overnight 16.

Tristan Stubbs did not last long and it was 55-4 as the batter was caught at first slip off spinner Noman Ali going for a reverse-sweep.

Dewald Brevis joined Rickelton at the crease and immediately showed some positive intent, striking six fours and and two sixes in a run-a-ball 54.

The partnership of 73 came to an end when Noman Ali produced a peach of a delivery to dismiss Brevis, the left-arm spinner getting one pitch on middle and turn just enough clip the off-stump.

The wicket of Brevis came as a relief to Pakistan as the batter looked to bring the visitors back into the contest but with the dismissal the score was 128-5.

Rickelton's 192-minute stay the crease that showed immense powers of concentration came to an end when right-arm off-spinner Sajid Khan had the left-handed caught at slip for 45.

It was now just a matter of time before the result was confirmed and Afridi came back into the attack and cleaned up the tail to finish with figures of 4-33 as the Proteas were bowled out for 183.

The tourists will look back on the first innings of game when they had Pakistan reeling at 199-5 but the home team still went on to get a total of 378.

The big positive that the visitors can take ahead of the must-win second and final Test that starts in Rawalpindi on Monday is spinner Senuran Muthusamy finishing with 11 wickets in the match.

On the batting front, De Zorzi's 104 in the first innings, Rickelton's 71 and 45 and Brevis' half-century is what they can cling to as they look to square the series.

Eric Chelle reacts to Nigeria making CAF World Cup playoff spot

Mazola Molefe — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:29:41 +0000

The Super Eagles managed to sneak into the CAF playoffs, where they will meet Gabon, DR Congo and Cameroon for a spot in the Intercontinental playoffs, having been narrowly edged by Bafana Bafana in Group C.

Speaking after the win in Uyo, Chelle praised his players for their character and resilience, singling out striker Victor Osimhen, who netted a hat-trick to keep Nigeria’s hopes alive.

"I'm so proud of my players, they deserved [to win] this game because it was not easy with a new coach, with a new philosophy, and they acclimatised really fast," said Chelle.

"So now we're going to Morocco, this is not finished, this is the beginning, and it will be very, very difficult, so tonight I'm just happy for my players for playing a great game a few hours ago and three days ago.

"Like I said in the last press conference, thank God because you are here, and I'm happy for the fans because they brought us the victory, they helped us and pushed us to take this victory.

"The players played a very great game, especially the best striker in the world [Victor Osimhen]."

READ: Bafana Bafana book ticket to 2026 FIFA World Cup

Chelle, who was appointed in January and inherited a qualification campaign that had already been scuppered, believes his side has turned the corner at the perfect time and have built strong family-like bonds in the squad.

"All the players gave everything and for sure, for me, they are my champions, so I'm very happy for the players, and football is like that – sometimes you make a mistake and lose, but they love the country Nigeria and give everything every time," he added.

"For me, I just wanted to make sure they are focussed in their state of mind – and sometimes I make some mistakes too, but you can actually ask the captain and players, we are a family, and if we win, lose or draw, it's together."

Stormers star Paul de Villiers looking to follow in Springbok's footsteps

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:10:58 +0000

The flanker captained the Junior Boks in 2023 and was snapped up by the Stormers for last year's United Rugby Championship. He featured primarily off the bench, but that may very well change this season.

2023 Rugby World Cup final hero Deon Fourie looks set for an extended period on the sideline following a bicep injury in the Stormers' comprehensive win over Scarlets on Saturday. But the Stormers may have found his understudy in de Villiers.

The 22-year-old has thrived in the traditional openside flanker role, pilfering the ball and showing a high work rate at ruck time. Speaking to the press ahead of Saturday's clash against Zebre in Italy, de Villiers revealed how Fourie will continue to serve as a role model for him despite his injury.

"He's a massive role model, and I ask his advice quite regularly," said the George native.

"Deon obviously plays a huge role on and off the field and will definitely be missed. I'll definitely keep asking for his advice - I always take it from him. He'll still be very involved despite the injury.

"For me, it's really about continuing to do what I've been doing, especially at the breakdown.

"I have to make sure our defence has a bit more time - slowing down the ball and turning over possession. It's an area that we pride ourselves on."

De Villiers has annoyed the opposition on attack as well, twice crossing the whitewash in the stormers three wins. But like a true fetcher, he admits he enjoys the steals more.

"It's nice to score and add your name to the scoreboard, but I'm just the man with the ball in hand [at the back of the maul]," he added.

"I enjoy the turnovers more."

Roston Chase says West Indies can use defeat in Delhi as 'stepping stone' to improve

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:10:23 +0000

The Caribbean outfit put in a much improved performance with Shai Hope and John Campbell hitting centuries in the second innings after being asked to follow-on.

The tourists eventually fell to a seven-wicket loss but it was a far cry from the innings defeat in the first Test.

Chase said after the game: "I think this is a stepping stone, a building step for us to go forward and improve as a Test-playing nation.

"This is a performance that I think will give us the confidence and boost us in terms of that belief that we can do it against proper Test-playing nations.

"I just want to see the guys continue in this vein and don't let us go back to those ways. Even if it's for us to lose, we have to lose in a good way.

"In a positive way, where we can have a lot of positives coming out of the game."

West Indies' next Test match is in December against New Zealand and Chase is hoping his side will climb up the table in the World Test Championship.

He added: "I think that we had a chat and this first year in the cycle, we always know it was going to be tough with opposition like Australia, India and then we go to New Zealand.

"But I think that once we learn from what we've done in those series and take it into the next year where we have guys like Sri Lanka and Pakistan, guys that we are closer to in the rankings, I think that we can be more competitive against those once we learn from these games."

Cape Town Spurs await legal direction on Liam Bern, Mervin Boji

Mazola Molefe — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:41:56 +0000

Spurs have appealed the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber ruling involving defender Liam Bern and striker Mervin Boji, both of whom left Ikamva after the club’s relegation to the ABC Motsepe League.

Under National Soccer League regulations, players are permitted to leave as free agents once their parent clubs drop from the professional ranks to amateur status.

The Urban Warriors suffered a major setback last week when advocate Hilton Epstein ruled in a SAFA Arbitration matter in favour of midfielders Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman, declaring them free agents following Spurs’ relegation.

Kaizer Chiefs had already signed both players but, had to await the arbitration outcome before registering them for official competition.

SAFA is yet to appoint a new arbitrator to hear the submissions in the Bern and Boji cases, while Spurs remain undecided on whether they will continue the legal battle.

READ: Amrouche urges Kaizer Chiefs to allow Fiacre Ntwari to move

Efstathiou confirmed this to the public broadcaster on Tuesday night, saying Spurs were “still in consultation with our legal team on various issues.”

His remarks followed information gathered by SABC Sport suggesting Spurs had been urged to withdraw their appeal and allow the PSL DRC ruling to stand.

The club already hinted in a statement last week that it was unlikely to take the Velebayi and Baartman matter any further, having accepted the Epstein award.

Given the similarity of the Bern and Boji cases, legal sources believe the eventual outcome will likely mirror that of the two midfielders.

While SAFA has not set a deadline for the hearings, senior officials insist the federation will not allow the issue to drag on, as both players remain in limbo.

Bern has already signed for AmaZulu, while Boji joined Chippa United – but neither club will risk featuring the players until a final ruling is made.

European 2026 WC Qualifiers: England crush Latvia to qualify, Portugal held by Hungary

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:10:34 +0000

With one qualifying spotlight already claimed, others are scrambling to clinch their berth, and some still face the spectre of playoffs. Here's how the night played out, match by match.

In Riga, England delivered a statement: Latvia 0-5 England. Anthony Gordon put the visitors ahead in the 26th minute with a low drive into the corner. Then Harry Kane stepped up, first with a thunderous strike from outside the box in the 44th minute, then calm from the spot in first-half stoppage time, to bring his England tally to 76 goals.

After the break, a misdirected header by Latvia's Maksims Tonisevs off Djed Spence's cross extended England's lead, and substitute Eberechi Eze capped the rout in the final minutes.

England now sit top of Group K with a perfect six wins from six, 18 goals scored and none conceded, and with two matches to spare they become the first European team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Portugal 2-2 Hungary delivered a rollercoaster in Lisbon. Hungary struck early via Attila Szalai's header in the 8th minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo responded, in the 22nd minute and then again in stoppage time before half, to put Portugal ahead. That brace also saw Ronaldo surpass the record for most goals in World Cup qualifiers.

However, late in stoppage time Dominik Szoboszlai struck from distance to deny the hosts full points. The draw delays Portugal's automatic qualification hopes, they lead Group F but must wait until November to seal their finals spot.

In Valladolid, Spain 4-0 Bulgaria looked every bit the Group E frontrunners. Mikel Merino scored twice via powerful headers (around the 35-minute mark and early in the second half). Then a cross turned in off a Bulgarian defender and a confident penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal sealed the deal.

Spain remain perfect in Group E, holding 12 points from four games, and look set for top spot in the group.

Turkiye 4-1 Georgia kept pressure on Spain in Group E, they trail La Roja by three points with their final fixtures looming.

Republic of Ireland 1-0 Armenia gave Ireland their first win of the Group F campaign, a small boost as they chase qualification.

Estonia 1-1 Moldova saw Stefan Bodisteanu salvage a draw for Moldova, earning their first point of the campaign.

With England now assured of a spot, 11 remaining UEFA group-winners, and possibly four play-off winners, will fill the 16 European slots for the 2026 World Cup.

In Group K, England's perfect run puts them clear. The other teams (Serbia, Albania, Latvia, Andorra) must fight for positioning, but only the top will qualify directly, second place heads to the playoffs.

In Group F, Portugal still lead but Hungarians (and others) remain in contention, second place may well be a battle for a play-off slot.

Spain's dominance in Group E makes them strong favourites to top the group outright, avoiding playoffs.

Other groups not covered here saw Italy pick up a 3-0 win over Israel, but their qualification is not yet secure, they may need to depend on a playoff.

The final rounds in November will be decisive. Teams that miss out on first place will hope their ranking or Nations League paths carry them through to the play-offs. The race is very much alive, and Europe's tickets are far from fully booked.

Nick Kyrgios claims ATP Tour is protecting Jannik Sinner following doping saga

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:10:05 +0000

Sinner twice tested positive for the banned substance clostebol in March last year, but he was allowed to continue playing and the news only became public in August when the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced that he had been cleared of any wrongdoing as he bore "no fault or negligence".

The ITA accepted the player's explanation that the substance entered his system after he was massaged by his physiotherapist, who had used a product that contained clostebol to treat an injury on his own hands.

With the Italian, who was No. 1 at the time, not receiving a ban for the transgression, several big-name players - Kyrgios being one of them - in the tennis community expressed their outrage as they felt there were double standards.

But Sinner did eventually receive a suspension after the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed against ITIA's decision and in February 2025 they settled with the player's lawyer, resulting a three-month ban.

But again Kyrgios expressed his outrage and in the latest The Unscripted Show podcast hosted by former NRL player Josh Mansour, the Australian Open up about his relationship with Sinner.

"I'm loved by a lot of the locker room and then there are people I can't stand. Like obviously me and Jannik Sinner now, it's pretty grim," the former world No. 13 said. "Obviously, after the whole doping scandal with him testing positive and all that type of stuff, yeah there are a couple of people I don't get along with at all.

"He's the number one player in the world [when he tested positive] and there's no doubt he's an incredible player and he's going to be carrying the sport for the next 10 to 15 years with [Carlos] Alcaraz.

"I mean obviously, they're protecting him to some degree. I mean the CEO and all of the important people in the ATP are all Italian. And like the whole story for me is bull****."

Kyrgios felt it was a slap in the face of players who are clean, but he does have one or two positive things to say about Sinner, who has dominated men's tennis along with Alcaraz the past two years.

The two stars have each won four Grand Slams since the start of 2024 while they have also topped the ATP Rankings.

Kyrgios added: "For me it hurt because I was like someone who has tested positive for that and then has just gotten off so easy, I was like f***, maybe I should have. Like what if I was to do that?

"I just hope he learns from it. When all is said and done, he'll be one of the best players to ever play.

"Like also I'll tell him to his face: I think he was good enough to do it without [possible doping]. Like if it was an accident, okay, but if it wasn't, I would say 'Bro, I don't think you need that.'

"I played against him and it was an incredibly close match and I was like 'This kid's going to be f**king unbelievable.' So I was like I think you're good enough to do it on your own merit."

Respect, not friendship: Novak Djokovic on rivalry with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer

SABC Sport — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:10:23 +0000

The Serb's rivalries with Nadal and Federer are the two most prolific matchups in the Open Era of men's tennis by way of number of matches contested.

Djokovic finished with a 31-29 lead against Nadal from the duo's 60 record matches between 2006 and 2024, while he compiled a 27-23 record from his 50 meetings with Federer, which were spread between 2006 and 2020.

From Federer's first Grand Slam win at Wimbledon in 2003 to Djokovic's most recent at the 2023 US Open, the Ã¢˜Big Three' secured a staggering 66 of the 81 major tournaments held. Djokovic has won a record 24 Grand Slams, while Nadal and Federer retired on 22 on 20 respectively.

Nadal called time on his career at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, while Federer partnered Nadal in doubles for his final match at the 2022 Laver Cup. Djokovic, 38, is still competing at the highest level.

Djokovic has explained that his rivalry with Nadal made it impossible for the pair to be friends.

"Nadal is only a year older than me, we're both Geminis," the 38-year-old was quoted as saying by Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.

"At first, we even had dinner together twice, but even with him, friendship is impossible.

"I've always respected and admired him greatly. Thanks to him and to Federer, I grew and became who I am. This will unite us forever, and for that I'm very grateful.

"Nadal is part of my life; in the last 15 years, I've seen him more than my mother. We've never been friends. Between rivals, it's impossible, but we've never been enemies."

On Federer, Djokovic added: "I've always respected Federer; he was one of the greatest of all time.

"He had an extraordinary impact, but I've never been close to him."

During the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, Djokovic expressed his wish to spend time with Federer and Nadal to reflect on everything they experienced together once he retires.

"I don't pause to reflect," the former world No 1 admitted.

"I don't have time. Being on the highest level on professional tennis requires a lot of dedication.

"I don't play as much as I did before, but the weeks I don't play, I play at home with my kids. I don't reflect fully on everything I have been through.

"I would like to but I think that will come when I set the racquet aside and then sip Margaritas on the beach with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and just reflect on our rivalry and everything."

CONFIRMED: Bafana Bafana book ticket to 2026 FIFA World Cup

Nasri Alexander — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:10:38 +0000

Hugo Broos and his charges had a date with destiny, knowing only a positive result will suffice in front of their home fans.

Bafana made the perfect start after just five minutes when Thalente Mbatha fired a long-range shot into the top-corner that goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari made a meal of.

The home team were now dominant and looked in the mood for more goals, and the second arrived midway through the first half when Oswin Appollis found back of the net to jubilant scenes.

Broos' team should have been out of sight by halftime, dominating possession but could not nail the final pass when it mattered most.

More nerves were eased with 20 minutes remaining though, when Appollis swung in a corner that was headed in from close-range by Evidence Makgopa.

Then it was just a matter of time before the official celebrations could commence, as news filtered through that Nigeria had comfortably seen off Benin in Uyo.

The full-time whistle brought out wild celebration from the players and coaching staff as Bafana ended the qualifying campaign one point ahead of Nigeria.

That was despite three points being deducted after fielding an eligible players in the win against Lesotho.

But those are now minor details as Broos and his team can look forward to the global showpiece that will be co-hosted by USA, Mexico and Canada next year.

“It feels wonderful, we all knew that we could do it, we believed in ourselves and I think you saw it from the beginning of the game that we wanted to win the game,” Broos told SABC Sport after the match.

“The only thing was what happened in Nigeria so Nigeria did what they had to do and we did what we had to do so we’re going to the World Cup fantastic."

Nick Kyrgios admits 'pretty grim' relationship with Jannik Sinner after positive drug test

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:10:23 +0000

With the Italian, who was No 1 at the time, not receiving a ban for the transgression, several big-name players Ã¢- Kyrgios being one of them Ã¢- in the tennis community expressed their outrage as they felt there were double standards.

But again Kyrgios expressed his outrage and in the latest The Unscripted Show podcast, saying: "I'm loved by a lot of the locker room and then there are people I can't stand. Like obviously me and Jannik Sinner now, it's pretty grim," the former world No 13 said.

"Obviously, after the whole doping scandal with him testing positive and all that type of stuff, yeah there are a couple of people I don't get along with at allÃ¢¦

"He's the number one player in the world (when he tested positive) and there's no doubt he's an incredible player and he's going to be carrying the sport for the next 10 to 15 years with (Carlos) Alcaraz.

"I mean obviously they're protecting him to some degree. I mean the CEO and all of the important people in the ATP are all Italian. And like the whole story for me is bullsÃ¢-t."

Kyrgios felt it was a slap in the face of players who are clean, but he does have one or two positive things to say about Sinner, who has dominated menÃ¢™s tennis along with Alcaraz the past two years.

Spin wreaks havoc on Day Three in Lahore as Pakistan smell Proteas blood

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:10:13 +0000

Pakistan ended the day needing just eight more wickets for victory, while South Africa, still 226 runs behind, face a steep challenge to complete what would be Lahore's highest successful chase and the second-highest in Pakistan.

The Proteas began on 216 for 6, trailing Pakistan's first-innings 378 by 162. Tony de Zorzi, resuming on 81, played positively and brought up his second Test century - and second in Asia - with two sixes and ten fours. He fell for 104, caught at long-on off Noman Ali, who completed a five-wicket haul and soon made it six by removing Prenelan Subrayen.

Sajid Khan mopped up the tail, dismissing Senuran Muthusamy (11) and bowling Kagiso Rabada for a duck, as South Africa folded for 269, conceding a 109-run lead. Noman finished with 6 for 112 - his ninth Test five-wicket haul.

Pakistan's second innings began aggressively but soon crumbled under South Africa's sharp spin. Simon Harmer struck in the first over, stumping Imam-ul-Haq for a duck and trapping Shan Masood lbw for 7.

Abdullah Shafique (41) and Babar Azam (42) added 62 to stabilize the innings, but both fell before and after tea. Shafique gave a return catch to Muthusamy, while Babar was trapped lbw by Rabada, extending his century drought to 28 innings.

Saud Shakeel added 38, but his dismissal before tea triggered a collapse. Pakistan crashed from 150 for 4 to 167 all out, losing six wickets for 17 runs. Muthusamy took 5 for 57 - his best innings figures - and a match haul of 11 for 174, the fourth-best by a South African spinner in Tests. Harmer claimed 4 for 51.

Chasing 277, South Africa lost early wickets. Noman bowled Aiden Markram for 3 and had Wiaan Mulder caught at slip for a duck. De Zorzi (16 not out) and Rickelton (29 not out) steadied things, taking South Africa to 51 for 2 at stumps.

Robert Lewandowski sidelined with muscle tear as Barcelona injury crisis deepens

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:10:47 +0000

The 37-year-old Polish international will miss the highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid on October 26.

Lewandowski sustained the hamstring injury during international duty with Poland in a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania, in which he played the full 90 minutes and found the back of the net.

However, subsequent assessments revealed a tear in the biceps femoris of his left leg - a setback that now sidelines him for several key fixtures across both domestic and European competitions.

The timing of the injury couldn't be worse for manager Hansi Flick, who must now prepare for one of the season's most decisive fixtures without his first-choice striker. Lewandowski is expected to miss LaLiga clashes against Girona, Elche, and Celta Vigo, in addition to Champions League group matches versus Olympiacos and Club Brugge.

While Barcelona's statement was vague, only noting that the striker's return "will depend on how the injury evolves," Spanish media reports estimate a recovery period of four to six weeks.

Lewandowski's absence adds to an already congested treatment room at Camp Nou. Fellow attackers Dani Olmo and Gavi are also unavailable, with Olmo nursing a calf strain and Gavi facing a longer-term layoff. Goalkeepers Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Joan Garca are also sidelined, with the former recovering from back surgery.

However, there are some silver linings. Promising youngsters Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have returned to full training, and Brazilian winger Raphinha is pushing to be match-fit in time for El Clasico after missing the last three matches due to a thigh problem.

Fulham defender Antonee Robinson faces injury setback ahead of Arsenal clash

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:10:21 +0000

US head coach Mauricio Pochettino has said that Robinson's problem is being carefully managed after the defender was unavailable for the USMNT's recent friendlies against Ecuador and Australia (on Wednesday).

The 28-year-old had only just returned to the USMNT camp for the first time in 2025 after undergoing minor knee surgery in May.

"From the beginning of camp Antonee has had a small issue in his knee, a little bit of pain," Pochettino said. "We are managing him in the best way. He cannot participate in training right now and obviously he is not available for the game.

"I hope it's not serious and that he can go back to his club, train and compete in a normal way."

Robinson has featured in just 61 minutes of Premier League football this season and remains a doubt for Fulham's home match against Arsenal on Saturday.

His absence would be another setback for Marco Silva, who is already without several key players.

Raul Jimenez missed Mexico's internationals with a hip issue, though Fulham hope he will be fit to return at the weekend. Rodrigo Muniz (hamstring) and Kenny Tete (knee) are expected to remain sidelined beyond the international break.

Ryan Sessegnon and Calvin Bassey have covered at left-back in recent weeks, but Silva will be keen to have Robinson available again soon.

Since Fulham's promotion in 2022, the American has become a vital part of their setup, both defensively and in attack, finishing last season as the Premier League's top-assisting defender.

Fulham, who suffered back-to-back league defeats before the break, will be aiming to bounce back strongly when Arsenal visit Craven Cottage this weekend.

Stuart Baxter urges South Africans to keep up World Cup hope

Benjamin Leshoro — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:09:00 +0000

Hugo Broos’ team needs to win their final Group C game at Mbombela Stadium and hope Nigeria beat Benin in Uyo, if they are to make it to the 2026 showpiece in North America.

A negative outcome at either venue will be an especially bitter pill to swallow for all South Africans, considering the strong position the team was in a few weeks ago, and Baxter – speaking exclusively with SABC Sport from Sweden – says there’s no use crying over spilt milk.

"I'm guessing that one of the battles the South African players and coaching staff is the disappointment of having to go through this, when it was looking so rosey," said Baxter.

"It will be a tough mental one to fight, but the truth is that it is like that and the why's and wherefores are not important at this moment, it's just to do whatever they can to get over the line, and I'm sure they will."

READ: Munetsi reveals Nigerian teammate pressure after Bafana blunder

The 72-year-old coach has urged all South Africans to not even entertain the idea of failing to qualify before the game is even played and boldly declared he believes the country will be celebrating by the end of the evening.

"I don't think anybody should be thinking about not qualifying, I think everybody should be as focussed and positive as they can, and I think the coaches have done a marvellous job building towards this evening," he added.

"If a technicality hadn't been there, no one would have been mentioning anything else, and we'd be heading towards a very interesting time.

"I think the whole focus should be on getting this game out of the way, and then find out what everybody wants to do, whether the coaches want to continue or whether the association people should change there, or whether politicians should try to help more or whatever.

"All that will be after the events, and it may be [while] looking forward to a World Cup, and it may not be, but before going into the game, I think everybody has to look at each other in the eyes and say, we're going to give this 100 percent and do whatever we can.

"And I still believe that South Africa will go through."

Leinster backline coach Tyler Bleyendaal hails 'instinctive' RG Snyman ahead of Munster showdown

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:10:24 +0000

Snyman, who was named the 2024/25 URC Player of the Season, has returned to Leinster training following South Africa's successful Rugby Championship campaign. The 30-year-old is now in contention to feature in Saturday's high-stakes interprovincial derby at Croke Park - a fixture that would see him line up against Munster, the club he represented between May 2020 and December 2023 before joining rivals Leinster.

Speaking to Irish media this week, Bleyendaal described Snyman as a player who brings both unpredictability and impact, highlighting how his instinctive style has added a new dimension to Leinster's play.

"Sometimes it's not easy to plan around because he's quite instinctive," Bleyendaal said. "Some of the unstructured play that he can create is equally chaotic but beneficial for us."

Snyman's offloading ability and physical presence were central to Leinster's late-season surge last year, with Bleyendaal noting that it took some time for teammates to adapt to his style.

"It probably took a few games last year to understand it," he said. "He'd carry into a brick wall, but suddenly the ball's flying out and we're playing off it again. So it's about staying alive around him."

Bleyendaal also highlighted Snyman's off-field impact, calling him a valuable figure in the dressing room.

"He brings a really good energy. He's such a lovely bloke. In the week, he's a relaxed kind of character, but he plays with a mean physicality and an exceptional skill set," Bleyendaal added.

Ronwen Williams eyes redemption after 2022 World Cup qualifiers pain

Velile Mnyandu — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:01:16 +0000

Bafana finished level on 12 points with the Black Stars, after a disputed penalty separated them in Cape Coast, and the West Africans then went on to beat Nigeria to seal their tickets to Qatar.

Williams remembers how a young Ethan Brooks cried during a press conference held at SAFA House, in which the association lodged an official challenge of the match outcome.

"Ja, that was hard, and I think that one hurt way more because the team was very young. I remember when we were at the press conference, you saw Ethan Brooks crying, and I can still picture that," said Williams.

"After that, you saw the spirit that we had since that defeat away to Ghana, and the team that we've become – so that defeat and heartbreak was very tough on the team, but we used that to fuel us to push and keep going, and we worked even harder.

"Because we knew that, on the African continent, they make things very difficult for you, and that's what we learnt that year."

READ: Hugo Broos still weighing Bafana centre-back options for Rwanda

Despite all the permutations, Williams says they are firmly focussed on beating Rwanda by as big a margin as possible.

Mbombela Stadium is also infamously remembered for the “Dance of Shame”, when Bafana players danced around the match venue, erroneously thinking they had qualified for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations under then-coach Pitso Mosimane.

But the skipper believes they can finally rewrite that piece of unwanted history.

"I believe in fairytales because, when they asked us last month where we wanted to play, most of the players said either Port Elizabeth or Cape Town because of the support we got there [previously]," he revealed.

"And then for some weird reason we just heard that we're coming to Mbombela, and maybe now it's time to write our wrongs from so many years ago because people still mention that, and it's something that will probably sit with Bafana Bafana forever.

"But hopefully we can rewrite the script and, like I said, I believe in fairytales – today we go again, calculators will be out at Mbombela, so hopefully things can go in our favour now.

"Hopefully the football gods will be on our side, and we all will be dancing – maybe even rock the same dance that they did that time [in 2012]."

Dayaan Cassiem happy to start SA World Cup qualifiers on positive note

Chad Klate — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:28:50 +0000

South Africa were due to face Zambia in their 2025 Men's Hockey Africa Cup of Nations campaign opener on Saturday, but the opponents failed to pitch in Ismailia, Egypt, resulting in a 5-0 walkover.

But getting their first taste of action in a 3-1 win over Kenya on Sunday was enough to settle the nerves after being taken aback by the Zambians' no-show.

"It is a bit frustrating because we had two training sessions before the tournament, and of course Zambia not arriving makes you feel a bit like, 'Oh my god, what are we doing here?'" said Cassiem.

"But then we played against Kenya and, I think, it wasn't our best performance, but the three points is always important against a team like Kenya, who are really fit and strong, and just runs a lot.

"So ja, I think, to be honest, everyone's in a good space and it's going well so far."

South Africa are seven time back-to-back defending champions of the AFCON, which counts as the official qualification tournament for next year's FIH Hockey World Cup co-hosted by Belgium and Netherlands.

Next up for the SA Men is a final-before-the-final against two-time African champions Egypt – runners-up in the last six AFCON editions, and Cassiem predicts an intense and dramatic encounter at Suez Canal Authority Stadium.

"I think it will be quite a big difference, to be honest. I think when Egypt always plays against South Africa, they come with more energy and their basics are really good," he added.

"And I think, of course, it's a North-South derby, if I could say that, because it's mostly always the final and there's always beef between the two.

"So I think it will be a really good match, and i think us, as the SA Men's team, we're really up for the challenge today, and we're really excited to give 100 percent to make sure we make the country proud."

READ: Deputy Minister of Sport: Budget cuts remain a thorny issue

AC Milan's Perth Serie A fixture against Como sparks global debate

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:10:39 +0000

The unprecedented relocation, approved by UEFA on an exceptional basis, has ignited a fierce debate over the future of domestic football.

Como, currently eighth in Serie A and managed by Cesc Fabregas, has framed the decision as a necessary "sacrifice" for the survival of the league.

In a statement, the club acknowledged the challenges of such a move but emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving football landscape. "We understand that this journey may demand sacrifices in convenience, comfort, and routine," the statement read.

"Yet sometimes sacrifice is essential, not for individual benefit but for the greater good, for growth, and above all, for the survival of the league itself."

The financial disparity between Serie A and the Premier League has been a driving force behind this decision. While the Premier League's domestic broadcast deal is valued at £6.7 billion over four years (approximately £1.7 billion annually), Serie A's domestic deal stands at approximately £780 million per year.

This significant gap in revenue has led Italian clubs to explore alternative avenues for income. "This imbalance gives English clubs an enormous financial advantage," Como noted, "allowing them to keep their stars, attract the best talent, and expand their global influence."

However, the move has faced criticism from various quarters. AC Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot has termed the plan "completely crazy" and "really absurd," expressing concerns over the physical strain on players and the commercial motivations behind the decision.

The French players' union (UNFP) has backed Rabiot, highlighting the importance of player welfare and the potential negative impact on the sport's integrity. "His opinion reflects the views of many players," the union stated, emphasizing the need for players to voice valid concerns.

Serie A Chief Executive Luigi De Siervo dismissed the criticism, asserting that players should respect their employers and the decisions made by their clubs. "Top players, who are paid correspondingly for the workload that they carry out, should understand better than others that this is a sacrifice that can be made," De Siervo said.

The move has also drawn attention from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, who expressed concerns that taking matches away from their community roots risks "breaking" football. UEFA granted approval for the match in Perth, citing uncertainty around the regulatory framework and stating that the decision should not set a precedent.

As the match approaches on February 8, 2026, the debate continues over the balance between commercial interests and the preservation of football's traditional values.

Jurgen Klopp defends 'once-in-a-century talent' Florian Wirtz amid slow Liverpool start

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:10:37 +0000

Wirtz has played far below the level of a 116 million pound player during his time as a Red so far. He assisted in the Community Shield, but in the nine games since then, has failed to score or assist.

After being given time to prove himself, Arne Slot dropped the German from his side for the 2-1 loss to Chelsea.

Wirtz has since put up a good performance for Germany in a 4-0 victory over Luxembourg, in which the country's media hailed him, suggesting the problems are Liverpool-centric. Given he starred for Bayer Leverkusen last term, it seems the issue is indeed in adjusting to Liverpool.

But their former boss, Klopp, has stated there is no cause for concern when it comes to Wirtz.

He said: "I don't have to worry about Florian Wirtz because his quality is so outstanding. Of course, everything is fine, and everyone knows that. The discussion is certainly being blown out of proportion.

"Liverpool have just lost three games in a row - it's unusual for something like that to happen after such a long time. But it's also normal in life.

"That's why these things are discussed. I've been in the middle of such discussions long enough now, and I can tell you: nothing could interest people less than the public discussions that are taking place there. So it doesn't matter, and everything will be fine."

Klopp also said of the player he described as a "once-in-a-century talent": "at some point he'll show that in every game again, as he did at Leverkusen".

"(Wirtz has) a stable environment at Liverpool, and the club is great in moments like these. If anyone's worried, you don't have to! You can stop."

However, there should still be some concern that Wirtz might not be playing in a role which suits him best.

He is dropping deeper more often at Liverpool than he did with Leverkusen, and in his impressive Germany display, he played on the left flank, so was picking the ball up both higher and wider than he is with the Reds.

At Leverkusen, as the left number 10, he played in a similar role to a left-winger, and to bring out his best, it might be a thought for Liverpool to try him out left rather than stifling him in the middle and having him always be the man to pick the ball up from the deep positions.

Frankfurt hit by defensive setback as Elias Baum Injured and Nnamdi Collins falls ill

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:10:26 +0000

The Bundesliga side announced that Baum, 19, has suffered a thigh muscle strain that will keep him out for several weeks. The defender, who impressed during a loan spell at SV Elversberg last season, has yet to feature for Frankfurt in the 2025/26 campaign.

A club statement said Baum would be out "until further notice". His lack of playing time could prompt a move in the winter transfer window, though his current deal with Frankfurt runs until 2028.

Collins, meanwhile, has withdrawn from Germany's Under-21 squad after developing a head cold and has returned to the club for treatment. The 21-year-old has been a key part of Dino Toppmoller's defence this season.

Toppmoller will be hoping Collins recovers in time for their next fixture away to SC Freiburg on Sunday, October 19, as Frankfurt look to strengthen their push for a top-six position.

Frankfurt currently sit seventh in the Bundesliga table after six matches and have conceded 16 goals so far, the worst defensive record in the league.

The side's recent form has been mixed, with just one win in their last four league outings (a 6-4 thriller at Borussia Monchengladbach), including a 0-3 home defeat to Bayern Munich on October 4.

Thomas Tuchel urges Marcus Rashford not to squander potential

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:10:15 +0000

Rashford, 27, has scored three goals and provided five assists in 10 games for the Spanish side since joining from Manchester United. While Tuchel praised Rashford's ability, he challenged the player to improve his consistency.

"He can be one of the best in the world," Tuchel said. "But the numbers don't reach the potential. It's as easy as that."

Rashford has returned to the England squad after falling out of favour in 2024. He featured off the bench in a 3Ã¢-0 win over Wales and could appear again on Tuesday when England face Latvia, needing a win to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Tuchel said the issue isn't talent, but performance.

"He has to constantly prove himself - whether starting or coming off the bench," said the Three Lions boss. "Otherwise he may look back in 10 years with regret."

Rashford previously suggested his dip in form was linked to instability at United. Barca manager Hansi Flick has praised his impact, and the club has a 30 million pound option to sign him permanently in 2026.

Tuchel also confirmed Jude Bellingham was left out of the current squad due to injury recovery, but said the Real Madrid midfielder would rejoin the team's leadership group upon his return.

Collen Mahlalela relieved with World Para Championships bronze medal

Mpumi Manyisi — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:46:42 +0000

The 28-year-old sprinter secured a podium finish after claiming a personal best 48.04 second in the men’s 400m T47 final earlier this month in New Delhi, India.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mahlalela gave credit to his coach Hennie Kriel for helping him prepare well for the world showpiece.

“I am greatly relieved that I am returning home with something. Though I was aiming and expecting more, I am still feeling very happy as I reflect,” said Mahlalela.

"I trained quite well for the World Champs, and credit must go to my coach Hennie Kriel. I even hit a personal best of 47.09 during training, and it was my plan to chase a commendable personal best.”

READ: Deputy Minister of Sport: Budget cuts remain a thorny issue

The Mpumalanga born para-athlete is also glad that he didn’t just add numbers at the tournament, but made sure to make South Africa proud, as he now resumes training for next year’s Commonwealth Games.

“Now I am back, and I have resumed training for the Commonwealth Games, and will be running a 100m, but my first stop next year early-February is in Dubai for Grand Prix,” he added.

Mahlalela further expressed gratitude for the support he received from his community, as he shared a special message for young para-athletes who look up to him.

“I am happy that I also raised a flag for my home province and I am grateful for the support they gave me.

“And to the young kids back home living with a disability, I would like to say, focus on your talents, be patient and trust God,” he concluded

Frenkie de Jong commits future as Barcelona seal new long-term deal

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:10:24 +0000

The Dutch midfielder's previous deal is due to expire in 2026, and with negotiations stretching over several months, there had been uncertainty surrounding his future.

Talks had slowed earlier this year after De Jong changed agents, but Barcelona have now confirmed that the 28-year-old will remain a key part of their long-term plans, with the signing scheduled for Wednesday, October 15.

Reports in Spain have indicated that the new deal includes a reduction in De Jong's base salary, to around Ã¢‚¬12 million per season, a move that helps ease Barcelona's ongoing financial pressures. His previous agreement, extended in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, featured deferred wage payments that were due to rise significantly towards the end of the contract.

De Jong was one of several senior players who agreed to restructure their salaries to support the club during the pandemic, but the escalating costs of those deferred payments prompted Barcelona to consider selling him in 2022. Manchester United made a strong push for his signature at the time, but De Jong repeatedly stated his intention to stay at the Camp Nou.

"I've always been a Barca fan since I was a kid. This is my dream club," De Jong said earlier this year when asked about his future.

Since joining from Ajax in a deal worth around seventy-five million euros in 2019, De Jong has made over 250 appearances and won six major trophies, including two La Liga titles.

Under current manager Hansi Flick, he has formed a vital midfield partnership with Pedri, providing experience and stability in a young and evolving side.

De Jong's renewal comes as a major boost for Barcelona, who remain determined to build their next generation around a core of established leaders and academy talents.

Man City's Erling Haaland gives fitness update after early Norway exit

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:10:07 +0000

The 25-year-old was released from international duty by Norway boss Stale Solbakken following their 5-0 World Cup qualifying win over Israel, where Haaland hit a hat-trick despite missing two penalties.

His withdrawal before the friendly against New Zealand sparked concerns among City fans, but the Norwegian Football Federation later confirmed that several players with heavy schedules had been allowed to return to their clubs.

A statement read: "Players with particularly tight match schedules are returning home: Alexander Sorloth, Julian Ryerson, Erling Haaland and Fredrik Bjorkan."

Haaland appeared to be in good spirits after posting photos on social media showing him playing golf with his father, Alf-Inge, during the short break. The striker, dressed casually and smiling, looked relaxed and injury-free, a reassuring sight for both City and Norway supporters.

The City forward has been in electric form this season, leading the Premier League's scoring charts with nine goals in seven matches. His performances in September earned him his fourth Premier League Player of the Month award, underlining his continued dominance in front of goal.

Reflecting on his form, Haaland said: "September was an important month for us as a team. We played some really good football, stayed unbeaten, and got important wins for our fans. I'm happy I could help the team with goals and performances.

"Now we just keep going, keep working hard every day, because there's a tough schedule after the international break. Hopefully we can keep the same level and win even more games."

Manchester City, currently three points behind leaders Arsenal, will resume their Premier League campaign this weekend, when they host Everton on Saturday, as they look to close the gap at the top and challenge for the title, with Haaland once again ready to lead the charge.

Adel Amrouche urges Kaizer Chiefs to allow Fiacre Ntwari to move

Velile Mnyandu — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:25:55 +0000

The 25-year-old former TS Galaxy goalkeeper has only featured once in domestic football this season – something very concerning for the Belgian-Algerian mentor.

Amrouche, who is in South Africa for today’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Bafana Bafana at Mbombela Stadium, revealed he’s also been in contact with Chiefs coaches about Ntwari.

"It's difficult. I'm happy I found him in the team because I gave him all the confidence, and the team also gives him confidence to be number one in the team," Amrouche told the media.

"And I wish him all the best for the [season] – I can't talk because I respect the goalkeeper who is playing [at Chiefs] and I respect the work of the goalkeeper.

"But I think, if you won't let him play, let him go because it's better to not stop the quality of one person like Fiacre."

READ: Morena stresses composure in Bafana’s crucial tie

Ntwari also caused a storm in the recent Carling Knockout first round tie against Stellenbosch FC, when he refused to be substituted before the penalty shootout, which Chiefs went on to lose, and Amrouche maintains the keeper is one of Africa's best.

"I had a good discussion with the [previous] coach of Kaizer Chiefs, and I cannot tell the coaches how to work, but only to make communication and share how he can maintain Fiacre in good shape and also that level of competition," he added.

"It's not easy, and I'm happy to have that collaboration with the coaches everywhere, especially with the coaches at Kaizer Chiefs, coach Nabi and Ilyes [Mzoughi] the goalkeeper coach.

"We respect the [players] who play, of course, this is football and this is the judgement of the coach, but for Fiacre, in my opinion, he's one of the best goalkeepers in Africa, and he's very talented, very disciplined and very positive.

"But I've never heard something negative from him about his club, he loves his club, he has very good contact with his teammates, and all the players in his team love him."

Harry Kane cleared for England return against Latvia

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:10:55 +0000

The Bayern Munich striker, who turned 32 in July, was rested as a precaution after picking up a knock during Bayern's 3-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt just before the international break.

However, England coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed on Monday that his star forward is fully recovered and ready to start.

"It's very easy with Harry, he can play, he is fit," Tuchel said. "We did the right thing. Top in training and ready to go. And I don't see why he should not be able to play 90 minutes. The pause was just a short pause for him.

"He played all matches before with Bayern, so I don't see any obstacles there."

Kane's return comes as a major boost for England, who beat Wales 3-0 in a friendly at Wembley last Thursday without their record goalscorer.

The Three Lions are unbeaten in Group K and will look to strengthen their position in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign when they face Latvia on Tuesday. A win could secure early qualification for the expanded tournament.

Kane has been in fine form for Bayern this season, continuing his prolific scoring record in the Bundesliga, and Tuchel's comments suggest he will again be the focal point of England's attack as they aim to take another step towards qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Bok hooker Joseph Dweba opens up on personal challenges after Exeter move

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:10:33 +0000

Dweba began a new chapter in his rugby career with Exeter Chiefs when he joined the Premiership side from the Stormers at the start of the season.

While the move marks an exciting opportunity on the field, it has also meant a significant personal adjustment for the 29-year-old, who is now living apart from his family for an extended period.

Speaking to Rugbypass, Dweba revealed that his family initially travelled with him to Devon but have since left him all by his lonesome.

"The family came over to see me off. They went back to South Africa, where my wife is studying and my son and daughter are at school. So I'm basically by myself," Dweba revealed.

"I miss my kids. They are a big driving factor for why I do things, and not having them around is a bit tough. It was okay for the first couple of weeks, but going into your flat and just looking at four walls, you want them next to you.

"I speak to them every day. It's not easy, but we catch up as best we can. Obviously, technology helps a lot, but this is the longest I've been away from them. Previously, it was three weeks when I'd go on tour with South Africa.

"Definitely, this is the longest time I've been without them. But it's a sacrifice that we all have to make. I'm not the first one, and I'm not going to be the last one.

"But as a man, you need to make sure your family is sorted out."

Dweba's move to Exeter came with options, including a lucrative offer from Sale Sharks, but he chose to prioritize his family and personal circumstances over financial gain.

"I didn't jump at it straight away because my wife [Nomonde] and I were still deciding if she was going to study or not.

"When she decided to study, I didn't jump into the offer because I wanted her to follow her dreams [of becoming a lawyer].

"She has been following my dreams for such a long time, so I thought I would sacrifice a little bit and stick it out for her, but things didn't work out as planned.

"So, we sat down and said I've got this opportunity [Exeter]; I'd be stupid not to take it. I didn't take the other opportunity, but then this one came through, and we said I'd be stupid not to take it."

Africa World Cup qualifiers wrap - Cape Verde qualify for first ever finals

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:10:28 +0000

Tunisia completed their successful World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-0 win over Namibia.

The Eagles of Carthage had long secured their place at the finals with a near-perfect qualifying campaign that saw them win nine and draw just one of their 10 games.

Ali Al-Abdi opened the scoring at Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi with a 28th minute penalty. Hannibal Mejbri added a second goal on 55 minutes and Ferjani Sassi made sure of the result with his effort with 64 minutes played.

Tunisia on 28 points, ended their campaign 13 points clear of second-placed Namibia and Liberia in third - who recorded a 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their final Group H qualifier.

Nicholas Andrews bagged a 27th minute equaliser for Liberia after Federico Bikoro's 14th minute opener at Nuevo Estadio de Malabo.

The result left Guinea in fifth place on the standings with 11 points, that included just three wins, two draws and five losses.

Despite their poor showing in the World Cup qualifiers, they still fared better than Sao Tome and Principe, who ended bottom of the pile - even after ending their tournament with a 1-0 victory over Malawi. It was a first win and first points for the island nation, with Ronaldo Afonso scoring the only goal of the game from the penalty spot on 62 minutes.

Malawi ended their campaign in fourth with 13 points.

Elsewhere, South Sudan and Togo played out a goalless draw in their dead-rubber qualifier that left Togo in fourth place on the standings with eight points, and Sudan at the bottom with five points.

The Group B winners are yet to be decided, with Senegal currently in first place with 21 points, closely followed by DR Congo on 19 points, both with one game to play.

Cape Verde sealed their World Cup place for the first time ever, as Group D winners with 23 points following their 3-0 win over Eswatini on Monday, as Cameroon failed to beat Angola, as they played to a goalless draw.

Dailon Livramento (48'), Willy Semedo (54') and Stopira (90+'1') were all on target for a comprehensive victory at Estadio Nacional de Cabo Verde.

Cameroon sensationally missed out on the World Cup after making it to the group stage at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Also in Group D, Mauritius and Libya played out an uninspiring 0-0 draw as Lesotho recorded a 1-0 win over Zimbabwe, in Group C, just days after Zimbabwe left South Africa's World Cup hopes hanging by a thread with a goalless draw.

All the results in full:

Tunisia 3-0 Namibia

South Sudan 0-0 Togo

Equatorial Guinea 1-1 Liberia

Sao Tome and Principe 1-0 Malawi

Mauritius 0-0 Libya

Cameroon 0-0 Angola

Cape Verde 3-0 Eswatini

Lesotho 1-0 Zimbabwe

Eritrea v Tanzania - Cancelled

Injury woes mount for Tottenham as Ben Davies limps off for Wales

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:10:26 +0000

The 32-year-old defender, earning his 100th cap in what should have been a landmark appearance, went down injured late in the second half and had to be replaced after 72 minutes.

Wales manager Rob Page confirmed that medical staff would assess the extent of the problem in the coming days.

Davies' setback is another blow for Spurs boss Thomas Frank, who is already without several key players. "It's never good to see one of your experienced players go off like that," Frank said before adding that the club will "wait for further updates" from the Welsh medical team before determining the severity of the injury.

The London club are already dealing with a growing injury list. Midfielder Yves Bissouma was stretchered off while playing for Mali against Madagascar, adding to Frank's concerns.

James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Dominic Solanke also remain sidelined as they continue their recoveries from respective injuries.

There is, however, some encouragement for Spurs. Striker Randal Kolo Muani is expected to return to full training after the international break, having missed recent matches with a dead leg.

Tottenham, who are currently pushing for a top-four finish in the Premier League, return to domestic action on Sunday, 19 October, when they host Aston Villa at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Frank will be hoping his side can regroup and recover in time for what promises to be another crucial test in their season.

Casper Ruud once again criticises 'really, really long' ATP schedule

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:10:02 +0000

Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek have voiced their unhappiness over the demanding ATP and WTA Tour calendars several times over the past year, while Ruud also expressed his concerns after his early exit from this year's French Open.

Players are required to play a certain number of mandatory tournaments every year and if they don't, they face penalties in terms of fines and points deductions from the ATP and WTA Rankings.

Former world No 2 Ruud believes some players compete despite being injured in order to qualify for the extra monetary incentives, but he concedes that he needs to look after himself.

Ruud told Bolavip: "I know that if you are not healthy or not eligible to play, you won't be put in jail if you don't play, but there is also an economic incentive to play, and some people care more about it than others. But I think the season is long.

"To have a mandatory event like Paris that late in the season makes the season really, really long. It's the same for everyone, but going forward I will plan the schedule a bit differently, maybe skipping a few events here and there.

"I had a very hectic three to four years since I reached the top 10. I played a lot of events, and I played some exhibitions in the pre-season, so those are some choices that I have made, which I look back on and think I shouldn't have done. For the future, that is something I will take into consideration."

The 30 players who earn the most ATP Rankings points at ATP Masters 1000 events and the ATP Finals this season will share the Bonus Pool of 21 million dollars.

Meanwhile, six players also earn 3m in the ATP 500 Bonus Pool.

Hugo Broos still weighing Bafana centre-back options for Rwanda

Velile Mnyandu — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:17:54 +0000

Mbokazi was sent off in the dying minutes of Friday's goalless draw with Zimbabwe, with Stellenbosch FC defender Thabo Moloisane having been called in as a replacement.

With Bafana's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes on the line, Broos said he was still undecided on his pairing in the heart of defence, with Moloisane, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Malibongwe Khoza and Khulumani Ndamane as his options.

"[Mbokazi] is very strong in defending, but also in transition and building up [from the back], so you don't want to lose a player like this for an important game like [today]," said Broos.

"But yeah, it was a reaction from a young player who was provoked two times in five minutes, and he couldn't control himself, so he did something that he didn't have to do and got a red card – we can't discuss that, it was a red card.

"But I don't blame him for that, those are things a young player has to learn. I can't say well done, certainly not, but I will not blame him for that.

"So we have to think about how we will replace him, and I have to talk with Helman [Mkhalele] again because it's not an easy decision, so we will see – there are two options, we will see which option is best for the team, and let's hope we take the right decision."

READ: Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race but still clings to hope

Another doubt for the match was Burnley forward Lyle Foster, who was stull limping and had his knee heavily strapped as he sat out of the MD-1 training session at Mbombela Stadium on Monday.

Despite the player initially declaring he feels okay, Broos suggested that – like Mbokazi – their 25-year-old key striker will also not be avialable this evening.

"I think Lyle has become a very important player for us, we have to admit that, and he was a little bit unlucky on Friday also, when you see his previous games, nearly every time he's scored a goal," the Belgian added.

"He had a very big chance and they cleared it off the line, but he's a very important player – just like Mbokazi, but they will not be there tomorrow.

"So we have to be confident and believe in the players who are there and, from my side, I give them my confidence and my trust, and let's see what happens.

"But again, this is not a coach who is doubting now about what will happen or doubting the quality of some players, or the players who are not [available]."

Belgium and Germany close in on 2026 World Cup spots as France and Switzerland stumble

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:10:40 +0000

With two rounds of European Qualifiers remaining, several groups remain finely balanced, Belgium are now top of Group J, France lead a tense Group D, and Germany's push in Group A continues to gather pace.

Iceland Fight Back to Hold France

France stayed top of Group D after being held to a 2-2 draw by Iceland in Reykjavik. The hosts struck first when Victor Palsson converted before half-time, capitalising on an excellent start that included key saves from goalkeeper Elias Rafn Olafsson.

Didier Deschamps' side turned the game around midway through the second half through quick goals from Christopher Nkunku and Jean-Philippe Mateta, but Kristian Hlynsson's well-taken finish earned Iceland a deserved point.

France remain three points clear of Ukraine, who beat Azerbaijan 2-1, with Iceland three points further back in third. France will qualify automatically if they beat Azerbaijan in their next fixture, while Ukraine must win their final two games to stay in contention.

De Bruyne Double Inspires Belgium in Cardiff

Kevin De Bruyne scored twice from the penalty spot as Belgium defeated Wales 4-2 in Cardiff to move top of Group J. Joe Rodon had put the hosts ahead early on, but De Bruyne levelled from the spot before Thomas Meunier's smart first-time finish gave Belgium a 2-1 half-time lead.

After a spell of Welsh pressure, De Bruyne struck again from the spot to restore control. Nathan Broadhead briefly gave Wales hope with a fine finish, but Leandro Trossard sealed victory for Rudi Garcia's side on the break.

Belgium now lead Group J on 19 points, two ahead of second-placed North Macedonia, who were held 1-1 by Kazakhstan.

A win over Kazakhstan next month would confirm Belgium's place at the 2026 World Cup.

Germany Edge Northern Ireland in Belfast Battle

Germany secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Northern Ireland in Belfast thanks to Nick Woltemade's first senior international goal. Julian Nagelsmann's side dominated possession but were forced to defend resolutely late on as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.

The result keeps Germany level on nine points with Slovakia in Group A, who beat Luxembourg 2-0. Both teams are chasing top spot in a group where only three points separate the top three sides.

Germany host Slovakia on Matchday 10 in what could be the decisive fixture for automatic qualification.

Switzerland Frustrated as Kosovo Close Gap

Switzerland missed the chance to seal early qualification after being held 0-0 by Slovenia in Group B. The Swiss created the better chances but were denied by inspired goalkeeping from Jan Oblak.

Their draw allowed Kosovo to close the gap to three points after a 1-0 win away to Sweden. Switzerland remain top on 17 points, with Kosovo second on 14.

Both sides can still qualify automatically, with Switzerland needing one more win from their final two matches to confirm their place.

Ukraine Keep Pressure on France

Ruslan Malinovskyi's second-half strike earned Ukraine a 2-1 victory over Azerbaijan, keeping them within touching distance of Group D leaders France. The result leaves Ukraine on 15 points, three behind France but still in contention.

To qualify automatically, Ukraine must win their next two games and hope France drop points. Azerbaijan remain bottom with just one point.

North Macedonia Slip in Skopje

North Macedonia's World Cup hopes suffered a setback as they were held 1-1 by Kazakhstan in Skopje. Dinmukhamed Karaman's spectacular overhead kick cancelled out Enis Bardhi's opener, denying the hosts a vital win.

With the draw, North Macedonia stay second in Group J on 17 points, two behind Belgium. They now face a must-win clash against Wales in November to keep their qualification hopes alive.

FIFA World Cup qualifying results

Group A:

Northern Ireland 0-1 Germany

Slovakia 2-0 Luxembourg

Group B:

Sweden 0-1 Kosovo

Slovenia 0-0 Switzerland

Group D:

Iceland 2-2 France

Ukraine 2-1 Azerbaijan

Group J:

Wales 2-4 Belgium

North Macedonia 1-1 Kazakhstan

New recruit Grant de Jager embracing Blitzboks culture as he targets Cape Town debut

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:10:01 +0000

The former Western Province and Maties speedster joined the Blitzboks setup in September and has quickly bought into the team's high-intensity culture, which he says mirrors his own approach to the game.

The defence of the HSBC SVNS Cape Town crown is high on the Blitzboks' agenda this coming season. The tournament will be played at DHL Stadium on 6 and 7 December, with tickets available from only R250 per person, exclusively on Ticketmaster.

"I have a firm belief in hard work and one thing I pride myself on is that I will always try and outwork everyone else on the field," said De Jager.

"That was the first thing that I picked up from the team since I joined and that is their willingness to work harder and harder."

He can recall the exact moment when, as a 13-year-old, decided that he wanted to be a Springbok Sevens player.

"I always wanted to go to the Olympics and at that time I was also a serious swimmer," he said.

"But on that day in 2016, we were watching the Rugby Sevens tournament at the Olympic Games in Rio and when our guys were on the podium, I told my mom that I want to represent them at the Olympics in future.

"When I got the call this year from coach Philip (Snyman) that I will be contracted I immediately phoned my mom and reminded her of that dream I shared with her."

For now, the Olympic Games Ã¢- where South Africa won bronze in Rio and again last year in Paris Ã¢- is not on the immediate horizon, but De Jager would rather like to cement a spot in the squad for the HSBC SVNS.

"I am not getting ahead of myself Ã¢- I will play as a hooker and the incumbents are Ryan Oosthuizen, who has played more than 50 tournaments, and David Britz, who has won the Currie Cup in his career," he said.

"It will be a great opportunity for me to learn from these experienced players and learn the ins and outs of the position. Work rate will not be an issue for me, just making sure I do my job well is things I will be looking to gain experience from Ryan and David from," added De Jager, who played in the FNB Craven Week for the Pumas in 2022.

De Jager's first sortie into sevens was a productive one. He was part of the Springbok Sevens 'A' team that won the Rugby Africa Sevens tournament in Mauritius in June this year and such was his input that Snyman decided to offer him a contract.

Winning in Mauritius was a special feeling and winning in Cape Town was equally fulfilling, De Jager said: "I was a spectator at DHL Stadium last year when the Blitzboks won and it was such a magnificent occasion.

"I could see how much fun the people in the party stands were having, mixed with the enjoyment and pride the rest of us had because the Blitzboks won in such commanding fashion.

"Little did I know that it would become part of my future. I am not phoning my parents and booking plane tickets for them yet, but it would be such an honour to one day play for South Africa in our home tournament."

The Springbok Sevens played six pre-season matches against Germany last week, with three matches each on Thursday and Friday. They will repeat the exercise this week in the same format and De Jager said he loved every minute of it.

"It is only when you play with these guys when you realise how good they are," De Jager said with a broad smile.

Chloe Tryon explains sensible innings against Bangladesh Women

Benjamin Leshoro — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:54:43 +0000

Chasing 233 for victory, Tryon top scored with 62 while Marizanne Kapp contributed 56, before Nadine de Klerk amassed the winning runs in the final over to lead the team to a third successive win as they beat the Tigresses by three wickets.

Tryon, who was named Player of the Match, explained how they rebuilt the innings and stayed calm at the crease to help the team get the job done.

"Yeah, I wish I could stay in for the last couple of runs and actually take the team over the line. But ja, I've just been taking that responsibility," explained Tryon.

"And coming really early in the India game and today, myself and Marizanne just spoke about taking it as deep as we could and just tick it over.

"We knew we had time on our hands and we knew we had Nadine in the backend so we didn't want to bring her in too early.

"So we kind of went low-risk and still kind of chipped away at the runs as much as we could, and I'm just happy we're still finding ways to get over the line."

South Africa were frustrated by the Bangladeshi batters earlier in the day, and the 31-year-old all-rounder says they lost their discipline at some point with the ball, but also took inspiration from their opponents in how they went about their own chase.

"I think we were really good in the first 20-22 overs, we were really tight, and then I think we started looking for things, and I kind of feel like we were just searching a lot more for wickets instead of just keeping it nice and tight and creating pressure," she added.

"So, ja, we let it go a little bit, which was unfortunate and it's something we can reflect on, and hopefully rectify in the next game.

"But we just learned from them on how they came in and just ticked away, and just created really good partnerships, which kind of frustrated us a lot, so it was just taking that from the first innings and applying it in the second innings."

Next up for the Proteas Women in the group phase is tournament co-hosts Sir Lanka at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo, on Friday.

Shubman Gill celebrates first Test series win as captain as India overpower West Indies

SABC Sport — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:10:20 +0000

Set a modest 121 for victory, the hosts reached the target during the morning session on the final day. KL Rahul guided the chase with an unbeaten 58, while B Sai Sudharsan chipped in with 39.

It was Indian captain Shubman Gill's first series win since taking over as Test skipper earlier this year.

"It's a really big honour and I would say I'm getting used to it," said Gill. "Managing all the players and leading this team is a great honour."

India had wrapped up the opening Test in Ahmedabad within three days and took firm control of the second by piling up 518-5 before declaring their first innings.

The West Indies responded with 248 before being forced to follow on. Their second innings showed much greater resolve, with centuries from John Campbell and Shai Hope helping them post 390 all out and pushing the match into its fifth day.

Starting the final morning on 63-1, India needed only an hour to finish the job, though the visitors claimed two wickets through brilliant fielding efforts.

Captain Roston Chase removed Sudharsan when Hope dived low in the slips to complete a fine catch. Gill (13) struck a six and a four but mistimed a delivery from Rose, sending the ball swirling toward midwicket where Justin Greaves sprinted in to grab a stunning catch.

That proved the final twist, as Rahul struck the winning boundary to confirm India's victory.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who collected eight wickets across both innings, earned the player-of-the-match award, while Ravindra Jadeja was named player of the series.

Reflecting on the defeat, West Indies skipper Chase chose to highlight the positives. "The positives for us in this match was that Campbell and Hope played well and scored hundreds," he said. "We batted 100 overs after a long time, that was another positive. Taking the game to the fifth day, that was great for us."

India will next tour Australia, with the first one-day international set for October 19 in Perth.

Nadine de Klerk holds her nerve as Proteas Women squeeze past Bangladesh

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 18:10:23 +0000

Chasing a target of 233, Laura Wolvaardt's troops were soon in trouble as they slipped to 78-5 but Marizanne Kapp (56), Chloe Tryon (62) and then De Klerk's crucial 37 not out out saw them over the line.

The Proteas lost Tamzin Brits early in the run-chase before Wolvaardt (31) and Anneke Bosch added 55 for the second wicket to settle some nerves but the stand was ended after a terrible mix-up saw the skipper walk.

That triggered a partial collapse as the Proteas fell to 78-5 after Bangladesh's spinners turned the game in their favour.

Ritu Moni removed Bosch for 28 after she skewed the ball to mid-off before Rabeya and Fahima Khatun both produced exquisite deliveries to bowl Annerie Dercksen and Sinalo Jafta respectively.

But Kapp held her nerve in the middle overs, bringing up a patient half-century by dispatching Shorna for six down the ground at the start of the 40th over.

At the other end, Tryon provided able support to the 35-year-old as the pair put on 85 to get South Africa back into the contest, but Kapp's dismissal Ã¢- caught mistiming an attempted slog for 56 Ã¢- left their pursuit at 163-6.

Tryon plundered 15 out of the 16 runs from an eventful 44th over Ã¢- which saw her dropped, go to fifty and hit three boundaries - to get to within 37 runs of victory with six overs left.

Ritu Moni's direct hit to see the back of Tryon for 62 kept the match on a knife edge but De Klerk, who finished unbeaten on 37 after being dropped on 26, was once again there at the end to see her country home alongside Klaas.

Earlier, Bangladesh's openers battled hard early on in swinging conditions after electing to bat first in Visakhapatnam.

The sixth over saw Fargana Hoque claim her first two boundaries as the 32-year-old advanced down the track and punted Masabata Klaas first through mid-off before swivelling superbly to pull behind square two balls later.

The first pairing went on to bring up their fifty partnership in the 16th over but Tryon struck soon after, as Rubya Haider dragged an attempted slog-sweep to De Klerk at mid-on for 25.

South Africa's bowlers succeeded in stifling Bangladesh's efforts with the bat and Fargana was next to go for 30 to Nonkululeko Mlaba after attempting a sweep shot.

Sharmin Akhter and captain Nigar Sultana Joty looked to accelerate the innings and put on 77 for the third wicket to take Bangladesh to 150 with 10 overs to go.

As Joty looked set to kick on, Mlaba had her caught for 32 in the covers after drilling a tossed-up delivery straight to Laura Wolvaardt.

The arrival of Shorna brought the first six of the Bangladesh innings over long-on as Sharmin went to her first World Cup fifty Ã¢- and her ninth in ODIs overall - in the 42nd over.

But the latter was runout for 50 following a mix-up to leave the score on 164-4.

Both Sobhana Mostary Ã¢- runout with a direct hit from Tumi Sekhukhune - and Rabeya Khan went cheaply thereafter, but late fireworks from Shorna, who reached her maiden ODI fifty in the final over, and Ritu Moni helped their side post a competitive total.

Erling Haaland released early from Norway duty ahead of busy Man City run

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:10:21 +0000

Haaland has returned to Manchester City ahead of schedule in order to rest before a demanding run of club fixtures.

The 25-year-old featured in Norway's 5-0 win over Israel on Saturday, scoring a hat-trick to continue his strong international form. However, he will not be involved in Tuesday's friendly against New Zealand in Oslo.

The Norwegian Football Association confirmed that several players were allowed to leave the squad early due to their congested schedules. A statement read:

"Players with particularly tight match schedules are returning home: Alexander Sorloth, Julian Ryerson, Erling Braut Haaland and Fredrik Bjorkan."

The decision is understood to be precautionary and not related to any injury concerns.

Haaland has made an impressive start to the 2025Ã¢-26 season, scoring 12 goals in nine appearances for Manchester City and adding nine more in just three international games for Norway.

His early return comes as City prepare for a busy period that includes seven matches in 22 days across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic competitions. Upcoming fixtures include games against Everton, Villarreal, Borussia Dortmund, Aston Villa and Liverpool.

Norway currently sit top of their World Cup qualifying group with six wins from six matches. Their next competitive fixture is in the November international window.

Dani Olmo doubtful for El Clasico as Barcelona give injury update

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:10:03 +0000

Barcelona confirmed the injury on Monday following medical tests conducted after the 27-year-old withdrew from international duty with Spain last week. The club did not specify a recovery timeline, stating only that his return will depend on the progress of his rehabilitation.

However, sources close to the situation told multiple outlets that Olmo is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks. If confirmed, he would miss Barca's upcoming LaLiga match against Girona on October 18 and the Champions League group-stage game against Olympiacos on October 21. His availability for the Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu on October 26 remains in serious doubt.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said Olmo arrived at national team camp showing signs of muscle fatigue. Despite training throughout the week, he reported discomfort in his left leg and played only a brief part in Friday's session before being sent back to Catalunia for further evaluation.

Olmo has made 10 appearances for the Blaugrana so far this season, scoring once and providing two assists. Since joining from RB Leipzig in August 2024 for around 65 million euros, he has struggled with recurring injuries, missing 20 matches last season despite registering 12 goals in 39 games.

Barcelona's injury list also includes forward Ferran Torres, who returned early from Spain duty due to muscular discomfort in his left hamstring. Both the RFEF and Barcelona confirmed that Torres has not suffered any structural damage and is expected to be available for selection soon.

Teenager Lamine Yamal and midfielder FermÃƒn Lopez returned to training this week after recovering from groin injuries. Yamal had missed Barcelona's recent match against Sevilla and was withdrawn from Spain's squad earlier this month. Lopez had been out for four games.

Barcelona are currently preparing for a busy stretch of fixtures, with the Clasico marking a critical point in the league campaign. Real Madrid are top of the LaLiga standings, with Barca looking to close the gap.

Borussia Dortmund eyeing Chelsea defender as potential Nico Schlotterbeck replacement

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:10:34 +0000

While Dortmund are working to extend Schlotterbeck's contract - currently set to run until 2027-interest from European giants such as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Liverpool has complicated negotiations.

Reports suggest BVB have offered a new deal through 2030, including a significant pay bump, but the 25-year-old centre-back is yet to commit. His decision may hinge on the club's sporting trajectory over the coming season.

With the situation unresolved, Dortmund are already exploring contingency plans. One prominent name on their shortlist is Axel Disasi, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa from Chelsea. Despite a 45 million euro move to Stamford Bridge in 2023, the French international has failed to cement a place in the squad and is currently not training with Chelsea's first team under Enzo Maresca.

Disasi's availability - both in terms of transfer fee and wages - makes him a viable candidate for Dortmund. Chelsea are reportedly open to offloading the 27-year-old permanently, potentially at a reduced price due to his limited playing time. His 5 million euros per year salary also fits within Dortmund's financial framework.

The prospect of a reunion with BVB manager Niko Kovac adds further appeal. Disasi played under KovaÃ„ during their time together at AS Monaco, a connection that could smooth negotiations and integration into the Dortmund squad.

The looming departure of another centre-back, Niklas Sule, whose contract runs until 2026, further emphasizes Dortmund's need to reinforce their backline. SÃƒ¼le would be required to accept a pay cut to remain at the club, adding to the sense of transition in Dortmund's defensive ranks.

Disasi is also attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, but a Bundesliga return may offer the playing time and stability he seeks. For Dortmund, he represents not just a stopgap, but a long-term solution should both Schlotterbeck and Sule exit in the next transfer windows.

With domestic football resuming after the international break, Dortmund's immediate focus will shift to the high-stakes Der Klassiker against Bayern Munich on October 18 at the Allianz Arena - a fixture that could offer a glimpse into the club's defensive resilience amid the uncertainty ahead.

Tony De Zorzi stands firm but Proteas collapse puts Pakistan in control of first Test

Nasri Alexander — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:10:07 +0000

The visitors closed out the day on 216-6, from being 174-2, and still trail by 162 runs after bowling the home team out for 378 just before lunch.

De Zorzi will resume with Senuran Muthusamy (6 not out) with the Proteas looking to get as close to Pakistan as possible on a pitch that is already turning excessively.

Pakistan started the second day on 313-5 and Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha extended their overnight partnership to 163 before Muthusamy made the crucial breakthrough.

The left-arm spinner took three wickets in a one over, including that of Rizwan for 75, and then finished off the innings with figures of 6-117 in 32 overs.

It was Muthusamy's maiden five-wicket haul in his sixth Test appearance while Agha was last man out to Prenelan Subrayen (2-78) for 93, the tourists would have been satisfied with the bowling effort.

Opening pair Aiden Markram (20) and Ryan Rickelton put on 45 before the Proteas captain was caught behind off the bowling of spinner Noman Ali, who then also accounted for Wiaan Wulder (17).

De Zorzi came through a scratchy start, that saw him survive close lbw appeals and edges through slips, to add 94 with Rickelton for the third wicket.

Rickelton looked in sublime touch and made his way to 71 before he was brilliantly caught a slip by Babar Azam off the bowling of spinner Agha.

The wicket sparked a mini-collapse as the Proteas lost four wickets for just 26 runs with Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis and Kyle Verreynne falling cheaply before the close.

Ryan Gravenberch injury adds to Liverpool's growing fitness concerns

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 12:10:41 +0000

The 23-year-old was replaced at half-time by Manchester City's Tijjani Reijnders after complaining of hamstring discomfort. Dutch boss Ronald Koeman confirmed the decision was precautionary, saying: "Ryan indicated he was experiencing some minor hamstring problems. Of course, we didn't take any risks with that."

Gravenberch, who has become a key figure in Liverpool's midfield since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2023, later eased fears over the severity of the issue. "It had a bit to do with fitness. The season is long, so it was a precaution," he said.

The Dutch international played the full 90 minutes in Thursday's 4Ã¢-0 win over Malta and is expected to return to Liverpool's AXA Training Centre this week for further assessment. Slot will be hopeful the problem is minor, with the Reds already short of options in several areas.

Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, Wataru Endo missed Japan's international fixtures due to an unspecified issue, and Ibrahima Konate was forced off during the recent defeat to Chelsea with a quad strain, ruling him out of France duty.

Liverpool are currently second in the Premier League on 15 points after seven games, one point behind leaders Arsenal, and face Manchester United at Anfield next Sunday in what is already shaping up to be a crucial fixture.

Slot's side have endured a difficult spell, suffering three consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace (2-1), Galatasaray (1-0) and Chelsea (2-1) before the international break, the worst run of the Dutchman's managerial career.

Gravenberch, who has featured in every match since serving a suspension on the opening weekend, will be a major doubt for that clash.

In brighter news for Liverpool, Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk both found the net for the Netherlands against Finland, Van Dijk in the 17th minute and Gakpo in the 84th, a result that leaves Koeman's side top of their 2026 World Cup qualifying Group G and on course for next summer's tournament.

After facing United, Liverpool's demanding schedule continues with fixtures against Eintracht Frankfurt (Champions League, October 22), Brentford (October 25), Crystal Palace (Carabao Cup, October 29), Aston Villa (November 1), Real Madrid (Champions League, November 4), and Manchester City before the November international break.

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins withdraws from England squad ahead of Latvia clash

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 12:10:29 +0000

Watkins was forced off at half-time in England's 3-0 win at Wembley after a heavy collision with the post while attempting to convert a low cross. Although he initially received treatment and attempted to play on, Watkins was substituted before the second half and later described himself as "ok". However, further assessment has seen him return to his club for treatment, ruling him out of the trip to Riga.

The 29-year-old, who scored England's second goal against Wales, has six goals in 20 international appearances but has struggled to find form at club level this season, scoring just once in ten matches. His absence reduces England's attacking options ahead of a potentially decisive qualifying fixture.

A win against Latvia would guarantee England a place at next year's World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with two games to spare. England currently sit top of Group K, four points clear of second-placed Albania, and are yet to concede in the campaign.

Despite Watkins' injury setback, head coach Thomas Tuchel is expected to welcome back captain Harry Kane, who missed the Wales match due to an ankle issue picked up with Bayern Munich. The 32-year-old has been in prolific form, netting 19 goals in 12 appearances for club and country this season. Kane trained with the squad at Tottenham's training ground on Monday and is expected to lead the line in Riga, fitness permitting.

Should Kane be unavailable, Newcastle's Anthony Gordon could once again be tasked with a central role, having stepped in during the second half against Wales. Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Barcelona, is another option. Although typically deployed on the left, the Manchester United forward has frequently featured centrally for England and remains the squad's second-highest active scorer with 18 goals.

With Watkins out, Tuchel will travel to Latvia with a 22-man squad as England aim to seal early qualification and maintain their unbeaten run.

England return to domestic action shortly after the international break, with Aston Villa visiting Tottenham on Saturday, October 19.

They're "absolute freaks of nature", says Thomas du Toit about Bok teammates

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:10:30 +0000

The World Champions have no shortage of brutish athletes. From the immovable Ox Nche, to the sheer size of RG Snyman and the non-nonsense Jasper Wiese, one doesn't have to look too far.

But for du Toit, there are two other unsung heroes in the Springbok squad. Speaking on the Maul or Nothing podcast, the revered scrummager hailed the physical abilities of Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Andre Esterhuizen.

"Jan-Hendrick is very to the top, he can mostly do everything," he said.

"You see that guy's work rate when he runs around, like it is really impressive. But then I would probably throw in a guy like Andre Esterhuizen.

"He has been labelled this hybrid player. He is also actually a freak. He is monstrous, and what he did in the Premiership [with Harlequins] was also spectacular.

"Every time he touches the ball for the Springboks, something happens. Look at that carry when he scored that try against Beauden Barrett. He shrugged him off. It looked quite easy, but for a guy like him it probably was quite easy. I would say between those two, definitely absolute freaks of nature."

Having put in a solid 41-minute shift, du Toit watched New Zealand's capitulation in the second half of the Wellington Test from the bench.

The versatile prop reflected on the great combination of brutal forwards and silky backs that resulted in the record victory. The Boks' 'slow poison' adage certainly was a factor.

"I know we use that word gel quite loosely, but it really felt like everything came together that day," du Toit reflected.

Every coach and player wants that every week, but the reality is it doesn't happen. But in that moment in that game, you could really feel like it was a shift.

"It felt like the game worked out very well for us. We tried to nullify everything they did in the first half, we really tried to work them as hard as we possibly can and when our bench came on, they did such a good job at getting across the line and actually scoring the tries.

"It felt like we did the foundation work in the first half, and then we just let loose in the second half. The one doesn't come without the otherÃ¢¦ it really gelled well."

West Indies show great tenacity, but India on the cusp of series victory

Doug Mattushek — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:10:15 +0000

The hosts would have fancied their chances of wrapping the match up on Day 4, but the West Indies batters had other ideas.

Starting the day on 173/2, the visitors continued where they left off. Opening bat John Campbell nudged and nurdled his way to his maiden century at one of the toughest places to do it. He added 15 more runs to his ton before being outdone by Ravindra Jadeja, who trapped Campbell in front.

That brought captain Roston Chase to the crease. Partnering with Shai Hope, they went past the 50-run mark and the latter raised his bat for his first century in over eight years. At 271/3, the men in maroon had already surpassed expectations after being asked to follow-on from their first innings of 248.

Then came the familiar collapse. They would lose their next six wickets for just 40 runs as tweaker Kuldeep Yadav weaved his web of deception to bag three wickets.

However, there was life in the West Indies yet. With chaos all around him, Justin Greaves had stood firm and when tailender Jayden Seals joined, he stood firmer still. The all-rounder notched up his 50 as the final pair collected 79 gritty runs for the tenth wicket partnership, delaying India's celebrations. When Jasprit Bumrah finally got Seals, he'd earned a career high 32 and the hosts needed 121 to win.

The visitors took the momentum into their opening spell. Jomel Arrican dismissed a dancing Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was too eager to get on with proceedings, in the second over. KL Ruhal and Sai Sudharsan calmed things down as they got to the end of play at 63/1.

Sofyan Amrabat's career reignited at Real Betis amid rising demand for permanent stay

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:10:42 +0000

The Moroccan international arrived in Seville on loan from Fenerbahce during the last transfer window with little fanfare but has quickly proven himself an indispensable asset under manager Manuel Pellegrini.

His dominant displays in midfield have brought balance and bite to Betis' game, earning plaudits from both fans and analysts, wrote Moroccoworldnews.com.

According to Spanish outlet El Desmarque, club officials are not only impressed - they're already exploring ways to secure the 29-year-old's services beyond this season.

The loan deal, which expires in the summer, doesn't include a buy option and sees FenerbahÃƒ§e still footing the majority of Amrabat's wages. Even so, Betis are reportedly ready to push for a permanent move, possibly employing a strategy similar to the one used to land winger Antony.

For Amrabat, this spell at Betis marks a turning point. After struggling for form and minutes in Turkey, his resurgence in La Liga has re-established him as a top-tier midfield anchor. His athleticism, positional awareness, and relentless work rate have helped power Betis to three straight league wins, reinvigorating their campaign.

Pellegrini, known for building well-balanced sides, is understood to be fully behind the move to keep Amrabat long-term.

The Chilean tactician views him as a key piece in Betis' midfield engine room - a player capable of dictating tempo and breaking up opposition play with intelligence and aggression.

While Amrabat remains under contract with FenerbahÃƒ§e until 2028, his performances in Spain have sparked a growing belief that a permanent transfer could be mutually beneficial.

With Betis looking to cement a European qualification spot and Fenerbahce likely to reconsider his role, negotiations may heat up as the season draws to a close.

Capped 68 times by Morocco, Amrabat's revival at Betis could see him re-emerge as a sought-after figure in European football - and Seville may just be the place that reshapes his career.

Inter Milan's attack shines as they chase top spots in Serie A showdown

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:10:26 +0000

With both opponents sitting near the summit of Serie A, Inter's recent form and tactical evolution have turned heads.

As of mid-October 2025, Napoli lead the Serie A table, followed closely by Roma in second. Inter sit in fourth place, stacked just behind AC Milan after six matches.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter have transformed into "a real goal-scoring machine," capable of finding the net through multiple players rather than relying on a single star. The paper cites their attack "produces and delivers consistently," attributing that to a strong collective identity and the leadership of the coach.

Chivu's tactical framework has allowed forwards and attacking midfielders to share goal-scoring duties. His rotations keep opposition defences guessing, and the front line remains unpredictable and fluid. The result: a steady stream of chances and goals from diverse sources.

Roma, coached by Gian Piero Gasperini, and Napoli, under Antonio Conte, both boast potent offensive systems. But Inter's balance between creative freedom and structural discipline has drawn praise. The report also underscores Chivu's man-management: every attacking player stays alert, motivated, and dangerous.

"Inter are not just efficient, they are evolving," La Gazzetta states, pointing to Chivu's growing influence across the squad.

With critical games approaching, Inter's fusion of tactical harmony and attacking firepower could prove decisive in their bid to climb the Serie A ladder and sustain a credible challenge for the title.

Australia captain Pat Cummins not very hopeful of being fit for first Ashes Test

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:10:23 +0000

Cummins has been sidelined since the Test series against West Indies in July after it was revealed that the fast bowler has a lumbar bone stress issue.

The Aussie skipper was said he has started running but would need time to get into the nets and start bowling again.

"I'd say probably less likely than likely," Cummins said when about the first Ashes Test availability. "But we've still got a bit of time.

"I'm running today and running kind of every second day, and each runs a little bit longer, and then we get into bowling prep next week.

"So I'm probably a couple of weeks away before actually putting on the spikes and bowling out on the turf. But it's been a good couple of weeks. Each session feels better and better.

"You'd want probably at least a month in the nets. "If you are to play in a Test match, you want to make sure you are right to bowl 20 overs in a day and you don't have to think about it.

"Four weeks is pretty tight, but I think somewhere around that mark."

Cummins admitted he had some level of frustration surrounding the timing of the injury and the prospect of missing part of the Ashes series.

He added: "Some days I'm kind of annoyed because it's the Ashes, and it's a big summer and then other days I'm kind of realistic.

"I've had the last seven or eight years of almost uninterrupted home summers, so I felt like I've had a really good run as a fast bowler."

United Rugby Championship Round 3: South African Team of the Week

Nick Krige — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:10:53 +0000

The Stormers continued their unbeaten start to the United Rugby Championship in Round 3 with an impressive 34-0 win over Scarlets.

However, things did not go as well for the rest of the South African teams as the Sharks were beaten 5-31 by Leinster, the Bulls went down 7-28 to Ulster and the Lions lost 15-41 to Italian side Benetton.

Which means the Team of the Week for Round 3 features a heavy dose of players from the Cape Town outfit but there were several players from the other franchises that made a strong impression.

Round 3 Team of the Week

15 - Rhyno Christo Smith (Benetton)

Was one of the standout players for Benetton in an impressive display against the Lions. Ran for around 80 metres in eight carries, broke the line on a couple of occasions. Scored a lovely try and kicked a conversion to contribute seven points, while also providing two try assists.

14 Ethan Hooker (Sharks)

Continuing his rapid rise to superstardom with another good performance despite a tough day out against an imposing Leinster side. Scored his team's only try of the game while running for nearly 100 metres in a match in which the Sharks' attack struggled to make many inroads

13 Wandisile Simelane (Stormers)

Terrorised Scarlets all game with powerful ball carrying and slick offloads to help the Stormers maintain their unbeaten start to the campaign. Ran for over 50 metres while also putting in a big shift in defence to keep the Welsh side off the scoresheet.

12 Ruhan Nel (Stormers)

Was the perfect partner for Simelane in midfield for the Stormers. Led from the front as captain and midfield enforcer with 12 brutal tackles to keep the Scarlets attackers on the back foot all game.

11 Angelo Davids (Lions)

Put in a workman-like performance on the wing for the Lions. Broke the Benetton line on a number of occasions to give the Joburg men some attacking momentum and ran for around 50 metres while also pulling his weight on defence.

10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (Stormers)

An eventful return to URC action for the Springbok superstar in the making. Contributed a try, two conversions, a penalty, made 11 tackles and spent 10 minutes in the sin bin in a truly all-round performance that showed off every facet of his game.

9 Stefan Ungerer (Stormers)

Shared time with Imad Khan but ran the show for the Stormers in the 61 minutes he was on the pitch. Was quick to the breakdown and to distribute, causing disarray among the Scarlets defenders and provided a crucial try assist.

8 Evan Roos (Stormers)

Was destructive in contact on defence and ran for over 70 metres, including scoring a try and was a key component in the Stormers' rollicking win over Scarlets.

7 Ruan Venter (Lions)

Venter was huge at flank for the Lions, played the full 80 minutes and didn't run out of gas. Took the ball to the gainline time and again trying to find a way into the match for his team and ran for over 60 metres in 14 carries. This spot might have gone to Ben-Jason Dixon of the Stormers if he hadn't got a yellow card.

6 Paul de Villiers (Stormers)

Only played 56 minutes but had a huge impact but was constantly in the action and ran his tank empty in that time. Contributed a try but his disruptive influence at the breakdown was more important to the win as he made it very difficult for Scarlets to build up any momentum.

5 Ruben van Heerden (Stormers)

Was disruptor-in-chief at lineout time for the Stormers with two crucial steals. He was also the tip of the spear when they opted to go for the powerful driving maul and was a physical presence that anchored the set piece.

4 Cobus Wiese (Bulls)

Ran for nearly 50 metres in eight brutal carries while also being a key outlet for the Bulls at lineout time. Pulled his weight on defence too with nine crunching tackles in a tough day at the office for the Pretoria men.

3 Wilco Louw (Bulls)

Despite the scoreline, the scrum was a solid set piece for the Bulls and Louw played a huge part in making that happen. Won a few important penalties and scored his side's only try of the game.

2 Johan Grobbelaar (Bulls)

Was accurate with his lineout throws and pulled his weight on defence with 10 tackles. Also put in a big shift at scrum time to help the Bulls get some momentum.

1 Gerhard Steenkamp (Bulls)

The scum was one of the few positive marks for the Bulls, which is represented in the tight five for this Team of the Week, and Steenkamp completes the set. Only played 53 minutes but the Bulls dominated the scrums when he was on the park and he also chipped in with five big tackles.

Tottenham Hospur star Yves Bissouma stretchered off during Mali's World Cup qualifier

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:10:46 +0000

The 29-year-old came on as a 66th minute substitute for The Eagles but had to be substituted just six minutes later after a challenge from the opposition in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier clash.

Bissouma had not played a match since suffering a knee injury at the end of the 2024/25 season and this new injury could jeopardise his future with his contract with Spurs set to end in nine months.

The Mali star had recently been assured by club manager Thomas Frank that he would be considered for a return to the senior team for the upcoming Premier League clash against Aston Villa on Sunday.

However, general reports indicate fears of a serious ankle injury that may keep the midfielder out for months but no official updates of severity of the injury have been confirmed.

He was controversially left out of Frank's UEFA Super Cup squad at the beginning of the season due to reported 'repeated lateness' and also omitted from the Champions League squad for the league phase.

The former Brighton and Hove Albion star has featured in 100 matches for the North London side, scoring twice.

Ferran Torres injury for Spain adds to Barcelona's growing fitness woes

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:10:35 +0000

Torres earned his 50th cap on Saturday in Spain's 2-0 victory over Georgia in Elche but will play no part in Tuesday's 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in Valladolid after reporting muscle discomfort.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed that the Barcelona winger had undergone medical tests which revealed muscle overload, though no structural damage was detected.

A statement from the RFEF read: "Ferran Torres has been dropped from the squad for the fourth World Cup 2026 qualifier against Bulgaria in Valladolid. After completing the match against Georgia, he reported muscle discomfort that was evaluated by the RFEF's medical services. Additional tests diagnosed muscle overload with no associated anatomical injury.

"In keeping with the policy of taking no risks and prioritising the player's health, he has been withdrawn from the squad. FC Barcelona's medical team has been informed of all the details."

Torres is the latest in a growing list of Barcelona players returning early from international duty. Midfielder Dani Olmo has also been sidelined after sustaining a calf injury with Spain earlier in the break, while several key players, including Frenkie de Jong (who made an appearance for Netherlands on Sunday) and Pedri. are already recovering from fitness issues.

Barcelona are set to assess Torres upon his return to the club as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures in La Liga and the Champions League. The Catalan side have relied heavily on Torres' attacking contributions this season, with the 25-year-old featuring regularly under coach Hansi Flick.

The club's medical staff are understood to be hopeful that the forward's problem is only minor, but his situation will be closely monitored in the coming days.

Martin Zubimendi thrives under Mikel Arteta's influence as Arsenal move pays off

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:10:27 +0000

The Spanish midfielder, who joined from Real Sociedad for a reported fee of around fifty million pounds, has already become one of the standout performers in Arteta's evolving side.

Zubimendi, currently away on international duty with Spain, reflected on his decision to join Arsenal and the persuasive nature of Arteta's approach. Speaking to The Guardian, he said:

"I had watched Arsenal and liked everything I saw, the passion, the youth, the energy. When Mikel Arteta called me, he was very convincing. He's obsessed with football and controlling every detail. The project he presented was the best for me."

The 26-year-old admitted the transition from La Liga to the Premier League has been demanding, particularly with the physicality and speed of play.

"The mentality here is: be a man, go into clashes hard," Zubimendi explained. "In Spain, it's more about keeping the ball. Here, as soon as you win it, you go straight into attack. Transitions are constant and controlling them is a mental adjustment.

"What surprised me most is the importance of dead-ball situations, we work on them almost every day with our set-piece coach."

Zubimendi also revealed that Arsenal's style suits his strengths but requires small tactical adjustments.

"I've had to play faster and more directly," he said. "Arteta insists I can make that final pass and be more decisive. My role as a pivot doesn't change much, but I'm learning to take that step forward."

His performances have not gone unnoticed. For Spain, Zubimendi impressed again in Saturday's international fixture against Georgia, completing 91 of his 96 passes, winning all seven of his duels, and dictating play alongside Mikel Merino and Pedri.

With Rodri sidelined through injury, the Arsenal midfielder's form has strengthened his claim to be Spain's next long-term defensive anchor, a role he appears ready to embrace, just as he has done so impressively in North London.

Munetsi reveals pressure from Nigerian teammate after Bafana’s World Cup blunder

Velile Mnyandu — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:52:08 +0000

The Zimbabwean Warriors delivered a goalless draw against Bafana at the Moses Mabhida stadium on Friday, a result that has thrown Group C wide open, going into tomorrow’s last games.

Out of contention for the top spot, the Warriors play Lesotho in their final game tomorrow in Polokwane, and Munetsi is also interested to see which country between South Africa, Nigeria or Benin will emerge.

"I think even for me I have a teammate who's playing for Nigeria so as soon as he saw that South Africa was deducted three points, he was on my case in training. I think it's exciting for African football because I think everybody was watching to see how the group is gonna be but obviously South Africa has really been doing well if you check their records since the last AFCON,” Munetsi said.

“They've been progressing very well and I think for us, we're just here to enjoy the game and build up for AFCON. So, I think for the other teams, they have the pressure, so, I'm also looking forward to seeing what's gonna happen in the last game."

READ: Morena stresses composure in finishing for Bafana’s crucial tie against Rwanda

Their goalless draw against Bafana Bafana was one of their polished performances yet in the campaign, and Munetsi says they can build from it, as they continue their preparations for the AFCON.

"I think obviously when you play for Zimbabwe, with the players we have, I think you'd always want to win a game of football but obviously the context was very different for us,” he added.

“We had nothing to really play for besides our pride but we know that South Africa were trying to fight to qualify but obviously as competitors you want to show your A-game when you play in a stadium like this and most of us, I think we played in South Africa we know how the atmosphere is.

“Also, we have to remember that this is our direct opponent when it comes to AFCON. It's a game we could not have lost but it's a game we have to learn and also take some lessons that we can take for the AFCON."

With the AFCON tournament set to be staged in Morocco between the 21st of December and 18th January 2026, European-based players will be under pressure again from their clubs to choose between club and country.

Morena stresses composure in finishing for Bafana’s crucial tie against Rwanda

Velile Mnyandu — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:21:23 +0000

That draw saw Bafana Bafana’s chances to qualify for the World Cup hanging by a thread and needing favours from Nigeria in their final game against Group C leaders Benin.

Morena says against Rwanda they will have to be composed in the final third tomorrow.

"To make sure that we grind the results, to be honest, put in an under-pressure world is what happened on Friday. We went to the Friday game focusing on getting a goal, trying our level best to score but we rushed our decisions, everything was in a rush,” Morena said.

“So, I feel like that's also the foot that we put in the game but for this game we're gonna go guns blazing but not too edgy to get the goal. Eventually, we will get goals, it's one thing that we do, especially when we play at home."

READ: Thinasoke Mbuli: Unprofessionalism adds to HWBSL lack of sponsorships

After a sold-out crowd at the Moses Mabhida stadium, Morena says another good turnout in Mpumalanga will drive the team in tomorrow’s clash against Amavubi.

"And we have the advantage because we know our people are gonna come out and support and also we believe in everyone in the team. Putting the hard work and making sure that we do well on the final passes and on the final third,” he added.

“It's gonna be much better than this. Let's go to Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, we need your support, you know you are always our 12th man and at home let's cherish Bafana Bafana, we are going all out."

Bafana need to win their game against Rwanda and hope that Nigeria beats Benin to finish on top of the group and qualify.

If the game in Uyo ends in a draw, Bafana needs to win by two clear goals, assuming that the other game won’t end with Gabon having scored more than two goals.

Thomas Frank's Tottenham welcome back injured stars ahead of Aston Villa clash

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:10:27 +0000

The north Londoners went into the international break on a high after a 2-1 win away to Leeds, bouncing back from frustrating draws against Bodo/Glimt and Wolves.

Despite sitting third in the table, Spurs have been hampered by injuries to a number of first-team players across both attack and defence.

Thomas Frank has admitted that the injury situation is improving, with several stars edging closer to a return.

Dejan Kulusevski

The Swedish winger has been missed since undergoing knee surgery before the Europa League final in May.

Frank recently provided an optimistic update, saying Kulusevski had a "good chance" of returning before the end of the year.

Potential return: Late 2025

Kota Takai

The young Japanese defender, a summer signing from Kawasaki Frontale, has yet to make his debut due to a foot injury.

Frank confirmed earlier this month that Takai had returned to full training and was improving "day by day."

Potential return: 19 October vs Aston Villa

Dominic Solanke

Spurs' first-choice striker from last season has missed nearly two months of action due to a persistent ankle problem suffered during the 2Ã¢-0 win over Manchester City on 23 August. After undergoing minor surgery in late September, Solanke's comeback is progressing well.

"The procedure went well," Frank said earlier this month, adding that a clearer timeline would be known after the international break.

Potential return: November

Randal Kolo Muani

The on-loan French forward, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer, has been sidelined for five matches with a dead leg. However, Kolo Muani returned to training before the break and featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Watford, playing 45 minutes.

With another week of full training ahead, he is in contention for a place in the squad, and possibly a first start, against Aston Villa.

Potential return: 19 October vs Aston Villa

Radu Dragusin

Recovering from an ACL injury sustained in January, the Romanian defender has been eased back into training.

Frank stated in late September that Dragusin was "still a few weeks away," meaning his return could come before the end of October.

Potential return: Late October

James Maddison

Tottenham's creative heartbeat remains a long-term absentee after rupturing his ACL during a pre-season friendly against Newcastle in South Korea.

The midfielder, who underwent surgery in August, is expected to miss most of the season.

Potential return: Summer 2026

Tottenham will hope the international break has come at the right time, with several key figures nearing full fitness ahead of a crucial run of fixtures in both the Premier League and Europe.

Two debutants named in Wallabies' squad for European tour

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:10:10 +0000

Loosehead prop Ross, linked up with the squad in July, while scrumhalf Thomas was in camp with the team in Perth where he spent valuable time with the recently retired Nic White.

Playmaker Carter Gordon has been selected, having been announced as returning to Australian Rugby with the Queensland Reds in a long-term contract. The 24-year-old made his Wallabies debut in Pretoria in 2023 and went on to start at flyhalf in five of eight Tests in his first year of international rugby, including two matches at the Rugby World Cup.

Western Force flyer Dylan Pietsch returns to the group after a period on the sideline recovering from a fractured jaw, while fellow outside back Andrew Kellaway is also selected after a calf strain ruled him out of the latest two Wallabies Tests against New Zealand.

Australia A squad members Matt Faessler, Josh Canham, Pete Samu and Hamish Stewart have also been named and will link up with the Wallabies in Tokyo after the match against Japan XV in Osaka on October 18.

Elsewhere, the squad remains mostly consistent with the group that has featured so far throughout the 2025 Test season.

Overseas-based players may link up with the group, but not during the first two matches of the Tour, due to those matches falling outside the World Rugby Regulation 9 window.

The Wallabies will play five consecutive Tests on their End of Year Tour against Japan in Tokyo, England in London, Italy in Udine, Ireland in Dublin and France in Paris. It will be the first time the Wallabies have played in Japan since 2021 and Italy since 2022.

The squad, which is comprised of 19 forwards and 15 backs, will assemble in Sydney on Thursday evening, where they will train and attend the Rugby Australia Awards on Friday, before departing for Tokyo.

"The squad and staff have had a brief chance to catch their breath after what has been a dense and attritional Test season so far," said Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt.

"The challenge certainly doesn't get any easier with five consecutive Tests on the road against high-quality international opposition but, in saying that, I think the squad will relish the challenge and players will work hard to be as competitive as possible.

"Both Aidan Ross and Kalani Thomas have had a bit of time with us and Carter Gordon will get the opportunity to integrate back into the Wallabies environment. The three players are fully fit and eager to be involved.

"We've taken a long-term view with Tom Lynagh, who is still just 22-years-old. He has had a few injury frustrations since the third test versus the Lions in early August and will follow an individualised program, guided by both Wallabies and Queensland staff, which will allow him to recover to full fitness.

"There are a few players who have featured during recent Test matches, that are currently involved in competitions in Europe. Given the intensity of our Tour schedule, we may look to bolster our playing stocks by including some of these players during the World Rugby Regulation 9 window."

Wallabies squad

Forwards

Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Josh Canham, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Pete Samu, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson (c).

Backs

Filipo Daugunu, Tane Edmed, Josh Flook, Carter Gordon, Jake Gordon, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Ryan Lonergan, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Hamish Stewart, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Corey Toole.

Valentin Vacherot continues dream run with maiden Masters 1000 title in Shanghai

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:10:56 +0000

Vacherot ended his Shanghai fairytale run with the trophy, his maiden at ATP Tour level, as he defeated Rinderknech 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the showpiece match.

Besides holding his nerve to see off his cousin, Vacherot also claimed the upset of the year as he defeated 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the semifinal.

His other scalps included 14th seed Alexander Bublik and 10th Holger Rune while he became the first man from Monaco to reach the quarter-final of an ATP Masters 1000 event and he went two better to become the first Monagasque to win a top-level title.

Rinderknech, who was looking to become the first Frenchman since 2014 to win a Masters title, beat former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev in the semi-final, 14th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarter-final and third seed Alexander Zverev in the third round.

It was a productive time for the cousins in Shanghai.

Vacherot - whose previous career high was No. 117 - will go home with the maximum points as he didn't compete in Shanghai 12 months ago. In fact, he will go with more than the usual maximum as he started his campaign in the qualifiers.

Players earn 1,000 ranking points for winning ATP Masters 1000 events, but they also drop points from the corresponding period of the previous year as the ATP uses a rolling 52-week cumulative system.

But as mentioned, Vacherot didn't play last year so he picks up 1,000 points plus 20 for his two wins in the qualifiers.

His 1,200 points will see him surge to No. 40 when the ATP Rankings are updated after the tournament.

Rinderknech, who was at No. 54 before a ball was hit, was also looking for his first title, but has to settle for an ATP Masters 1000 runners-up trophy.

The 30-year-old picked up 620 points for his efforts will see jump 26 places to a new career high of No. 28.

Vacherot's career earnings were $594,077 before the Shanghai Masters, but he has received a first-prize cheque of $1,124,380.

His cousin Rinderknech will go home with $597,890, pushing his career earnings to just over $5.6m.

Dominant Coco Gauff wins All-American final to claim Wuhan Open crown

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:10:47 +0000

Gauff earned the third and decisive break of the opening set with Pegula serving at 4-5, while she battled back from a 0-3 double break deficit and 3-5 down in the second set.

This was the seventh encounter between Gauff and Pegula, who are ranked third and sixth respectively. The head-to-head is now 4-3 in Pegula's favour.

Gauff did not drop a set during her five matches in Wuhan, having also seen off Jasmine Paolini, Laura Siegemund, Zhang Shaui and Moyuka Uchijima during her impressive run.

It is Gauff's second title of 2025 to add to her French Open crown in June, and she had warm words for Pegula - her former doubles partner - at the trophy ceremony.

"When I came on tour, you were one of the first people to be nice to me and welcome me with open arms," the two-time major champion said to Pegula.

"That really went a long way, so I appreciate you. It's great to finally play in the final against you, and I hope for many more. So, congratulations and thank you."

Gauff's victory in Wuhan has increased her points tally by 610 points after she reached the semi-finals at last year's edition of the tournament.

This puts Gauff on 7,873 points in the Live WTA Rankings after she started the event on 7,263 points.

The American is now 895 points adrift of second-ranked Iga Swiatek, having been 1,290 points behind her Polish rival at the start of the tournament.

All Blacks name strong squad for four-match Grand Slam tour

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:10:46 +0000

Hooker George Bell is the only new inclusion who was not involved in the Rugby Championship, while prop Tevita Mafileo is the only uncapped member of the squad.

The All Blacks will kick off their 2025 Grand Slam campaign with a highly anticipated clash against Ireland at Soldier Field Stadium in Chicago. The fixture is a rematch of the unforgettable 2016 showdown between the two sides at the same venue.

The team will then travel to the United Kingdom for consecutive matches against Scotland, England, and Wales. It will mark the first time in fifteen years that the All Blacks have embarked on a Grand Slam tour, defined as a touring Southern Hemisphere team defeating all four Home Nations.

It is 100 years since the All Blacks' first Grand Slam attempt, the 1905 northern tour by the team that would become known as 'The Originals'. The All Blacks have since achieved a Grand Slam four times - in 1978, 2005, 2008, and 2010.

"There is a lot of history that has led up to this opportunity for our group, so we will be honouring and taking inspiration from the feats that have come before us," said coach Scott Robertson.

"The rematch against Ireland at Soldier Field will be a huge occasion, and then facing some of the northern hemisphere's best at their home grounds is a fantastic challenge for us. We are looking forward to this very special tour."

All Blacks squad

Forwards

Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei'aho, George Bell, Ethan de Groot, Tamaiti Williams, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi, Tevita Mafileo, Scott Barrett (c), Patrick Tuipulotu, Fabian Holland, Josh Lord, Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Ardie Savea (vc), Du'Plessis Kirifi, Wallace Sititi, Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson.

Backs

Cortez Ratima, Cameron Roigard, Finlay Christie, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett (vc), Quinn Tupaea, Billy Proctor, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Rieko Ioane, Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Leroy Carter, Will Jordan, Ruben Love.

2026 World Cup qualifiers: Dutch firepower, Nordic shocks, and Tartan grit light up matchday 8

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:10:19 +0000

Not to be outdone, the Faroe Islands pulled off a seismic upset against Czechia in Group L, and ripples spread through Groups H and G with Romania's late drama and Poland's efficiency ensuring no shortage of talking points ahead of November's finale.

Netherlands Crush Finland to Cement Group G Summit

The Netherlands have turned the Johan Cruyff ArenA into a fortress, dismantling Finland 4-0 to extend their unbeaten run and hold a commanding lead in Group G with 18 points from eight matches.

Donyell Malen's early rocket from distance, sparked by a slick exchange with Memphis Depay, set the tone in the eighth minute, followed by captain Virgil van Dijk's towering header from Depay's free-kick just 11 minutes later. Depay coolly converted a penalty before halftime, and Cody Gakpo sealed the rout with a thunderous strike off Xavi Simons' assist late on.

Poland lurk six points back in second after their parallel 2-0 win over Lithuania, but the Oranje's goal difference now stands at +22, making them favorites to qualify directly.

Denmark Dispatch Greece to Share Group C Spoils with Scotland

Denmark have kept the pressure on in Group C, where they sit level on 13 points with Scotland after a 3-1 victory over Greece that showcased their ruthless edge. Rasmus Hojlund capitalized on a defensive lapse to open the scoring in the 21st minute, and the hosts surged ahead before the break with Joachim Andersen's corner nod and Mikkel Damsgaard's venomous long-range effort.

Christos Tzolis pulled one back for Greece with a fierce finish, but Brian Riemer's men held firm to stay unbeaten at home.

Scotland, also on 13 points, face Greece next month in a showdown that could decide the group winner, while Greece slip to third with seven points and Belarus anchor the bottom on two.

Scotland Edge Belarus in Nail-Biter to Match Danish Pace

Scotland have clawed their way to parity with Denmark atop Group C, grinding out a 2-1 win over Belarus at Hampden Park that echoes their gritty Thursday scrap against Greece. Che Adams settled early nerves with a clever turn and low drive into the far corner after Jack Hendry's incisive pass, but it was Scott McTominay's instinctive poacher's finish from Andy Robertson's cross in the 84th minute that proved decisive.

Hleb Kuchko's stoppage-time consolation couldn't undo the damage, leaving Steve Clarke's side unbeaten in their last five qualifiers and brimming with momentum for the November deciders.

Faroe Islands Floor Czechia for Third Straight Competitive Triumph

In one of the weekend's true fairy tales, the Faroe Islands have stunned Czechia 2-1 in Torshavn, notching their third consecutive competitive victory and fourth win in Group L to climb to third place with 12 points.

Martin Agnarsson's 81st-minute header from a corner proved the winner after a hard-fought battle, sending the tiny nation into raptures and handing a boost to leaders Croatia. The Croats, now three points clear on 16 with a game in hand, cruised 3-0 past Gibraltar to solidify their promotion push, while Czechia drop to second on 13 points, their title hopes dented.

Romania Rock Austria to Shatter Group H Perfection

Austria's flawless start in Group H have crumbled in dramatic fashion, as Romania snatched a 1-0 win in Bucharest with Virgil Ghita's stoppage-time header from a set-piece, vaulting the hosts to second place on 13 points.

The result ends Austria's run of five straight wins, leaving them third on 12, while Cyprus leapfrogged into fourth with a 4-0 thrashing of San Marino, who remain winless at the foot with zero points.

Romania's resilience keeps the group wide open, with just three points separating the top three.

Poland Power Past Lithuania to Boost Group G Push

Poland have kept their Group G credentials alive with a composed 2-0 defeat of Lithuania in Vilnius, positioning them second on nine points behind the rampant Netherlands.

Sebastian Szymanski's audacious corner-kick goal broke the deadlock, and Robert Lewandowski added his trademark poise from the spot to extend Poland's unbeaten streak. Lithuania, rooted to the bottom with one point, face an uphill climb, but Szymanski's set-piece sorcery signals Poland's growing threat in the race for runner-up and playoff glory.

Sunday's results

Group H: San Marino 0-4 Cyprus

Group C: Scotland 2-1 Belarus

Group L: Faroe Islands 2-1 Czechia

Group C: Denmark 3-1 Greece

Group G: Lithuania 0-2 Poland

Group G: Netherlands 4-0 Finland

Group H: Romania 1-0 Austria

Group L: Croatia 3-0 Gibraltar

Thinasoke Mbuli: Unprofessionalism adds to HWBSL lack of sponsorships

Mpumi Manyisi — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:59:07 +0000

This after the already relegated KwaZulu Natal outfit decided to forfeit its away fixture against UWC without explanation.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mbuli says that she is disheartened that people will not take women’s football seriously, if clubs continue with disrespectful behaviour towards the beautiful game.

“It is really disappointing, because we want people to take our league seriously. I mean if we don't take the league seriously as teams, why should we expect a buyin from supporters and sponsors. This is the very reason we will struggle to have viewership and more people attending matches. If such things continue to happen - the Hollywoodbets Super League will fail to get sponsorships. We need to do better as clubs and respect the game,’’ said Mbuli.

READ: Lyle Foster eases Bafana Bafana injury fears ahead of Rwanda decider

UWC has experienced walkovers in the past three seasons, first with Thunderbirds Ladies, and with TS Galaxy last year followed by Durban ladies this afternoon.

Mbuli says there should be a harsh penalty for these occurrences otherwise the league will be faced with such every season.

“SAFA really needs to take action. For us it is disappointing because this is not new - we have faced this three times in the past three seasons. It is becoming a trend and if teams don’t get pushed - it means we will be facing such every season,” added Mbuli.

Mbuli says she hopes that the South Africa Football Association will make the right call after receiving the match commissioner’s report.

“The officials were there, the match commissioner was there. So now it's up to SAFA to make the right call,’’ she expressed.

The next stop for the students will be against Royal AM at the UWC Stadium on Saturday.

Bulls ponder playmaker options in Handre Pollard's absence

SABC Sport — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:10:47 +0000

The Pretoria franchise is coming off a difficult 28-7 loss at the hands of Ulster and now face the prospect of playing their next three matches without the superstar No.10.

Bulls coach Johann Ackermann revealed that Pollard is set to return to South Africa to witness the birth of his second child, due around 20 October. As such, the double World Cup winner in set to miss the upcoming clashes against Connacht and Glasgow Warriors.

Also in doubt is the next URC fixture against the Lions. The Springboks face Wales in Cardiff on the same day, 29 November, and Pollard will in all likelihood be with the Boks.

"I tried to stick to my word, which was that he was always going to play just one game," said Ackermann.

"His wife is due [to give birth] on October 20, so he wants to return home in time for the occasion. There's always the possibility that the baby can arrive earlier, so he will be with his wife and his family.

"We don't know which players will be available for the clash against the Lions because the Boks are playing on the same day. We'll have to see who is available to play."

In Pollard's absence, Ackermann is set to lean on Johan Goosen, who has had a torrid time with injury. Failing his match fitness, the Bulls may have to name Bok centurion Willie le Roux at flyhalf.

"Johan joined us on the second day of the tour, and on the second day of training, he felt a bit of discomfort in his calf," continued the coach.

"We will make a final decision on his availability tomorrow [Monday] to play against Connacht when we start training.

"We are currently halfway on our trip to Connacht, but we will reassess his availability."

ICC Women's World Cup: Australia down co-hosts India after record run-chase

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 19:10:38 +0000

Healy smashed 142 off 107 balls, which featured 21 fours and three sixes, to break the back of the huge target of 331 after India had earlier been bowled out for 330 in Visakhapatnam.

The win sees Australia return to the top of the group stage standings with their third win from four games whilst India sit third.

India openers Rawal and Mandhana started strongly as the latter set the tone in the opening over with a gorgeous cover drive for four.

Back-to-back overs featuring 10 or more runs brought up the fifty-run partnership as both batters plundered huge straight sixes.

Mandhana looked imperious at the crease, especially through the offside, as she dismissed Ash Gardner twice to the fence in the 16th over with a pair of dominant cut shots.

The 29-year-old duly brought up her 33rd ODI half-century with a single to deep square leg before Rawal notched up their hundred partnership three balls later.

The day was an important one for Indian cricket off the field too as a stand at the ACA-VCA Stadium was named after former captain and India's leading run scorer in international cricket Mithali Raj and a gate was named after former India player Raavi Kalpana.

Having survived a nervy moment when a leading edge nearly found it's way into Alana King's grasp sprinting in from short midwicket, Rawal went to a 69-ball fifty with a superb lofted straight drive off Kim Garth's bowling.

Mandhana reached the 5000 ODI career run landmark with an exquisite six over extra cover but eventually fell for 80 as Sophie Molineux had her caught by Phoebe Litchfield to halt the opening stand on 155.

Rawal was next to go for 75 when she could only find Ellyse Perry at fine leg to hand Sutherland her first wicket and leave India 192-2 with 20 overs left.

From then on, Australia fought back as Megan Schutt and Molineux picked up the wickets of Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur for 22 and Harleen Deol for 38 respectively in consecutive overs.

A 30-ball fifty partnership followed between Richa Ghosh and Jemimah Rodrigues but once they both fell to Sutherland, India's batting line up fell away.

Deepti Sharma and Amanjot Kaur fell in consecutive overs to leave India 327-8 with 15 balls remaining.

Sutherland completed her five-wicket haul in style as she removed both Kranti Gaud and Sree Charani within three balls of each other to end India's innings.

Australia's reply got off to a good start through captain Healy and opening partner Litchfield, as the pair put on 85 runs for the opening stand before the latter was caught at backward point for 40 off the bowling of Charani (3-41).

Healy looked in fine fettle as she notched up the quickest half-century of the tournament off just 35 balls, helping Australia to 154-1 alongside Perry, who then retired hurt for 32 at the end of the 24th over.

The quickfire wickets of Beth Mooney and Sutherland, the former given her marching orders courtesy of a brilliant diving catch from Rodrigues, swung the game back in favour of India with Australia on 170-3.

Healy went to her first century as skipper and sixth overall in the 31st over and plundered a further 42 runs from her next 23 deliveries until Sneh Rana's diving catch ended her excellent knock.

Tahlia McGrath's departure, given out leg before to Sharma on review, left Australia 279-5, still 52 runs from victory, with just under 10 overs remaining.

Amanjot Kaur's double strike to see the back of both Gardner, who played well under pressure to make 45, and Molineux set up a grandstand finish with Australia still 28 runs short.

But the returning Perry held her nerve alongside Garth as the former sealed the win with a huge six down the ground.

Alphonso Davies nearing comeback from ACL injury

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 16:10:32 +0000

The Canadian fullback has been watching from the sidelines for over six months since tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee while on international duty in March, but revealed that he is on the verge of a return for the Bavarians.

While Davies posted a positive update on his injury recovery, saying the "hardest part is behind me", he also spoke about how the injury has been tougher on him mentally than physically.

"I'm running and training well. I just need to put a bit more muscle mass on my right leg," he said.

"When the doctors told me after the injury how long it might take, I thought, 'Oh wow, it's going to be a long journey.' But now everything is looking good."

"There's no point letting myself get down, complaining, or feeling sorry for myself. Injuries like these are part of the sport. The only thing I can do now is fight my way back - not as quickly, but as safely as possible.

"The muscles will come back on their own," he explained.

"But not knowing how long you'll be out and whether you'll be able to do certain things - that's tough.

"In rehab, you work on different areas over and over again, which puts a strain on your mind and challenges your body," he said.

"Sometimes your body says, 'I don't want to do this anymore.' Then you have to be mentally strong. That's the only way to make it. If you don't do it yourself, no one else will."

Lyle Foster eases Bafana Bafana injury fears ahead of Rwanda decider

Chad Klate — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 16:53:21 +0000

Bafana are currently in preparation for a must-win encounter at home to Rwanda in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa Group C Qualifying campaign at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday evening (19:00).

After being seen limping off the pitch at Moses Mabhida Stadium earlier this weekend, the Burnley FC forward has allayed fears he may be absent for the all-important fixture that is set to decide South Africa's fate for the global showpiece in USA, Canada and Mexico.

"I feel okay. It's obviously wasn't the result that we wanted [against Zimbabwe]. We believed we would get a different result, but it wasn't to be," said Foster.

"But I think it's how it goes sometimes, I think we played really well, unfortunately. But i think the mood in the camp is still very good, I think we know it's still far from over.

"We play on Tuesday in a very big game, and I think if we get a result there and a lot of things work for us, so I think it's just about focussing on the next one.

"No reason to feel despondent. If there's nothing to be played for, or there's no chance, I'd understand, but there wouldn't be a reason to be despondent, so like I said, there's still so much to play for."

Coach Hugo Broos has already called in defender Thabo Moloisane to replace Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who is suspended for the next match after seeing red against The Warriors.

The 25-year-old Orlando Pirates youth graduate, who was twice denied by the woodwork on Friday, also called on supporters in Nelspruit to come out and back the team to deliver against The Wasps.

"The support has been great for Bafana as of late, and I just ask for the same sort of support that we had in Moses [Mabhida Stadium] and previous camps as well," he added.

"I think this is probably the most important [match], so we ask that the supporters come out in numbers and we'll make sure to deliver and give a result."

READ: Mohafe makes bold statement on Thabang Matuludi

Chelsea's injury blues persist as Enzo Fernandez returns from Argentina duty

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 14:10:28 +0000

The World Cup winner featured for 78 minutes of Argentina's 1-0 friendly victory against Venezuela at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Sunday.

According to a statement from the Argentina national team's official X account, the feisty midfielder has been diagnosed with synovitis in his right knee following the clash.

The Argentine has returned to Cobham, but it is unclear what the extent of his injury is, adding further woes to a team that is already without a number of key players this season.

Chelsea are already without Andrey Santos, Cole Palmer, Liam Delap through various injuries, with Willian Estevao, Tosin Adarabioyo and Wesley Fofana also doubtful ahead of the next Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest.

The 24-year-old club vice-captain has featured in ten matches under manager Enzo Maresca this season, impressing with three goals and an assist in all competitions.

Tumi Sekhukhune sizes up Proteas Women test vs Bangladesh

Chad Klate — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:24:34 +0000

South Africa have shown their resilience after their opening thumping at the hands of England Women, bouncing back to defeat New Zealand and hosts India in dramatic fashion.

But Sekhukhune has assured the players are all refreshed and will not be complacent in their remaining league-stage matches.

"I think the team is super excited. I think we're looking forward to all these other games. I think we actually took the win, but we don't really want to want to dwell on the win," said Sekhukhune.

"We want to focus on other matches as they are as important as the one that we played. So, yeah, we're looking forward to the other matches."

READ: England maintain perfect record after seeing off Sri Lanka

The 26-year-old believes they will again need to be at their best in Monday's match-up against a Bangladesh side coming off back-to-back defeats to the English and Kiwis.

"I think it's going to be a very tough game for us with Bangladesh. We know that they're going to come with much more slow bowlers, typically the spinners," she noted.

"And I think we said as a team that you want to take it one step at a time, one ball at a time, but we just want to, keep ticking all the boxes that we know we didn't do well in the previous games. So, if we do that, then hopefully we come out the better side."

Having come in for her tournament debut against India, and taking a solitary wicket, Sekhukhune says she is not fretting too much over her wicket-taking ability but rather focussed on complimenting her teammates by building pressure on the batters.

"I think firstly it's very nice to play with such exceptional bowlers. They have so much experience. I think Nonkululeko Mlaba has grown her game in the past two years – it's really great to see.

"I think with me coming in, I just want to restrict the runs. I don't want to focus too much on getting wickets, I just want to come in, do what I can do, be consistent in bowling my lines and lengths, and yeah, if I do pick up wickets then, then it's a win for me.

"But mostly it's to restrict [the opponents] getting runs."

Jenny van Dyk urges Proteas improvement after Australia whitewash

Mpumi Manyisi — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:09:59 +0000

The Aussie Diamonds dominated the final test in all four quarters to claim a 65-42 win in Adelaide, winning the three-match series 3-0.

Speaking after their latest defeat on Sunday, van Dyk said they are eager to return home and work on fixing their mistakes.

"Firstly, congratulation to Australia for a fantastic performance from their side. There were definitely moments that we feel we were right on point and doing a great job, on attack specifically, but ja, still a lot of work for us to do," said van Dyk.

"We're eager to get home and really work, because a lot of areas and issues we felt and experienced on court don't have a quick fix, it's something we need to go back home, draw into your players and make sure that the execution of it can become better."

The Proteas have endured a tough international window, having lost the Taini Jamison Trophy to New Zealand before the whitewash defeat to the reigning world champions.

Van Dyk says, despite the back-to-back series defeats, this tour was important for the technical team to assess players’ individual performances and test combinations.

"We've learnt a lot about our players, what players can do in certain types of situations, and which players have which types of styles," she added.

"So now it's our job to go out there, use the information we have to get our team ready and better for the next challenge. One thing I can say is, the Aussie test series was definitely twice as hard as the New Zealand series.

"And yes, that just leaves quite a lot of questions for us in how to approach and how to make sure we prepare our players better with the knowledge we have now about exactly where we're at, and more importantly where we're at when under tremendous pressure."

Patient Pakistan make Proteas toil in Lahore heat on Day 1

Doug Mattushek — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 12:10:00 +0000

With the dry pitch already looking like a turner, Pakistan elected to bat after winning the toss. The South Africans started brightly, with Kagiso Rabada's fast in-swinger trapping Abdullah Shafique in front off the third ball of the day.

But the visitor's early jubilation was quickly diminished by the stoic Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shan Masood. The pair took the shine off the ball and began to collect runs at will. There were a couple of half chances in the field, with Tony de Zorzi nearly grabbling a stunner at short-leg and Wian Mulder putting one down after a full-length dive at cover.

But ultimately, ul-Haq earned his 50 off 65 balls and Masood followed with his half century after lunch.

The 161-run partnership was finally broken in the 47th over. Prenelan Subrayen - one of three spinners in the Proteas attack - bowled a straight one that got the better of Masood and hit the pad on the knee-roll. The captain reviewed but was eventually given his marching orders for 76.

Crowd favourite Babar Azam and ul-Haq continued to pile on the runs until an inspired over from Senuran Muthusamy. First, de Zorzi took a sharp catch under the helmet at short-leg to get rid of ul-Haq, who fell agonisingly short of his 100. The next delivery, a leading edge from Saud Shakeel looped to a grateful Muthusamy. He'd have to wait until after tea for his hat-trick ball, which was defended amicably by the new man Mohammad Rizwan.

Simon Harmer then struck right after tea, dismissing Azam via LBW, leaving the hosts 199/5 after they were 199/2.

That brought Salman Agha to the crease. Together with Rizwan, the pair should great application and patience against the spinners. Even the reintroduction of Rabada could not alter their steely resolve and the duo were unbeaten at the close of play, their sixth-wicket stand worth 114 vital first innings runs on a deteriorating pitch.

Farouk Khan elaborates on teen star Kgomotso Madiba’s Fluminense move

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 14:04:36 +0000

The youth international impressed after spending more than two months in South America as part of a collaborative initiative between the club and the academy.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Khan expressed his delight at seeing the U20 AFCON winner secure such a move, even though he narrowly missed out on Amajita’s FIFA U20 World Cup squad.

"We were optimistic that he would make it, but in fairness, he's only 17 now, and I think a lot of the players in that squad are currently playing for PSL clubs," said Khan.

"So their ages are probably between 19-20, with maybe an exception of a few – I think [Mfundo] Vilakazi is 18 or 19 now, so I think KG still has a couple of years.

"But the coaches invited him to the initial squad before they chose their final squad, and they liked him a lot, but I think we have to be fair to the fact that he's still young and he has time.

"I think the big boost is that he's now going to join a club that has huge history in developing top players – currently they have two players at Chelsea, both Brazilian, I think Estevao is the one."

READ: Moloisane joins Bafana as Mbokazi replacement

Khan believes Madiba is destined to become a future Bafana Bafana star and expects Fluminense’s academy setup to fast-track his development.

"When KG goes to that particular academy, I get goosebumps because he's hungry. All he said when I empathised with him [for missing the U20 squad], he said, 'Coach, I'm ready now to go and work,'" he added.

"He didn't take it hard, he understood that in life these things do happen, but he's going to come out stronger, and I do think that KG is going miss out on a couple of [junior] stages.

"And when he gets there, in the next year or two, I think he'll be ready to be scouted for the national team. I think by the time he gets to 19-20, he will be a player we'll see in the [Bafana Bafana] team."

Ryan Mphahlele: It feels great to win maiden Boxer Super Run title

Charles Baloyi — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 13:40:04 +0000

The 27-year-old produced a stellar performance to clock 13:37 along Snell Parade near Blue Lagoon in Durban on Sunday.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the race, Mphahlele said the victory was especially rewarding against such a strong field.

“The last time I ran a 5km race was two years ago. It was more of a fitness run, for me to see where I am. Elroy and Karabo gave me tough competition, but it feels great to win. The weather was perfect, and I really enjoyed the course,” he said.

Mphahlele edged out Kabelo Mulaudzi, who matched his runner-up finish from last year in 13:39, while national marathon record holder Elroy Gelant finished third in 13:42.

“I knew I had a good chance of winning. On paper, Karabo was the favourite, but I came here confident in my form,” he added.

READ: Xaba delights in personal best Boxer 5km Super Run

For Mphahlele, the win capped a remarkable season that also saw him represent South Africa in the 1 500m at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Earlier this year, he competed in the Absa Run Your City Durban 10km, where he finished in the top 10 – proof of his growing confidence and comfort racing in KwaZulu-Natal.

“I love running in Durban; the courses here are always fast. Whenever I get the opportunity to race here, I grab it. I just enjoy the atmosphere,” Mphahlele concluded.

Kuldeep Yadav fiver puts India in control as gritty West Indies follow-on in Dehli

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:10:14 +0000

Shubman Gill surprised many by handing the ball to spinner Kuldeep Yadav to open the day and it paid off as Yadav struck three times in quick succession to help India tighten their grip on the match.

The West Indies went from being 156/4 to 178/8 by the lunchbreak, making 77 runs for 4 wickets in the first session which was dominated by the home side.

Khary Pierre and Anderson Phillip put together a gritty 47 run partnership for the ninth wicket before Jasprit Bumrah broke the stand, with Phillip and Seales adding another 26 runs for the final wicket.

However, the West Indians fell short of the 319 runs that were needed to avoid the follow on, with Yadav claiming the last wicket to get his five-wicket haul.

India looked to make some breakthroughs before tea after enforcing the follow-on and were duly rewarded when Tagenarine Chanderpaul fell to an excellent diving catch by skipper Gil at mid-wicket off Mohamed Siraj's bowling.

Washington Sundar then produced a wonderful delivery shortly after to bowl Alick Athanaze and leave the visitors reeling at 35/2 at the tea break.

John Campbell and Shai Hope then steadied the ship after tea, adding 79 runs between them before and Campbell registering the first half century for the visitors on the tour before the drinks break.

Washington Sundar had survived three DRS decisions before the drinks break including a bump ball catch on the first ball after tea.

Despite early challenges, Sundar managed to steady himself to an impressive half century (66*) as he and Campbell (87*) put on an impressive 138 run partnership to finish the day at 173/2 on day three, needing 85 runs to avoid an innings defeat.

Jessica Pegula rallies to stun world number one Aryna Sabalenka at Wuhan Open

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:10:35 +0000

The world No. 6 failed to capitalise on two match points of her own at 6-5, before dominating the crucial tiebreak Ã¢- breaking Sabalenka's streak of 19 consecutive tiebreak victories.

Additionally, Sabalenka possessed a 20-0 win record at the Wuhan Open heading into the encounter.

"Well, you know, happy to be in the final," commented Pegula.

"Happy to, you know, beat such an amazing player such as Aryna. We've had so many, you know, tough matches, and I feel like, you know, she's always been able to raise her level against me when I felt like it's been close.

"So I'm glad that today it kind of flipped. I think I was able to raise my level in times when I really needed it.

"You know, it was tight closing it out, but, you know, I just hung in there and kept giving myself chances, and I think did a great job of adapting my strategy and my play based on how the match was going and how I was feeling.

"I'm really proud of being able to do that and execute that."

Pegula has lost a tight three-set match 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the semi-finals of this year's US Open to Sabalenka in a rematch of the final from 12 months prior.

Despite that loss being hard to take, the American successfully extracted the positives from the clash and utilised them in Wuhan.

"I learned a lot of what I needed to do, and you know, from the US Open, I thought I played a great match," analysed Pegula.

"I honestly thought she just was able to play some really big shots and really big moments, and that's too good, and there's not much you can do.

"But I felt like every time I played her, I've figured it out a little bit more, and it's just because I figure it out doesn't mean I'm going to win every time, but I think it puts me in a good position.

"And when you can put yourself in a decent position and then hopefully play well that day and execute most of it, you know, that's kind of all you can ask for, especially against, you know, the best player in the world right now."

Pegula will next play world No. 3 Coco Gauff for the title, with the 21-year-old becoming the youngest-ever player to reach the final of both Beijing and Wuhan.

The world No 6 leads the head-to-head 4-2, but it was Gauff who was dominant in their most recent meeting (WTA Finals 2024).

"It'll be interesting," analysed Pegula.

"I don't think we've ever played in a final. And yeah, I guess we haven't played since Riyadh, and that didn't go very well for me.

"She crushed me, but obviously, she was playing pretty high level that week. So, yeah, it's interesting.

"We haven't played each other in a while, and it's but, I mean, you know, we've practised a few times here and there when we're home because we live in the same area, but it'll, I mean, yeah, it'll be interesting to see how we're both playing.

"It's funny when you haven't played someone for a while, and, you know, some people, you play all the time, so you kind of know what to expect.

"But we know each other's games so well. I mean, we know each other so well.

"We know each other's teams really well. So, I mean, there are no secrets. We know what we're both going to try and do.

"And I think, you know, it just comes down to executing whatever the game plan is, and hoping for both, you know, both of us, that it works either, either way, and just go out there and battle."

Glenrose Xaba delights in personal best Boxer 5km Super Run

Charles Baloyi — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:49:43 +0000

The 30-year-old clocked an impressive 15:27 to win her second crown in Durban after skipping last year’s race.

Speaking to SABC Sport after her victory, Xaba said the win was particularly satisfying given her heavy marathon training load.

“The race went well, but the pace was very fast, considering I did a 30km training run on Monday for my marathon prep,” said Xaba.

“It shows I’m in great shape and recovering well. I’m happy to win again and run a personal best here – my first time was 16:01 in 2023, so this is special.”

Her win earned her R20,000, while clubmate Karabo More claimed second place in 15:43 to pocket R12,000, and Hollywood Athletics Club’s Taylor Kavanaugh finished third in 15:53 to take home R9,000.

Xaba praised her fellow competitors for pushing her throughout the race, while also crediting coach Violet Semenya for a simple but effective race strategy.

“Karabo and Taylor gave me a real challenge, I’m proud of both of them. Karabo ran a personal best, and I believe Taylor did too,” she said.

“Coach Violet told me to take control early and not overthink it. She said Karabo would follow, and that plan worked perfectly. It feels great to be back on the podium after missing last year’s event.”

Xaba’s latest triumph adds to an outstanding 2025 season, in which she defended her Spar Women’s 10km Grand Prix title with five straight wins and secured the national half-marathon championship in Limpopo.

She said her focus now shifts to the Lisbon Half Marathon, which will serve as her final tune-up before the Valencia Marathon in December.

“I love racing in Durban, it feels like my second home. But now the focus shifts to Lisbon and then Valencia,” she concluded.

READ: Steyn advises Xaba ahead of Valencia Marathon debut

Lesotho target positive finish despite dashed World Cup hopes

Mazola Molefe — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:24:42 +0000

Likuena were officially eliminated from contention for the global showpiece following their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday.

Notsi’s side were earlier handed a lifeline when FIFA awarded them three points from Bafana Bafana, but with qualification now out of reach, he remains intent on finishing strong.

"The big guns are now pushing each other, which I think all of us had expected, but for us, the interest, truly, is not on how they do up there," said Notsi.

"The focus for us is still to see to it that we end this campaign on a positive note – that's truly what we're looking at, to get a decent result and just secure more points for Lesotho.

"Tomorrow is another new day and we'll prepare well for [the Zimbabwe] match."

READ: Disheartened Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race

Notsi expressed pride in his team’s overall campaign, highlighting the successful integration of several young players into the senior setup.

"The future of Likuena looks good – youngsters that we introduced during the COSAFA Cup, our regional cup competition," he added.

"And the youngsters we brought in a very critical game, and for us it's a positive direction that we took, so I would say for those youngsters, the team looks in good hands with them going forward."

Reflecting on their defeat to Nigeria, captain Sekhoane Moerane admitted the result was hard to take after the team entered the match full of belief.

"It did break our hearts because we expected maybe to gain a draw again against a big giant," Moerane shared.

"We pushed beyond our limits because, as you saw, if we take the game to them, they were cracking, they were staying [compact] at the back, so we had to push hard and take the game to them."

Germany's Julian Nagelsmann plays down Florian Wirtz slow Liverpool start

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 09:10:41 +0000

The 22-year-old arrived with heavy expectations following a 100 million pound move from Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen after the 2024/25 season.

However, Wirtz is yet to register a goal or assist in his first seven Premier League matches with the Reds.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann responded to questions about the attacker's club form following a convincing 4-0 World Cup qualifier win against Luxembourg, where Wirtz played the full 90 minutes.

"Even if he hasn't scored a goal, he's the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League," said the 38-year-old coach to Sport 1.

"It's not his fault if his team-mate doesn't create them, and the statistic isn't even a third of the truth. He simply has to get used to the league.

"I've seen him feel completely liberated. He knows what he's capable of and how things work. Not everything has always been handed to him, he'll work hard now, too."

The Germans are set to take on Northern Ireland on Monday in the last 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier of the current international break.

Thabo Moloisane joins Bafana Bafana as Mbekezeli Mbokazi replacement

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 09:10:05 +0000

Bafana were dealt a major blow as they dropped points in a goalless draw with Zimbabwe on Friday night that left them in second place in Group C with one game to play.

With one final fixture against Rwanda on Tuesday, South Africa need all three points, alongside a win or draw for Nigeria over group leaders Benin, who lead South Africa by two points and two goals.

READ: Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race

But they will have to make do without Orlando Pirates skipper Mbokazi, who was red-carded against The Warriors after letting frustration get the better of him in the latter stages of Friday's tie at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Moloisane, who was in Broos' preliminary squad and last featured against Lesotho last month, has since linked up with the Bafana squad ahead of their mist-win clash.

Thabo Moloisane has just arrived in the Bafana Bafana camp in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. He arrived minutes after Bafana Bafana landed from Durban this afternoon. He replaces then suspended Mbekezeli Mbokazi.#BafanaPride @SABC_Sport @flysaa pic.twitter.com/Itkw7cAZIw
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 11, 2025

Sharks boss John Plumtree vows to keep fighting after disappointing start to URC

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:10:40 +0000

Plumtree's charges only grabbed two points on their tour north. The Sharks failed to earn any bonus points against Glasgow Warriors and Leinster, with a dour draw against the lowly Dragons their only reward.

The Durban franchise now host Ulster and Scarlets at Kings Park, which is becoming somewhat of a fortress for the Sharks. A plethora of Springboks - including captain Siya Kolisi, Grant Williams, Ox Nche and Andre Esterhuizen - will be available for selection.

"We'll keep fighting hard and make sure we get it right over the next fortnight," said Plumtree.

"[We've got] a couple of home games, and we've got to work real hard and get into this competition.

"The team's disappointed, and collectively we've got to take responsibility to be better over the next two weeks, and that's what we'll do.

"It was always going to be a pretty tough tour for us, with a lot of disruptions, but there are no excuses now. We've got to get back to South Africa and play really well in front of our fans."

Reflecting on the 31-5 loss to reigning URC champions Leinster, a dispirited Plumtree heaped praise on the Irish giants' organised defence.

"Obviously, really disappointing," he added.

"We weren't good enough, and we've got a massive job ahead of us the next two weeks," Plumtree commented after the game.

"[It was a] tough night for us. We knew the start was going to be massively important. They came out fast and we just didn't get the contestable kicks in terms of regaining the ball in the air.

"We had a few soft moments defensively that allowed them to build that scoreboard pressure early. In the last 10 or 15 minutes of the first half, we got back into the game, but it was really a case of catch-up rugby. In the second half, we did our best, but their defence was just too good.

"Once we gave them that lead, it just gave them that confidence to defend really well, and we just didn't fire enough shots."

Europe World Cup qualifiers: Erling Haaland bags hat-trick in big Norway win

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:10:00 +0000

Norway 5-0 Israel

Haaland bounced back from a disappointing start to the match in emphatic fashion to take his international goal tally for the season past 20, and ensure Norway would remain top of Group I of the European World Cup qualifying section with a perfect record of six wins from six matches so far.

The Man City star missed a chance to score from the penalty spot in the sixth minute when his attempt was saved by Daniel Peretz.

He was given another crack at it after the TMO ruled Israel's defenders had entered the box too early during his initial attempt but was denied a second time by Peretz.

However, Israel's good fortune did not last too long after that as a header rebounded off Anan Khalaili into the net for an own goal to open the scoring.

Haaland then doubled their advantage in the 27th minute with a neat finish under pressure after being played through by Sander Berge, before a second own goal a minute later, this one by Idan Nachmias, put Israel three behind.

After the half-time break, it was the Haaland show as he scored his second of the match in the 63rd minute with a powerful header before completing his hat-trick and the 5-0 rout nine minutes later with a deft header at the back post.

Latvia 2-2 Andorra

Latvia and Andorra played out to a thrilling draw at the Daugava Stadium on Saturday, with both teams having to make fightbacks to secure a point.

Andorra opened the scoring through Moises San Nicolas in the 33rd minute before Latvia answered back with goals from Dmitrijs Zelenkovs (41') and Vladislavs Gutkovskis (55' pen) to take the lead.

However, a 78th-minute strike by Ian Bryan Olivera would ensure the spoils were shared.

Hungary 2-0 Armenia

Hungary defended well to ensure Armenia did not produce a single big chance all match, while converting the chances they made in a strong performance.

They had to be patient, though, as Daniel Lukacs opened the scoring after half-time in the 56th minute, with Zsombor Gruber grabbing the second deep into second-half stoppage time.

Bulgaria 1-6 Turkiye

Bulgaria had a game to forget at the Vasil Levski National Stadium as they were thrashed by Turkiye on home soil.

The match began in auspicious fashion for the hosts when Arda Guler put Turkiye ahead in the 11th minute. They fought back well, though, as Radoslav Kirilov levelled the scores in the 13th minute.

A Viktor Popov own goal in the 49th minute began the collapse after half-time, with Kenan Yildiz latching on to a Guler throughball two minutes later to put Turkiye in a commanding position.

The Juventus man would then score again five minutes later, before Zeki Celik joined the party with a goal in the 65th minute to make it 5-1.

Irfan Can Kahveci added the cherry on the cake with a strike three minutes into second-half stoppage time to conclude a dominant performance by Turkiye.

Spain 2-0 Andorra

Spain dominated proceedings from start to finish and will be disappointed not to have scored more than twice at Estadio Martinez Valero.

Yeremy Pino opened the scoring in the 24th minute, with Mikel Oyarzabal adding the second nine minutes into the second half, but the fact that they only got two goals from 24 shots and 10 big chances may be a cause for concern among the management.

Portugal 1-0 Ireland

Ireland were playing for a draw from the outset at Estadio Jose Alvalade and their defensive tactics led to Portugal producing 30 shots but only three big chances.

The strategy almost worked as they held their hosts for the majority of the game before Ruben Neves was able to grab a dramatic late winner a minute into stoppage time at the end of the fixture.

Estonia 1-3 Italy

Moise Kean got Italy off to a rolicking start at A. Le Coq Arena with a goal in the fourth minute before Mateo Retehui doubled their advantage seven minutes before half-time.

Francesco Pio Esposito put the visitors 3-0 up in the 74th minute, with Rauno Sappinen scoring a consolation goal for Estonia two minutes later.

Serbia 0-1 Albania

Albania pulled off a famous smash-and-grab win over Serbia at Stadion Dubocica.

The hosts were on top for most of the game, producing 15 shots and three clear chances to Albania's five shots and one big chance.

However, the visitors made their one big chance pay as Rey Manaj scored a minute into first-half stoppage time to secure a 1-0 win.

Ulster spoil Bulls' Bok party with comfortable victory

SABC Sport — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 07:10:31 +0000

No sooner than the Bulls stopped celebrating the return of several Springboks to their ranks, they were left to pick up the pieces of a disappointing performance. International stars Handre Pollard, Canan Moodie, Marco van Staden and an all-Springbok front row trundled out for business in Belfast, but they left with little.

A war of attrition ensued in the first half, with Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey eventually scything over in the 22nd minute. The hosts went down to 14 men after a series of penalties and hooker Rob Herring copped the blame.

The Bulls took advantage and Bok behemoth Wilco Louw bashed over from close range with a quick tap. Pollard added the extras and the teams went down the tunnel at seven apiece.

In the second stanza, Bulls No. 8 Jeandre Rudolph was shown a yellow card for cynical play and Ulster took advantage immediately with a try via South African import Juarno Augustus.

Herring made up for his sin bin in the first half with a well-worked rolling maul try in the 54th minute. The final nail in the Bulls' coffin came from Cormac Izuchuwu, who crashed over for the bonus point try a few minutes later.

Sharks suffer heavy defeat at the hands of defending URC champions Leinster

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 18:10:16 +0000

Despite a spirited second-half effort, the South Africans were undone by a ruthless Leinster side that claimed their first win of the competition with a bonus-point victory.

Leinster, playing in their familiar blue jerseys, stormed into a 21-5 lead by half-time, leaving the Sharks chasing shadows.

The Irish outfit struck early when James Lowe's clever grubber kick set up Jamie Osborne for the opening try, converted by Harry Byrne.

Jimmy O'Brien then finished off a neat set-piece move before captain Josh van der Flier powered over for the third try.

The Sharks' only moment of joy came when returning Springbok Ethan Hooker capitalised on a high ball to score, although Jean Smith was unable to add the extras.

From there, handling errors and penalties prevented the visitors from building momentum, while a misfiring lineout late on gifted Leinster their fifth try.

After the break, the Sharks' defence tightened, but Leinster continued to dominate possession.

Max Deegan secured the bonus point with a strong carry early in the second half, and replacement hooker Gus McCarthy crossed late to complete the scoring after a Sharks mistake at the lineout.

For the Sharks, there were flashes of resistance but too few attacking opportunities to trouble the Irish giants.

They will now look to regroup ahead of hosting Ulster next week, while Leinster turn their attention to a high-profile Irish derby against Munster.

ICC Women's World Cup: England maintain perfect record after seeing off Sri Lanka

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 17:10:17 +0000

Sciver-Brunt struck 117 as England posted a total of 253-9 in 50 overs before left-arm spinner Ecclestone finished with figures of 4-16 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 164.

England's innings began in eventful fashion as Tammy Beaumont successfully reviewed the decision to give her out LBW when on one in the second over, before Amy Jones was run out after getting caught on her heels when being called through for a single in the fourth.

Beaumont continued in aggressive fashion but had to go for a 29-ball 32 after mistiming Sugandika Kumari to leave England 49-1.

A 60-run partnership followed between Heather Knight and captain Sciver-Brunt, but Sri Lanka found the breakthrough in the 22nd over when Knight was given out on review gloving Inoka Ranaweera (3-33) to slip for 29.

Sciver-Brunt was handed a life on three by Udeshika Prabodhani at mid-wicket and looked imperious thereafter, scoring all around the ground to bring up her fifty from 57 balls.

Despite scoring relatively freely, England continued to lose wickets as 146-3 became 168-6, starting when Sophia Dunkley was caught and bowled by Kavisha Dilhari for a boundaryless 18.

That was followed by a superb double-wicket maiden from Ranaweera, who bowled Emma Lamb round her legs for 13 before having Alice Capsey stumped for a duck courtesy of excellent glovework from Anushka Sanjeewani.

Sciver-Brunt and Charlie Dean crafted a useful 38-run partnership to keep the scoreboard ticking over, but the latter went for 19 when she flicked Prabodhani to Dewmi Vihanga stood at 45 degrees.

Ecclestone was stumped for three to leave England 216-8 with four overs to go.

But despite the falling of wickets, Sciver-Brunt brought up her ton with an exquisite inside out lofted drive over extra cover.

Sciver-Brunt was eventually out caught on the boundary for 117, which included nine fours and two sixes, but her late flurry of boundaries propelled England to a competitive total.

Sri Lanka's response began steadily, reaching 17 without loss after five overs, but a suspected hamstring injury for Chamari Athapaththu meant the captain retired hurt - being carried off on a stretcher - for seven.

England claimed their first wicket at the beginning of the ninth as Dean produced a wicked spinning delivery that bowled Vishmi Gunaratne through the gate for 10.

Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama fought back, putting on 58 for the fourth wicket as a series of quickfire boundaries kept the game in the balance at the 20-over mark.

However, Ecclestone scythed through the Sri Lankan top order, taking four wickets to put England in control.

Perera was the first of the 26-year-old's scalps as, when on 35, she tried to slog the No. 1-ranked ODI bowler but only succeeded in finding Capsey at mid-on.

Samarawickrama was then sent back to the pavilion for 33 when she top-edged to Lauren Bell at short fine and Dilhari was also given her cue to leave when Ecclestone knocked back her off-stump attempting a big sweep.

The returning Athapaththu could only add a further eight runs to her score before Ecclestone bowled her with a ball that beat both bat and pad to clatter the stumps.

England pressed home from that point on as Sciver-Brunt (2-25), Capsey (1-15) and Dean (2-47) accounted for the lower order to leave Sri Lanka 157-9 before Linsey Smith (1-22) wrapped up the innings with the wicket of Prabodhani.

Winless Lions outmuscled by Benetton after Morne van den Berg suffers injury

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 16:10:48 +0000

Despite an encouraging start - and an early penalty from flyhalf Chris Smith to take a 3Ã¢-0 lead - the visitors were soon on the back foot as Benetton's clinical finishing and physical dominance took control of the contest.

Smith's opening penalty came after strong work at the breakdown, but it wasn't long before the Italian outfit responded. Former Cheetahs fullback Rhyno Smith struck first for the hosts before further tries from a rampaging Simone Ferrari and dynamic winger Louis Lynagh pushed Benetton into a commanding 24Ã¢-10 lead at the break.

The Lions' lone highlight of the first half came from prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye, who powered over from close range after sustained pressure to narrow the gap briefly to seven points. However, defensive lapses and handling errors repeatedly let Benetton off the hook.

To compound matters, scrumhalf Morne van den Berg - one of the Lions' key playmakers - was forced off injured early in the match, robbing the side of valuable attacking rhythm.

The Johannesburg side showed flashes of improvement after the interval, dominating possession at times and winning several scrum penalties through their bench front row. But poor execution and a lack of composure in the red zone meant their pressure yielded little reward.

Benetton, meanwhile, remained ruthless. Lynagh completed his hat-trick midway through the second half and then added a fourth in stoppage time. Jacob Umaga was flawless from the tee in the second period, stretching the gap beyond reach.

A late try from replacement prop Conraad van Vuuren offered some consolation, but it was too little, too late for a Lions outfit that never truly threatened to turn the tide.

Fullback Quan Horn's yellow card for a deliberate knock-on in the closing stages summed up a forgettable day for the Gauteng outfit, who were second-best in almost every department.

Namibia pull off massive upset after beating Proteas in one-off T20I in Windhoek

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 16:10:46 +0000

Set a target of 135, the home team were quickly in trouble at 64-4 in the 11th over with Proteas seamers Nandre Burger and Gerald Coetzee doing the damage in front of a capacity crowd.

Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus played a vital knock to resurrect the innings with a run-a-ball 21 before Zane Green (30 not out) and Ruben Trumpelmann (11 not out) saw them over the line to wild celebrations.

The Proteas had earlier reached a total of 134-8 in their 20 overs with most of the batters struggling to adapt to what seemed a slow pitch.

Jason Smith top-scored with 31 from 30 balls while Rubin Hermann struck 23 and Lhuan-dre Pretorius 22.

Quinton de Kock failed on his return to international cricket after being didmissed with the last ball in the first over of the match for a single.

A big concern for the Proteas will be an injury suffered by fast bowler Coetzee, who limped off the field after bowling nine balls with a pectoral muscle injury.

The paceman will return home for scans and is now a major doubt for the upcoming white-ball matches in Pakistan.

The Proteas start a two-match Test against Pakistan in Lahore on Sunday that will be followed by three T20Is and three ODIs.

Deon Fourie's long-awaited comeback cruelly cut short by fresh injury blow

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 16:10:42 +0000

Fourie, who had only just recovered from a broken tibia suffered in a URC match against Connacht back in April, lasted just a few minutes against Scarlets before going down clutching his arm.

Initial fears were confirmed after the match, with coach John Dobson revealing that the 38-year-old flank had suffered a serious bicep injury that will require surgery and sideline him for several months.

"Deon's devastated," Dobson said. "There were a lot of tears in the change room. He'll go home for surgery."

The setback is not only a blow to the Stormers' URC campaign, but also a concern for Springbok selectors, given Fourie's leadership and versatility in the loose forward department.

Adding to the Stormers' injury woes, tighthead prop Sazi Sandi is also expected to spend time on the sidelines after picking up a knock.

"Sazi will get scanned, but for now he's out," Dobson confirmed. "That's three tightheads down - Frans (Malherbe), Neethling (Fouche) and now Sazi."

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle urges composure ahead of Benin decider

Mazola Molefe — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 14:17:33 +0000

The Super Eagles revived their qualification hopes with a 2–1 win over Lesotho on Friday night, closing the gap to just three points behind the table-toppers.

For Nigeria to progress, they must beat Benin by two goals or more, while hoping Bafana Bafana drop points against Rwanda on Tuesday.

Chelle said his squad understands the magnitude of the challenge ahead.

"For us we feel the pressure since March, every time my players come to camp, they feel the pressure because for Nigeria and for our team, we need to travel and we need to go to the World Cup,” Chelle said.

“So, we have lots of pressure. This is not an explanation, this is reality, so now the other team, maybe they will take our pressure too, so I'm happy about it. I'm very happy about that because playing a game without anything is not the same football.

“Look at the first half because we were under pressure, technically sometimes we missed something and it's difficult to come into the pitch because of lots of tension but I'm so proud of my guys.

“I told them, I'm so proud of them because they fought, they made a mistake, maybe a lot of mistakes but in reality, their state of mind was so good. So, we continue, we have a second game in a few days and like I said to my players, we go to the war again."

READ: Disheartened Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race but still clings to hope

Chelle added that hosting their final fixture in Uyo gives Nigeria an important lift, with strong home support expected to play a key role.

"We need to have our fans behind us to put a lot of pressure on this team. We are in Africa, so, we need to put a lot of pressure on these guys. This is a World Cup qualifier, so this game starts when they put their feet in our country,” the coach added.

“First, we need to do the job on the pitch and we need to start the game with lots of intensity, lots of aggressivity but like the captain said, we need to score some goals. So, we have once again a few training sessions to think about the game plan but the reality, this is the question about everybody, the players, the officials, the NFF, the commission and the fans."

Valentin Vacherot shocks Novak Djokovic in Shanghai Masters semi-final

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 14:10:49 +0000

Before his match against Djokovic, Vacherot had already left his mark on the ATP Masters 1000 tournament as he stunned 10th seed Holger Rune in the quarter-final and secured a top 100 breakthrough in the rankings.

That was already quite an achievement for someone who wasn't even in the qualifying draw a few days before the event started, as he was down at No 204 in the rankings.

But late withdrawals meant he earned a shot at the main draw and he made the most of his chance as he won his two qualifying matches.

The 26-year-old then defeated Laslo Djere, 14th seed Alexander Bublik, 20th seed Alexander Bublik, 27th seed Tallon Griekspoor and Rune to earn a shot at one of tennis' all-time greats in the last four.

Not too many people would have fancied him against Djokovic Ã¢- a man who has won a record 40 ATP Masters 1000 titles Ã¢- but the qualifier pulled off the miracle to become the first player from Monaco to reach the final of a Masters event.

So how will Vacherot be rewarded in terms of his ranking and prize money?

With Vacherot secured of his place in the final, he is assured of earning at least 670 points for his efforts in Shanghai.

ATP Masters 1000 events offer 1,000 points for the winner and 650 for a runner-up, but Vacherot will earn an additional 20 points for his qualifying wins.

There is another bonus for the Monagasue as he won't drop any points after the tournament, as he didn't feature on the ATP Tour 12 months ago so he will add at least 670 points to his tally.

As mentioned earlier, Vacherot was at No 204 at teh start, but has surged an incredible 146 places to No 58 in the Live Rankings with his points tally increasing to 933.

If he wins the title, he will be on 1,283 points and that will likely result in a jump to No 52.

Precious Mashele determined to defend his Boxer 5km title

Charles Baloyi — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 12:31:45 +0000

The elite women’s race will get underway at 9:45am, followed by the men’s elite race fifteen minutes later along the scenic beachfront.

With a total prize purse of R147,200 and R20,000 up for grabs for each winner, the event remains the richest 5km race in South Africa.

Mashele, representing the Boxer Running Club, will be aiming to defend the title he won last year in 13:39, but this year’s challenge comes after a tough battle with a serious knee injury that sidelined him from several major races.

Mashele hopes Sunday’s race will mark the start of a successful comeback.

“Last year, I won the 5km title on my birthday, which made it extra special,” he told SABC Sport. “The prize money is good, and this race attracts top runners from all disciplines — 5km, 10km, 1500m, and 10,000m — so it’s always tough. But strong competition makes me a better athlete.”

READ: Hendrick Ramaala not surprised by Maxime Chaumeton’s record-breaking run

The 33-year-old revealed that he used part of last year’s winnings to build a house for his family in Limpopo, and he remains grateful to Boxer and his management team for standing by him through injury.

Standing in his way is Kabelo Mulaudzi, one of the country’s most in-form road runners, who has dominated the 10km scene with three consecutive national cross-country titles.

Mulaudzi finished just a second behind Mashele last year in 13:40, while another Boxer teammate, Chris Mhlanga, claimed third in 13:43.

This has been one of the most challenging years of my career,” he said. “I want to come back stronger and repay my club for the faith they’ve shown in me.”

His coach, Hendrick Ramaala, says the athlete is finally turning the corner after months of frustration.

“He’s motivated again, but it’s been a long, difficult road,” Ramaala explained. “Injuries don’t just affect the body — they affect the mind too. In sport, there are no guarantees, and that’s what makes his comeback so meaningful."

Jubilant Nees hails Warriors’ fighting spirit after denting Bafana’s World Cup hopes

Velile Mnyandu — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 13:38:54 +0000

Watched by a sold-out crowd at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban last night, the Warriors put up a determined fight — and were twice saved by the woodwork.

Sitting at the bottom of Group C with just five points from nine matches, Zimbabwe were playing for pride, but for Nees, the stalemate was mission accomplished.

"The game showed that football can also be entertaining when no goals are scored. If every game would be like that I think everybody would always go home with a feeling of satisfaction for the money spent. It was a fight on a high level, with drama, yellow, red card questionable,” Nees said.

“A very fair match, I think I didn't see a single bad tackle with bad intentions when you think about what was discussed before, what was at stake. So, it was a really fair contest, we showed what we said.

“We want to be fair sportsmen, we give everything because it's also important for the AFCON and for many other reasons and I think we showed that. We are a real team, sticking together.

“I was very impressed, especially after the yellow, red card, how we were fighting to the limit with a little bit of luck. We almost won the game but we must also admit, South Africa played very strong and they also had chances. I think between neighbours, it's a good draw."

READ: Deputy Minister of Sport: Budget cuts remain a thorny issue

This was Zimbabwe’s fifth draw in the group, and although they remain winless with one match to go, Nees believes the performance was another important step in building momentum ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco this December.

He also questioned the red card shown to Knowledge Musoona in the 63rd minute.

"I saw it not the first time with the team, actually I saw many, many times. Yes the last two games we were a little bit, especially that game in Cote d'Avoire, we could have done better,” the coach added.

“Actually that's what we need to expect from the team and also what they expect from themselves because I want to say it again, we don't want to go to Morocco and be tourists there.

“We want New Year's eve in Marrakech because the second round starts in the new year and that is our ambition, our target. We are working towards that, it's not always a smooth ride, it's a little bit also up and down.

“But when you look at the long run, I don't think many teams today could have come to South Africa in a fully packed stadium and gotten a draw. Especially with the yellow, red card, a very questionable one and we can be there for the performance, for the attitude, also for the skills, I'm satisfied."

Shubman Gill's ton and Ravindra Jadeja's strikes keep India on top in Delhi

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 11:10:50 +0000

By stumps at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, West Indies were 140 for 4 in reply to India's mammoth 518 for 5 declared, still trailing by 378 runs. Shai Hope (31) and Tevin Imlach (14) were battling to keep the innings together after India's spinners dismantled the top order.

Jadeja was the chief destroyer, claiming 3 for 52 with his trademark accuracy and bounce, while Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with a wicket as India's spin trio kept constant pressure on the Caribbean side.

Earlier, India's day belonged to captain Shubman Gill, who struck a stylish unbeaten 129, his fifth Test hundred of the year and tenth overall. Gill played with control and flair, striking 16 fours and two sixes, delighting the packed weekend crowd.

Starting the day on 20, the 26-year-old took charge after Yashasvi Jaiswal's dismissal for 175 in the second over of the morning. The pair had already put India in a commanding position, and Gill ensured there was no let-up.

Gill added 91 runs with Nitish Kumar Reddy (43) before sharing another 102-run stand with wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel (44). Their partnership quickened the scoring rate, forcing West Indies onto the back foot before India declared midway through the second session.

The West Indies reply began shakily when John Campbell fell for 10 after a bizarre reflex catch by debutant Sai Sudharsan at short leg.

Tagenarine Chanderpaul (34) and Alick Athanaze (41) offered brief resistance before both fell to spin, Chanderpaul edging Jadeja to slip and Athanaze undone by Kuldeep. Captain Roston Chase's duck deepened the trouble as Jadeja struck again in quick succession.

Hope and Imlach survived some nervy moments to see the day through, but India's dominance was clear. With the hosts already one up in the two-match series after an innings win in the opener, they looked well placed to seal another emphatic victory.

Deputy Minister of Sport: Budget cuts remain a thorny issue

Charles Baloyi — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 11:02:00 +0000

The department has faced criticism for slashing the sports budget by R2 million, several federations, including Swimming South Africa, have expressed frustration over the reductions, saying the cuts are hampering their preparations for major international events such as the Olympic Games.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mabe confirmed that the ministry is currently engaging with different federations to find practical solutions to the funding challenges.

"With regards to budget cuts, it's a thorny issue that we are still discussing. We've been having one on one meetings with different federations, firstly to understand their programs and also to understand how the budget cuts have affected their day to day running but there's a plan to that,” Mabe said.

“You'd know that the minister's vision is to have a one stop shop when it comes to sports, so that people don't have to travel to different cities when they want to have contact with sports federations. So, it is also one step towards that."

READ: Disheartened Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race but still clings to hope

The 49-year-old deputy minister, who serves alongside Minister Gayton McKenzie, emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in supporting sports federations financially.

Mabe said the government alone cannot sustain all sporting codes and called for stronger partnerships with corporate South Africa to ensure that athletes continue to thrive.

"But the second one is that we want to also say that as a government it is not possible for us to continue to carry sport but we want to aggressively challenge the private sector to come on board and contribute because without the private sector being on board, there's no way that we will win,” he added.

“It is not sustainable and you know that when budgets are cut, the first department that they look into is sports, arts and culture. So, we have suffered from budget cuts for a very, very long time."

Ibrahima Konate and Alexander Isak hand Liverpool fitness boosts

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:10:39 +0000

Bradley, who captained his country in their 2-0 win over Slovakia at Windsor Park on Friday, produced a man-of-the-match display and played a key role in the opening goal. However, a second-half booking means the 21-year-old will be unavailable for Monday's top-of-the-table clash with Germany.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill praised Bradley's performance but admitted frustration over the decision. "I have watched it back and he tries to pull out," O'Neill said. "The referee didn't want to hand out too many yellow cards, but if he was going to give one for that, he should have given more, especially to the opposition.

"Conor stood out as captain and it was great for him to lead the team on a night like this."

Northern Ireland remain second in their four-team group, level on goal difference with Germany, with only the group winner qualifying automatically for the 2026 World Cup.

Bradley's Liverpool team-mate Florian Wirtz featured for Germany and hit the post during their 4-0 win over Luxembourg. Elsewhere, striker Alexander Isak played the full 90 minutes for Sweden, his first complete match since May, but couldn't prevent a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland.

There was better news for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, as defender Ibrahima Konate trained with France ahead of their 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan, easing concerns after his recent quad injury against Chelsea.

Forward Hugo Ekitike also impressed, starting for France and setting up Kylian Mbappe's opener.

In South America, Alexis Mac Allister came on for the final 12 minutes of Argentina's 1-0 friendly win over Venezuela in Miami.

Meanwhile, young goalkeeper Armin Pecsi featured for Hungary's under-21s in a 3-3 draw with Ukraine, and winger Trent Kone-Doherty made a late appearance for the Republic of Ireland under-21s as they drew 2-2 with Slovakia.

Liverpool will return to Premier League action on 19 October when they welcome Manchester United to Anfield, with Slot hoping his returning internationals emerge unscathed from their remaining fixtures.

Kyle Walker regrets leaving Man City for selfish reasons

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:10:05 +0000

Speaking to Sky Sports, the England international reflected on his final months as a City player and the loan spell that preceded his eventual departure.

Walker, who left Manchester City in the off-season to join Burnley, spent the second half of the 2024/25 campaign on loan at AC Milan.

He joined the Serie A giants during the January transfer window at a time when City were struggling to find form in the Premier League - something the veteran right-back now regrets.

Despite helping Milan strengthen defensively during his brief spell in Italy, Walker's absence was felt at City, where his leadership and experience had long been valued.

"Should I have left and gone on loan to AC Milan? I was the club captain, and you're the first one in line when things are not going really well," Walker told Sky Sports.

"At that time in the season, should I have left? Looking back at it now, probably no.

"I should have stood by or next to my team-mates, next to my friends, and people who I class as my family. But for the first time, probably in my career, I was selfish and I thought about myself and I wanted to play football."

Now at Burnley, the former City captain is focused on a new chapter in his career.

Christian Pulisic fires warning as AC Milan form soars

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 09:10:23 +0000

The American forward has enjoyed a strong start, scoring four goals in eight matches across Serie A and the Coppa Italia, all four in the league, while contributing two assists.

Currently on international duty with the United States, Pulisic reflected on his form ahead of their international friendly against Ecuador on October 10, which ended in a 1-1 draw (though he did not feature due to an ankle issue). He said he had pushed himself hard during the off-season to ensure he arrived in peak condition for the new campaign.

"I worked really hard this summer. It's not like I just took a break," said Pulisic. "I wanted to make sure my body was in the perfect spot coming into the season.

"I wanted to start really strong, and I worked really hard."

His preparation has clearly paid off, silencing some of the criticism that followed his decision to skip the Gold Cup earlier this year after a long season with Milan that included 50 appearances in all competitions.

Speaking about his impact at the San Siro, the 26-year-old said consistency had been key to his success so far. "It's just been the consistency and the work I've put in, and it's good to see it come to fruition and to be playing well," he said.

"But it's just the start of the season. I have so much more I want to accomplish."

Pulisic's impressive start has helped Milan sit third in the Serie A table as Massimiliano Allegri's side chase their first Scudetto since 2022. If his current form continues, the American could be central to their push for both domestic and European success this season.

Chelsea receive injury boost as Benoit Badiashile and Josh Acheampong near return

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 09:10:08 +0000

According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, both players - who picked up knocks against Liverpool - are expected to return to training soon, easing some of the club's growing defensive concerns.

The news will come as a relief to manager Enzo Maresca, whose side have been plagued by injuries throughout the season, particularly in central defence.

Levi Colwill, widely regarded as Chelsea's best centre-back, could miss the remainder of the campaign, while Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo remain sidelined.

With so many absentees, Chelsea's performances have inevitably suffered, and Maresca has faced the difficult task of reshuffling his backline week after week.

However, Trevoh Chalobah's return from suspension and the encouraging display of Jorrel Hato against Liverpool offer the manager more stability going forward.

In the short term, Maresca is expected to have a few more options available for the next fixture - a welcome change after several matches of forced experimentation.

Looking ahead, the January transfer window could still see movement. The club's most pressing need remains at centre-back, though reports differ on whether Chelsea will pursue reinforcements.

Supporters have called for an addition, but with ownership known for making independent and unconventional decisions, nothing is guaranteed.

Real Madrid hit by Kylian Mbappe and Franco Mastantuono injuries

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 09:10:01 +0000

The Spanish giants are leading the La Liga standings, two points ahead of Barcelona, after winning seven of their first eight matches. Despite last month's 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid, Xabi Alonso's side have impressed under their new manager, who continues to blend his attacking philosophy with the club's talented squad.

However, Madrid's momentum has been disrupted by fresh injury concerns. Franco Mastantuono, who joined the club in the summer, has withdrawn from Argentina's under-20 squad after suffering a muscle problem. The 18-year-old midfielder has returned to Madrid for further assessment and could be sidelined for a couple of weeks as a precaution.

The bigger concern is Kylian Mbappe. The French forward limped off late in France's 3-0 World Cup qualifier win over Azerbaijan at the Parc des Princes. Mbappe scored the opener and set up Adrien Rabiot's goal before being replaced in the 83rd minute after taking another knock to the same ankle that troubled him against Villarreal before the international break.

France manager Didier Deschamps admitted the injury was a concern, telling reporters: "He took a hit on the same ankle. The pain decreases when he is resting. In football matches, inevitably there is contact. We'll see about the injury later. He has discomfort and that is not ideal for him."

Mbappe, who has been in electrifying form with 14 goals and two assists in 10 appearances for Real Madrid this season, will miss France's next qualifier against Iceland. He will return to Valdebebas for medical tests to determine the extent of the damage.

Early reports suggest he could miss Real Madrid's upcoming league clash with Getafe on 19 October and remains a doubt for the highly anticipated El Clasico against Barcelona later this month.

Madrid are also without young defender Dean Huijsen, who picked up a muscle injury on international duty and is expected to be out for several weeks.

For Alonso, the injuries are an unwelcome setback at a time when Real Madrid have been building rhythm and confidence. The coming weeks could test the squad's depth as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.

Hendrick Ramaala not surprised by Maxime Chaumeton’s record-breaking run

Charles Baloyi — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 09:04:46 +0000

The 25-year-old shattered the South African 10km record at the Brasov Running Festival, clocking an astonishing 26:55 — eclipsing Adriaan Wildschutt’s previous mark of 27:28 set in Gqeberha earlier this year.

Ramaala, who mentors the national 5000m champion, told SABC Sport that Chaumeton’s record is one for the ages.

“We saw in training that he had the right attitude and the hunger to achieve something special. We had planned to break the record, but we didn’t expect the time to be that fast,” said Ramaala.

“He worked extremely hard for this opportunity and took it with both hands. This record is not vulnerable — he took it to another level, and I don’t see it being broken anytime soon.”

Chaumeton, who holds dual South African and French heritage, is sponsored by international sportswear giant ASICS, a partnership that has opened doors to elite international races and lucrative opportunities abroad.

“Having an international sponsor allows him to compete at big global events,” Ramaala added. “It was always part of our plan to chase records and push barriers. He has a home in both South Africa and France, but for now, we celebrate him as one of our own. Zoo Lake is his training home — it’s our base, our family.”

READ: Disheartened Broos admits setback in World Cup qualification race but still clings to hope

While Ramaala admits he cannot predict whether Chaumeton might one day represent France, he insists that for now, his focus remains firmly in South Africa.

“He’s more South African than French in spirit. But if France were to offer him something tomorrow, that would be his decision. For now, he trains here and represents us proudly.”

Ramaala hinted that their next target is to chase national records in the 5000m and 10,000m, declaring Zoo Lake as the new hub for record-breaking ambitions.

“We want to make Zoo Lake the home of records,” he concluded. “We’re already planning for the next one."

RB Leipzig coach Ole Werner breathes easy after Xavi Simons transfer saga ends

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 08:10:58 +0000

After months of speculation, Simons completed a switch to the Premier League side towards the end of the summer transfer window, with Tottenham paying a reported fee of around sixty million euros.

The 22-year-old, who had been a key creative force for Leipzig, had attracted interest from several clubs before Spurs secured his signature.

Werner, speaking to Sport Bild, reflected on how the uncertainty affected the squad during pre-season. "I was relieved when the transfer window closed," he said. "With Xavi, it was clear he would go, just not when. That was a burden for him, the team, and the whole environment. It caused unrest.

"Only once I knew the final squad and the transfer period was over could I plan concretely."

The Leipzig coach also emphasised that Simons' departure, while significant, created opportunities for others to step up and reshape the team dynamic. "When a key player leaves, it creates space for others to grow," Werner added.

"He was a strong character in the team. The restructuring released energy for a fresh start."

Simons' exit has allowed Leipzig to focus on their domestic and European ambitions with a more settled squad.

The Dutch international, meanwhile, has made an encouraging start at Tottenham under Thomas Frank, adapting quickly to life in the Premier League and showing flashes of the creativity that made him one of Leipzig's standout performers last season.

James Maddison won't rush comeback for Tottenham after knee surgery

SABC Sport — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 08:10:58 +0000

The 28-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his right knee during Tottenham's pre-season friendly against Newcastle in South Korea on 3 August, a match that doubled as Son Heung-min's farewell for the club.

The setback came just weeks after Maddison had recovered from a medial ligament problem in the same knee, which ruled him out of the Europa League final last season.

In a YouTube video released on Friday, Maddison shared footage of his first three weeks of recovery, including his emotional first visit back to the club's Hotspur Way training base. He thanked team-mates Rodrigo Bentancur and Cristian Romero for comforting him in the immediate aftermath of the injury.

"Cristian just said, 'We're family,'" Maddison revealed. "And Rodri reminded me his own recovery was longer because he damaged his meniscus too, which I didn't. It helped me put things into perspective."

Maddison confirmed he is aiming for an April return, around eight months after surgery, but stressed the importance of coming back fully fit. "I've already looked at the average time out. Six months isn't even a question," he said. "I'm 28, turning 29 when I return. These are my peak years. I need to come back right and stay fit."

The midfielder's optimism has been matched by encouragement from his team-mates, with Maddison jokingly challenging Pape Matar Sarr to hit new heights this season. "You're my favourite player right now," he told the Senegalese international. "You look sharp, I think you can get 15 goals this season. Promise me that and I'll get you a gift."

Sarr smiled and replied: "Yeah, I'll do it for you."

Maddison's leadership and presence have clearly been missed by Tottenham, who are hoping their playmaker can make his comeback in time to influence the final stages of their Premier League campaign in the spring.

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