Roma appeared to be heading towards a memorable victory after Donyell Malen struck twice in the second half to give the hosts a 3-1 advantage, but Madrid responded with three late goals to turn the match completely around.

Roma made the stronger start and took a deserved lead in the 20th minute.

Matias Soule found Marten de Roon on the edge of the area, and the midfielder's powerful strike took a deflection before beating Thibaut Courtois.

Real Madrid responded five minutes later through Kylian Mbappe.

The French forward collected possession before driving towards goal and striking from distance, with his effort deflecting off Gianluca Mancini and looping beyond goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.

The equaliser was Mbappe's 100th Champions League goal as Madrid recovered from a difficult opening period.

Roma restored their advantage six minutes after the restart.

Rodrigo Mora released Malen through the Madrid defence, and the forward kept his composure to lift the ball beyond Courtois for 2-1.

Malen struck again in the 57th minute after Soule played an excellent pass through the Madrid defence.

The Netherlands international finished clinically past Courtois, with VAR confirming he had remained onside.

At 3-1, Roma looked firmly in control, while Madrid struggled to produce the attacking rhythm needed to rescue the contest.

Jose Mourinho responded by introducing Endrick and Arda Guler, changes that eventually transformed the closing stages.

Madrid found a lifeline in the 82nd minute after a quickly worked corner.

Endrick's header was poorly handled by Gollini, allowing substitute Carlos Espi to react quickest and convert from close range.

Three minutes later, Madrid were level.

Guler delivered a corner from the left and Endrick rose unmarked to power a header beyond Gollini, completing an extraordinary turnaround from 3-1 down to 3-3.

Madrid were not finished.

In the 90th minute, Guler delivered another dangerous corner and Antonio Rudiger got ahead of his marker before turning the ball home from close range.

The goal completed a remarkable seven-minute comeback and left Roma stunned after they had controlled large periods of the second half.

Roma pushed for a response in stoppage time but Madrid protected their advantage to secure a dramatic 4-3 victory.

The result gave Real Madrid two wins from their opening two Champions League matches after their victory over Inter on the opening matchday.

For Roma, the defeat was particularly painful after they had placed themselves in a commanding position through Malen's second-half double.

Madrid, however, once again demonstrated their ability to survive difficult moments in Europe and find a way to win when defeat appeared almost certain.

Liverpool defeated LASK 6-3 in Austria, inspired by Bradley Barcola's hat-trick, while Aston Villa recorded a historic 6-0 victory over Fenerbahce at Villa Park. Pasted text (2) Pasted text

Liverpool took control of their contest midway through the first half when Ronald Araujo headed home Kostas Tsimikas' corner in the 22nd minute.

Only 96 seconds later, Barcola doubled the advantage, finishing a move involving Rio Ngumoha and Lewis Koumas to register his first goal for Liverpool.

The French winger struck again in the 37th minute after Florian Wirtz released him into the area, giving Liverpool a commanding 3-0 half-time lead.

Jeremie Frimpong added a fourth shortly after the restart, heading home another Tsimikas delivery.

LASK pulled one back through substitute Robert Ljubicic in the 63rd minute, but Barcola quickly restored Liverpool's four-goal advantage by completing his hat-trick three minutes later.

Koumas made it 6-1 in the 72nd minute after being supplied by Frimpong, having earlier seen two efforts ruled out for offside.

The Austrian champions refused to surrender and scored twice late on through Florian Flecker, but Liverpool comfortably held on for a 6-3 victory and their second win of the Champions League campaign.

While Liverpool were involved in a goal-filled contest in Austria, Aston Villa produced an even more dominant performance against Fenerbahce.

Johan Manzambi opened the scoring after 12 minutes on his Champions League debut, with his effort taking a deflection before finding the net.

Nicolas Jackson then took centre stage.

The striker doubled Villa's advantage in the 31st minute after Boubacar Kamara won possession and released him towards goal.

Jackson struck again eight minutes later, combining with Ross Barkley before finding the bottom corner to send Unai Emery's side into the break 3-0 ahead.

Fenerbahce had created opportunities of their own, but goalkeeper Zion Suzuki produced important saves to prevent the visitors from finding a way back into the contest.

Villa continued their dominance after the interval.

Barkley converted a penalty in the 68th minute after Manzambi was fouled inside the area, before scoring again four minutes later with a deflected strike to make it 5-0.

Substitute Tammy Abraham completed the rout in the 90th minute, converting Alysson's delivery from close range.

The six-goal victory represented Aston Villa's biggest winning margin in European competition and extended their impressive home record on the continent.

Both English clubs now have maximum points from their opening two Champions League league-phase fixtures, although their victories arrived in very different circumstances.

Liverpool demonstrated their attacking quality in an open nine-goal encounter, while Villa produced a ruthless and controlled performance to dismantle Fenerbahce.

Barcola's first Liverpool hat-trick and Jackson's brace were among the standout individual performances on a night dominated by goals.

The defending European champions produced a devastating first-half display, with Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha putting Luis Enrique's side three goals ahead before the interval.

Manchester City responded strongly after the break as Erling Haaland scored twice, but Maghnes Akliouche's fourth goal ensured PSG left Manchester with all three points.

The visitors took the lead in the 13th minute after a slick counter-attacking move ended with Doue driving a superb effort into the bottom corner beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma.

PSG struck again just 99 seconds later.

Doue turned provider, finding space inside the penalty area before lifting an inviting cross towards the back post, where Dembele arrived to convert from close range.

City struggled to contain PSG's movement and attacking combinations, and the French side added a third in the 32nd minute.

Warren Zaire-Emery created space around the edge of the area before finding Vitinha, who curled a composed finish into the corner to give PSG a commanding 3-0 advantage.

City showed signs of improvement towards the end of the opening half but entered the break facing a major task.

Enzo Maresca made changes at half-time, introducing Iliman Ndiaye and Matheus Nunes as the hosts attempted to change the momentum of the match.

The response was immediate.

City began creating opportunities and finally reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute when Ndiaye delivered an inviting cross for Haaland, who powered a header into the net.

The goal gave City renewed belief, but PSG struck again just as the hosts appeared to be building momentum.

Dembele found Akliouche in the 63rd minute, allowing the winger to move infield and unleash a long-range effort. Donnarumma initially appeared to have saved the shot, but the ball bounced beyond him and crossed the line to make it 4-1.

City refused to surrender and continued attacking.

Enzo Fernandez struck the woodwork, while Josko Gvardiol saw an effort cleared off the line as PSG came under increasing pressure.

Haaland added his second goal in the 75th minute after Ayyoub Bouaddi picked him out inside the area, with the Norwegian firing emphatically into the net to reduce the deficit to 4-2.

The goal took Haaland to 61 Champions League goals and further underlined his remarkable scoring record in Europe's elite competition.

He came close to completing a hat-trick late on but was denied as City continued searching for a way back into the contest.

PSG had an opportunity to add a fifth in the closing stages after Nuno Mendes won a penalty, but former City forward Ferran Torres saw his spot-kick saved by Donnarumma.

The missed penalty did not affect the outcome as PSG held on to secure an impressive away victory and continue their perfect start to the Champions League league phase.

City created enough opportunities to make the contest much closer, but their costly first-half defensive problems left them with too much ground to recover.

For PSG, the victory provided another statement of their European ambitions as Luis Enrique's side continue their pursuit of a third consecutive Champions League title.

In Mombasa, former Tusker FC defender Charles Momanyi scored the decisive goal three minutes from time, rising highest to head home Moses Mudavadi's corner and secure all three points for Homeboyz.

Mombasa United made an encouraging start to their first top-flight fixture, with Rashidi Waziri going close in the 20th minute when his effort struck the side netting.

Homeboyz captain Mudavadi then created danger at the opposite end, beating two defenders before seeing his powerful shot deflected behind for a corner. Momanyi met the resulting delivery but headed over the crossbar.

The hosts continued to push before the break, with Rodgers Mathew failing to convert from inside the penalty area after being picked out by Jackson Watee.

Both sides went into half-time goalless, with Mombasa United remaining competitive against their more experienced opponents.

The newcomers introduced Mogbademu Adeyemi at the start of the second half as they searched for the breakthrough.

Watee later wasted two promising opportunities with around 15 minutes remaining, while Homeboyz substitute Boniface Nyabuto narrowly missed with an ambitious overhead kick.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 87th minute when Mudavadi delivered a corner into the area and Momanyi powered his header home to give Homeboyz a winning start.

Assistant coach Paul Okwata praised his players for securing the result following a demanding trip to the coast, while acknowledging that Mombasa United had provided a difficult test.

Mombasa United coach Abdulhamid Moalim was disappointed with the late defeat but said the match would serve as an important learning experience for his players as they adjust to top-flight football.

Elsewhere, AFC Leopards were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw against Bandari FC in their opening fixture at Police Sacco Stadium.

Fred Ambani's side thought they had taken the lead in the 11th minute through James Kinyanjui, but the effort was ruled out after the ball was judged to have gone out of play during the build-up.

Bandari nearly punished Leopards before the half-hour mark when a defensive mistake presented Lawrence Okoth with an opportunity, but goalkeeper Tom Ikara produced an important save to keep the match level.

Chances became increasingly limited after the break as Bandari defended resolutely and prevented Leopards from establishing sustained attacking pressure.

Ingwe pushed for a winner during the closing stages and came close from a corner, only for Lawrence Juma to clear an effort off the goal line.

Bandari held firm to secure a point, extending their recent run of tightly contested encounters with Leopards.

The results left Kakamega Homeboyz celebrating maximum points from their opening fixture, while AFC Leopards were left frustrated after failing to turn home advantage into a winning start.

United's latest loss extended their winless run across all competitions to five matches, adding further pressure on manager Michael Carrick following the club's worst start to a Premier League season in 40 years.

Martinez described the performance in Madrid as "really poor" before suggesting the team's struggles reflected wider problems within the club.

The Argentina international said he had expected greater investment during the summer after United finished third in the Premier League last season and secured a return to the Champions League.

Martinez specifically called for more from technical director Jason Wilcox, while also acknowledging that the players had to accept responsibility for their performances.

He argued that United had established a strong foundation last season but had failed to build sufficiently on that progress ahead of the new campaign.

United reportedly spent around £140 million during the summer on midfielders Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but supporters had also wanted reinforcements in other areas, particularly at left-back and centre-forward.

Martinez also defended Carrick amid growing scrutiny surrounding the manager's position.

The defender suggested repeatedly changing managers would not solve United's problems and urged greater examination of other areas within the club.

"Tonight it is easy to say the coach, easy to say the players, but also we have to see other areas," Martinez said.

Minority owner Jim Ratcliffe was in attendance as Atletico handed United another setback in the Champions League.

Carrick said after the match that he had not heard Martinez's comments and therefore did not want to judge them directly.

The United manager suggested the defender may have been speaking emotionally following the disappointment of the defeat.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, however, felt Martinez had gone too far by publicly questioning the club's hierarchy.

Rooney said such concerns should have remained internal, while acknowledging that Martinez's comments demonstrated his desire to see United strengthen their squad.

The defeat in Madrid has intensified scrutiny around United after a difficult opening to the campaign, with both the players and club leadership now facing increasing pressure to reverse their poor run of form.

The two matches delivered contrasting nights for the European heavyweights, with Barcelona recovering from an early setback to dominate in Istanbul and Bayern fighting back from two goals down before conceding a late equaliser in Norway. 

Galatasaray stunned Barcelona in the 28th minute when Rafael Leao raced down the left before cutting the ball back for Aleksey Batrakov, whose deflected effort beat Joan Garcia to give the Turkish champions the lead. 

The hosts thought they had doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Baris Alper Yilmaz converted from close range, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside.

Barcelona took full advantage of the reprieve and levelled two minutes before half-time. Dani Olmo kept an attack alive with a well-timed challenge before Joao Cancelo calmly finished beyond Ugurcan Cakir to make it 1-1. 

Hansi Flick's side then took complete control after the interval.

Lamine Yamal created Barcelona's second goal in the 50th minute, delivering a cross that Fermin Lopez headed home from close range to complete the turnaround. 

Yamal was involved again just three minutes later, beating his marker near the byline before finding Anthony Gordon, who finished from a tight angle to give Barcelona a 3-1 advantage. 

Substitute Karim Adeyemi completed the scoring in the 65th minute, drilling a low effort beyond Cakir after another Barcelona attack developed through Yamal and Gabriel Jesus. 

The victory gave Barcelona six points from their opening two Champions League matches and extended their perfect start across all competitions. 

There was far greater drama in Stavanger, where Viking produced a remarkable performance to hold Bayern Munich 3-3.

The Norwegian side made a dream start when Gianni Stensness headed home Zlatko Tripic's corner after just 71 seconds, stunning the German visitors.

Peter Christiansen then doubled Viking's advantage in the 38th minute. Erik Botheim released the winger on the counter-attack and Christiansen raced clear before finishing calmly to send the hosts into half-time with a 2-0 lead. 

Bayern responded immediately after the break.

Harry Kane reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 54th minute after VAR determined that Konrad Laimer had been fouled inside the area.

Kane struck again six minutes later, heading Joshua Kimmich's cross beyond Arild Ostbo to bring Bayern level at 2-2.

The comeback appeared complete when Luis Diaz finished a flowing move in the 71st minute. Kane's clipped pass released Laimer, who crossed for Diaz to convert and put Bayern 3-2 ahead. 

Momentum shifted again shortly afterwards when Michael Olise received two quick yellow cards, the second coming after he threw the ball into Tripic's face, leaving Bayern with 10 men. 

Viking refused to surrender and were rewarded in the 90th minute.

Tripic drove down the left and delivered a cross towards the back post, where Herman Haugen rose to head past Jonas Urbig and secure a memorable 3-3 draw. 

The result left Bayern to reflect on dropped points despite recovering from a two-goal deficit, while Viking celebrated a famous result against one of European football's biggest clubs.

It was a night that underlined the unpredictability of the Champions League, with Barcelona displaying their attacking strength in Istanbul while Viking demonstrated remarkable resilience to deny Bayern a dramatic comeback victory.

Pablo Barrios gave Diego Simeone's side a dream start inside the opening minute before substitute Ademola Lookman sealed the result late on, shortly after Manchester United defender Leny Yoro was sent off. 

United barely had time to settle before falling behind after just 47 seconds.

Alex Baena drove forward on the counter-attack and carried the ball into the penalty area before cutting it back for the unmarked Barrios, whose deflected finish beat Senne Lammens to put Atletico ahead. 

Manchester United responded positively and almost equalised in the 12th minute when Bryan Mbeumo worked his way into the area before sending his effort narrowly wide of the post. 

Mbeumo threatened again shortly afterwards following a combination with Youri Tielemans, but Atletico captain Jan Oblak produced a strong save to deny the forward from close range. 

The hosts then came close to doubling their advantage when Alejandro Grimaldo curled a free kick against the crossbar.

Atletico thought they had found a second goal just before half-time when Johnny Cardoso fired home from inside the area, but VAR ruled the effort out because Marcos Llorente had handled the ball during the build-up. Pasted text

Simeone's side therefore went into the interval with a 1-0 advantage, while United remained in the contest despite struggling to consistently threaten Atletico's defence. 

Atletico continued to create the better opportunities after the restart and Julian Alvarez struck the post with a first-time volley in the 54th minute. 

United captain Bruno Fernandes nearly produced an equaliser three minutes later when Tielemans picked him out, but his delicate finish dropped narrowly wide.

Fernandes went even closer in the 70th minute, curling a superb effort against the crossbar as United briefly increased the pressure on their hosts. 

Their hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major setback four minutes later.

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Atletico quickly made their numerical advantage count.

David's low strike was saved by Lammens in the 79th minute, but Lookman reacted quickest to the rebound and fired home from close range to make it 2-0. 

United were unable to recover, although substitute Matheus Cunha came close to scoring against his former club in stoppage time when Oblak denied his powerful effort.

Atletico held on comfortably to secure all three points and their first Champions League win of the campaign, while Manchester United suffered their first European defeat of the season. 

Simeone's side finished with an expected goals figure of 1.42 from 11 attempts compared to United's 0.98, with Barrios' early breakthrough and Lookman's late finish proving decisive. 

Mikel Arteta's side were frustrated for more than an hour before Jurrien Timber broke the deadlock in the 64th minute, with Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka striking soon afterwards to put the contest beyond the French side. 

The Gunners controlled much of the opening half but struggled to turn their possession into clear chances.

Bruno Guimaraes had one of Arsenal's best early opportunities after Noni Madueke found Timber on the right and the defender pulled the ball back into his path, but the midfielder side-footed wide. 

Lille briefly thought they had taken the lead in the 24th minute when Ayase Ueda finished past David Raya, but the effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR check.

Arsenal continued to push, with Mikel Merino testing goalkeeper Berke Ozer before another Guimaraes effort was deflected and kept out late in the half.

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The pattern continued after the restart as Arsenal increased the pressure, although Lille remained organised and difficult to break down.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 64th minute.

Madueke found space on the right before playing the ball into Timber's path. The Dutch defender produced an excellent first touch before lifting his finish beyond Ozer and into the top corner to give Arsenal a deserved lead. 

Arteta then introduced Saka, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz in a triple substitution, and the changes immediately transformed Arsenal's attacking threat.

Just three minutes after the opening goal, Odegaard won possession before releasing Saka down the right. The winger pulled the ball back for Eze, who swept his finish home at the near post to make it 2-0. 

Arsenal were not finished.

In the 71st minute, Odegaard helped create another flowing move before Havertz delivered the final pass for Saka, who calmly rolled the ball beyond Ozer to complete a devastating seven-minute spell. 

Saka's impact from the bench proved decisive, with the England international contributing both a goal and an assist after his introduction. Pasted text

Lille were unable to recover as Arsenal comfortably managed the closing stages and secured a clean sheet alongside all three points.

The Gunners finished with an expected goals figure of 1.85 compared to Lille's 0.38, while the victory gave Arsenal two wins from their opening two Champions League league-phase matches.

Arteta will also take encouragement from the influence of his substitutes, with Saka, Odegaard and Havertz all directly involved during the spell that turned a tight contest into a convincing Arsenal victory.

Shariff Musa scored twice for K’Ogalo, while Alpha Onyango and Jackson Dwang produced spectacular strikes as the record Kenyan champions collected maximum points from their opening match of the campaign.

Former Gor Mahia forward Josphat Lopaga scored both goals for Murang’a Seal during a late fightback, but the damage had already been done following a dominant second-half display from Charles Akonnor’s side.

Gor Mahia needed only five minutes to break the deadlock.

Harambee Stars midfielder Onyango stepped up for a free kick from the right and curled a superb effort towards the top corner, with the ball clipping the crossbar before finding the net beyond goalkeeper Melvin Nderitu.

The early goal allowed Gor to dictate proceedings, with Patrick Esombe and Musa causing problems for the Murang’a defence.

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Musa came close to doubling the advantage in the 16th minute when his attempt went narrowly wide.

Murang’a Seal gradually settled into the contest and began creating opportunities of their own. Thaddeus Pkiach threatened from a set piece before Majaliwa Charo struck the side netting as the visitors searched for an equaliser.

Goalkeeper Kevin Omondi was then called into action to deny Pkiach before Gor survived another scare when Charo sent an effort narrowly wide.

Murang’a continued to apply pressure towards the end of the opening half, but Gor protected their advantage and headed into the interval leading 1-0.

The champions returned for the second half with greater purpose and doubled their lead shortly after the restart.

Onyango helped Gor regain possession deep inside their own half before Frank Odhiambo released Musa with a penetrating pass. The winger beat his marker before finishing past Nderitu to make it 2-0.

Gor then produced one of the outstanding moments of the match in the 56th minute.

Dwang spotted Nderitu positioned away from his goal and launched an audacious long-range effort that sailed into the net, giving K’Ogalo a commanding three-goal advantage.

Murang’a Seal were punished again six minutes later.

Gor worked the ball into a dangerous position before a cross from the flank found Musa, who rose to head home his second goal of the evening and extend the champions’ lead to 4-0.

With the result appearing settled, Murang’a introduced Lopaga as they attempted to rescue something from the contest.

The former Gor Mahia forward eventually reduced the deficit in the final quarter of the match, taking advantage of uncertainty in the K’Ogalo defence before finding the net.

Lopaga struck again during the closing stages after Gor afforded him space inside the attacking area, completing his brace and cutting the deficit to two goals.

The comeback came too late, however, as Gor Mahia saw out the remaining minutes to secure a 4-2 victory and three points from their opening league fixture.

The result provided an encouraging start to K’Ogalo’s latest title defence after they reclaimed the Kenyan league crown for a record-extending 22nd time last season.

For Murang’a Seal, the defeat extended their difficult run against Gor Mahia since gaining promotion to the top flight, despite a spirited attacking response late in the contest.

Gor’s combination of Onyango’s set-piece quality, Musa’s clinical finishing and Dwang’s spectacular long-range strike ultimately proved decisive on a memorable night under the Nyayo Stadium floodlights.

Kenya matched their first-leg winning margin to complete a commanding 22-0 aggregate triumph, with returning striker Jentrix Shikangwa leading the scoring with a hat-trick.

Head coach Godfrey 'Solo' Oduor made major changes to the side that had won the first leg by the same scoreline on October 8, giving opportunities to several members of his squad, including foreign-based players Shikangwa and Corazone Aquino.

The changes did little to disrupt Kenya's dominance as Sylvia Makungu opened the scoring in the sixth minute.

Violet Nanjala doubled the advantage six minutes later before Shikangwa announced her return to the national team with goals in the 17th and 20th minutes.

Vivian Nasaka added Kenya's fifth in the 31st minute after another strong attacking contribution from the full-back, sending Starlets into the break with a 5-0 advantage.

Kenya resumed their assault shortly after half-time, with captain Mwanalima Adam scoring from inside the penalty area in the 48th minute.

Shikangwa completed her hat-trick in the 66th minute after meeting a Nasaka cutback and finishing from inside the box.

Adam struck again in the 79th minute, beating Seychelles goalkeeper Tinisha Come with an effort from the left to increase Kenya's lead to 8-0.

Fasila 'Kamama' Adhiambo joined the scorers in the 85th minute with a long-range effort as Seychelles continued to struggle against Kenya's relentless pressure.

Substitute Marion Serenge then won and converted a penalty to take the score into double figures before adding another goal late on to complete the 11-0 rout.

The emphatic result continued an impressive start for Oduor, who has overseen two dominant victories in his first two matches in charge of the national side.

Kenya will now face the winner of the qualifier between Malawi and Zimbabwe in the third round, scheduled to be played between February 23 and March 6, 2027.

The tie will represent a considerably tougher test for Starlets as they continue their pursuit of a place at the 2028 Olympic Games.

Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki scored for the visitors after Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch was sent off in the 62nd minute for a second bookable offence.

The contest arrived amid intense scrutiny surrounding Manchester City following a Premier League ruling over the club's financial regulations case. City have appealed the decision and continue to maintain their position as the legal process continues.

Liverpool began positively in front of a vocal Anfield crowd, pressing City aggressively and looking dangerous in transition during a tightly contested first half.

City created one of their better early openings when Antoine Semenyo drove a dangerous ball across the six-yard area, but nobody was able to provide the finishing touch.

Liverpool increased the pressure after the restart and forced Gianluigi Donnarumma into action during a lively spell.

The City goalkeeper denied Lewis Koumas before keeping out Gravenberch, while Alexis Mac Allister sent another effort narrowly wide as the hosts searched for the breakthrough.

Haaland then passed up a major opportunity after Semenyo released him into space, with the Norwegian unable to convert as Alisson Becker rushed from his goal.

The direction of the match changed dramatically in the 62nd minute when Gravenberch, who had been booked shortly after half-time, received a second yellow card following a challenge on substitute Doku.

City needed only three minutes to take advantage.

Doku's attempted delivery was partially blocked before the loose ball fell kindly to Haaland, who struck a powerful first-time finish into the bottom corner to give the visitors the lead in the 65th minute.

The advantage was doubled just three minutes later.

Doku collected possession on the left, cut inside and curled an outstanding effort beyond Alisson into the top corner for his first Premier League goal of the season.

Liverpool struggled to regain control after going down to 10 men, while City increasingly dictated possession and pushed for a third.

Cherki completed the scoring in the 78th minute following an excellent passing sequence from the league leaders.

The French midfielder combined with Josko Gvardiol inside the penalty area, showed outstanding control to evade the Liverpool defence and calmly rolled his finish beyond Alisson.

The goal completed a 41-pass move, underlining City's control after Liverpool's dismissal and adding further gloss to a clinical second-half display.

City had gone into half-time without scoring after an opening period dominated more by intensity and fouls than clear chances.

Liverpool's strongest spell arrived immediately after the interval, but Gravenberch's red card proved decisive as City scored three times in a 13-minute period.

Haaland's strike continued his strong record against Liverpool, while Doku made an immediate impact after being introduced from the bench shortly before the sending-off.

Cherki's late goal completed the victory and ensured City remained at the Premier League summit, while Liverpool slipped further behind following their first league defeat of the campaign.

City manager Enzo Maresca also continued his impressive start, with the victory making it six Premier League wins from his opening six matches in charge.

For Liverpool and manager Andoni Iraola, the result brought an unbeaten start to the campaign to an end on a difficult afternoon at Anfield.

The Brewers secured all three points at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang'ata through second-half goals from Alvin Mang'eni and Victor Mbaoma.

Ulinzi started brightly and threatened as early as the fourth minute when Jacob Onyango put the Tusker defence under pressure and forced a corner.

Tusker responded three minutes later through Fabian Adikiny, but the 2025/26 Most Valuable Player directed his effort straight at Ulinzi goalkeeper Ricks Omondi.

Tusker goalkeeper Perrauld Ndinga was called into action in the 27th minute, keeping out a Boniface Muchiri delivery intended for Onyango at the far post.

John Otieno then came close to breaking the deadlock shortly before half-time, rising to meet an Ian Simiyu corner before sending his header narrowly wide.

Ulinzi substitute Maxwell Onyango had another opportunity in the 58th minute, but his volley failed to trouble the Tusker goal.

The Brewers eventually found the breakthrough in the 68th minute. Simiyu supplied a cutback for Mang'eni, who placed his finish beyond the stretching Omondi to give Tusker the lead.

Ulinzi had an immediate opportunity to respond when Muchiri delivered a free-kick into the area, but Ndinga produced another save to protect Tusker's advantage.

Mbaoma doubled the lead in the 75th minute after capitalising on a mistake by Ken Odhiambo before lifting the ball over Omondi.

Tusker coach Julien Mette was later shown a red card, becoming the first coach to be sent off during the new league campaign.

The result also allowed Tusker to avenge their 2-0 defeat to Ulinzi at the same venue in May 2026. The Brewers had won the previous two meetings between the sides 1-0 before that defeat.

Elsewhere, newly promoted 3K FC marked their first SportPesa League appearance with a 2-2 draw against Mara Sugar at Moi Stadium in Embu.

The match was the first top-flight meeting between the two clubs. 3K FC entered the Premier League after finishing second in the National Super League last season, while Mara Sugar are competing in their third consecutive top-flight campaign.

NSL champions Migori Youth also earned a point on their Premier League debut after holding Kenya Police FC to a 1-1 draw at Green Stadium in Awendo.

The fixture was another first-ever top-flight meeting, with Migori Youth beginning life among Kenya's elite against a Kenya Police side that had finished the previous campaign on a five-match unbeaten run.

Nairobi United and KCB produced another four-goal contest at Police Sacco Stadium, sharing the points in a 2-2 draw.

Nairobi United remain unbeaten against the Bankers in their recent top-flight meetings. They defeated KCB 2-0 away on January 15, 2026, before the teams drew 1-1 on March 2.

Sunday's results leave Tusker as the only team from the day's four fixtures to collect maximum points, while Ulinzi begin their campaign with defeat and six other sides take a point apiece.

Sunday SportPesa League Results

• Ulinzi Stars 0-2 Tusker FC
• 3K FC 2-2 Mara Sugar
• Migori Youth 1-1 Kenya Police FC
• Nairobi United 2-2 KCB

In a decision signed and delivered in Nairobi on October 9, 2026, the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee said it considered reports from match officials and other relevant parties, further submissions from the two clubs, as well as information provided by the match commissioner and FKF security officer.

The committee found that the match was disrupted in the 64th minute after Kariobangi Sharks players confronted the centre referee while protesting his decision to award a penalty to Mombasa United.

According to the committee's findings, Kariobangi Sharks player Patrick Paul Otieno, together with a section of supporters from the stands, subsequently entered the field of play and physically assaulted the centre referee.

The injured referee later informed the match commissioner that he was unable to continue officiating, leading to the match being called off.

FKF said the incident was subsequently reported at Langata Police Station under OB No. 56/6/10/2026.

After considering which party was responsible for the abandonment and the appropriate sporting consequences, the committee ruled that Kariobangi Sharks had caused the match to be abandoned.

Citing Articles 3.3.2(a) and 3.3.3 of the Rules and Regulations Governing Kenyan Football (2019), FKF ordered Kariobangi Sharks to forfeit the fixture and awarded Mombasa United a 2-0 victory.

The ruling means Mombasa United have been declared the aggregate winners of the play-off and are promoted to the SportPesa League for the 2026/27 season.

The committee also referred matters relating to the reported violence and misconduct during the match to the FKF Disciplinary Committee for prosecution and any applicable sanctions.

Kenya will face Seychelles in a two-legged tie at Nyayo National Stadium, with the opening match scheduled for October 8 before the return fixture on October 12, 2026.

Both matches are set to kick off at 3pm.

The squad brings together experienced internationals, returning players and several new faces as Oduor begins preparations for his latest spell in charge of the national team.

Among the returning players are Simba Queens midfielder Corazone Aquino, Gor Mahia Queens goalkeeper Monica Odato, Kibera Soccer Women defender Janet Mumo and Mathare United Women defender Wincaate Kaari.

Haymanaspor midfielder Lavine Achola is also back in the national team set-up.

Kenya Police Bullets forward Faith Mboya, Wacker Innsbruck attacker Sylvia Makungu and Madira Soccer Assassins forward Charity Midewa have also earned recalls.

Five players have received their first senior Harambee Starlets call-ups.

They are defender Hellen Ochieng, defender Abigael Njeru, midfielder Mercyline Wafula, midfielder Josephine Warenga and forward Magneta Ocharo.

Oduor has selected five goalkeepers, including Kenya Police Bullets' Annedy Kundu, Romania-based Lilian Awuor, Vivian Shiyonzo of Kibera Soccer Women, Trinity Starlets' Juliet Adhiambo and Monica Odato of Gor Mahia Queens.

The defensive options include Ruth Ingosi, Elizabeth Ochaka, Norah Ann, Leah Andiema, Vivian Nasaka, Enez Mango, Mary Nthambi, Janet Mumo, Wincaate Kaari, Elizabeth Muteshi, Hellen Ochieng, Lavine Achola, Euphrasier Shilwatso and Abigael Njeru.

In midfield, Kenya can call upon Lorna Nyarinda, Fasila Adhiambo, Mercy Airo, Martha Amunyolete, Elizabeth Mideva, Mwanalima Adam, Lavender Akinyi, Corazone Aquino, Mercyline Wafula, Marion Serenge and Josephine Warenga.

The attacking department includes Tereza Engesha, Faith Mboya, Violet Nanjala, Eglay Mukhwana, Shaline Nambengele, Airin Madalina, Valerie Nekesa, Sylvia Makungu, Jentrix Shikangwa, Magneta Ocharo, Charity Midewa, Shirleen Opisa and Catherine Khaemba.

The players were expected to report to camp on October 2 as Kenya begins preparations for the Seychelles double-header.

The qualifiers represent the start of Kenya’s bid to progress through the African qualification pathway for the women’s football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games.

Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu (Kenya Police Bullets), Lilian Awuor (Farul Constanta, Romania), Vivian Shiyonzo (Kibera Soccer Women), Juliet Adhiambo (Trinity Starlets), Monica Odato (Gor Mahia Queens).

Defenders: Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens, Tanzania), Elizabeth Ochaka (Kenya Police Bullets), Norah Ann (Kenya Police Bullets), Leah Andiema (Kenya Police Bullets), Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucu Spor, Turkey), Enez Mango (Politehnica Timisoara Feminina, Romania), Mary Nthambi (Kenya Police Bullets), Janet Mumo (Kibera Soccer Women), Wincaate Kaari (Mathare United Women), Elizabeth Muteshi (Trinity Starlets), Hellen Ochieng (Shabana Starlets), Lavine Achola (Haymanaspor, Turkey), Euphrasier Shilwatso (Haymanaspor, Turkey), Abigael Njeru (Soccer Assassins).

Midfielders: Lorna Nyarinda (Kenya Police Bullets), Fasila Adhiambo (Simba Queens), Mercy Airo (Ulinzi Starlets), Martha Amunyolete (Kenya Police Bullets), Elizabeth Mideva (FC Gintra, Lithuania), Mwanalima Adam (HB Koge, Denmark), Lavender Akinyi (Ulinzi Starlets), Corazone Aquino (Simba Queens), Mercyline Wafula (Gedion Starlets), Marion Serenge (St. Noa Girls, Uganda), Josephine Warenga (Vihiga Queens).

Forwards: Tereza Engesha (Kenya Police Bullets), Faith Mboya (Kenya Police Bullets), Violet Nanjala (Hibernians FC Women, Scotland), Eglay Mukhwana (Kenya Police Bullets), Shaline Nambengele (Ulinzi Starlets), Airin Madalina (Kenya Police Bullets), Valerie Nekesa (CD Tenerife Femenino, Spain), Sylvia Makungu (Wacker Innsbruck W, Austria), Jentrix Shikangwa (FC Masar, Egypt), Magneta Ocharo (Kayole Starlets), Charity Midewa (Madira Soccer Assassins), Shirleen Opisa (Amus College, Uganda), Catherine Khaemba (Panetolikos GFS, Greece).

The coaching change became clear following the release of a 43-player provisional squad for Kenya’s upcoming second-round qualifying tie against Seychelles.

Beldine Odemba has left the national team role by mutual consent after three years in charge, bringing to an end a tenure that included guiding Harambee Starlets back to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Odemba took charge of the senior women’s national team in September 2023, succeeding Oduor, and oversaw 33 matches in all competitions. Kenya recorded 12 wins, four draws and 17 defeats during her tenure.

Her final major tournament was the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Starlets endured a difficult group-stage campaign.

Kenya lost all three Group A matches, opening with a 4-0 defeat against hosts Morocco before losing 2-0 to Algeria and 1-0 to Senegal. Starlets finished the group stage without a point or a goal and conceded seven times.

Oduor now returns to the position under significant time pressure, with Kenya scheduled to face Seychelles twice at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

The first leg will be played on October 8 before the return fixture on October 12. Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 3pm. The squad was expected to report to camp on October 2 to begin preparations.

Oduor previously served as Harambee Starlets head coach before Odemba took charge in 2023. Prior to his latest national team appointment, he worked as an assistant coach at South Sudan Premier League side El Merreikh Bentiu.

The technical bench has also undergone wider changes.

Former Harambee Starlets defender Mary Adhiambo has been appointed assistant coach, while former Zetech Sparks coach Bernard Kitolo joins as second assistant coach.

Former Gor Mahia goalkeeper Jerim Onyango takes over as goalkeeper coach, with Anima Odhiambo serving as team manager. Geoffrey Thomas joins as strength and conditioning coach, David Nabule Ndakal as team doctor and Enos Karani as physiotherapist.

Oduor’s 43-player provisional squad combines established internationals, returning players and several newcomers as Kenya looks to make a strong start to its Olympic qualification campaign.

Among the prominent returnees are Simba Queens midfielder Corazone Aquino, Gor Mahia Queens goalkeeper Monica Odato, Kibera Soccer Women defender Janet Mumo, Mathare United Women defender Wincaate Kaari and Haymanaspor midfielder Lavine Achola.

Kenya Police Bullets forward Faith Mboya, Wacker Innsbruck forward Sylvia Makungu and Madira Soccer Assassins attacker Charity Midewa have also been recalled.

Five players have received their first senior national team call-ups: Hellen Ochieng, Abigael Njeru, Mercyline Wafula, Josephine Warenga and Magneta Ocharo.

Oduor’s immediate task will be to reduce the provisional squad and prepare Starlets for the Seychelles double-header as Kenya begins its pursuit of a place at the 2028 Olympic Games.

The club confirmed the deal on October 1, 2026, announcing Messi as its new owner after the Argentina great acquired the shares previously held by the club's majority shareholder. The transaction remains subject to approval from Spain's Consejo Superior de Deportes under the country's sporting regulations.

The move follows an agreement in principle reached in September, when Messi entered negotiations to acquire the controlling stake in Eldense.

At the time, the process was still subject to due diligence, final contractual procedures and regulatory approval. Those negotiations have now progressed to the point where the club has formally announced the takeover.

Eldense said Messi's arrival marks the beginning of a long-term project focused on strengthening the club's sporting, institutional and social development.

Founded in 1921, the club has more than a century of history and is currently competing in Spain's second division.

Messi's arrival comes at a challenging sporting moment for Eldense.

The club sit 19th in the 22-team Segunda Division after collecting five points from their opening seven matches, including one victory, leaving them among the sides battling near the bottom of the table.

The acquisition also expands Messi's growing involvement in football ownership.

It is the second Spanish club the 39-year-old has invested in during 2026, following his acquisition of UE Cornella earlier in the year.

Despite moving into club ownership, Messi remains an active player with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

The former Barcelona forward retired from international football with Argentina in August, although he has since been called up for a farewell appearance scheduled against Benin on October 6.

Messi's connection with Spanish football stretches back more than two decades.

He moved to Spain as a teenager and made his senior Barcelona debut in 2004 before becoming the club's record goalscorer.

During his time at Camp Nou, Messi scored 672 goals in 778 appearances and established himself as one of the most decorated players in the club's history.

He left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 before joining Inter Miami in 2023.

His takeover of Eldense now represents another significant step in his involvement in football beyond his playing career.

The club said the new ownership would seek to consolidate Eldense's position in professional football while preserving its identity, history and connection to the city of Elda.

Messi also joins a growing list of high-profile footballers investing in clubs during or after their playing careers.

For Eldense, however, the immediate focus will remain on improving results on the pitch as the club attempts to climb away from the lower end of the Segunda Division table under its new ownership structure.

Serhou Guirassy scored the only goal of the contest in the first half as the Syli National bounced back from their opening defeat to South Africa and secured their first three points in Group D.

Kenya travelled to Conakry looking for an improved result after being held to a 1-1 draw by Eritrea in Nairobi in their opening qualifier.

Instead, Benni McCarthy's side were left still searching for their first victory of the campaign, while their difficult away record against Guinea continued.

The match marked Kenya's fifth visit to Guinea, with Harambee Stars yet to record a victory on Guinean soil.

McCarthy made four changes to the team that started against Eritrea. Manzur Okwaro moved to left-back, while Mike Kibwage partnered Frank Odhiambo in central defence.

Duke Abuya captained the side and formed part of a midfield containing Crispine Erambo and Ben Stanley Omondi. Mohammed Bajaber was also handed a starting role in attack.

Guinea broke the deadlock shortly after the half-hour mark following a passage of play involving Aliou Balde and Guirassy.

Balde's clever involvement created the opening before Kenya briefly recovered possession through Erambo. The midfielder was unable to fully clear the danger, however, and the ball eventually fell back into Guirassy's path.

The Borussia Dortmund striker made no mistake, firing beyond goalkeeper Byrne Omondi to give the hosts the lead.

Kenya had an opportunity to respond just before half-time when Job Ochieng made his way into the penalty area, but a heavy touch during the move prevented Harambee Stars from producing a clean finish.

The visitors then almost conceded again moments later after losing possession.

A long pass from deep released Abdoul Karim Traore, who forced Byrne Omondi into an important save to keep Kenya within one goal heading into the interval.

McCarthy responded at half-time with a double substitution, introducing Ryan Ogam and Timothy Ouma for Micah Obiero and Job Ochieng as Kenya looked for greater attacking threat.

The changes nearly produced an equaliser around 10 minutes into the second half when Ogam struck powerfully towards goal, only for Guinea goalkeeper Mohamed Camara to make the save.

Kenya made another attacking adjustment around the hour mark as Shariff Musa replaced Bajaber on the left flank.

Harambee Stars increased the pressure as the second half progressed, but Guinea remained organised defensively and successfully protected their narrow advantage until the final whistle.

The victory moved Guinea onto three points after two matches, reviving their qualification hopes following their opening 2-1 defeat to South Africa.

South Africa remained top of Group D with six points after recording a commanding 5-0 victory over Eritrea.

Kenya, meanwhile, have collected one point from their opening two qualifiers and will need an improved return when their AFCON campaign resumes.

Before then, McCarthy's side are scheduled to travel to Rwanda for a friendly against Amavubi on Monday, October 6.

The 41-year-old confirmed his departure after discussions with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca, saying he would reveal the full reasons behind his decision at a later date.

The Portuguese Football Federation subsequently confirmed Ronaldo had left the squad, with preparations continuing without the country's record goalscorer.

Ronaldo's exit came following several days of scrutiny surrounding his position in Jesus' team.

The Al-Nassr forward started Portugal's opening Nations League match against Wales but was then left on the bench throughout Sunday's 2-1 victory over Norway.

Goncalo Ramos was preferred in attack and scored the winning goal, while Ronaldo remained an unused substitute.

Attention intensified after the final whistle when Ronaldo headed towards the tunnel rather than joining his teammates on the pitch.

Jesus later acknowledged that Ronaldo had been frustrated after warming up without being introduced, but insisted there had been no major incident between the pair.

The Portugal coach explained that Ronaldo had initially been told he could feature against Norway before the circumstances of the match caused him to change his plans.

Jesus also rejected suggestions that Ronaldo had refused to train, saying the forward had instead been completing an individual programme involving mobility and strengthening work.

However, the situation became more uncertain after Jesus indicated that Ramos would retain his place in the starting lineup for the following match against Denmark.

The coach stressed that selection decisions remained his responsibility and that Ronaldo would only be introduced if the circumstances of a match required him.

Hours later, Ronaldo confirmed he was leaving the camp.

In a social media statement, the Portugal captain said his decision followed the national team's press conference and a conversation with the Portuguese federation president.

He stopped short of revealing exactly what prompted the decision, saying instead that he would tell the Portuguese public the reasons behind his departure "in due course".

Ronaldo nevertheless wished Portugal and his teammates well ahead of their remaining Nations League fixtures.

The episode has sparked widespread discussion about whether Ronaldo will continue his international career or whether his departure could mark the beginning of the end of an extraordinary 23-year journey with Portugal.

Those questions remain unanswered.

Ronaldo has not announced his international retirement, while neither the federation nor Jesus has publicly declared that the forward will no longer be selected. His immediate future therefore remains uncertain rather than settled.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains one of the most decorated players in Portugal's history.

He has made a record 234 international appearances and scored 146 goals, making him both Portugal's most-capped player and leading goalscorer.

His international career has included Portugal's historic Euro 2016 triumph as well as Nations League success, establishing him as one of the most influential players ever to represent the country.

Ronaldo had considered ending his international career following the World Cup but ultimately chose to continue, with the forward also pursuing the landmark of 1,000 senior career goals.

His latest departure, however, has created a new period of uncertainty.

Ronaldo's sister Elma Aveiro has publicly defended him amid the controversy, sharing criticism of how the Portugal captain has been treated, while others have questioned his reaction to being left on the bench.

For now, neither Ronaldo nor Portugal have provided a complete account of what happened behind the scenes.

Until the captain delivers the explanation he has promised, questions surrounding his relationship with Jesus — and whether he will add to his record-breaking Portugal career — are likely to remain.

The coastal side made home advantage count, building a two-goal lead before Sharks pulled one back late in the contest to keep the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Nairobi on October 6.

The playoff was staged after a lengthy dispute over the regulations governing promotion and relegation. Under the 2025 FKF rules, the bottom three clubs in the Premier League were due to be automatically relegated, a situation that would have sent 16th-placed Kariobangi Sharks directly to the second tier.

Sharks challenged the application and timing of those regulations, arguing that the 2019 statutes should instead be used. Those rules provided for the team finishing 16th in the top flight to face the third-placed National Super League side over two legs.

Following mediation, the matter was resolved with Mombasa United and Kariobangi Sharks agreeing to determine their league status on the pitch.

Mombasa United started brightly, with Jamal Oporia forcing Sharks goalkeeper Collins Omondi into action from an early set piece.

Sharks responded through Steve Mbulere, whose deliveries into the penalty area caused problems, although the United defence remained alert to clear the danger.

David Polepole later had one of Sharks' clearest first-half chances after Zeblon Kutera picked him out with a cut-back, but he failed to make the required connection.

At the opposite end, Omondi produced important saves to keep the visitors level, denying Waziri Shentembo in a one-on-one situation before keeping out another dangerous Oporia free kick.

The teams therefore went into half-time without a goal.

Kariobangi Sharks made changes after the break, bringing on Yusuf Hassan, Wayne Otieno and Fidel Otieno as they looked to gain greater control in midfield.

Mombasa United, however, continued to push forward and eventually found the breakthrough shortly after the hour mark.

Peter Abiola was brought down inside the penalty area following a quick counter-attack, handing the hosts a penalty. Dennis Mabeya converted confidently, sending Omondi the wrong way to put United ahead.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute. Mzee Hassan delivered an accurate cross into the penalty area, where Shentembo arrived to finish from close range.

Sharks responded in the 83rd minute through substitute Wayne Otieno, who scored from inside the box to reduce the deficit and hand the Nairobi side an important lifeline.

Mombasa United resisted late pressure to secure the 2-1 victory and will travel to Nairobi with a one-goal advantage for the decisive second leg on Tuesday, October 6.

Kenya took control almost immediately, with Paul Osama opening the scoring inside the first minute to give the hosts the perfect start against their East African rivals.

Lawrence Okoth doubled the advantage deep into first-half stoppage time, sending Kenya into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

The hosts continued their strong display after the restart, with captain Kevin Wangaya making it 3-0 five minutes into the second half.

Tanzania were handed an opportunity to respond when they were awarded a penalty, which Shekhan Khamis converted in the 54th minute to reduce the deficit to 3-1.

Any hopes of a Tanzanian comeback were ended in the 75th minute when Kelly Madada struck Kenya's fourth goal to restore the three-goal cushion.

The 4-1 victory gives Kenya a significant advantage ahead of the second leg scheduled for October 6 at Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Kenya will still need to complete the job away from home, with the aggregate winner progressing to the second round of qualification, where Côte d'Ivoire awaits.

The match formed part of the opening fixtures on the road to the TotalEnergies CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2027.

Elsewhere, Mauritania secured a narrow 1-0 first-leg victory over DR Congo in Nouakchott.

Hamidou Diarra scored the only goal of the contest after 10 minutes as Mauritania successfully defended their lead for the remainder of the match.

DR Congo will have an opportunity to overturn the deficit when the teams meet again at Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi on October 6.

The winner of the Mauritania-DR Congo tie will advance to face Nigeria in the next qualifying round.

Several other first-round fixtures are scheduled before the return legs, including Malawi against Eswatini, Tunisia against Benin, Rwanda against Sudan, Angola against Namibia and Zimbabwe against Mauritius.

Kenya will now turn its attention to the return encounter in Dar es Salaam as the team looks to protect its three-goal advantage and continue its push towards the continental finals in Egypt.

According to The Athletic, City were found guilty on all but one of the 115 charges, citing sources briefed on the matter. The sanctions have not yet been decided, with a range of possible punishments still available to the independent commission.

City are expected to appeal the decision.

The Premier League originally charged Manchester City in February 2023 following a four-year investigation into the club’s financial conduct.

The allegations covered the period between 2009 and 2018 and included claims that City failed to provide accurate financial information, details relating to payments made to players and coaches, and information concerning compliance with UEFA financial regulations and the Premier League’s financial rules.

Manchester City have consistently denied wrongdoing.

Responding to the latest reports, a City spokesperson said the Premier League process remained ongoing and that important elements were still to be completed under strict confidentiality.

The club maintained the position it first expressed when the charges were announced in February 2023, when it said it welcomed the opportunity for the case to be considered by an independent commission.

The investigation followed the publication of leaked financial documents by German publication Der Spiegel in 2018.

City have previously faced financial disciplinary proceedings in European competition. UEFA banned the club from its competitions for two seasons and imposed a €30 million fine in February 2020, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the ban later that year.

CAS ruled that some of the alleged breaches had either not been established or were time-barred. City were, however, found to have failed to cooperate fully with UEFA's investigation and were fined £8.8 million.

The Premier League case has taken more than three years since the charges were formally announced, with league chief executive Richard Masters previously acknowledging that the process had lasted longer than expected.

Attention will now turn to the sanctions stage.

Premier League rules provide several possible punishments, ranging from a reprimand and financial penalties to points deductions and, in the most severe circumstances, expulsion from the competition.

The independent commission can also combine sanctions, although any punishment would be expected to reflect the nature and seriousness of the breaches.

No sanction has yet been confirmed.

The outcome could therefore have major implications for Manchester City, but the disciplinary process is not yet concluded, particularly with the club expected to challenge the decision through an appeal.

After a tight opening 45 minutes ended goalless, the hosts transformed the contest after the break, with Jaidon Anthony opening the scoring before Igor Thiago and Fabio Carvalho completed an emphatic West London triumph.

Chelsea had enjoyed spells of control during the first half but struggled to turn possession into clear chances. Pedro Neto forced Caoimhin Kelleher into an early save after Danny Welbeck brought the ball down inside the area, while Morgan Rogers failed to make the most of the rebound.

Brentford's best opening before the interval came through Yehor Yarmoliuk, whose low drive was comfortably dealt with by Emiliano Martinez. The sides went into the break at 0-0 after a cagey first half in which neither attack consistently found a way through.

The breakthrough arrived in the 61st minute from a set piece. Mikkel Damsgaard's corner reached Jannik Schuster, who headed the ball back into the danger area for Anthony to convert from close range and put Brentford ahead.

Chelsea attempted to respond and enjoyed a dangerous spell around the Brentford penalty area. The visitors appealed for a penalty in the 77th minute after Mamadou Sangare caught Valentin Barco inside the box, but a VAR check did not result in a spot kick.

Brentford then delivered the decisive blow with seven minutes of normal time remaining.

Kevin Schade broke forward and forced Martinez into a save, but the rebound fell kindly for Thiago, who finished with his right foot to make it 2-0 and score his first Premier League goal of the season.

There was still time for Brentford to add a third.

Deep into stoppage time, Schade was again involved as his low delivery reached the back post, where substitute Carvalho converted in the 94th minute to complete the 3-0 scoreline.

The final score reflected Brentford's increasingly dominant second-half performance. The hosts finished with an expected-goals figure of 2.65 compared with Chelsea's 0.82, underlining the difference in the quality of the chances created as the game developed.

For Chelsea, the defeat continued a difficult run away from home and exposed their inability to convert periods of possession into goals. Brentford, meanwhile, were rewarded for remaining disciplined through the first half before becoming far more aggressive and clinical after the interval.

Anthony's opener changed the direction of the contest, Thiago gave Brentford breathing room and Carvalho's late finish provided the final flourish on a memorable night for the Bees.

Justice Dorah Chepkwony ruled that the season cannot begin without a playoff involving Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United, placing the planned opening round of matches in immediate doubt.

The order followed an application by Evans Nduta challenging the commencement of the new campaign. Nduta also has a substantive case questioning the application of the 2025 Football Kenya Federation rules.

The matter is expected back in court on Thursday, leaving clubs, players and supporters waiting for clarity over when the domestic season can officially begin.

The effects of the decision were already being felt on Saturday, with Gor Mahia announcing that their season-opening match against Murang’a Seal at Nyayo Stadium had been postponed until further notice. Gor Mahia said tickets already purchased would remain valid and would be honoured once a new kick-off date is confirmed.

AFC Leopards also informed supporters that their opening fixture against Bandari FC, scheduled for Sunday, September 20 at Nyayo National Stadium, had been cancelled by FKF. Unlike Gor Mahia, Leopards said supporters who had bought tickets would receive direct communication regarding refund arrangements by close of business on Tuesday, September 22.

The latest disruption has added to frustration within Kenyan football, with Tusker FC captain Abud Omar becoming one of the first senior players to publicly address the latest standoff.

Omar questioned how the domestic game has fallen behind leagues in neighbouring countries despite Kenya previously enjoying stronger organisation and visibility.

“10 years ago, the Kenyan Premier League was among the better leagues in Africa. We were ranked around the top 20 on the continent, and a big part of that was proper management and the professional standards that came with SuperSport,” Omar said.

“But look at where we are today. Many of our neighbouring countries have moved ahead of us because they have invested in better management, infrastructure and professionalism, while our league continues to struggle.”

The Tusker defender also raised concerns about the sporting consequences of repeated delays, particularly for clubs preparing for continental football and players hoping to represent the national team.

“I’ve just woken up to the news that the league has been cancelled again, and honestly, it’s so frustrating. We have continental competitions and national team games coming up. How are we supposed to compete at the highest level when we don’t have enough competitive matches to maintain our fitness and sharpness?” he said.

Omar believes the situation is particularly concerning with Kenya preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

“And with Kenya preparing to co-host AFCON next year, this is really worrying. We need to get serious about our football. Our players, clubs and fans deserve a properly organised, professional and competitive league,” he said.

“This is not just about today’s fixtures. It’s about the future of Kenyan football.”

Attention will now turn to FKF and how the federation responds to the High Court directive. There has already been heightened debate around the federation’s relationship with legal proceedings affecting football, with FKF President Hussein Mohammed reported earlier this week to have indicated during a meeting with branch chairmen that the federation would resist court interventions that stop football activities.

For clubs, however, the immediate consequences are already clear. Preparations have been interrupted, supporters who had planned to attend matches are being forced to change their arrangements, while players remain uncertain over when competitive domestic football will resume.

With the court matter returning on Thursday, another Kenyan football season has begun not with action on the pitch, but with uncertainty away from it.

Hansi Flick's side recorded their biggest victory of the campaign, with Joao Cancelo opening the scoring before Raphinha struck three times, Asier Villalibre turned into his own net, and Gabriel Jesus and Lamine Yamal completed the rout. Maguette Gueye and Yassir Zabiri scored Racing's goals.

The victory maintained Barcelona's perfect league record after they entered the match with five wins from five, 21 goals scored and only four conceded. Racing, back in LaLiga after 15 seasons away, arrived having won two of their opening five games.

Flick made four changes from the side that beat Levante 4-2, bringing Cancelo, Andreas Christensen, Dani Olmo and Karim Adeyemi into the starting line-up. Raphinha captained the side and operated through the middle, supported by Yamal and Adeyemi.

Barcelona needed only eight minutes to make their dominance count.

Yamal recovered possession and switched the ball towards Cancelo, who had been afforded far too much space outside the penalty area.

The Portuguese defender unleashed a powerful right-footed strike from around 20 yards that flew into the top corner beyond Julen Agirrezabala.

Barcelona continued creating chances at will, with Adeyemi particularly dangerous with his pace and movement.

The second goal arrived from the penalty spot in the 25th minute after Pedri released Raphinha behind the Racing defence and Pedro Felipe clipped the Brazilian's ankles inside the area.

Raphinha took responsibility and sent Agirrezabala the wrong way, placing his penalty into the bottom-right corner.

Racing responded five minutes later with virtually their first meaningful attack.

Sergio Canales helped work the ball towards Aaron Martin on the left before his cross reached Villalibre.

The striker's imperfect touch fell into the path of Gueye, who recovered possession brilliantly, skipped beyond two Barcelona defenders and finished past Joan Garcia to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

Any suggestion of a Racing comeback was quickly extinguished.

Cancelo again took aim from distance after Barcelona worked a short corner in the 36th minute. His thunderous effort flew towards the top corner after taking a deflection off Villalibre, with the goal officially recorded as an own goal against the Racing striker.

Barcelona then struck for a fourth in the 42nd minute.

Adeyemi drove inside and backheeled the ball towards Olmo, who released Raphinha into the penalty area.

The captain took one touch before hammering his left-footed finish into the same corner he had found with his earlier penalty.

Barcelona went into half-time leading 4-1 after generating an extraordinary 4.43 expected goals during the opening 45 minutes.

The advantage might have been even greater.

Adeyemi won another penalty shortly before the interval, but Raphinha handed the ball to Yamal. Agirrezabala read the teenager's attempt and saved his spot-kick. 

Flick replaced Joan Garcia with Wojciech Szczesny at half-time, giving the veteran goalkeeper his first minutes of the season.

Yamal continued searching for a goal and struck the woodwork early in the second half, while Adeyemi also went close after racing clear.

Racing were handed an unexpected route back into the contest in the 65th minute.

Gerard Martin played the ball back towards Szczesny, but the goalkeeper failed to sense Zabiri closing him down.

The substitute dispossessed Szczesny and rolled the ball into an empty net to make it 4-2.

Barcelona's response was immediate.

Straight from the restart, the hosts swept forward and Adeyemi was brought down by Iker Luque before he could shoot, earning Barcelona another penalty.

Raphinha stepped forward this time and calmly dispatched the spot-kick in the 67th minute to complete his hat-trick and restore Barcelona's three-goal cushion.

The treble took Raphinha to nine LaLiga goals for the season, putting him at the top of the scoring charts at that stage of the campaign.

His work was done moments later, with Gabriel Jesus replacing him.

Yamal thought he had finally found the net in the 72nd minute when he cut inside and finished into the bottom corner, only for the goal to be correctly ruled out for offside.

The teenager remained heavily involved and created Barcelona's sixth goal in the 79th minute.

Yamal weaved his way through several Racing defenders before slipping a perfectly weighted pass towards Jesus, who curled a first-time finish into the top corner.

It was Jesus' first LaLiga goal for Barcelona.

Yamal eventually received his reward in the 89th minute.

Barcelona broke quickly after Szczesny had denied Zabiri at the opposite end, with Adeyemi charging forward and beating two defenders before squaring the ball across the penalty area.

Yamal applied a simple finish beyond Agirrezabala to complete the scoring at 7-2.

Barcelona finished the evening with 6.65 expected goals and broke the five-goal barrier for the fourth time already this season. The result moved Flick's side three points clear of Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga with a significantly superior goal difference.

Raphinha was the outstanding performer and received 79 percent of more than 28,000 votes in the post-match player-of-the-match poll.

The Brazilian's transformation into Barcelona's central attacking figure continues to deliver goals, but the victory also demonstrated the range of threats available to Flick.

Cancelo provided the early spark, Adeyemi repeatedly tore through the Racing defence, Yamal recovered from his penalty miss to score and assist, while Jesus opened his league account from the bench.

Six league matches have now brought six victories for Barcelona.

And after another seven-goal attacking exhibition, their title defence continues at a relentless pace.

Ahead of the opening weekend, Football Kenya Federation joined title sponsors SportPesa and the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya in Nairobi on Wednesday for a Club Media Liaisons and Sports Journalists seminar aimed at strengthening coverage and increasing the visibility of the domestic game.

The workshop brought together club media officers, photographers and sports journalists as stakeholders sought to establish a coordinated approach to promoting the league throughout the season.

With attention now turning towards the opening fixtures, SportPesa Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager Japheth Akhulia said one of the major ambitions is to make league matches more attractive to supporters and families.

"We want to make the league an experience and bring fans to the stadium, bring kids along. It's the media that can help create the buzz. Opportunities abound to even do more," Akhulia said.

He stressed that greater media exposure could play an important role in growing the league beyond Kenya and strengthening the profiles of clubs and players.

"Last season the league attracted attention from as far afield as Asia, America and Europe. We can grow the league by the info the media sends out there," he said.

SportPesa also wants to broaden the appeal of the domestic game by involving personalities who genuinely support Kenyan football and creating stronger connections between clubs and their communities.

Akhulia pointed to last season's stadium attendances, competitive title and relegation battles, established derby matches and increased television coverage as foundations upon which the league can continue building.

Broadcasting was one of the significant areas highlighted during the seminar, with Azam carrying 331 live matches during the previous campaign while KBC also contributed to expanding the league's reach.

The campaign was played across 34 scheduled match days, while seven monthly awards were held alongside an Annual Gala recognising performances from across the competition.

Behind-the-scenes content was also expanded through five All Access episodes, while the Twende Game initiative helped encourage supporters to return to stadiums across the country.

The organisers now want to build on those gains.

Plans for the new season include packaging major derby fixtures as monthly marquee events, introducing a Fans Fun Day and increasing the availability of league merchandise and supporter rewards.

There are also plans to establish a central digital platform for the league, which would provide supporters with a stronger connection to clubs, players and competitions.

Greater emphasis will also be placed on helping teams engage directly with supporters in their respective regions.

For SportPesa, the long-term objective extends beyond increasing crowds and television audiences.

"It is exciting Azam has more OB vans. At the end of the day we want to build the league, build the teams, but most importantly build players who make the teams in the league," Akhulia said.

That focus places clubs and players at the centre of efforts to increase the value and visibility of Kenyan football.

Media organisations are expected to play an equally important part.

SJAK President James Waindi welcomed the collaboration and committed sports journalists to professional coverage of the competition throughout the season.

"We as SJAK commit to responsible and professional coverage. We will work with FKF and SportPesa to ensure the SportPesa League story is told to the world," Waindi said.

The renewed cooperation arrives at an important moment for the domestic game, with supporters preparing to return to stadiums and clubs beginning another battle for the country's top football honours.

After months of anticipation, attention now moves from meetings and preparations to the pitch.

The new season begins on Saturday.

FKF football is back.

Shea Lacey and Mason Mount gave United what appeared to be the perfect start with two goals inside the opening 10 minutes, but Charalampos Kostoulas pulled one back before half-time before Pascal Gross and Maxim De Cuyper completed Brighton's comeback in the second period.

The defeat continued a difficult few days for Michael Carrick's side following their 1-0 Manchester derby loss to Manchester City and means United have been eliminated in their opening League Cup tie for a second consecutive season.

Carrick made eight changes to his starting XI, with England Under-20 international Lacey handed his first senior start and Karl Darlow making his United debut in goal.

Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven started together in central defence, while Rashford, Diogo Dalot and captain Youri Tielemans were the three players retained from the derby defeat.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler made six changes of his own, with Jason Steele starting in goal and Jaouen Hadjam making his debut at left wing-back.

United could hardly have asked for a better opening.

Lacey announced himself in spectacular fashion after only eight minutes.

Tielemans switched possession towards the right, where the teenager collected the ball, cut onto his left foot and unleashed a powerful strike beyond Steele from the edge of the penalty area.

It was a memorable way to mark his first start for the club.

The goal also made the 19-year-old the first teenager to score on his first Manchester United start since Marcus Rashford did so against Midtjylland in 2016.

United doubled their advantage only two minutes later.

Rashford drove into the Brighton penalty area from the left and forced Steele into a save, but the goalkeeper could only push the ball into the path of Mount.

The midfielder arrived at the right moment and volleyed into the turf before watching the ball bounce into the net for 2-0.

For a United team looking for an immediate response to their derby defeat, the opening 10 minutes appeared to provide exactly that.

But the complexion of the match gradually changed.

Instead of using the two-goal cushion to establish control, United became increasingly passive and allowed Brighton to grow into the contest.

The visitors began dominating possession for longer periods, with Malick Yalcouye and Gross both finding opportunities as United's early attacking threat faded.

United had produced three shots on target from their first four attempts, but their final effort of the opening half came as early as the 12th minute. Brighton, by contrast, accumulated eight first-half attempts and an expected-goals figure of 0.92 compared with United's 0.30.

Brighton's growing pressure was rewarded in first-half stoppage time.

Hadjam produced an excellent direct pass for Kostoulas, who controlled it while running towards goal before squeezing his finish past Darlow at the near post.

The 45+1-minute strike reduced the deficit to 2-1 and completely changed the mood heading into the interval.

United still led, but Brighton had seized the momentum.

Carrick's side briefly threatened after the restart, with Steele racing from his goal to deny Benjamin Sesko following a long pass.

The hosts, however, struggled to regain the authority they had shown during those opening minutes.

Brighton continued pressing high and increasingly forced United into mistakes when attempting to play out from defence.

The equaliser arrived in the 65th minute.

United failed to clear their lines convincingly and Luka Vuskovic reacted quickly, heading the loose ball back towards the centre.

Gross was left unmarked, controlled the situation superbly and turned inside his defender before calmly slotting a left-footed finish into the bottom-right corner.

It was 2-2, but Brighton were not finished.

Only four minutes later, the turnaround was complete.

Kostoulas was released down the right side of United's penalty area and cut the ball back into the middle.

The pass reached substitute De Cuyper, who powered a right-footed finish across Darlow to give Brighton a 3-2 lead.

United had gone from two goals ahead after 10 minutes to trailing before the 70th.

Carrick responded by calling on several senior players.

Bruno Fernandes replaced Mount, Kobbie Mainoo came on for Andrey Santos, Bryan Mbeumo replaced goalscorer Lacey and Joshua Zirkzee took Sesko's place as United attempted to salvage the tie. 

The changes failed to restore control.

Brighton continued creating opportunities and could have extended their lead, while United's best late chance fell to Rashford in the 77th minute.

The forward was played clean through and had time to choose his finish, but Steele spread himself and made an important save with his foot.

Brighton remained organised during the closing stages despite growing pressure from the hosts.

Fernandes fired over from distance in stoppage time, but United could not find the equaliser required to keep their cup campaign alive.

The final whistle confirmed Brighton's first cup victory over United and their fifth win in their last six visits to Old Trafford.

The underlying numbers reflected the direction the match had taken after United's explosive beginning.

Brighton finished with approximately 2.15 expected goals compared with United's 1.04, having recovered from a position that appeared extremely difficult after only 10 minutes.

Gross was central to the comeback.

Along with scoring Brighton's equaliser, the experienced midfielder controlled large periods of the contest and received 62 percent of the votes in the late player-of-the-match poll.

For Lacey, meanwhile, an impressive full debut ended in disappointment.

His superb opening goal offered another glimpse of his potential, but United were unable to build on either his strike or Mount's quick second goal.

The result leaves Carrick facing further questions after two defeats in four days.

United had seemingly responded perfectly to their Manchester derby disappointment, only to surrender control and allow Brighton to score three unanswered goals.

Brighton advance to the fourth round, while United's EFL Cup campaign is over almost as quickly as it began.

K'Ogalo travelled to Cairo needing to overturn a 2-0 first-leg defeat suffered at Nyayo National Stadium, but any hopes of producing a remarkable comeback quickly disappeared as Pyramids won the second leg 5-1 at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium.

Charles Akonnor's side had spoken confidently before the match about correcting the mistakes that had hurt them in Nairobi, but familiar defensive problems resurfaced during another difficult opening half.

Pyramids took the lead in the 27th minute through Walid El Karti, who had also scored in the first leg.

A free-kick found the Moroccan midfielder unmarked and he rose to head beyond Gor Mahia goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, giving the hosts a 3-0 aggregate advantage.

The situation deteriorated further 11 minutes later.

Gor failed to deal with an attacking move down their right side and Nasser Maher completed a neat passing exchange inside the penalty area before curling his finish into the bottom corner for 2-0 on the night.

Pyramids continued to exploit the spaces in Gor's defence and effectively ended the contest during first-half stoppage time.

Youssef Obama connected with a cross in the 46th minute and converted from close range to make it 3-0, leaving the Kenyan champions staring at a five-goal aggregate deficit.

Gor at least produced a response before the interval.

David Okoth capitalised on a momentary lapse in the Pyramids defence and finished neatly to reduce the score to 3-1.

The goal carried historical significance despite the difficult circumstances.

Okoth's strike ended Gor Mahia's 32-year wait for an away goal against Egyptian opposition in CAF competition, with their previous such goal dating back to a meeting with Zamalek in 1994.

It provided a rare positive moment on an otherwise punishing night.

Gor returned for the second half showing greater composure and began putting together more passes through midfield.

They also attempted to attack more directly, looking for Paul Okoth and Shariff Musa with longer deliveries as they searched for another goal.

Pyramids, already firmly in control of the tie, were content to manage the game rather than maintain the relentless pressure of the opening period.

The Egyptians still created the first clear chance after the interval when Abdelrahman Magdy received a pass from Ahmed Abdelkader in the 58th minute but failed to find the target.

Gor then threatened from a Daniel Sakari long throw around the hour mark, although Lesley Otieno could not make clean contact with the loose ball.

For much of the second half, the Kenyan champions succeeded in preventing further damage.

That resistance collapsed in stoppage time.

Mostafa Zico and Mahmoud Zalaka struck late to complete the 5-1 scoreline and underline Pyramids' superiority across the two matches.

The final whistle confirmed a 7-1 aggregate defeat and another early continental exit for the record Kenyan champions.

The result also continued Gor Mahia's deeply troubling record away to Egyptian opposition.

According to the supplied match report, K'Ogalo have now lost all seven of their away CAF matches against Egyptian clubs, conceding 24 goals in the process. The 5-1 defeat was also their heaviest Champions League loss since a 6-0 defeat to CR Belouizdad in 2020.

It is also the second consecutive occasion on which Gor have exited the Champions League at the first preliminary-round stage.

Their previous appearance ended with a 6-0 aggregate defeat to Al Ahly in 2024, meaning Egyptian opposition have now ended their last two Champions League campaigns in emphatic fashion.

The manner of this latest elimination will be particularly disappointing for Akonnor.

Gor conceded twice before half-time in the opening leg in Nairobi and again struggled defensively during the opening 45 minutes in Cairo, where Pyramids scored three times.

Akonnor had emphasised the importance of concentration before the return fixture, but Gor again found themselves trying to recover after conceding multiple early goals.

There was at least some significance attached to Okoth's strike, but it offered little consolation against the scale of the aggregate defeat.

Pyramids now advance to face South Sudan's El Merreikh Bentiu in the second preliminary round after the latter eliminated Somalia's Heegan SC.

Gor Mahia, meanwhile, must quickly turn their attention back to domestic football.

Their continental ambitions are over before the second preliminary round, leaving Akonnor and his players to focus on defending their Kenyan league title and addressing the defensive shortcomings exposed so ruthlessly by Pyramids.

The objective before travelling to Cairo had been redemption.

Instead, K'Ogalo leave Egypt with difficult questions to answer after one of their heaviest aggregate defeats in recent continental history.

City played more than an hour with a numerical disadvantage after Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute, but Manchester United failed to capitalise before Haaland struck on the hour to secure a significant derby victory for Enzo Maresca's side.

The final whistle confirmed City's 1-0 win despite the visitors having been reduced to 10 men for the majority of the contest.

Both teams arrived at Old Trafford after convincing Champions League victories in midweek.

United had beaten Azerbaijani newcomers Sabah 4-0, while City defeated Porto 2-0, setting up the 199th Manchester derby in all competitions and the first league meeting between the clubs with Michael Carrick and Maresca in permanent charge of their respective sides.

Carrick made three changes from the European victory, bringing Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford into his starting XI.

Rashford replaced Benjamin Sesko in attack, joining Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha in United's offensive unit.

City started Haaland ahead of an attacking midfield containing Foden, Enzo Fernandez, Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo, with summer signing Elliot Anderson protecting the defence.

The opening exchanges were intense but produced few clear opportunities as both sides attempted to establish control.

United struggled to find rhythm while City initially found it difficult to involve Haaland, who had not even touched the ball after 14 minutes.

Cunha produced one of United's first openings when he found space on the right side of the penalty area but dragged his effort wide.

The complexion of the match changed dramatically in the 23rd minute.

Fernandes challenged Foden near the touchline, with the City midfielder going to ground before reacting by kicking out towards the United captain.

Referee Michael Oliver immediately produced a red card for violent conduct, reducing City to 10 players.

The incident was controversial, with questions also raised over Fernandes' involvement before Foden's retaliation.

However, United suddenly had a numerical advantage and more than an hour in which to exploit it.

They failed to do so.

City reorganised effectively, while Carrick's side lacked urgency and penetration despite controlling more of the ball.

Remarkably, the only shot immediately following Foden's dismissal came from 10-man City, illustrating United's difficulties in converting their extra player into meaningful attacking pressure.

United did finally threaten shortly before half-time.

Enzo Fernandez fouled Youri Tielemans around 25 yards from goal, giving Rashford an inviting free-kick opportunity.

The forward curled an excellent effort beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma but watched it crash against the outside of the left post.

The sides went into the interval goalless.

Despite playing against 10 men for more than 20 minutes, United had generated only 0.16 expected goals during the opening period, while City's figure stood at just 0.09.

Maresca introduced Iliman Ndiaye for Cherki at half-time as City adjusted their attacking structure.

United started the second period with slightly greater intent and came agonisingly close in the 52nd minute.

Kobbie Mainoo tried his luck from outside the penalty area and his dipping strike beat Donnarumma before smashing against the left post.

Rashford then saw a deflected attempt hit the side netting as Old Trafford sensed that the breakthrough might finally be coming.

Instead, the goal arrived at the opposite end.

Haaland found the net in the 60th minute after City constructed a rare attack despite their numerical disadvantage.

The initial move produced confusion over whether the Norwegian was offside, with Fernandez positioned beyond the defensive line.

After a VAR review, the goal was awarded, with a touch from Patrick Dorgu helping keep Haaland onside.

The striker finished with his left foot to silence Old Trafford and put City 1-0 ahead.

It was Haaland's eighth goal in Manchester derbies and his fourth league strike of the season, while he also extended his scoring run to three consecutive Premier League matches.

Carrick responded seven minutes later by introducing Sesko for Tielemans, giving United a recognised centre-forward as they attempted to rescue the contest.

But City remained dangerous despite having only 10 players.

Fernandez almost doubled the lead in the 69th minute when he bent a right-footed strike towards the bottom corner, forcing Senne Lammens into an excellent save that diverted the ball onto the woodwork.

United's best opportunities became increasingly sporadic.

Mbeumo sent a glancing header narrowly across goal following Dalot's cross in the 73rd minute, but City continued defending their penalty area with determination.

Ruben Dias, Marc Guehi and Josko Gvardiol protected Donnarumma effectively as United struggled to create the sustained pressure normally expected from a team playing with an extra man.

Frustration began to spill over late in the contest.

Gvardiol was booked for delaying a free-kick before Enzo Fernandez and Maguire were both shown yellow cards after a confrontation near United's penalty area.

Carrick introduced Joshua Zirkzee for Rashford in the 83rd minute, but the hosts remained short of ideas.

City even managed to keep possession in advanced areas during the closing stages, running down valuable seconds while United's urgency increased.

Maguire headed wide from a corner in the 86th minute as another opening disappeared.

United finally created one last major chance deep into stoppage time.

Fernandes threaded Mbeumo through the City defence and the forward fired quickly towards goal.

Donnarumma reacted brilliantly, producing a superb save to tip the shot behind and preserve City's advantage.

The resulting corner came to nothing, and City celebrated a memorable derby victory moments later.

For Maresca, the result represented a significant demonstration of his team's resilience.

Losing Foden after only 23 minutes could easily have transformed the match in United's favour, but City remained organised, defended courageously and still possessed enough attacking quality for Haaland to punish their rivals.

United will have far more difficult questions to answer.

Carrick's side had an extra player for more than two-thirds of the match but lacked the speed, movement and creativity required to break down City's reorganised defence.

They hit the woodwork twice and eventually forced Donnarumma into an outstanding late save, yet long periods of their attacking play remained predictable.

The defeat leaves United with four points from their opening four league matches after previously losing to Hull City, beating Ipswich Town and drawing with Everton.

City, meanwhile, continue their strong opening to the campaign with another victory and, perhaps more importantly, the satisfaction of winning a Manchester derby at Old Trafford while playing with 10 men for more than an hour.

Haaland supplied the goal.

City's defence supplied the resilience.

And United were left to reflect on a major opportunity missed.

Lamine Yamal scored twice, while Xavi Espart netted his first senior Barcelona goal and substitute Karim Adeyemi struck in stoppage time. Ivan Romero and Roger Brugue scored for Levante after the hosts had fallen three goals behind.

Hansi Flick's side have now won each of their opening five league matches, continuing the impressive start to their title defence.

Barcelona entered the contest having taken 12 points from their opening four LaLiga fixtures and scored 17 goals, while their midweek 5-1 Champions League victory over Feyenoord had further underlined their prolific early-season form.

It took the visitors only five minutes to establish control.

Raphinha received possession around the edge of the penalty area and played a short pass towards Espart.

The youngster took a touch to create space before guiding a precise right-footed finish into the bottom-left corner beyond Mat Ryan.

It was Espart's first professional goal in his 12th appearance for Barcelona's senior team.

Barcelona continued dominating possession, with Levante forced deep inside their own half during the opening stages.

Yamal came close to adding another after working his way into the penalty area, but Ryan denied him from a difficult angle.

The teenage winger did not have to wait much longer.

In the 19th minute, Barcelona launched a quick attack that ended with Raphinha racing towards the left byline.

The Brazilian delivered a low cross into the area and Yamal timed his run perfectly before stabbing a first-time finish into the roof of the net for 2-0.

It was Yamal's fifth LaLiga goal of the campaign, while Raphinha had now directly contributed to nine league goals through six goals and three assists during Barcelona's opening five matches.

Levante gradually grew into the contest after Barcelona's explosive start.

Roger Brugue tested Joan Garcia following a set-piece, while Victor Garcia almost reached an inviting cross at the back post before Espart produced a crucial defensive intervention.

Barcelona's intensity dropped as the half progressed, allowing Luis Castro's side to enjoy more possession and spend longer periods inside the visitors' half.

The Catalan champions nevertheless reached the interval with a 2-0 advantage.

Barcelona had produced only three first-half attempts but generated 0.92 expected goals, compared with Levante's 0.41, highlighting their clinical finishing during the opening period.

The second half began after a brief delay caused by a medical emergency in the crowd.

Within seconds of the restart, Barcelona were awarded a penalty when Aissa Mandi was adjudged to have handled the ball before bringing Yamal down inside the area.

Yamal took responsibility himself.

He confidently dispatched the penalty into the top-left corner in the 48th minute, leaving Ryan with little chance and putting Barcelona 3-0 ahead.

At that stage, another emphatic Barcelona victory appeared inevitable.

The visitors had scored with their first three shots on target and enjoyed overwhelming territorial control, but Levante refused to allow the game to drift away.

Castro made several changes around the hour mark in an attempt to inject energy into his side, including the introduction of Romero.

The substitute almost made an immediate impact when Victor Garcia's work created an opportunity inside the area, but Andreas Christensen intervened.

Flick also began rotating his squad.

Dani Olmo replaced Yamal, Marc Bernal came on for Pedri and Adeyemi was introduced in place of Anthony Gordon as Barcelona attempted to manage their advantage.

Levante finally found their breakthrough in the 79th minute, although Barcelona contributed heavily to their own problems.

Espart attempted to play the ball across his own penalty area but misplaced his pass.

Romero reacted immediately, rounded Joan Garcia and calmly rolled the ball into an empty net to reduce Barcelona's advantage to 3-1.

The goal transformed the mood inside the stadium.

Levante pushed forward with renewed belief while Barcelona suddenly found themselves defending closer to their own penalty area.

Nine minutes later, the hosts struck again.

Brugue battled his way past Bernal near the left touchline before driving into the penalty area.

The Levante captain maintained possession under pressure and, at the second attempt, beat Garcia from close range to make it 3-2.

A match Barcelona appeared to have settled was suddenly alive again.

Levante's supporters sensed the possibility of a remarkable comeback as six minutes of stoppage time were announced.

Barcelona, however, possessed one final attacking response.

Bernal found Adeyemi on the left touchline in the third minute of added time.

The Germany international accelerated towards the penalty area, drove beyond the Levante defence and calmly beat Ryan with a right-footed finish into the bottom-left corner.

The goal ended Levante's comeback hopes and restored Barcelona's two-goal advantage at 4-2.

The final whistle confirmed Barcelona's fifth victory from five LaLiga matches and ended Levante's lengthy unbeaten home run.

The hosts had gone eight league home games without defeat before Barcelona's visit, winning seven and drawing one.

For Barcelona, the afternoon offered both encouragement and a warning.

Their attacking quality was again evident, particularly through the combination of Raphinha and Yamal.

Raphinha created the opening two goals, while Yamal scored twice and was voted man of the match by 68 percent of supporters in the post-match poll.

Espart also enjoyed a memorable afternoon with his first senior goal, although his mistake for Romero's strike provided Levante with the opening they needed to mount their late challenge.

Adeyemi then demonstrated Barcelona's considerable attacking depth by emerging from the bench to produce the goal that finally killed off the contest.

Flick will be pleased with another victory and four more goals, but the manner in which his side allowed a seemingly comfortable 3-0 lead to become 3-2 will provide something to address.

For now, though, Barcelona remain perfect in LaLiga after five matches and continue setting the pace at the top of Spanish football.

That is the question facing K'Ogalo as they prepare for the second leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie against defending African champions Pyramids FC, with kickoff scheduled for 8pm Kenyan time.

Charles Akonnor's side arrive in Egypt carrying a 2-0 deficit from the first leg at Nyayo National Stadium, where Pyramids took control of the tie through first-half goals from Walid El-Khati and Mahmoud Saber.

The equation for Gor Mahia is clear.

A victory by three unanswered goals would send the Kenyan champions through, while a 2-0 win would level the aggregate score and take the contest into extra time. If the teams remain level after 120 minutes, the tie would be decided by penalties.

It is a demanding assignment against a Pyramids side that has started the season in formidable form, but Akonnor insists his players have not travelled to Cairo believing the contest is already over.

The Ghanaian coach indicated that Gor could make adjustments to both their personnel and approach after an encouraging week of preparation.

"Training was encouraging… we might change one or two in this game," Akonnor said.

"We want to be defensively sound and then of course have an idea of attacking. We don't have much to lose but we want to be very careful and when the opportunity arises, we attack and we do it at the right time."

That balance could determine whether Gor are capable of turning the tie around.

K'Ogalo need goals, but throwing numbers forward too early against a tactically disciplined Pyramids side could leave them exposed to the counter-attack and make an already difficult comeback almost impossible.

Akonnor therefore wants his team to remain patient while recognising the moments when they can hurt their opponents.

The coach also believes the psychological side of the contest will be just as important as the tactical plan.

"We have spoken to the players, even individually… and the message is clear as to what they should do," he said.

"It's a tough one and very challenging but everything is possible in football. I believe in the boys and I believe in our preparation.

"If we do the right thing at the right time, then we have a chance. Mentally, we have to be ready."

The challenge comes during a difficult spell for Gor Mahia.

The Kenyan champions have gone seven matches without a victory in regular time, including friendly fixtures, while problems at both ends of the pitch have placed increasing pressure on Akonnor and his players.

Their attacking efficiency has been inconsistent, while defensive mistakes have repeatedly put them in difficult positions.

Gor have conceded twice in the first half in each of their previous three matches, a pattern they can scarcely afford to repeat against Pyramids.

Defender Frank Odhiambo believes reducing those errors will be fundamental to their hopes of producing a comeback.

"So far, the week has been good since we started in Nairobi and up to here," Odhiambo said.

"We want to do well; we have set a challenge for ourselves. Football is a game of chances and we can overturn the scoreline. We just want to minimize our mistakes and capitalize on our chances."

That may ultimately be the simplest description of Gor Mahia's task.

They must remain defensively disciplined, take their opportunities and prevent Pyramids from finding the away goal that would make the comeback considerably more difficult.

Forward Musa Shariff has also called for composure after the disappointment of the opening leg.

"The first leg didn't go well, but we just have to compose ourselves and go into the match with the right attitude and try to get a win out of it," Shariff said.

"It's a game of 90 minutes and anything is possible in football."

Pyramids, however, provide little evidence that they are ready to surrender their advantage.

The Egyptian champions have won all five of their competitive matches this season and kept clean sheets in each victory.

They also sit top of the Egyptian Premier League with a perfect 12 points from four matches and prepared for Gor Mahia with a 1-0 league victory over El Gouna.

That combination of form, defensive organisation and home advantage makes Pyramids strong favourites to progress.

For Gor Mahia, though, the second leg offers something beyond qualification.

It is an opportunity to respond.

Their recent performances have raised questions about the team's defending, finishing and overall consistency. A strong showing in Cairo would offer Akonnor's side an opportunity to change that conversation, even against one of the strongest teams on the continent.

K'Ogalo do not necessarily need to chase the entire two-goal deficit in the opening minutes.

An early goal would transform the atmosphere and place pressure on Pyramids. Keeping the match scoreless deep into the contest would also preserve hope, provided Gor remain within striking distance.

What they cannot afford is another opening period in which defensive lapses leave them chasing an even greater deficit.

The first leg placed Gor Mahia on the brink of elimination.

Sunday night will reveal whether they can respond with one of their most significant continental performances in recent years.

The mathematics favour Pyramids.

Recent form favours Pyramids.

Home advantage favours Pyramids.

But for Akonnor and his players, Cairo provides 90 minutes to answer the question that now surrounds them:

Can Gor Mahia redeem themselves when it matters most?

The defending champions were made to work by a physical Sunderland side, but Raya's crucial penalty save changed the direction of the contest before Guimaraes scored his first Arsenal goal with a superb long-range finish.

Bukayo Saka later converted a stoppage-time penalty after Reinildo Mandava was sent off to secure Arsenal's fourth consecutive league victory and sixth straight win in all competitions.

Mikel Arteta's side created the first major opportunity after 13 minutes.

Declan Rice lifted the ball over Sunderland's defensive line towards Saka, but the winger failed to make clean contact when presented with a promising chance to open the scoring.

Sunderland responded through their set-piece threat.

Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka delivered an excellent free-kick towards Dan Ballard, but the defender was unable to steer his effort on target.

Arsenal remained patient in possession and continued probing for openings, although Sunderland's defensive structure frustrated their attacking players.

Kai Havertz wasted an opportunity after Martin Odegaard's cutback in the 31st minute, sending his effort over the bar.

Two minutes later, Havertz came significantly closer.

The Germany international produced an acrobatic attempt that forced goalkeeper Robin Roefs into an excellent save, with the Sunderland goalkeeper tipping the ball over.

Xhaka then made a crucial intervention at the opposite end shortly before half-time, producing a goal-saving clearance as Sunderland ensured the teams went into the interval level.

Arteta reacted at half-time by making two changes.

Jurrien Timber replaced Ben White, while Guimaraes came on for Myles Lewis-Skelly as Arsenal attempted to gain greater control of midfield.

The contest turned dramatically in Sunderland's favour in the 56th minute when Ezri Konsa was penalised for holding Ballard inside the area.

Enzo Le Fee stepped forward with the opportunity to give the hosts the lead.

Raya had other ideas.

The Arsenal goalkeeper read the penalty superbly, diving low to his left and getting a strong hand to Le Fee's effort to push it onto the post.

It was a match-defining intervention.

Only 121 seconds later, Arsenal were ahead.

Rice recognised space outside the Sunderland penalty area and laid the ball into the path of Guimaraes.

The Brazilian, whose every touch had been jeered by the home supporters because of his history with Newcastle United, responded in spectacular fashion.

Guimaraes struck a brilliant effort from outside the box that crashed off the underside of the crossbar and into the net, giving Roefs no chance and putting Arsenal 1-0 ahead.

It was his first goal for the club and arrived at a particularly significant venue given his previous association with Sunderland's north-east rivals.

Guimaraes later described the strike as an important personal moment after overcoming a difficult start to his Arsenal career.

"It's unbelievable. I feel very good," he said.

"Everyone knows I had a difficult start with injuries in a short time but I'm glad to be back, to play.

"I scored a beautiful goal. It's a beautiful moment for me and my family and I'm very happy."

Sunderland refused to surrender and continued applying pressure.

Brian Brobbey caused repeated problems for the Arsenal defence through his strength and hold-up play, while Xhaka remained dangerous with his deliveries.

Nordi Mukiele came close to equalising in the 85th minute after another excellent Xhaka cross.

Mukiele met the delivery from close range, but Raya again produced an outstanding save before recovering quickly to help Arsenal clear the danger.

It was another intervention that underlined the goalkeeper's importance.

Guimaraes was unequivocal afterwards when asked whether he considers Raya the best goalkeeper in world football.

"Definitely," he said.

Arsenal continued searching for the second goal that would end Sunderland's resistance.

Saka had an opportunity to settle the contest when he went through one-on-one but failed to convert.

The England international eventually got his goal deep into stoppage time.

Mandava hauled Saka down and received his second yellow card, reducing Sunderland to 10 men and giving Arsenal a late penalty.

Saka stepped forward in the 97th minute and squeezed his spot-kick beyond Roefs to make it 2-0 and secure the points.

The result maintained Arsenal's perfect league record after four matches and moved the champions three points clear of Manchester City before City's derby against Manchester United.

The performance was far from straightforward, with Sunderland registering 12 attempts compared with Arsenal's 11 and repeatedly making the visitors uncomfortable.

However, Arteta's side again demonstrated their ability to survive difficult periods and take advantage of decisive moments.

Raya was central to that success.

His penalty save came with the match still goalless, while his late stop from Mukiele protected Arsenal's narrow advantage.

The Spain international was named player of the match, receiving an average supporter rating of 8.91.

Arteta nevertheless remained angry over the decision to award Sunderland their penalty, insisting Ballard's involvement in the incident meant the call should not have been given.

"It's a huge win but it could have been something very different," Arteta said.

"I'm so upset. It's unacceptable. This can change the course of a season, the championship, and it's not acceptable."

Regardless of Arteta's frustration, Raya ensured the decision did not cost Arsenal.

Guimaraes then supplied the quality at the other end before Saka finished the job, allowing the champions to leave the Stadium of Light with another three points, another clean sheet and their perfect Premier League start intact.

Crispine Erambo scored the only goal of the return leg in the 62nd minute as Julien Mette's side completed a 3-2 aggregate victory and extended their continental campaign.

The Brewers returned to Nairobi with the tie delicately balanced after surrendering a two-goal advantage in the first leg in Kigali and eventually settling for a 2-2 draw.

That collapse placed greater importance on maintaining their concentration in the return fixture, with any victory enough to send the Kenyan side into the next stage.

Mette made structural adjustments to his team, using three centre-backs and deploying Thomas Teka at right-back. Aboubakar Doumbia, who has also operated in defence, moved into midfield alongside Fabian Adikiny and Erambo.

Al Ahli showed immediately that they had not travelled to Nairobi simply to defend the first-leg result.

Wagdi Awad produced an early attempt that went wide as the visitors looked to unsettle Tusker before the hosts gradually began imposing themselves.

The Brewers created one of their first promising openings around the quarter-hour mark.

Doumbia reacted to a loose ball inside the penalty area before setting up Ian Simiyu, whose effort with his weaker left foot found the side netting.

Victor Mbaoma was also heavily involved in Tusker's attacking play, using his strength to hold up possession and attempting to bring Simiyu and the midfield runners into the contest.

Al Ahli almost delivered a major blow in the 28th minute.

A long ball from the goalkeeper was brought under control by Maaz Kondani before Assan Giba unleashed a powerful effort that struck the crossbar and went behind.

It was a reminder of the threat posed by the Sudanese side and the fine margins separating the two teams.

Tusker continued trying to build patiently through captain Abud Omar, Adikiny, John Otieno and Stephen Odima, but clear opportunities remained difficult to create during a tightly contested first half.

The sides therefore reached the interval without a goal, leaving the entire tie to be decided over the final 45 minutes.

Tusker began to find more space after the restart.

Mbaoma held possession well before releasing Simiyu on the left five minutes into the second half. His effort was gathered by Al Ahli goalkeeper Mohammed Abdallah, although the pressure was beginning to increase.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 62nd minute.

Collins Ochieng' sent a sweeping ball forward towards Erambo, who found himself in space and produced the decisive finish over Abdallah to put Tusker 1-0 ahead.

The goal changed the complexion of the tie and moved the Brewers 3-2 in front on aggregate.

Tusker nearly doubled their advantage almost immediately when Mbaoma went close from a set-piece, his attempt passing narrowly wide.

Al Ahli responded through Awad as they searched for the equaliser that would keep their continental hopes alive.

Tusker goalkeeper Perrauld Ndiga was called into action and dealt with the threat, while the hosts' defence remained alert as the visitors began committing more players forward.

John Otieno was also required to make an important defensive intervention during Al Ahli's attempts to restore parity.

Mette freshened his side as the match entered its closing stages.

Abdoulie Joof replaced Simiyu before Mbaoma and goalscorer Erambo were withdrawn for Eric Kapaito and December Dise Kisakah.

Kisakah later created an opening for Kapaito after receiving possession under pressure, but the substitute was unable to produce the finish that would have given Tusker a more comfortable conclusion.

With only one goal separating the sides, the closing minutes demanded discipline from the Brewers.

Joof was booked as Tusker battled to disrupt Al Ahli's momentum, while Ndiga and the defence successfully protected the clean sheet.

The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory on the night and a 3-2 aggregate triumph.

It was a particularly satisfying outcome for Tusker after the frustration of the opening leg, when they had put themselves in a commanding position before allowing Al Ahli to recover from two goals down.

This time, Mette's side avoided a repeat.

They found the goal they required, defended their advantage and completed the job in Nairobi to keep their hopes of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup group stage alive.

Tusker will now face Tanzanian side Singida Black Stars in the second preliminary round.

The next stage will represent another significant test for the Brewers, but progressing from a difficult opening tie provides Mette and his players with valuable momentum as they continue their return to continental competition.

Matheus Cunha opened the scoring before Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko struck late in the first half, while Lisandro Martinez added a fourth after the break as Michael Carrick secured his first Champions League victory as United manager.

It was a professional performance from the hosts, who finished with an expected-goals total of 3.67 compared with Sabah's 0.89 and largely controlled proceedings after overcoming some early resistance.

Carrick made four changes from the side that drew 2-2 with Everton in the Premier League.

Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu and Sesko came into the starting XI, while Luke Shaw was left out of the squad ahead of the Manchester derby and Marcus Rashford started on the bench after picking up a knock against Everton.

Senne Lammens started in goal behind Mazraoui, Yoro, Martinez and Dorgu. Youri Tielemans partnered Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, with Bryan Mbeumo, Fernandes and Cunha supporting Sesko.

Sabah arrived at Old Trafford for their first-ever match in the Champions League proper.

Founded only nine years earlier, the Azerbaijani champions reached the league phase after defeating Hapoel Beer-Sheva 6-4 on aggregate in a dramatic play-off. They became only the second Azerbaijani club to reach the competition proper after Qarabag.

The visitors also made history by becoming the first team to name a starting XI featuring 11 different nationalities in their Champions League debut, while Joy-Lance Mickels became the first Rwandan player to appear in the competition.

Sabah successfully frustrated United during the opening 20 minutes, limiting clear opportunities despite increasing pressure from the hosts.

United began finding greater space as the half progressed, with Cunha testing Stas Pokatilov and Mbeumo becoming increasingly influential from the right.

The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 27th minute.

Sabah surrendered possession and United transitioned quickly. Fernandes released Dorgu down the left before the Denmark international delivered a first-time cross towards the near post.

Cunha timed his movement perfectly and turned the ball home for his first Champions League goal, putting United 1-0 ahead.

Dorgu's assist was another significant moment in his encouraging United career.

At 21 years and 319 days, he became the youngest Manchester United player to register an assist on his first Champions League appearance since Wayne Rooney in September 2004.

Sabah should have equalised eight minutes later.

Kaheem Parris created space on the right before delivering an inviting cross towards the back post, where Mickels was completely unmarked.

The forward, who had scored a hat-trick in his previous match, somehow headed wide from point-blank range in what proved to be Sabah's biggest opportunity to change the direction of the contest.

United made the visitors pay seven minutes later.

Tielemans started an excellent passing move before Dorgu and Cunha combined to return possession to the Belgium international.

Despite losing his balance, Tielemans managed to find Fernandes inside the penalty area and the United captain calmly side-footed his finish into the bottom-right corner for 2-0.

The hosts then effectively ended the contest on the stroke of half-time.

Mbeumo controlled a long ball superbly before immediately sliding Sesko through on goal.

The Slovenia striker remained composed, rounded Pokatilov and rolled the ball into the empty net to make it 3-0.

It was Sesko's second goal in as many matches and capped a ruthless closing period from United after Sabah had remained competitive for much of the opening half.

Carrick's side entered the interval with an expected-goals total of 2.38 from 13 attempts, while Sabah had managed four efforts and none on target.

With the Manchester derby approaching, Carrick immediately began managing his squad.

Mason Mount replaced Tielemans at half-time, while Andrey Santos and Joshua Zirkzee were later introduced for Mainoo and Sesko.

The tempo inevitably dropped after the restart, but United remained comfortably in control.

Cunha forced another save from Pokatilov before Fernandes also tested the Sabah goalkeeper from distance.

United eventually added their fourth in the 68th minute.

Fernandes took a free-kick quickly and clipped the ball over Sabah's defensive line towards Zirkzee.

The substitute controlled under pressure before producing an improvised backheel towards goal. Pokatilov lost track of the ball, allowing Martinez to arrive virtually on the goal line and tap home.

It was Martinez's first Champions League goal in his 21st appearance in the competition and also his first goal for United at Old Trafford.

Carrick was then able to give valuable European minutes to youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey, with Amass making his Champions League debut after replacing Dorgu.

Sabah continued searching for a consolation and almost found one late on.

Mickels broke clear on the left in the 86th minute but dragged his effort narrowly wide.

Deep into stoppage time, he produced an excellent cross for Orphe Mbina, whose header appeared destined for goal until Lammens made an impressive save to preserve United's clean sheet.

The final whistle confirmed a comfortable 4-0 victory and an ideal opening to United's European campaign.

Fernandes was voted player of the match by supporters, receiving 69 percent of the poll after scoring once and remaining influential throughout the evening.

The level of opposition will increase significantly from here.

United's next Champions League fixture takes them to the Metropolitano to face Atletico Madrid, while their immediate focus shifts to the Premier League and a Manchester derby against Manchester City.

For Carrick, though, four goals, a clean sheet and three Champions League points represented almost everything he could have wanted from United's opening European assignment.

Michael Olise led the way with two goals and an assist, while Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane and Alphonso Davies also found the net as Vincent Kompany's side turned a frustrating opening half into a comprehensive victory.

Bayern dominated possession from the opening stages but initially struggled to convert their superiority into goals.

Luis Diaz came close after five minutes when Joshua Kimmich delivered into the six-yard area, but the winger's downward header was turned over by Nikita Haikin from close range.

Harry Kane also tested Haikin from distance before Bodo/Glimt settled into a compact defensive shape designed to frustrate the six-time European champions.

The visitors rarely threatened Manuel Neuer's goal, but their organisation kept Bayern at bay for much of the first half.

Kimmich came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 35th minute when he unleashed a powerful left-footed strike from around 25 yards.

Haikin was beaten, but the ball crashed against the post as Bodo/Glimt survived again.

Musiala then forced another strong save from the goalkeeper after weaving his way through several challenges on the edge of the penalty area.

Bayern continued increasing the pressure and almost scored shortly before half-time when Kimmich met Davies' delivery with a well-struck volley, only for Haikin to keep the effort out with his legs.

The teams therefore reached the interval goalless despite Bayern recording 72 percent possession and an expected-goals total of 1.0 compared with Bodo/Glimt's 0.1.

Bodo/Glimt were forced into a significant change at half-time when Haikin was unable to continue because of an injury sustained late in the opening period.

Julian Faye Lund replaced him in goal.

Bayern needed only 78 seconds to beat the substitute.

Kane was involved in the build-up before the ball ricocheted into Musiala's path, and the Germany international produced an excellent volley from a tight angle to finally break Bodo/Glimt's resistance.

The breakthrough changed the complexion of the contest.

Bayern began playing with greater freedom and doubled their advantage in the 61st minute.

Olise delivered a fierce free-kick from the right and Kane attacked it inside the penalty area, directing a header beyond Lund to make it 2-0.

The goal extended Kane's remarkable Champions League scoring run to eight consecutive appearances, moving him one match away from matching Robert Lewandowski's nine-game streak for Bayern between 2020 and 2021.

Bodo/Glimt briefly threatened with an ambitious attempt from Andreas Helmersen after Neuer had moved away from his goal, but the shot drifted wide.

Bayern soon resumed their pressure.

Davies effectively settled the match in the 77th minute with one of the goals of the night.

Bodo/Glimt failed to properly clear Olise's corner, allowing the ball to fall towards Davies on the edge of the penalty area.

The Canadian defender ran onto it and unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike into the far corner to make it 3-0.

Olise then produced an even more spectacular finish six minutes later.

Lennart Karl, introduced from the bench, found the France international approximately 25 yards from goal.

Olise opened his body and curled an outstanding left-footed effort beyond Lund and into the far corner for Bayern's fourth.

The evening became even more difficult for Bodo/Glimt in the 87th minute when Odin Bjortuft was shown a straight red card.

Bjortuft clipped Olise's heels just outside the penalty area as the winger attempted to race onto a through ball, leaving the visitors to complete the match with 10 men.

Olise was not finished.

Deep into stoppage time, he reacted quickest when Bodo/Glimt surrendered possession near their own penalty area.

The winger drove towards goal before curling another excellent finish beyond Lund to complete his brace and Bayern's 5-0 victory.

Bayern finished the contest with an expected-goals total of 2.49 compared with just 0.20 for their opponents, reflecting the significant difference in attacking output.

For Kompany, the second-half performance provided an emphatic response after an opening period in which his side had created chances without finding the finishing touch.

Olise was at the centre of the transformation, contributing directly to three goals and repeatedly causing problems for the Norwegian champions from the right side.

Kane continued his impressive European scoring sequence, Musiala provided the breakthrough and Davies added a spectacular goal from distance as Bayern demonstrated the attacking depth available to them.

Neuer also marked his 18th Champions League season with a clean sheet, setting a new record for a German player in the competition.

Bayern now turn their attention back to domestic competition before continuing a Champions League campaign in which they will hope to challenge for a first European title since 2020.

Bodo/Glimt, meanwhile, must recover quickly from a difficult night in Munich after beginning their league-phase campaign with a heavy defeat.

Xabi Alonso's side appeared to be heading towards a shock elimination when Leeds moved 2-0 ahead shortly after half-time, but four interval substitutions transformed the contest as Cole Palmer scored twice before Pedro Neto, Danny Welbeck and Valentin Barco completed an extraordinary turnaround.

The result was particularly dramatic considering Leeds had been the better side for much of the opening 45 minutes.

Alonso made nine changes from the Chelsea team beaten 2-1 by Arsenal in the Premier League, with 16-year-old Reggie Watson handed his senior debut.

Danny Welbeck retained his place after scoring against Luton Town in the previous round, while Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Reece James and Neto were among the senior players initially named on the bench.

Chelsea started brightly, with Jamie Gittens producing the first meaningful effort after cutting inside from the left and testing Michael Zetterer.

The hosts nearly created another opening moments later when Gittens found Welbeck, who squared towards Estevao, only for James Justin to make an excellent last-ditch intervention.

Leeds gradually took control and began causing serious problems from set-pieces.

Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders was forced into an excellent double save in the 22nd minute after Ethan Ampadu's long throw created confusion inside the area.

Penders first stopped Brenden Aaronson from close range before recovering to tip Tarik Muharemovic's looping header over the crossbar.

The warning was not heeded.

Two minutes later, Harry Wilson delivered another dangerous set-piece towards the far post and Muharemovic peeled away from his marker before directing a looping header across Penders and into the net.

It was the Bosnia and Herzegovina defender's first Leeds goal and gave Daniel Farke's side a deserved 1-0 advantage.

Leeds continued creating the better chances as Chelsea struggled to impose themselves.

By half-time, the visitors had accumulated 1.52 expected goals compared with Chelsea's 0.33, with Aaronson, Muharemovic, Lukas Nmecha and Sean Longstaff all contributing to a threatening attacking display.

Chelsea did create openings through Barco, Gittens and Welbeck, but Leeds carried their one-goal advantage into the interval.

Alonso reacted decisively.

Watson's senior debut ended after 45 minutes as James was introduced, while Palmer, Rogers and Neto were also sent on as part of four half-time substitutions.

The changes would ultimately transform Chelsea's evening, although Leeds struck again before the hosts could settle.

Just three minutes after the restart, Ampadu attacked down the flank before delivering into the penalty area.

Nmecha cleverly redirected the ball into Aaronson's path, allowing the United States international to finish into the bottom corner and make it 2-0.

At that point, Chelsea appeared to be heading out.

What followed was one of the most explosive spells of the EFL Cup season.

Chelsea were awarded a penalty in the 52nd minute after Pep Chavarria was caught late inside the area.

Palmer stepped forward and calmly converted into the bottom-right corner in the 53rd minute, immediately giving the hosts hope.

Only two minutes later, Chelsea were level.

Rogers reacted to a throw-in and produced a clever flick into Palmer's path. The midfielder took his time before bending a controlled left-footed finish beyond Zetterer and into the bottom corner.

There were only two minutes and 11 seconds between Palmer's two goals.

Chelsea had gone from apparent elimination to complete momentum in a matter of minutes.

The turnaround was completed on the hour mark.

Palmer played a penetrating pass through midfield before Rogers stretched to redirect the ball into Neto's path.

The Portugal international arrived at pace and curled a low finish into the bottom-left corner to put Chelsea 3-2 ahead.

Five minutes later, the Blues struck again.

Rogers raced past Muharemovic down the right before pulling the ball back towards the centre.

Welbeck produced a superb touch to move away from two defenders before finishing to make it 4-2.

It was Rogers' third assist in barely 10 minutes and completed an astonishing spell in which Chelsea had scored four times in just 12 minutes after trailing by two.

Leeds refused to surrender.

Farke introduced Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor as his team searched for a route back into the contest.

The substitutes combined in the 75th minute.

Okafor was released down the left and drove into the penalty area before squaring towards Calvert-Lewin, who arrived to fire a first-time finish beneath Penders.

At 4-3, the tie was alive again Chelsea's response was immediate.

Five minutes later, Palmer won possession around halfway and the Blues flooded forward.

Neto eventually released Rogers on the right and his ball across goal caused problems for Zetterer before Barco collected the loose ball and drove a left-footed finish into the far corner.

The goal restored Chelsea's two-goal cushion at 5-3.

Leeds continued searching for another comeback, but Chelsea now had too much space to exploit on the counter.

The hosts completed the scoring in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

Another flowing attack ended with Palmer moving the ball towards Barco on the edge of the area.

Barco attempted a first-time strike, but his mis-hit effort struck Welbeck and flew beyond Zetterer, giving the striker his second goal of the night and Chelsea their sixth.

The final whistle confirmed a remarkable 6-3 victory and Chelsea's passage into the fourth round.

The scoreline suggested overwhelming attacking superiority from Chelsea, although the underlying numbers showed how competitive the contest had been.

Chelsea finished with an expected-goals total of 2.40 compared with Leeds' 2.39, but the Blues' ruthless second-half finishing ultimately separated the sides.

Palmer's quickfire double changed the momentum, while Rogers' introduction was equally influential.

The £117 million midfielder registered three assists in a devastating spell after coming off the bench and received 69 percent of the votes in the late player-of-the-match poll, ahead of Palmer.

Welbeck also finished with two goals, having now scored in each of his first two EFL Cup appearances for Chelsea.

For Alonso, the result demonstrated both the depth and attacking potential available in his squad.

His heavily rotated starting side struggled badly against Leeds, but the introduction of Palmer, Rogers, Neto and James at the break changed the contest completely.

Chelsea had been 2-0 down after 48 minutes.

Twelve minutes later, they were 3-2 ahead.

By full-time, they had scored six and secured their place in the next round after one of the most dramatic matches of their season.

The Arsenal captain broke the deadlock in the 75th minute after Mikel Arteta's side had dominated large periods of the contest but repeatedly failed to convert their opportunities.

Arsenal eventually finished with an extraordinary 4.05 expected goals compared with Napoli's 0.22, illustrating just how much control the Premier League champions had despite the narrow final score.

The victory gives last season's Champions League runners-up a winning start as they begin another attempt to capture the European trophy that narrowly escaped them in the previous campaign.

Arteta made four changes from the team that defeated Chelsea in the Premier League, with Piero Hincapie, Mikel Merino, Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze coming into the starting XI.

David Raya started behind a defence of Ben White, Ezri Konsa, Gabriel Magalhaes and Hincapie. Declan Rice, Merino and Odegaard formed the midfield, with Bukayo Saka and Eze supporting Gyokeres in attack.

Napoli, under Massimiliano Allegri, included former Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne alongside Billy Gilmour and Stanislav Lobotka, while Rasmus Hojlund led the attack.

Arsenal quickly established control and began creating opportunities against a Napoli side prepared to defend deep and attack on the counter.

Saka produced one of the visitors' first openings in the 13th minute after Gyokeres picked him out with an outside-of-the-boot cross. The England international improvised an overhead attempt, but Alex Meret was positioned to make the save.

Napoli briefly threatened through De Bruyne and Matteo Politano, forcing Raya into routine interventions as the hosts attempted to exploit the spaces left when Arsenal pushed forward.

The biggest chance of the opening stages fell to Merino in the 22nd minute.

Saka cut inside from the right before delivering towards Eze at the back post. Eze headed the ball back across goal for Merino, who connected from close range but directed his effort too close to Meret, allowing the goalkeeper to make an excellent reaction save.

Eze dragged a shot wide after another clever attacking combination before White fired directly at Meret from a good position.

Saka then wasted another major opportunity shortly before the interval.

Odegaard threaded an excellent pass through the Napoli defence to release the winger, who shifted onto his left foot but sent his effort over the crossbar.

Despite the score remaining 0-0 at half-time, Arsenal had accumulated 13 shots, It was Arsenal's highest recorded number of first-half attempts in a Champions League away match.

Arsenal immediately pushed Napoli back into their own half, with Odegaard increasingly influential in directing attacks.

Hincapie came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock five minutes into the second period after Odegaard lifted a clever pass towards White. The defender headed it into a dangerous area, but Hincapie could not make the decisive contact from close range.

Bruno Guimaraes replaced Merino in the 65th minute before Christos Tzolis came on for Eze a minute later.

After Arsenal had spent another period probing for an opening, Tzolis collected possession near the edge of the Napoli penalty area in the 75th minute and picked out Odegaard.

The captain allowed the ball to travel across his body before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike that crashed off the inside of the left post and into the net.

It was a spectacular finish worthy of deciding a match Arsenal had controlled for long periods.

Tzolis registered the assist, his fourth in five appearances during his impressive start to the campaign.

Napoli responded by introducing additional attacking options, including David Neres and Lorenzo Lucca, but Arsenal remained defensively disciplined.

The visitors should have put the contest beyond doubt in the 85th minute.

Kai Havertz released Noni Madueke one-on-one, but the winger failed to convert before Tzolis saw the follow-up blocked.

By the 86th minute, Arsenal had registered 24 attempts, setting a club record for shots in a Champions League away match since such records began in 2003/04.

Napoli still had one late opportunity to punish Arsenal's wastefulness.

De Bruyne received the ball inside the area in the 88th minute but appeared caught between shooting and crossing. His dangerous ball flashed across Raya's goal without a Napoli player arriving to convert.

Arsenal thought they had finally scored a second deep into stoppage time when Havertz converted after Tzolis' initial effort was saved, but the substitute was correctly ruled offside.

The final whistle therefore confirmed a 1-0 Arsenal victory and another clean sheet.

The performance again highlighted the defensive strength that carried Arteta's team to the Champions League final last season.

Arsenal conceded only seven goals across 15 matches during their 2025/26 European campaign, the fewest of any team in the competition, and Napoli found similarly little space against them in Naples.

The Gunners will nevertheless know their finishing must improve. Creating more than four expected goals and scoring only once left Napoli within one moment of an unlikely equaliser until the final whistle.

For Arteta, however, three points away from home and a clean sheet represent an excellent foundation for another European campaign.

Arsenal now return to Premier League action with an away fixture against Sunderland, while Napoli will attempt to recover from three consecutive defeats when they host Bologna.

Ferran Torres marked his first European appearance for PSG with a hat-trick, while Ousmane Dembele scored twice and Fabian Ruiz completed the rout. Suleiman Camara supplied Slovan's lone response in a one-sided league-phase opener.

Luis Enrique made five changes following PSG's 2-1 defeat to Monaco, handing Champions League debuts for the club to Torres and Maghnes Akliouche. Dembele, Nuno Mendes, Illia Zabarnyi and Dro Fernandez also returned to the starting side.

The reigning European champions dominated almost immediately and should have been ahead inside three minutes, but Dominik Takac denied Fernandez after an early PSG attack.

Slovan resisted until the 17th minute.

Dembele initially delivered into the area before Mendes unleashed a powerful volley that crashed against the post. The rebound fell kindly to Dembele, who controlled before drilling a left-footed finish beyond Takac.

Six minutes later, the France international struck again.

Slovan attempted to play out from defence but surrendered possession. Fernandez's eventual cross took a deflection across the six-yard area, where an unmarked Dembele headed home to double PSG's advantage.

Dembele then turned creator for PSG's third in the 31st minute.

He sent an inviting inswinging delivery across goal and Torres arrived to guide the ball past Takac, opening his Champions League account for his new club.

PSG could easily have added more before the break. Dembele was denied a first-half hat-trick by a remarkable Takac save that pushed his close-range effort onto the crossbar.

Luis Enrique's side went into half-time 3-0 ahead after recording more than 70 percent possession, 21 attempts and an expected-goals total of 3.6, compared with Slovan's 0.24.

Any hope of a second-half recovery disappeared within two minutes of the restart.

Akliouche drove into the Slovan penalty area from the right and showed excellent composure to find Torres, who took a touch before bending a right-footed finish beyond Takac from the edge of the box for his second goal.

The Spain international completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute.

Dembele's corner travelled through the crowded penalty area before reaching Torres, who managed to divert the ball beyond Takac and make it 5-0. The goal also took Torres to 20 Champions League goals during his career.

Dembele's contribution to the fifth meant he finished his evening with two goals and two assists, underlining his influence on a devastating PSG attacking performance.

Slovan responded two minutes later through one of their most impressive performers.

Tigran Barseghyan released Camara, who drove infield from the left before cutting back and powering an excellent right-footed strike beyond Matvey Safonov to reduce the deficit to 5-1.

The goal provided Yaya Toure's side with something to celebrate on a historic night for their manager. Toure became the first African coach to take charge of a match in the Champions League proper.

PSG continued creating opportunities despite Luis Enrique making several substitutions, and Fabian Ruiz eventually added the sixth late on.

A quickly taken corner reached Fernandez on the right side of the penalty area. His delivery was only partially cleared and Ruiz met the loose ball first time, steering his left-footed effort into the far corner.

The performance represented an immediate statement from a team attempting to achieve something only Real Madrid, Ajax and Bayern Munich have previously managed by winning the European Cup or Champions League in at least three successive seasons.

PSG's league-phase programme will become considerably tougher, with Manchester City, Barcelona, Villarreal, Roma, Aston Villa, Como and Galatasaray still among their scheduled opponents.

For now, though, Luis Enrique could hardly have asked for a stronger opening to another European campaign as Torres announced himself with a hat-trick and Dembele again demonstrated why he remains central to PSG's ambitions.

Raphinha scored twice for Hansi Flick’s side, while Karim Adeyemi, Lamine Yamal and substitute Gabriel Jesus also found the net as the Spanish champions overwhelmed their Dutch visitors. Sem Steijn scored Feyenoord’s consolation.

Barcelona needed less than three minutes to take control of the contest.

Yamal collected possession on the right and found Raphinha, who drove into the penalty area before using an excellent body feint to send two Feyenoord defenders sliding away.

The Brazilian then produced a composed left-footed finish beyond goalkeeper Tjark Ernst to put Barcelona ahead after just two minutes and 50 seconds.

It was an early demonstration of the attacking confidence Barcelona have carried into the new season.

Flick’s side dominated possession and repeatedly moved Feyenoord around the pitch, leaving the visitors struggling to establish any sustained control.

The advantage was doubled in the 22nd minute through another excellent individual finish.

Joao Cancelo found Adeyemi on the left, and the Germany international moved inside before bending a powerful right-footed strike from outside the penalty area into the top-right corner.

It was Adeyemi’s first Champions League goal as a Barcelona player.

Barcelona were firmly in control by that stage.

They had enjoyed 71 percent possession inside the opening 15 minutes and continued to circulate the ball with ease as Feyenoord attempted to remain compact.

The Dutch side did produce occasional moments of danger.

Gjivai Zechiel sent a low half-volley narrowly wide, while Anis Hadj Moussa forced Joan Garcia into a save later in the half.

At the other end, Cancelo struck the woodwork during a rapid Barcelona counter-attack.

Barcelona nevertheless entered half-time with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.

Their superiority was reflected in the numbers, with the hosts recording 74 percent possession and completing 400 accurate passes compared with Feyenoord’s 117 during the opening period. Barcelona had generated 0.72 expected goals compared with Feyenoord’s 0.16.

Feyenoord made a change at the interval, introducing Oussama Targhalline, but Barcelona remained the more dangerous side.

The third goal arrived in the 57th minute.

Pedri split the Feyenoord central defence with a perfectly weighted pass, allowing Raphinha to race through on goal.

The Barcelona captain timed his run well before firing beyond Ernst into the bottom-right corner for his second of the night.

The brace took Raphinha to eight goals in all competitions during his prolific start to the season.

Feyenoord briefly thought they had found a way back into the contest, but two efforts were ruled out for offside.

Nacho Ferri initially found the net after getting in behind Barcelona’s defence before the flag cancelled the goal.

A second effort minutes later suffered the same fate after VAR identified an offside during the build-up.

Barcelona responded by tightening their defensive line and continued searching for more goals.

Yamal eventually added the fourth in the 77th minute.

The teenage winger stood over a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area and curled a superb left-footed effort through the Feyenoord wall and beyond a rooted Ernst.

It was Yamal’s first Champions League goal of the campaign and completed another influential display after he had already created Raphinha’s opener.

Feyenoord finally had something to celebrate five minutes later.

Substitute Goncalo Borges delivered a dangerous cross towards the back post, where Steijn arrived to finish past Garcia and reduce the deficit to 4-1.

The response did little to change the direction of the match.

Flick had already begun using Barcelona’s considerable depth, introducing the likes of Anthony Gordon, Fermin Lopez, Marc Bernal and Gavi.

Gabriel Jesus was then sent on in the 83rd minute for Dani Olmo, making an immediate impact following his arrival from Arsenal.

Only two minutes after entering the pitch, the Brazilian scored his first Barcelona goal.

Yamal delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area and Jesus rose to glance a header into the bottom-left corner, restoring Barcelona’s four-goal advantage.

Jesus almost added another in stoppage time when he headed an Anthony Gordon cross against the top of the crossbar.

The final whistle confirmed a 5-1 victory and a near-perfect opening night for Flick’s team.

Barcelona finished with an expected-goals total of 1.63 compared with Feyenoord’s 0.52 but were significantly more clinical than those numbers suggested.

The result extends Barcelona’s flawless opening to the 2026/27 season after they had already won their first four LaLiga matches and scored 17 league goals before beginning their European campaign.

For a club pursuing its first Champions League title since 2015, the performance represented an imposing early statement.

Feyenoord arrived in Catalonia unbeaten in their opening five domestic matches, but Barcelona’s speed, movement and attacking efficiency proved too much for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side.

Raphinha led the way with another outstanding performance, while Yamal finished with a goal and two assists as Barcelona began their Champions League journey with five goals and three points.

Morgan Rogers gave Chelsea a stunning early lead before Kai Havertz equalised midway through the first half. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard then completed the turnaround five minutes after the restart with the goal that ultimately separated the sides.

Chelsea needed just 77 seconds to silence the home crowd.

After Ezri Konsa conceded a free-kick, Chelsea sent the ball into the Arsenal penalty area. Declan Rice's clearance reached Jorrel Hato, who headed it towards Rogers on the edge of the box.

The England international responded with an excellent volley into the bottom-left corner to give Xabi Alonso's side a 1-0 advantage.

The goal continued Rogers' productive opening to the campaign, making him the first Chelsea player since Eden Hazard in 2018/19 to score or assist in each of the club's opening three league matches of a season.

Arsenal thought they had levelled in the 11th minute when Riccardo Calafiori converted during a goalmouth scramble.

However, VAR ruled the goal out after determining that Konsa had been offside before Calafiori swept in the rebound.

Mikel Arteta's side continued pressing and eventually found a legitimate equaliser in the 25th minute.

Rice fed Havertz on the right, and the German forward drove inside before firing a low left-footed effort towards the near post.

Emiliano Martinez managed to get a hand to the shot but could not keep it out, bringing Arsenal level at 1-1.

The match remained open, with both sides creating opportunities in a high-tempo first half.

Rogers had another chance after Joao Pedro carried the ball into the Arsenal area, but his effort failed to find the target.

At the opposite end, Arsenal continued to threaten through Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Havertz.

Chelsea then came within inches of restoring their lead in stoppage time.

Joao Pedro released Pedro Neto on a rapid counter-attack, and the Portugal international cut inside before curling a low effort beyond David Raya.

The shot beat the Arsenal goalkeeper but struck the base of the post, leaving the teams level at half-time.

Arsenal emerged strongly after the interval and needed only five minutes to take the lead for the first time.

Tzolis moved infield from the right and played a clever pass towards Havertz.

Instead of taking possession, the Arsenal striker produced an intelligent dummy that allowed the ball to run through to Odegaard.

The Norwegian captain took full advantage, firing a fine left-footed finish past Martinez from inside the penalty area to make it 2-1.

Arsenal continued applying pressure after taking the lead and came close to extending their advantage.

Havertz helped Odegaard's pass into Saka's path in the 69th minute, but Martinez reacted well to push the winger's curling effort behind.

Havertz then threatened from a corner moments later, with Reece James managing to prevent his header from reaching the target.

Chelsea enjoyed longer spells of possession as the game entered its closing stages, but Arsenal's defence remained organised.

Palmer found space inside the area in the 63rd minute, only to send his effort directly at Raya.

Arteta later introduced Martin Zubimendi, Piero Hincapie, Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyokeres as Arsenal attempted to protect their advantage while retaining a threat on the counter-attack.

Chelsea manager Alonso responded with his own changes, including Estevao, who almost produced a late equaliser.

In the 89th minute, the Brazilian winger cut inside onto his left foot and curled an effort towards the top corner.

Raya produced an excellent save to tip the shot over and preserve Arsenal's lead.

Chelsea were unable to create another clear opportunity during the remaining stoppage time, and the final whistle confirmed Arsenal's 2-1 victory.

The result extends Arsenal's unbeaten Premier League run against Chelsea to 10 matches after the Gunners entered the fixture having already gone nine league meetings without defeat against their London rivals.

More importantly for Arteta, the defending champions have now won each of their opening three Premier League fixtures.

Arsenal and Manchester City are the only teams to retain 100 percent records after three rounds, with City ahead on goals scored at this early stage of the campaign.

Chelsea suffer their first league defeat under Alonso after beginning the season with consecutive victories.

Although the visitors enjoyed significant spells of possession and registered 13 attempts, they generated just 0.35 expected goals, underlining how effectively Arsenal restricted their most dangerous opportunities.

For Arsenal, the victory represents another early statement in their title defence.

They fell behind almost immediately against one of the sides expected to challenge near the top of the table, recovered without losing control and ultimately found the quality required to turn the contest around.

Lamine Yamal scored twice, while Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Pedri also found the net as the Catalan side dominated from start to finish.

Barcelona needed only six minutes to open the scoring.

Yamal struck early to give the visitors control of the contest and set the tone for another strong attacking display.

Valencia struggled to contain Barcelona's movement and pressure, and the champions doubled their advantage in the 22nd minute.

Fermin Lopez produced a powerful finish to make it 2-0 and leave the hosts with a significant challenge before half-time.

Barcelona carried that two-goal advantage into the interval after controlling much of the opening period.

The visitors maintained their intensity after the restart and needed only five minutes of the second half to add another goal.

Raphinha made it 3-0 in the 50th minute, further strengthening Barcelona's grip on the match.

Valencia were unable to find a route back into the contest as Barcelona continued to create opportunities and dictate the tempo.

Pedri added the fourth goal in the 79th minute, effectively ending any remaining hope of a Valencia comeback.

Yamal then completed the scoring five minutes later.

The young winger struck again in the 84th minute for his second goal of the night, putting the finishing touch on an emphatic 5-0 victory.

The result keeps Barcelona at the top of LaLiga with a perfect 12 points from their opening four matches.

Their attacking form has been particularly impressive, with the champions continuing to score freely during the early stages of the campaign.

For Valencia, the defeat deepens a difficult opening to the season.

They remain bottom of the table with just one point and will need a significant response in their upcoming fixtures.

Barcelona, meanwhile, leave Mestalla with another statement victory and their 100 percent league record intact.

Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko twice put Michael Carrick’s side ahead, but Everton responded through Tyrique George and Maitland-Niles to preserve their unbeaten start to the season.

United arrived looking to build on their emphatic 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town, while Everton were seeking to continue an encouraging opening to the campaign.

The first half produced opportunities at both ends but no breakthrough, with the teams heading into the interval level at 0-0.

United required little time after the restart to change that.

Mbeumo struck shortly after half-time following good work from United’s attacking players. Marcus Rashford was involved prominently from the left during the visitors’ better periods, while Kobbie Mainoo provided the decisive pass for Mbeumo to put Carrick’s team ahead.

The goal appeared to place United in control, but they failed to build decisively on their advantage.

Everton grew increasingly aggressive as the second half progressed, pushing more players forward and forcing United deeper.

David Moyes’ substitutions also helped change the direction of the contest.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles entered in the 77th minute following James Garner’s withdrawal, while Everton continued applying pressure to a United defence attempting to protect its narrow lead.

The hosts finally found their equaliser in the 83rd minute.

Hayden Hackney carried the ball through a central area before releasing George to his right. The winger took a touch and powered his finish beyond Senne Lammens to make it 1-1.

United responded almost immediately and appeared to have delivered the decisive blow five minutes later.

Bruno Fernandes started the move with a neat pass before Luke Shaw supplied a precise cross from the left.

Sesko attacked the delivery with purpose and headed home in the 88th minute, restoring United’s lead at 2-1.

For Carrick’s side, it looked like the substitute’s goal would secure a valuable away victory.

Everton, however, refused to accept defeat.

With the contest deep into stoppage time, the hosts won another opportunity to attack and Maitland-Niles produced the moment of the match.

The ball fell to the substitute outside the penalty area and he unleashed a superb effort into the top corner in the sixth minute of added time, leaving Lammens with little chance and sending the home crowd into celebration.

Maitland-Niles later described the draw as feeling like a victory given the circumstances.

“It felt like a win,” he said. “The crowd was with us, we fight to the end and that’s how you get that type of result.”

The statistics reflected Everton’s determination.

United had slightly more possession, but Everton registered 18 goal attempts compared with the visitors’ 14 and created greater pressure as the game moved towards its conclusion.

Carrick was left frustrated after seeing his team surrender the lead twice.

“There was a lot of good things in the game for us,” the United manager said. “We played some really good football, were dangerous at times.”

Carrick acknowledged that his side had made the closing stages more difficult for themselves and felt they should have protected their advantage.

“We should’ve seen the game out really so we’re disappointed with that,” he added.

Sesko also admitted United had lost some control late in the contest but called on the team to learn from the experience.

“We can always improve,” the striker said. “In the end we were slipping away a little bit but it happens. We’re here to learn and try to get better.”

The result leaves another question over United’s ability to close out matches after they twice held a winning position on Merseyside.

It also means Carrick’s side have now conceded twice in each of their opening three Premier League matches. Everton, meanwhile, remain unbeaten.

Everton moved onto five points and eighth place, while Manchester United sit 11th with four points from their opening three league matches.

United now turn their attention to their return to Champions League football before facing the Manchester derby next weekend, with Carrick knowing his side must become more clinical at protecting advantages if they are to build momentum.

K’Ogalo produced encouraging moments and created opportunities against their more experienced opponents, but two first-half goals left Charles Akonnor’s side with a significant deficit ahead of the return leg in Cairo.

The match could have started very differently for Gor Mahia.

Inside the opening minutes, Pyramids goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy lost possession outside his penalty area, allowing Ebenezer Assifuah to collect the loose ball and shoot towards an exposed goal.

Defender Ahmed Samy recovered in time to make a crucial goal-line clearance and deny Gor an early breakthrough.

That miss proved costly almost immediately.

Pyramids took the lead after five minutes when Mostafa Fathi created danger inside the Gor Mahia area. Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi was unable to hold the initial effort, and Walid El Karti reacted quickest to finish from close range.

The Egyptian side continued to threaten, with Fathi proving particularly difficult for Gor’s defence to contain.

After 28 minutes, he worked his way past several players before forcing Omondi into another save.

Gor Mahia remained competitive and attempted to build their way back into the contest, but their finishing failed them in key moments.

Akonnor made an early tactical adjustment in the 39th minute, introducing Ben Stanley Omondi for Lesley Otieno as he looked to change the direction of the game.

Pyramids then delivered another major blow shortly before half-time.

The visitors worked their way through the Gor defence before Mahmoud Saber found space inside the area and fired into the roof of the net to double the advantage.

The second goal sent Pyramids into the interval with a commanding 2-0 lead and left Gor needing a major second-half response.

K’Ogalo emerged with greater urgency after the break and enjoyed one of their strongest spells of the match.

They pushed higher up the pitch, created openings and attempted to force Pyramids into mistakes, but the Egyptian defence remained disciplined when it mattered.

Patrick Essombe was involved in one of Gor’s best second-half opportunities when his powerful attempt was saved, while Shariff Musa was unable to convert the rebound.

Akonnor continued searching for a way back into the tie by turning to his bench.

Dan Sakari and Jackson Dwang were among those introduced as Gor increased their attacking intent.

However, committing more bodies forward also left spaces for Pyramids to exploit on the counter-attack.

Omondi was required to make two important saves in quick succession in the closing stages to prevent the visitors from extending their advantage further.

Gor continued pressing for the goal that would have significantly improved their position heading into the second leg.

Their late pressure almost produced a breakthrough when substitute Paul Okoth met a Shariff Musa delivery with a powerful header, only to see his effort strike the woodwork in the 86th minute.

The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 defeat, despite a performance in which Gor showed they could create problems for the Egyptian side.

Their biggest frustrations will come from the early defensive error that handed El Karti the opening goal and the missed opportunities that prevented them from reducing the deficit.

Pyramids, meanwhile, demonstrated the clinical efficiency expected from one of Egypt’s leading clubs, punishing Gor during decisive moments and protecting their advantage when the Kenyan champions attempted to respond.

The defeat means Gor Mahia now require a remarkable turnaround in the second leg.

The return fixture is scheduled for Sunday, September 13 at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, with K’Ogalo needing to overturn a two-goal aggregate deficit to keep their hopes of reaching the next preliminary round alive.

A three-goal victory would take Gor through without requiring additional calculations, making the task in Egypt substantial but not mathematically impossible.

For Akonnor and his players, the challenge will be to reproduce the positive spells they showed in Nairobi while eliminating the defensive mistakes and improving their finishing.

Gor Mahia have left themselves with considerable work to do, but their continental campaign will ultimately be decided in Cairo.

Every match across Argentina’s men’s and women’s competitions will be stopped during the 10th minute of the first half this weekend, allowing players, officials and supporters to take part in a minute of applause.

The choice of the 10th minute reflects the shirt number that became synonymous with Messi during his extraordinary career with the Argentina national team.

“For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team,” the AFA said.

Clubs have also been encouraged to use stadium screens and other facilities to celebrate Messi’s international career, with video tributes expected to feature some of the defining moments from more than two decades representing his country.

Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005 and went on to become the national team’s all-time leading goalscorer.

His international journey included appearances at a record six World Cups and reached its defining moment in Qatar in 2022, when he captained Argentina to the World Cup title.

That triumph ended the country’s 36-year wait for football’s biggest international prize and secured Argentina’s third World Cup crown.

Messi’s final tournament ended differently, with Argentina losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain.

The 39-year-old subsequently confirmed that the final had been his last appearance for the national team, bringing an end to a 21-year international career.

In an emotional message announcing his decision, Messi acknowledged how difficult it had been to walk away from the team he had represented for most of his professional life.

“I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give,” Messi wrote. “It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come.”

His retirement closes one of the most celebrated chapters in Argentina’s football history.

For years, Messi carried the enormous expectations attached to succeeding some of the country's greatest players and eventually delivered the international honours that had previously eluded him.

The 2022 World Cup stands at the centre of that legacy, but his influence on Argentina stretched far beyond a single tournament.

From his emergence as a teenager to his final years as captain and senior leader, Messi became the defining figure of an era for the Albiceleste.

The AFA’s decision to involve every level of domestic football ensures the tribute will extend far beyond the national team and Argentina’s biggest stadiums.

For one minute this weekend, matches throughout the country will stop together to recognise a player whose No.10 shirt became one of the most recognisable symbols in world football.

Raphinha and Lamine Yamal both scored twice, while Florian Lejeune put through his own net as Hansi Flick’s champions continued their impressive start to the campaign. Sergio Camello scored both goals for Rayo.

The visitors stunned Barcelona after only 12 minutes.

Alvaro Garcia broke quickly down the left before reaching the byline and pulling the ball back towards Camello, who met the delivery with a sharp near-post finish to give Rayo a surprise lead.

Barcelona had dominated possession during the opening stages and quickly increased the pressure after falling behind.

Their response arrived in the 19th minute.

Xavi Espart found Raphinha around the edge of the penalty area, and the Brazilian worked his way past Pathe Ciss before calmly slotting beyond Dani Cardenas to make it 1-1.

Only two minutes later, Barcelona were ahead.

After appeals for a handball were ignored, Marc Bernal remained alert and recovered possession before finding Yamal on the right.

The winger moved inside onto his left foot and curled an outstanding finish into the top corner for his first league goal of the season.

Barcelona thought they had added a third shortly before half-time when Jules Kounde converted after Anthony Gordon’s shot had been saved, but VAR ruled the defender offside.

Flick’s side therefore went into the interval with a 2-1 advantage after overturning Rayo’s lead in the space of just two minutes.

The champions stretched their advantage six minutes after the restart.

Rayo lost possession in midfield and Gordon was released down the left. His attempted cutback towards Raphinha was intercepted by Lejeune, but the defender could only divert the ball into his own net.

Rayo again demonstrated their willingness to fight back.

In the 59th minute, Unai Lopez delivered an excellent corner from the right and Camello rose above the Barcelona defence to head into the bottom corner for his second goal of the night.

The striker almost completed a hat-trick moments later when Joan Garcia denied Alvaro Garcia and Camello threatened to convert the rebound.

Barcelona responded decisively.

Gordon was again heavily involved in the 71st minute, showing excellent awareness after being played into space on the left.

The England international cleverly flicked the ball into the path of the overlapping Raphinha, who drove forward before beating Cardenas to restore Barcelona’s two-goal advantage.

The assist was Gordon’s third of the league campaign, continuing an encouraging start following his move to Barcelona.

Raphinha departed in the closing stages having scored his fourth and fifth league goals of the season, while Karim Adeyemi was introduced for Gordon.

Adeyemi then made his own contribution in the 90th minute.

The substitute worked the ball back towards Yamal, who curled another excellent left-footed strike beyond Cardenas and into the bottom corner to complete the scoring.

Yamal’s second goal made it 5-2 and capped another prolific attacking display from the defending champions.

The victory also extended Barcelona’s winning start to three league matches.

They opened the campaign with a 5-0 victory over Elche before beating Athletic Club 2-0 and have now scored 12 goals across their opening three fixtures.

Raphinha continues to lead the attack with five league goals, while Yamal’s brace provided another reminder of his ability to decide matches from the right flank.

Rayo, meanwhile, remain without a victory after their opening three matches despite a determined performance and two well-taken goals from Camello.

Barcelona travel to Valencia for their next league assignment, while Rayo will attempt to secure their first victory when they face Racing Santander.

The defending champions were made to work considerably harder than in their opening 3-0 victory over Coventry City, but Saka’s close-range finish in the 59th minute proved enough to secure all three points for Mikel Arteta’s side.

It was Arsenal’s fifth consecutive season winning their first Premier League away match without conceding, while Villa were left without a point or a goal from their opening two fixtures.

Villa entered the contest seeking a response after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Brighton on the opening weekend.

Unai Emery handed goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and record signing Nicolas Jackson their Villa debuts, while Arteta retained the same Arsenal starting XI that beat Coventry.

The hosts made a positive start and came closest to breaking the deadlock during the opening half.

Emiliano Buendia unleashed a powerful effort from more than 25 yards in the 11th minute that beat David Raya but clipped the top of the crossbar.

Arsenal gradually gained control of possession but struggled to turn their dominance into clear opportunities.

Declan Rice threatened from a set-piece, while Kai Havertz and Saka struggled to find space against an organised Villa defence.

Christos Tzolis also endured a difficult first half and was booked after pulling back Matty Cash in the 29th minute.

Despite enjoying 66 percent possession, Arsenal failed to register a shot on target before half-time.

Villa were similarly unable to test Raya directly, although Buendia’s effort against the woodwork remained the best chance of the opening 45 minutes.

Arteta responded by replacing Tzolis with Eberechi Eze at half-time, a change that helped Arsenal offer greater movement down the left side.

The visitors thought they had been awarded a penalty in the 54th minute when Ian Maatsen collided with Saka as the England international moved into the area.

However, VAR determined that the initial contact had taken place just outside the penalty box, and the decision was changed to a free-kick. Martin Odegaard sent the resulting effort narrowly wide.

Arsenal did not have to wait much longer for the breakthrough.

Four minutes later, Eze combined with Riccardo Calafiori during a slick move down the left.

Calafiori stretched to send a low ball across the six-yard area, where Saka arrived to slide a first-time finish beyond Suzuki.

It was Arsenal’s first shot on target of the match and Saka’s second Premier League goal of the season.

The goal also meant Saka had scored in consecutive league appearances for the first time since November 2024.

Arsenal became increasingly comfortable after taking the lead and began managing possession more effectively as Villa searched for a response.

Arteta introduced Bruno Guimaraes for his Premier League debut for Arsenal in the 71st minute, with Myles Lewis-Skelly making way.

Mikel Merino was also introduced for Odegaard as the champions strengthened their midfield for the closing stages.

Villa responded by sending on Tammy Abraham, Alejandro Garnacho and Aaron Wan-Bissaka among several changes.

Former Villa defender Ezri Konsa was later introduced for Arsenal after Cristhian Mosquera was forced off, receiving a mixed reception on his return to Villa Park.

The home side enjoyed more possession towards the end but continued to struggle to provide their attackers with meaningful opportunities.

Villa reached the closing stages having still failed to register a shot on target, continuing an attacking problem that has followed them through the opening two matches.

There was a late VAR check for a possible penalty after Maatsen challenged Guimaraes, but officials supported the referee’s original decision that no foul worthy of a spot-kick had occurred.

The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory and another clean sheet for the champions.

They have now lost their opening two Premier League matches without scoring, something they had not done since 2002. They also failed to produce a shot on target for the second successive game.

Arsenal, meanwhile, move on with two victories from two as they prepare for a major London derby against Chelsea on Sunday.

Villa will seek their first points of the season when they travel to face early surprise package Hull City on Saturday.

All Round One fixtures scheduled between Monday, August 31, and Wednesday, September 2, have been called off, returning clubs to uncertainty over when the new campaign will finally get underway.

FKF informed clubs and stakeholders that the postponement was necessary to allow further discussions involving the federation, participating teams and the league's sponsors.

“The Kenya Premier League 2026/27 Round One Fixtures scheduled to be played between Monday, 31st August 2026 and Wednesday, 2nd September 2026 have been postponed,” the federation said in its communication.

FKF said the consultations are expected to provide direction on how the competition will be managed during the upcoming season.

“This is so as to allow for deliberations between the Federation, participating Clubs and the League sponsors that’ll provide direction and guidance on the management of the League for the upcoming Season,” the communication added.

The decision represents another dramatic turn for a campaign whose opening had only recently appeared to have been secured following weeks of administrative and legal uncertainty.

Eight matches had been lined up across the opening three days.

Newly promoted 3K FC were due to launch the season against Mara Sugar at Moi Stadium in Embu on Monday, while Mathare United were scheduled to face APS Bomet at Police Sacco Stadium.

Tuesday's programme included Ulinzi Stars against Tusker at Ulinzi Sports Complex.

National Super League champions Migori Youth were preparing for their top-flight opener against Kenya Police at Green Stadium in Awendo, while defending league champions Gor Mahia were due to begin their title defence against Murang'a SEAL at Nyayo National Stadium.

The opening round was scheduled to conclude on Wednesday with Nairobi United facing KCB at Police Sacco Stadium, Posta Rangers meeting Shabana at Wang'uru Stadium and AFC Leopards hosting Bandari at Ulinzi Sports Complex.

All those fixtures must now be rearranged.

The postponement comes despite a recent High Court ruling in Murang'a that allowed FKF to proceed with the new campaign using the federation's 2019 Rules and Regulations on an interim basis.

The legal dispute revolves partly around conflicting promotion and relegation frameworks.

Under the 2019 regulations, the bottom two Premier League clubs are automatically relegated and replaced by the top two National Super League teams, while another top-flight club enters a promotion-relegation play-off.

A revised 2025 framework introduced a different system in which three Premier League teams would be automatically relegated and three NSL clubs promoted directly, removing the play-off.

The attempted application of the revised regulations became the subject of legal challenges, with affected clubs questioning how the rules had been introduced.

Court proceedings and decisions involving the Sports Disputes Tribunal and High Court subsequently complicated efforts to determine the composition and regulations governing the new Premier League season.

The High Court's latest intervention appeared to provide a temporary pathway for the competition to start under the older regulations while the wider case continues.

However, the latest FKF circular makes clear that resolving the legal question alone has not been enough to begin the season.

Discussions are now continuing between the federation, Premier League clubs and commercial partners over the administration and management of the competition.

The delay will create further challenges for teams that had already adjusted their preparations to the previously announced August 31 kickoff.

Clubs have completed much of their pre-season work, assembled squads, signed players and planned travel and matchday arrangements based on the opening schedule.

Those preparations must now be adjusted again without a confirmed replacement date.

The uncertainty also affects clubs preparing for continental football, with domestic competition normally providing important competitive preparation before CAF assignments.

FKF has told clubs and stakeholders that both a revised Round One programme and the complete season fixture list will be communicated “within the shortest time possible.”

Until that happens, the 2026/27 FKF Premier League remains officially on hold.

The latest postponement means attention will once again turn to negotiations between FKF, the clubs and sponsors as Kenyan football waits for a final agreement capable of allowing the new top-flight campaign to begin.

Affected Round One fixtures:

• 3K FC vs Mara Sugar
• Mathare United vs APS Bomet
• Ulinzi Stars vs Tusker
• Migori Youth vs Kenya Police
• Gor Mahia vs Murang'a SEAL
• Nairobi United vs KCB
• Posta Rangers vs Shabana
• AFC Leopards vs Bandari

Jude Bellingham opened the scoring with a superb individual effort before an Alfonso Herrero own goal and a Kylian Mbappe strike gave Madrid a three-goal advantage inside the opening half-hour. Substitute Arda Guler completed the scoring in stoppage time.

The victory gave Jose Mourinho three consecutive league wins since beginning his second spell in charge of Real Madrid, following earlier victories over Espanyol and Real Sociedad.

Madrid controlled possession from the opening minutes and nearly found an immediate breakthrough when Vinicius Junior picked out Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose half-volley narrowly missed the target.

Malaga remained organised through the opening stages, but their resistance was broken in spectacular fashion after 19 minutes.

Bellingham collected possession around 25 yards from goal, held off Angel Recio and drove into the penalty area before beating Rafita and firing across goal into the bottom corner.

VAR checked Malaga's complaints over an incident involving Recio in the build-up but allowed the goal to stand.

The England midfielder was at the heart of Madrid's attacking play throughout the first half.

Seven minutes after the opener, Los Blancos doubled their advantage following another dangerous attack.

Brahim Diaz carried the ball forward before finding Mbappe inside the area. The France international's effort was parried by Herrero, before Bellingham headed the rebound goalwards.

Carlos Puga attempted to clear but the ball struck Herrero and crossed the line, resulting in an own goal for the Malaga goalkeeper.

Alexander-Arnold received possession on the right and delivered an excellent first-time cross into the penalty area, where Mbappe arrived to sweep the ball beyond Herrero.

The goal made it 3-0 after only 30 minutes and effectively placed the contest beyond Malaga.

Malaga produced their best first-half opportunity in the 42nd minute when a short corner found Rafa Rodriguez unmarked inside the area, but his effort struck the base of the post.

Madrid nevertheless entered half-time three goals ahead, with Malaga yet to register a shot on target.

Mbappe forced another save from Herrero before Bellingham came close to scoring his second when he drove into the penalty area and smashed a left-footed effort against the outside of the post.

Alexander-Arnold also tested Herrero, while Madrid repeatedly threatened through their quick combinations involving Vinicius, Mbappe and Bellingham.

Malaga were briefly awarded a penalty in the 85th minute after the ball appeared to strike Yan Diomande's arm following a free-kick.

Referee Juan Martinez was advised to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor and quickly reversed his original decision, leaving Madrid's clean sheet intact.

Bellingham departed to a standing ovation in the 87th minute after another influential performance, with Guler replacing him for the closing stages.

Madrid launched another rapid counter-attack in the first minute of stoppage time after Dean Huijsen won possession.

Vinicius carried the ball towards the byline before cutting it back for Guler, who swept home from close range to complete the 4-0 victory.

The result also represented Madrid's second successive four-goal performance after their 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad five days earlier.

Bellingham was again one of Mourinho's outstanding performers, while Mbappe continued his prolific start after scoring a hat-trick against Sociedad in the previous round.

Madrid finish the weekend with three victories from their opening three LaLiga matches and sit at the top of the early standings, although Barcelona have an opportunity to move above them when they face Rayo Vallecano.

For Malaga, the defeat leaves them still searching for their first league victory since earning promotion, having opened the season with a defeat to Atletico Madrid and a draw against Deportivo La Coruna.

Leif Davis gave Ipswich a deserved first-half lead before Fernandes restored parity shortly before the interval. Jacob Greaves’ own goal then completed United’s comeback after the break, with Fernandes adding two more and Bryan Mbeumo scoring the fifth before Chuba Akpom grabbed a late consolation.

The result was an important response from Michael Carrick’s side after they had opened their Premier League campaign with a 2-0 defeat against newly promoted Hull City.

Carrick made four changes for his first home league match of the season, bringing Lisandro Martinez, Diogo Dalot, Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford into the starting side.

Rashford’s inclusion was particularly notable, marking his first Premier League start at Old Trafford since December 2024.

United began with plenty of possession, but Ipswich gradually exposed spaces in the hosts’ defence and produced the more dangerous opportunities as the first half developed.

The visitors took the lead in the 29th minute through an excellent move involving Abdul Fatawu and Davis.

Fatawu beat Luke Shaw down the right before reaching the byline and lifting a precise delivery towards the penalty spot. Davis timed his arrival perfectly and met it first time, sending his left-footed finish off the underside of the crossbar and into the net.

Ipswich almost doubled their advantage only two minutes later.

Fatawu again delivered for Davis at the back post, but this time United goalkeeper Senne Lammens produced an important save to prevent the visitors from taking control of the match.

That missed opportunity proved costly.

United finally found their response five minutes before half-time after Marcelino Nunez lost his footing in midfield.

Matheus Cunha drove into the available space before releasing Fernandes, who moved towards the right side of the penalty area and smashed a powerful finish past Kjell Scherpen from a difficult angle to make it 1-1.

The goal sent the teams into the interval level despite Ipswich having created enough opportunities to cause United significantly more damage.

Carrick’s team returned for the second half with greater intensity.

Mbeumo somehow failed to put United ahead in the 53rd minute when Rashford’s delivery found him unmarked, only for his improvised effort to strike the underside of the crossbar and stay out.

Three minutes later, however, United completed the turnaround.

Harry Maguire moved forward after winning possession and attempted a low shot from outside the area. The effort was heading away from goal before taking a substantial deflection off Greaves and beating Scherpen for an own goal.

A VAR review followed after Ipswich appealed for a possible Maguire handball during the build-up, but the goal was allowed to stand.

Greaves’ difficult spell became worse almost immediately.

Mainoo carried the ball through midfield before releasing Cunha, and the Ipswich defender mistimed his challenge inside the penalty area.

Fernandes stepped up from the spot in the 61st minute and calmly sent Scherpen the wrong way to give United a 3-1 advantage.

The United captain was not finished.

Seven minutes later he completed his hat-trick.

Mainoo’s initial effort was blocked before Mbeumo also saw a shot stopped inside a crowded penalty area. The loose ball fell perfectly for Fernandes, who controlled it before sweeping a composed finish into the opposite corner.

His three goals arrived between the 40th and 68th minutes, completing a 28-minute hat-trick that transformed a difficult afternoon into a commanding United performance.

It was Fernandes’ second Premier League hat-trick, with both coming in Manchester United’s first home league match of a season. His previous one came against Leeds United in 2021/22.

Rashford was denied by Scherpen before eventually making way in the 80th minute, ending his first Premier League start in 21 months without a goal.

Mbeumo then added United’s fifth in the 82nd minute, fernandes turned provider with an excellent pass over the Ipswich defence, allowing Mbeumo to race through as Scherpen came off his line.

The Cameroon international delicately lifted the bouncing ball over the goalkeeper, with his effort striking the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line.

The assist completed an outstanding afternoon for Fernandes, who finished with three goals and one assist.

Ipswich managed one final response in stoppage time after Martinez was caught in possession close to his own corner flag.

Julio Enciso stole the ball before unselfishly finding substitute Akpom inside the area, and the forward converted from close range to make the final score 5-2.

The late concession provided United with a reminder that defensive issues remain, but it did little to diminish an emphatic attacking performance.

The victory gives Carrick’s team their first three points of the new Premier League season after the disappointment of their opening-day defeat.

United will next face Everton on September 6, while Ipswich must recover quickly ahead of a difficult meeting with Liverpool on Friday.

Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto, Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer scored for Chelsea, while Malick Junior Yalcouye, a Joao Pedro own goal and Pascal Gross accounted for Brighton's three goals.

Chelsea required only four minutes to take the lead.

A mix-up between Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and Mats Wieffer left the ball loose inside the area after Joao Pedro had flicked on a corner. Lavia reacted quickest and poked home from close range for his first Chelsea goal.

The hosts doubled their advantage just 10 minutes later.

Morgan Rogers escaped his markers before driving a low delivery across the six-yard area, where Neto arrived to turn the ball beyond Verbruggen and make it 2-0.

It continued Rogers' productive start following his goal against Fulham in Chelsea's opening league match.

Chelsea's direct attacking approach continued to punish a Brighton side that enjoyed significantly more possession.

Joao Pedro should have scored midway through the half after Neto created an excellent opening, but the former Brighton striker made amends in the 32nd minute.

Jorrel Hato accelerated away during a quick Chelsea counter-attack before finding Joao Pedro, who controlled the pass and finished confidently past Verbruggen for the third goal.

Brighton refused to allow the contest to get away from them.

Three minutes later, Yalcouye scored on his first Premier League start. Emiliano Martinez initially rushed from his goal to deny Charalampos Kostoulas, but the rebound fell kindly for Yalcouye, who fired in off the post to reduce the deficit to 3-1.

Brighton continued pushing after the restart and gave Chelsea another warning when Diego Gomez headed wide from a dangerous position.

The visitors eventually made it 3-2 in the 63rd minute.

Gross remained onside after a corner had initially been cleared and sent another ball into the area. Joao Pedro attempted to block the cross but instead diverted it beyond Martinez and into his own net.

Brighton's momentum suddenly left Chelsea under significant pressure, forcing Alonso into a series of substitutions.

Reece James, Moises Caicedo and Josh Acheampong were introduced as the Blues attempted to regain control.

Chelsea then found the crucial fourth goal in the 74th minute through Palmer.

Joao Pedro supplied the pass and Palmer produced a superb individual effort, gliding away from Brighton's defenders before driving a powerful left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

The goal restored Chelsea's two-goal cushion and ultimately proved to be the winner.

There was concern for the hosts later when Caicedo, who had only been introduced shortly beforehand, went down and was unable to continue. The midfielder appeared emotional as he left the pitch and was replaced by Valentin Barco.

Brighton nevertheless continued attacking until the final moments and found another goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

Chelsea failed to properly clear a set-piece and Gross produced an excellent header from inside the area to beat Martinez and make it 4-3.

There was no time for another Brighton comeback, however, and Chelsea held on to claim all three points.

The result gives Chelsea two wins from their opening two Premier League matches under Alonso after their 3-2 victory over Fulham.

It also means the Spaniard's Chelsea have scored seven goals across his first two league games in charge.

Brighton, meanwhile, became the first team in 50 years to score at least three goals in four consecutive league matches against Chelsea, but their attacking efforts were not enough to earn a point.

Chelsea now face a significantly tougher examination when they travel to the Emirates Stadium to meet reigning Premier League champions Arsenal.

Brighton will attempt to recover when they host Leeds United at the Amex Stadium.

Forest twice took the lead through Dan Ndoye and Morgan Gibbs-White, but Liverpool responded through Alexander Isak and Munoz to avoid defeat.

The visitors arrived at Anfield searching for a third successive victory at the stadium and caused Liverpool problems throughout an uncomfortable first half for the hosts.

Jeremy Jacquet produced an important last-ditch challenge to stop Igor Jesus before Ndoye headed another opportunity narrowly wide.

Forest’s pressure eventually produced the opening goal in the 24th minute.

A long ball exposed Liverpool’s defence and allowed Jesus to threaten the home goal. Although the striker was eventually stopped, the loose ball reached Gibbs-White, who supplied Ndoye to finish into the far corner.

Liverpool struggled to establish control, with Iraola later admitting his team’s first-half display was below the required level.

“It’s quite clear the first half has been poor, we haven’t controlled the game,” Iraola said. “We improved a lot in the second half, much more intense, much quicker on the ball but not enough to win the game.”

Florian Wirtz thought he had brought Liverpool level before half-time, but the goal was ruled out after Jeremie Frimpong was judged offside during the build-up.

Forest could have doubled their advantage before the interval when Ndoye threatened again, only for Alisson to produce a crucial save.

Liverpool returned after the break with greater intensity and found their equaliser on the hour mark.

Cody Gakpo delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, leaving Isak with a straightforward finish to make it 1-1.

The goal appeared to shift momentum towards Liverpool, but Forest quickly punished another defensive lapse.

New signing Liam Delap caught the hosts off guard with a quickly taken throw-in that released Neco Williams. Alisson rushed from his goal and brought down the former Liverpool defender, giving Forest a penalty.

Gibbs-White remained composed from the spot and sent Alisson the wrong way to restore Forest’s lead.

Liverpool responded by making attacking changes as Iraola searched for another way back into the match.

Munoz remained on the field as Gakpo was withdrawn, and the decision proved decisive.

Wirtz produced an incisive through ball to release the Spanish midfielder, who drove his shot in off the crossbar to score his first Liverpool goal since arriving from Osasuna and make it 2-2.

The equaliser ensured Iraola avoided defeat on his Anfield debut and marked the second time in his opening two matches that Munoz had helped Liverpool salvage a late result.

Forest manager Oliver Glasner was pleased with his team’s performance but disappointed that they failed to convert it into three points.

“There are two emotions I think,” Glasner said. “Very proud of the performance and how we played, scoring two goals, but we all feel frustrated about the result because we have the feeling it could and should have been a win.”

The draw nevertheless leaves questions over Liverpool’s defensive stability.

Despite significant investment in the squad, Iraola’s side again looked vulnerable when Forest attacked quickly, with Milos Kerkez and Frimpong both substituted during the contest.

Wirtz showed moments of quality and eventually created the equaliser, while Isak got on the scoresheet, but Liverpool were again forced to recover from behind rather than control the match.

Iraola took over following the departure of Arne Slot, who had guided Liverpool to a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title in 2024/25 before being dismissed after a fifth-place finish the following season.

Liverpool could soon add another attacking option, with French winger Bradley Barcola reportedly nearing a £106 million move from Paris Saint-Germain that could rise by a further £17 million.

His potential arrival could also affect Cody Gakpo’s future, with Tottenham and Manchester City reportedly interested in the Netherlands international.

Liverpool will next travel to Ipswich on Friday as Iraola searches for his first league victory in charge.

FKF confirmed the opening date in communication sent to participating clubs through its Leagues and Competitions Department, together with the revised Round One schedule.

The federation instructed clubs to begin preparations for the opening fixtures and said any subsequent adjustments to the programme would be communicated in sufficient time.

The confirmation follows a court decision in Murang’a clearing FKF to proceed with the league under the federation’s 2019 Rules and Regulations.

Newly promoted 3K FC will have the honour of opening the campaign when they host Mara Sugar at Moi Stadium in Embu at 3pm on Monday.

It will be a historic occasion for 3K FC as they make their first appearance in Kenya’s top division.

The other Monday fixture will see Mathare United welcome APS Bomet to Police Sacco Stadium, also at 3pm.

Action will continue on Tuesday, September 1, with three fixtures, including the start of defending champions Gor Mahia’s title defence.

Gor Mahia will face Murang’a Seal at Nyayo National Stadium from 4pm as they begin another campaign carrying the expectations that come with being champions.

Earlier in the day, Ulinzi Stars will host Tusker at the Ulinzi Sports Complex at 3pm in one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.

Tusker head into the season looking to challenge at the top end of the table, while Ulinzi will be hoping to make home advantage count in their first competitive league assignment.

Another newly promoted side, Migori Youth, will make their Premier League debut against Kenya Police at Green Stadium in Awendo at 3pm.

The fixture provides an immediate test for Migori Youth, who will be facing the 2024/25 champions in their first top-flight outing.

Three more matches are scheduled for Wednesday, September 2.

Nairobi United will face KCB at Police Sacco Stadium at 3pm, while Posta Rangers meet Shabana at Wang’uru Stadium at the same time.

AFC Leopards will then complete the scheduled opening round when they host Bandari at Ulinzi Sports Complex from 4pm.

The opening programme therefore spreads eight fixtures across three days as clubs begin what is expected to be another competitive battle at both ends of the FKF Premier League table.

Attention will be particularly focused on the promoted clubs.

Both 3K FC and Migori Youth have confirmed opening-round assignments, while uncertainty remains over Mombasa United because of ongoing court proceedings concerning their status.

The new campaign will also place immediate attention on several of Kenya’s traditional heavyweights.

Gor Mahia begin the season as defending champions, Tusker face an early challenge away to Ulinzi Stars, while AFC Leopards start their campaign against Bandari.

With the league start now confirmed, clubs can finally turn their attention fully towards competition after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the 2026/27 season.

Round One fixtures:

• Monday, August 31: 3K FC vs Mara Sugar — Moi Stadium, Embu, 3pm; Mathare United vs APS Bomet — Police Sacco Stadium, 3pm.
• Tuesday, September 1: Ulinzi Stars vs Tusker — Ulinzi Sports Complex, 3pm; Migori Youth vs Kenya Police — Green Stadium, Awendo, 3pm; Gor Mahia vs Murang’a Seal — Nyayo National Stadium, 4pm.
• Wednesday, September 2: Nairobi United vs KCB — Police Sacco Stadium, 3pm; Posta Rangers vs Shabana — Wang’uru Stadium, 3pm; AFC Leopards vs Bandari — Ulinzi Sports Complex, 4pm.

The development provides a pathway for the new campaign to begin after weeks of uncertainty surrounding a legal dispute over which regulations should govern promotion, relegation and the composition of the country’s top-flight league.

However, the decision could have significant consequences for the promotion and relegation arrangements involving Kariobangi Sharks and National Super League side Mombasa United.

Under the 2019 regulations, the bottom two clubs in the Premier League are automatically relegated, while the top two teams in the National Super League earn automatic promotion.

The team finishing 16th in the top flight is then required to contest a promotion-relegation playoff against the third-placed team from the NSL for the remaining Premier League place. The playoff provision is contained in the 2019 framework that had governed Kenyan football before FKF introduced revised regulations.

That arrangement differs significantly from the disputed 2025 regulations, which provided for the bottom three Premier League teams to be relegated automatically and the top three NSL clubs to gain direct promotion, eliminating the playoff.

The difference became particularly important at the end of the 2025/26 season.

Kariobangi Sharks finished 16th in the Premier League, with Bidco United and Sofapaka occupying the final two positions. Migori Youth and 3K FC secured the leading National Super League promotion places, while Mombasa United finished third.

Under the 2019 framework, Bidco United and Sofapaka would be relegated automatically, Migori Youth and 3K promoted automatically, while Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United would contest the final top-flight place.

Under the 2025 system adopted by FKF, all three Premier League clubs were considered relegated, allowing the top three NSL sides, including Mombasa United, to move directly into the top division.

That disagreement triggered a lengthy legal battle.

Earlier in June, the High Court issued conservatory orders preventing FKF from implementing the revised 2025 regulations in relation to the 2026/27 season. The court specifically restrained the federation from using those rules for promotion and relegation decisions, league composition, player registration and fixture planning while the dispute remained before the court.

There was another twist in August when the Sports Disputes Tribunal upheld FKF’s 2025 promotion and relegation regulations, finding that the changes had been properly ratified by the federation’s National Executive Committee.

That decision strengthened Mombasa United’s claim to automatic promotion, but it did not bring the wider dispute to an end because the separate High Court proceedings in Murang’a remained unresolved.

The latest High Court development therefore shifts attention back towards the 2019 regulations as FKF prepares to get the new season underway.

One of the biggest questions is whether the ruling will now require the return of the promotion-relegation playoff between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United, or whether further directions will be required before the final 18-team composition is confirmed.

FKF had previously maintained that no playoff would be staged, arguing that the three-up, three-down system had been communicated to clubs before the start of the previous campaign.

Kariobangi Sharks, however, argued that the 2019 rules remained applicable and pointed specifically to the provision requiring the third-lowest Premier League club to enter a playoff against an NSL opponent.

The dispute has therefore gone beyond the fate of individual clubs and raised wider questions over how football regulations are approved, communicated and implemented by the federation.

The 2019 rulebook states that FKF competitions and affiliated clubs are bound by the federation’s rules and gives the National Executive Committee responsibility for setting competition dates. It also provides for a closed-season interval of at least 60 days between the final match of one season and the beginning of the next.

For clubs and supporters, the immediate significance of the latest development is that the legal uncertainty is no longer expected to completely prevent the 2026/27 league season from proceeding.

Attention will now turn to FKF for confirmation of the league composition, fixtures and, crucially, whether Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United will be ordered to settle the final Premier League place through a promotion-relegation playoff.

The draw produced major storylines throughout the entire field, from clashes between European giants to historic opportunities for newcomers such as Sabah, Viking, AEK Athens and LASK. The original draw coverage confirmed that all clubs learned their league-phase opponents on Thursday, August 27.

The competition will again use the 36-team league format. Each club faces eight different opponents — two from each of the four seeding pots — with four matches at home and four away.

The top pot features Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Inter Milan, Manchester City, Arsenal, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, ensuring a series of heavyweight contests before the knockout stages even begin.

Real Madrid have been paired with Inter Milan and Arsenal among their leading fixtures, while Arsenal must also face Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund during a demanding campaign. Liverpool have Atletico Madrid and Inter among their opponents, while defending champions PSG meet Barcelona, Manchester City and Roma.

Barcelona's schedule brings another collection of major European nights. The Catalans face Manchester City, PSG, Aston Villa and Sporting, while their remaining opponents include Feyenoord, Galatasaray, Como and Sabah.

Atletico Madrid will come up against Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Manchester United, with PSV, Fenerbahce, Bodo/Glimt, Viking and Stuttgart completing their opposition.

Bayern have also been handed meetings with Arsenal, Atletico, Real Betis and Manchester United, alongside Bodo/Glimt, Lille, Slavia Prague and Viking.

Inter's route includes Liverpool, Real Madrid, Club Brugge and Borussia Dortmund before meetings with Shakhtar Donetsk, Feyenoord, Stuttgart and Slovan Bratislava.

Manchester City face PSG at home and Barcelona away, while Sporting, Porto, Napoli, RB Leipzig, AEK Athens and Lens complete their eight opponents. The Barcelona encounter also sets up City's reunion with Rodri, while the Napoli fixture brings Kevin De Bruyne up against his former club.

Pot Two is made up of Borussia Dortmund, Roma, Sporting, Aston Villa, Porto, Manchester United, Club Brugge, Real Betis and PSV.

Dortmund's schedule includes Inter, Arsenal, Real Betis and Aston Villa, along with Villarreal, Bodo/Glimt, AEK Athens and Sabah.

Roma have been handed Real Madrid, PSG, Sporting and Manchester United among their opposition, with Lille, Fenerbahce, Slovan Bratislava and AEK completing their programme.

Sporting will face Barcelona, Manchester City, Manchester United and Roma before further meetings with Galatasaray, Shakhtar, LASK and Lens.

Aston Villa face an imposing route featuring PSG, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund. Club Brugge, Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, Viking and Slavia Prague make up the remainder of Villa's draw.

Porto will welcome Manchester City and also meet Liverpool, PSV, Real Betis, Napoli, Feyenoord, Slavia Prague and LASK.

Manchester United have Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Roma, Sporting, RB Leipzig, Villarreal, Sabah and Como, giving them fixtures across Germany, Spain, Portugal, Azerbaijan and Italy.

Club Brugge's opposition includes Liverpool, Inter, Aston Villa, PSV, Bodo/Glimt, Napoli, Lens and Stuttgart, while Real Betis face Arsenal, Bayern, Porto, Dortmund, Feyenoord, Lille, Como and Slovan Bratislava.

PSV will meet Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, Club Brugge and Porto as well as Shakhtar, Leipzig, Stuttgart and Viking.

Pot Three also contains considerable European pedigree, with Feyenoord, Lille, Bodo/Glimt, Napoli, RB Leipzig, Villarreal, Fenerbahce, Shakhtar Donetsk and Galatasaray forming the section.

Napoli's schedule includes Arsenal at home and Manchester City away, followed by Club Brugge, Porto, Bodo/Glimt, Villarreal, Viking and Sabah.

Feyenoord will face Inter and Barcelona before matches against Porto, Real Betis, Leipzig, Galatasaray, Como and Viking.

Lille have Bayern, Arsenal, Real Betis, Roma, Galatasaray, Bodo/Glimt, Slovan Bratislava and Stuttgart.

Bodo/Glimt's draw provides opportunities against Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, with Club Brugge, Lille, Napoli, LASK and Lens also on their schedule.

RB Leipzig will face Manchester City and Real Madrid as well as PSV, Manchester United, Shakhtar, Feyenoord, Lens and Como.

Villarreal have been given fixtures against PSG, Liverpool, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund before meetings with Napoli, Fenerbahce, Sabah and Slavia Prague.

Fenerbahce's return to the league phase brings encounters with Liverpool, Atletico Madrid, Roma, Aston Villa, Villarreal, Shakhtar, Slavia Prague and LASK.

Shakhtar Donetsk will meet Real Madrid and Inter alongside Sporting, PSV, Fenerbahce, Leipzig, AEK Athens and Slovan Bratislava.

Galatasaray's draw includes Barcelona and PSG, with Aston Villa, Sporting, Feyenoord, Lille, Stuttgart and AEK Athens completing an attractive programme.

Pot Four introduces several clubs who will relish the chance to test themselves against Europe's established powers.

Slavia Prague face Arsenal and Bayern Munich together with Aston Villa, Porto, Villarreal, Fenerbahce, Lens and Sabah.

Slovan Bratislava will meet Inter, PSG, Real Betis, Roma, Shakhtar, Lille, Stuttgart and LASK.

Stuttgart's opposition includes Atletico Madrid, Inter, Club Brugge, PSV, Lille, Galatasaray, Viking and Slovan Bratislava.

AEK Athens have perhaps one of the most eye-catching schedules among the Pot Four sides. They will host Real Madrid and also face Manchester City, Roma, Dortmund, Galatasaray, Shakhtar, LASK and Como.

LASK have Liverpool and Real Madrid among their assignments, along with Porto, Sporting, Fenerbahce, Bodo/Glimt, Slovan Bratislava and AEK Athens.

Como will welcome PSG and Manchester United during their debut campaign while also facing Barcelona, Real Betis, Leipzig, Feyenoord, AEK Athens and Lens.

Lens have been handed Manchester City and Liverpool alongside Sporting, Club Brugge, Bodo/Glimt, Leipzig, Como and Slavia Prague.

Norwegian side Viking will test themselves against Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, PSV and Aston Villa, with Feyenoord, Napoli, Sabah and Stuttgart also awaiting them.

Sabah, meanwhile, are preparing for a remarkable first Champions League league-phase campaign.

The Azerbaijani club will face Barcelona, Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United and Napoli, as well as Villarreal, Slavia Prague and Viking.

That collection of opponents makes Sabah one of the most intriguing stories of the draw, with a relatively new club now preparing to share the Champions League stage with some of Europe's most decorated teams.

Across the competition, the draw has delivered major ties including PSG against Barcelona, Manchester City against PSG, Real Madrid against Arsenal, Liverpool against Atletico Madrid, Inter against Real Madrid, Bayern against Arsenal and Barcelona against Manchester City.

It has also created less familiar contests that underline the appeal of the league-phase format, with Como, Sabah, AEK Athens, LASK, Viking, Slovan Bratislava and Bodo/Glimt all receiving opportunities to host or visit major European clubs.

UEFA has confirmed that the league phase begins from September 8-10. Further matchdays will take place through October, November and December before the final two rounds in January 2027, with the complete dates and kick-off times due to be confirmed no later than August 29.

The top eight clubs in the final 36-team standings will qualify directly for the round of 16, while those finishing from ninth to 24th will have to negotiate the knockout play-offs.

With every club now knowing the challenge ahead, attention turns from the draw to a league phase featuring traditional European powers, ambitious challengers and newcomers all competing on the same table for passage into the knockout rounds.

The Portugal international claimed the prestigious award after producing one of the most productive creative seasons in Premier League history.

Fernandes registered 21 league assists, breaking the previous Premier League record jointly associated with Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

The 31-year-old also scored nine goals as Manchester United recovered from a difficult start to the campaign to finish third under Michael Carrick and secure a return to the Champions League.

His PFA recognition adds to the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year award he received in May.

Fernandes said receiving an award voted for by fellow professionals made the achievement particularly meaningful.

"It is obviously a very proud moment. They are the ones you go on the pitch against and it's probably not easy to vote for someone you play against, so it is a very good moment," Fernandes said.

Manchester City striker Khadija Shaw was named the women's PFA Player of the Year for the second time after another prolific season.

Shaw scored 21 goals as City won their first Women's Super League title in a decade.

Her performances also earned her a third consecutive Golden Boot, further underlining her consistency in front of goal.

Manchester City enjoyed further recognition when Nico O'Reilly was named the men's Young Player of the Year.

The 21-year-old played a major role in City's successful campaign, including scoring twice in the League Cup final victory over Arsenal.

O'Reilly was also part of the squad that lifted the FA Cup and later represented England at the World Cup.

"I'm very proud of the season I had," O'Reilly said. "I won two trophies with my club and managed to play at the World Cup with my country. I'm over the moon how it turned out."

O'Reilly was also selected in the PFA Team of the Year alongside Manchester City teammates Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo.

Premier League champions Arsenal supplied five players to the XI, with goalkeeper David Raya joined by Gabriel, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice.

Fernandes also earned a place in the team following his record-breaking campaign, while Brentford striker Igor Thiago completed the selection.

The award completes a memorable individual season for Fernandes, whose goals and creativity proved crucial as United climbed the table and returned to European football's top competition.

The federation has filed an urgent application before the Murang’a court asking for interim orders that would lift or set aside earlier restrictions preventing the commencement of the new Kenya Premier League campaign and other FKF competitions.

The legal dispute stems from a case filed by Evans Nduta challenging FKF’s application of the promotion and relegation regulations used for the 2025/26 season.

On June 12, the court issued interim orders restraining FKF from beginning the 2026/27 season and other competitions while the matter remains before the court.

FKF now argues that the continued operation of those orders is affecting its ability to organise, prepare and proceed with the new campaign.

In its Certificate of Urgency, the federation is asking the court to treat the matter as urgent and consider the application ex parte in the first instance, including during the ongoing court vacation.

FKF is also seeking costs relating to the application and the wider petition.

The uncertainty has extended beyond the federation and clubs, with league title sponsor SportPesa also expressing concern over the continued delay.

In a letter dated August 13, 2026, Milestone Games Limited, trading as SportPesa, raised concerns with FKF about the lack of clarity surrounding the return of league football.

At the time the letter was written, the competition was nine days away from its originally planned start date, but there was still no confirmed pathway for the new season to begin.

SportPesa said the uncertainty was affecting its business operations and reducing the commercial value it expected to receive from its position as title sponsor.

The company also raised concerns about the wider reputation of Kenyan football as the country prepares for significant football activity ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The latest FKF application has not yet been determined, meaning the immediate future of the league remains tied to the ongoing court process.

Before dealing with the substantive dispute affecting the season, the court is expected to address a contempt-of-court application involving FKF President Hussein Mohammed, Dennis Gicheru and Frank Ogola.

That process could further influence the timeline before the court considers the federation’s attempt to have the restrictions lifted.

The continued delay leaves clubs facing uncertainty over scheduling, player preparation, contracts, training programmes and other logistical arrangements ahead of the campaign.

Players and supporters are similarly waiting for clarity over when competitive domestic football will resume, while sponsors are seeking certainty over the commercial calendar.

FKF’s latest application is therefore aimed at securing a legal route that would allow preparations for the 2026/27 season to move forward.

However, until the court issues further directions or changes the existing orders, there remains no confirmed date for the start of the new Kenya Premier League season and other affected FKF competitions.

The pledge was made at Baba Dogo Sports Extravaganza that was held on Sunday August 23 at the former Baba Dogo Grounds in Nairobi.

The club has since been renamed the Austin Odhiambo Sports Complex, after Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo.

The uncertainty over the land shouldn't deprive the community of access to the playing field, Mohammed told residents.

“This field is not moving forward! Mohammed said that the pitch would continue to be available for the Baba Dogo community.

His involvement with football development in Baba Dogo goes back to around 20 years ago, when he was also involved in the early days of the Super 8, the FKF president said.

He advised people to stay united in safeguarding the site and to ensure it provides support to young footballers and the wider community.

Now focus will shift to the proposed work on the ground, with Mohammed saying practical plans should be in place to start work as soon as possible.

They are now putting in place measures to get construction underway as early as possible, he said.

In response to a property dispute the future of the ground has been a topic of much publicity.

In 2025, President William Ruto stepped in on the appeal by Austin Odhiambo to safeguard the facility for local residents.

Ruto then promised to improve the pitch and rename it after the Harambee midfielder.

The use of the Austin Odhiambo Sports Complex name by Mohammed in Sunday's event further reinforced the trend of the facility being recognised by its new name.

The ground needs to be developed not only to address the immediate land issues but to create opportunities for the young people of Baba Dogo in the long-term," the FKF president said.

He connected the planned development with the need for communities to invest in sporting infrastructure that can benefit the future generations.

Mohammed said the children in the Baba Dogo area should experience safe sporting facilities where they can develop their talent and engage in football activities organised by the Clubs.

He also urged the community to continue to work for the benefit of the area, as he himself had been doing so for many years.

“Don't get tired fighting for our community, I am your own son right here in Baba Dogo, I have journeyed this way with you.”

For years the Baba Dogo ground has been an important space for clubs, youth teams and residents of the surrounding neighbourhoods to play.

Its future has thus been a major concern for the local football fraternity especially in light of the fear of losing public sporting grounds in Nairobi and the question of ownership.

Mohammed's latest pledge now puts a spotlight on implementation, and residents are hoping for more progress in the construction and upgrade of the promised Austin Odhiambo Sports Complex.

Barcelona Rising Starlets maintained their brilliant form in the girls' category as they beat Nanyuki Starlets 1-0, to claim the county title for the fifth time in the fifth edition of the tournament.

The tight finish was the result of a competitive match-up where Barcelona pushed hard to hold on to their winning streak, but also had a few chances.

The feat was made more special because the team had a big turnover in the team after the age requirement changes for the tournament head coach Emman Wafula Gullit said.

This will be the fifth time we have been able to win the county title. Although it wasn’t easy, we managed to pull through despite missing several chances,” Gullit said.

He said that a lot of the players in the current squad had never played at that level before as a competitive player.

This is a new team, and most of the players have never been around in a tournament before, he said.

The alteration in the age limit for the Chapa Dimba team meant he had to quickly form a team that could maintain Barcelona Rising Starlets' winning streak in the competition, Gullit replied.

The coach admitted that a tougher test will be given in the Central Regional Finals, but said he was confident his players will be ready for it.

The Laikipia Youth Soccer Academy also held their county title in the boys' final after a tight match with Ilpolei Giants.

They failed to score a goal during the 45 minutes of regulation, and thus forced the game into the penalty box.

They would go up 6-5 in the shootout to take down the champions and advance to the next round of the tournament, which eventually became LYSA.

The two teams from Laikipia now have great numbers of teams who have secured places in the Central Regional Finals.

For the girls, Barcelona Rising Starlets will be accompanied by Thriving Queens from Kiambu, Kerugoya Sportiff from Kirinyaga, St. Joseph Starlets from Murang'a and Karatina Home Queens from Nyeri.

LYSA, MASFO, Kirinyaga Secondary School, CDM Emmanuel FC and Giakairu FC are the regional field representatives for the boys.

The Central Regional Finals will take place on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30 at Wang'uru Stadium in Kirinyaga County.

The two Laikipia county winners got prizes of Ksh 75,000 and the chance to compete in the regional grades.

There were also awards for individual performers in the county finals.

The Best Goalkeeper and Most Valuable Player and Top Scorer awards were each worth KSh 10,000.

The tournament was complemented with a further incentive of fully-funded tertiary education scholarships as part of Safaricom's Citizens of the Future initiative for the tournament's MVPs.

With the recent win, Barcelona Rising Starlets have continued their impressive county level run and with LYSA's successful title defence, Laikipia will be represented by familiar champions when the competition takes to the next level.

The visitors scored through Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer and Fulham responded in an exciting West London derby with Joshua King and Gonzalo Garcia.

It was a start to which Chelsea could not have aspired.

Palmer was quick off the mark after 31 seconds to break away and chipped Joao Pedro over the Fulham defence. Brazilian remained stoic and raised his style over Bernd Leno to give the hosts a head start of 1-0.

It was the first ever goal of a season in the first home game of a Premier League season.

Fulham rallied back and steadily started to cause issues for Chelsea's defence.

They got their revenge in the 23rd minute when King came back up the field and joined Timothy Castagne before smashing a potent shot along the byline towards the goal.

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez saved himself from being made futsal against by the effort but his defense was still level at 1-1.

The hosts went on the attack again but four minutes before the end of the first half, Chelsea found the equalizing net.

Palmer was positioned forward with Maxence Lacroix and the defender was able to move forward and boot the ball back to Rogers.

The summer signing dominated deliveries before opening the floodgates on his competitive bowlers debut for Chelsea.

The second half began brightly for Alonso and they soon built up their lead.

Joao Pedro retained the possession of the ball very well and set up Palmer for the left of the box.

The England midfielder went through Leno's legs from a tight angle to make it 3-1 after picking up the ball and beating the goalkeeper from a close range.

Fulham wouldn't give up.

A long ball exposed Chelsea's defence five minutes later, forcing Sanchez to another tricky save. The goalkeeper went to his own end, and Garcia had the quickest head to parry the ball into his own half and head home on his Premier League debut to cut the deficit to 3-2.

The goal shifted the momentum of the game and Fulham desperately knocked for an equaliser.

King was particularly dangerous in the 73rd minute when he was able to go wide, but Antonee Robinson had a big chance five minutes later when he broke through the Chelsea defence and failed to control his lob attempt on target.

That was met with a number of changes from Chelsea as Alonso struggled to make the save in the final moments, with Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, Geovany Quenda and Estevao all getting a look as part of the changes.

Palmer was denied a chance to impress in the 60th minute, before leaving the field in the 83rd minute in the midst of two of Chelsea's three goals, both of which he had been directly involved in.

Chelsea had the opportunity to score their fourth in the 90th minute after Joao Pedro's shot on target was saved, but the goal was disallowed because of Quenda's offside position in the build-up.

Fulham pressed on to the very end but Chelsea defended their cause to keep all three points.

Rogers had a great competitive debut after his £117m switch and Lacroix had an assist too for the second goal at Chelsea.

Alonso's win was a welcome win after a miserable end to the previous season after he was handed the keys to the Chelsea machine.

Meanwhile, Fulham's attacking talent was evident in Alvaro Arbeloa's debut and ended up getting away with it when it mattered most, except that it was not enough against the efficient Chelsea.

The visitors made the breakthrough in the 14th minute following a corner.

Flavio Nazinho delivered an inviting cross into the six-yard area, where Dier attacked the ball and powered a header beyond the Le Havre goalkeeper to put Monaco ahead.

Monaco continued threatening shortly afterwards, with Paris Brunner and Aleksandr Golovin both testing Lionel Mpasi as the visitors searched for a second goal.

Le Havre responded and believed they had found an equaliser in the 26th minute.

Amir Richardson put the ball into the net, but the goal was eventually overturned following a VAR review after the attacker was judged to have been offside.

That decision allowed Monaco to take their one-goal advantage into the interval.

Le Havre increased their attacking pressure after the restart and forced Monaco to spend longer periods defending around their own penalty area.

Richardson tested Lukas Hradecky with an effort from outside the box in the 59th minute, but the Monaco goalkeeper got down to make the save.

Monaco also continued looking for opportunities to extend their advantage.

Golovin forced Mpasi into another save from outside the penalty area in the 73rd minute as the visitors attempted to put the contest beyond their hosts.

Le Havre refused to surrender and continued pushing forward during the closing stages.

Enzo Koffi forced Hradecky into a save in the 84th minute after being supplied by Josh Maja, while the hosts continued winning corners and putting Monaco’s defence under pressure.

Despite that late push, Monaco protected their slender advantage.

Kaito Mizuta had one of Le Havre’s final opportunities in stoppage time but sent his effort from outside the area narrowly over the target. The final whistle confirmed Monaco’s 1-0 victory.

Dier’s early goal ultimately separated the teams, while Monaco’s defensive organisation and Hradecky’s saves ensured they left Normandy with a clean sheet and all three points.

For Le Havre, the disallowed Richardson goal represented the biggest frustration of an afternoon in which they created enough pressure to threaten an equaliser but could not find a legal way past Monaco.

Alphadjo Cisse and Adrien Rabiot scored within two minutes of each other in the second half before Che Adams pulled one back for Torino deep into stoppage time.

Milan controlled much of the opening period but struggled to convert possession into clear chances.

Samuel Chukwueze and Cisse were lively in wide areas, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek came close after one flowing move but failed to make clean contact from close range.

The visitors went into the break with 75 percent possession and an expected-goals figure of 0.65, compared to Torino’s 0.04, but neither side had managed to find the net.

Amorim changed the game shortly before the hour mark by introducing Luka Modric and Rabiot.

The substitutions had an immediate impact.

Milan finally broke the deadlock in the 64th minute when Yunus Musah helped move the ball forward before Rabiot delivered across the penalty area for Cisse.

The youngster guided an excellent half-volley beyond Diego Mascardi to score on his Serie A debut and give Milan a deserved 1-0 advantage.

Just two minutes later, Rabiot went from provider to scorer.

Modric moved the ball across the edge of the penalty area before Chukwueze delivered towards the far post, where Rabiot arrived to finish from close range and double Milan’s lead.

The quickfire goals completely changed the complexion of the match after Torino had spent much of the opening hour defending deep and limiting Milan’s opportunities.

Torino responded by making attacking changes, with Che Adams, Alieu Njie and Zakaria Aboukhlal among those introduced.

The hosts improved considerably late in the contest.

Njie forced Mike Maignan into an important save in the 74th minute after using his pace to break into the penalty area.

Aboukhlal then missed a huge opportunity in the 84th minute when Njie’s cross found him free at the far post, only for the substitute to send his effort wide from close range.

Torino eventually found their goal in the 93rd minute.

Gvidas Gineitis delivered a free-kick from the left and Adams produced a spectacular over-the-shoulder volley that curled into the top corner beyond Maignan.

The late strike created a tense finish, but Milan survived the remaining moments to secure all three points.

Rabiot proved decisive after entering from the bench, providing the assist for Cisse’s opener before scoring himself two minutes later.

The result also saw Amorim become the first foreign coach since Leonardo in 2009 to win his opening Serie A match in charge of Milan.

Cisse also enjoyed a memorable evening by scoring on his Serie A debut, while Chukwueze marked his return from a loan spell at Fulham with an assist.

Milan will next host Venezia as they look to make it two wins from two, while Torino travel to Sassuolo.

Gleison Bremer scored the decisive goal in the first half, heading home a Francisco Conceicao delivery as Luciano Spalletti’s side controlled much of the contest without managing to turn their superiority into a more comfortable scoreline.

Juventus made the stronger start and immediately pushed Frosinone deep into their own half.

Randal Kolo Muani had the first effort of the match before wasting a much better opportunity in the 20th minute. Bremer flicked on a corner towards the French striker, who was left unmarked inside the six-yard box but sent his effort over the crossbar.

The visitors did not have to wait much longer for the breakthrough.

In the 22nd minute, Conceicao worked a short corner before curling an inviting delivery into the area. Bremer attacked the ball aggressively and powered his header into the net to put Juventus 1-0 ahead.

Juventus continued to threaten after taking the lead.

Pierre Kalulu came close to doubling the advantage shortly before half-time when his shot struck the post after taking a touch from goalkeeper Lorenzo Palmisani. Kenan Yildiz collected the rebound but was denied by another save.

Frosinone also enjoyed a rare opening when Gabriele Bracaglia forced Guglielmo Vicario into action before Giorgi Kvernadze hit the side netting.

The hosts improved after the restart and began committing more players forward, although Juventus remained the more dangerous side.

Conceicao continued to cause problems on the right and missed a good opportunity in the 52nd minute after Kolo Muani and Zeki Celik combined to create space for him inside the area.

Spalletti turned to his bench during the second half, introducing Andrea Cambiaso, Edon Zhegrova and Jeremie Boga before Teun Koopmeiners was also brought on.

Kolo Muani had another opportunity to put the contest beyond Frosinone in the 81st minute when Zhegrova drove a low ball across the six-yard box, but the striker was unable to stretch far enough to make contact.

That miss ensured the contest remained tense into stoppage time.

Frosinone came agonisingly close to an equaliser in the 93rd minute when Gabriele Calvani met Giacomo Calo’s corner with a header that crashed against the crossbar.

Juventus survived the late scare and managed the remaining moments professionally to protect their slender advantage.

The Bianconeri finished the match with an expected-goals total of 1.99 compared to Frosinone’s 0.45, highlighting their overall superiority despite an unconvincing attacking display.

The victory provides an important opening result for Spalletti after a summer of significant squad changes.

New goalkeeper Vicario and Celik were handed starts, while Kolo Muani returned to the club permanently following his previous loan spell.

Frosinone, meanwhile, were left without a point on their return to Serie A after earning promotion by finishing second in Serie B.

Juventus will next host Parma, while Frosinone travel to face Fiorentina.

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez both scored twice, while summer signing Karim Adeyemi marked his competitive Barcelona debut with a goal as Hansi Flick’s side produced a ruthless attacking display.

The defending champions took the lead in the 14th minute after Raphinha was brought down inside the penalty area.

The Brazilian, wearing the captain’s armband, stepped up and calmly converted the penalty into the bottom-left corner to give Barcelona an early advantage.

Elche enjoyed spells of possession and attempted to respond, but struggled to create clear opportunities against the Barcelona defence.

The hosts were punished again in first-half stoppage time.

Lamine Yamal helped start a rapid counter-attack before Raphinha collected possession and released Adeyemi, who finished confidently to score his first goal in Barcelona colours and make it 2-0.

Barcelona therefore entered half-time with a comfortable two-goal advantage despite Elche having enjoyed more possession during the opening period.

Flick was forced into an earlier change when Gavi suffered an injury shortly before the interval and was replaced by Pedri.

The introduction of Pedri helped Barcelona gain greater control in midfield after the restart.

Elche came close to reducing the deficit in the 52nd minute when Tete Morente struck the post, but Barcelona soon took complete control.

Anthony Gordon was introduced for Yamal in the 65th minute and made an immediate impact on his competitive debut.

Just two minutes after entering the match, Gordon was released into space and found Raphinha, who swept his finish beyond Matias Dituro for Barcelona’s third goal.

Gordon then produced his second assist four minutes later.

Dani Olmo played the England winger through on goal and, rather than shoot, Gordon unselfishly squared the ball for Fermin to finish into an empty net and make it 4-0.

Fermin completed the scoring in spectacular fashion in the 79th minute.

After receiving Xavi Espart’s pass on the edge of the area, the midfielder turned brilliantly away from Federico Redondo before firing across the goalkeeper to score his second of the night.

Barcelona comfortably managed the closing stages and secured a clean sheet to complete an impressive opening performance.

Raphinha was central to the victory, contributing two goals and an assist, while Fermin’s second-half brace highlighted Barcelona’s depth in attacking areas.

Adeyemi’s debut goal and Gordon’s two assists also provided an encouraging first competitive appearance for two of Barcelona’s new summer arrivals.

The result gives Flick’s side a commanding start to their bid for a LaLiga three-peat.

Barcelona will next host Athletic Club, while Elche will look to respond when they travel to Racing Santander.

Sebastian Szymanski and Esteban Lepaul put Rennes in control during an impressive first half before substitute Ferran Torres scored twice to earn the defending champions a point.

Rennes made a fast start and opened the scoring in the ninth minute.

Adrien Thomasson helped launch a counter-attack before finding Szymanski outside the penalty area, and the Poland international unleashed a powerful left-footed effort that struck the inside of the post before finding the net.

PSG responded by dominating possession but struggled to break through a disciplined Rennes defensive structure.

Desire Doue thought he had equalised in the 21st minute after lifting the ball over Brice Samba, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR check.

The visitors continued to push forward, yet Rennes remained dangerous whenever they broke at pace.

That threat produced a second goal in the 38th minute.

Przemyslaw Frankowski delivered a low cross from the right and Lepaul finished confidently into the bottom corner to double the hosts' advantage.

The goal came shortly after Ousmane Dembele had missed an opportunity at the opposite end.

Luis Enrique reacted immediately at the interval by introducing Ferran Torres for Dembele and Mika Godts for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

The changes gave PSG fresh energy, although Rennes continued to defend deep and frustrate the champions.

Fabian Ruiz was introduced on the hour mark, and his arrival eventually proved decisive.

PSG finally reduced the deficit in the 71st minute.

Ruiz lifted an excellent pass behind the Rennes defence, and Torres controlled the ball before calmly finishing through Samba's legs to make it 2-1.

The goal increased the pressure on Rennes as PSG pushed strongly for an equaliser.

Eleven minutes later, the same combination struck again.

Ruiz delivered from the left and Torres met the cross with a well-directed header into the bottom corner to complete PSG's comeback and level the match at 2-2.

Rennes almost responded immediately and came close to regaining the lead in the 86th minute when Ludovic Blas attacked a dangerous cross, only for Willian Pacho to make a crucial goal-line block.

PSG continued to press during the closing minutes but could not find a winner.

Torres proved the decisive figure for PSG, scoring twice after being introduced at half-time, while Ruiz provided both assists.

The result prevented Rennes from turning an outstanding first-half performance into an opening-day victory, while PSG avoided beginning their title defence with defeat.

The Parisians are chasing a sixth consecutive Ligue 1 title after winning their 14th French championship last season.

Rennes will next host newly promoted Le Mans, while PSG travel to face Lille.

Marcus Tavernier gave Bournemouth a first-half lead before Marc Guehi equalised in the 84th minute and Josko Gvardiol completed the turnaround in stoppage time.

The result handed Enzo Maresca a winning start in his first Premier League match as Manchester City manager.

City made a fast start and controlled possession from the opening minutes, but Bournemouth absorbed the pressure and gradually grew into the contest.

Rico Lewis forced Djordje Petrovic into an early save, while Erling Haaland wasted a major opportunity in the 13th minute after Nico O’Reilly delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area.

Bournemouth punished those misses in the 26th minute.

A direct attack eventually released Evanilson down the right, and the Brazilian delivered across the area for Tavernier, who arrived at the back post and finished past Gianluigi Donnarumma to give the visitors the lead.

The goal exposed some uncertainty in City’s defensive structure and gave Bournemouth confidence on the counter-attack.

Justin Kluivert had an opportunity to double the advantage shortly before half-time but Donnarumma made an important save, while Tavernier also went close with another effort from distance.

City continued to create chances, with Haaland seeing a header saved by Petrovic, but Bournemouth reached the interval 1-0 ahead.

Despite City having 68 percent possession in the first half, Bournemouth registered more shots on target and carried a slightly higher expected-goals figure into the break.

Maresca turned to his bench in the second half as City struggled to find a breakthrough.

Matheus Nunes replaced Lewis before Rayan Cherki was introduced for O’Reilly in the 63rd minute.

Cherki’s arrival changed the rhythm of the contest.

Antoine Semenyo forced Petrovic into a save before Haaland missed another chance as City increased the pressure.

Bournemouth remained dangerous and nearly scored a second in the 79th minute when substitute Daniel Jebbison met Tavernier’s cross with a powerful header, only for Donnarumma to produce a crucial save.

That save proved significant.

City finally equalised in the 84th minute when Cherki delivered an excellent ball into the area and Guehi rose unmarked to head past Petrovic.

The goal transformed the atmosphere at the Etihad and City immediately pushed for a winner.

Cherki was again at the centre of the decisive moment in stoppage time.

The French midfielder found Gvardiol inside the Bournemouth penalty area, and the Croatian defender controlled the ball before finishing with his right foot.

The assistant initially raised the offside flag, but VAR reviewed the incident and awarded the goal, completing City’s late turnaround.

Bournemouth had led until six minutes from the end of normal time, but two late defensive lapses ultimately denied them what would have been their first Premier League victory at the Etihad.

Cherki’s introduction proved decisive, with the midfielder providing assists for both City goals after coming on in the second half.

The victory also allowed Maresca to begin the post-Pep Guardiola era with three points following City’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield.

Manchester City will next travel to Crystal Palace, while Bournemouth return home to face Everton.

Newcastle twice took the lead through Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock, but Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai responded for Liverpool as the two sides shared the points.

The hosts made a dream start in Matthias Jaissle’s first Premier League match in charge.

Newcastle opened the scoring after only five minutes when Will Osula drove through midfield and released Elanga on the right side of the penalty area. The winger kept his composure and finished beyond Alisson into the bottom corner.

The goal ended a long league scoring drought for Elanga and gave Newcastle an early platform against a Liverpool side beginning a new era under Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool gradually grew into the match and started to control possession, but Newcastle remained disciplined defensively.

Florian Wirtz forced Lukas Hornicek into a sharp save in the 17th minute, while the visitors continued to push forward without creating enough clear chances.

Liverpool found their equaliser in the 55th minute.

Ryan Gravenberch advanced through midfield before finding Gakpo with a low pass. The Dutch forward turned towards goal and drilled a right-footed finish into the bottom-left corner to make it 1-1.

The scores were level for barely two minutes.

Jaissle introduced Willock from the bench in the 56th minute, and the midfielder made an immediate impact.

Yoane Wissa led a Newcastle counter-attack before feeding Willock, who curled an excellent finish beyond Alisson and in off the post to restore the hosts’ advantage in the 57th minute.

Liverpool responded by making attacking changes, with Alexis Mac Allister and Victor Munoz among those introduced as Iraola searched for another equaliser.

The visitors increased the pressure in the final stages and finished the match with far more attempts than Newcastle, although many of their efforts lacked precision.

Newcastle also remained dangerous on the counter, with Wissa forcing Alisson into an important save late in the contest.

The hosts appeared to be closing in on a memorable opening-day victory as the match entered stoppage time.

Liverpool’s final opportunity arrived in the 96th minute when Munoz burst into the penalty area and went down following contact from Lewis Hall.

The referee immediately pointed to the spot, handing Liverpool one final chance to save the match.

Szoboszlai stepped up in the 99th minute and made no mistake, powering his penalty into the top-left corner beyond Hornicek to make it 2-2 with virtually the final kick of the game.

The goal denied Newcastle what would have been their first Premier League victory over Liverpool since 2015.

The draw also ensured Iraola extended his personal Premier League unbeaten run to 19 matches, while Jaissle had to settle for a point after coming within seconds of beginning his Newcastle reign with a victory.

The contest also featured Alexander Isak’s first return to St James’ Park since his £125 million move from Newcastle to Liverpool, although the Swedish striker endured a quiet afternoon against his former club.

Newcastle will next face West Bromwich Albion in the EFL Cup, while Liverpool return to Anfield for a Premier League meeting with Nottingham Forest.

The disturbances broke out after Tusker secured a 3-1 victory over the reigning FKF Premier League champions to lift the season-opening trophy.

FKF said the incidents endangered supporters, players, journalists, match officials, security personnel and members of the public, insisting that violence and intimidation have no place in Kenyan football.

“There is no place for violence, destruction of property, intimidation or any conduct that puts the safety of players, journalists, officials, fans, security personnel and the public at risk,” the federation said in a statement.

FKF also expressed concern about the use of tear gas and other crowd-control measures during the disturbances.

While acknowledging the responsibility of security agencies to maintain public order, the federation said such measures must be used with restraint, professionalism and in accordance with the law.

The federation has promised to work with the relevant authorities and football stakeholders to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and identify those responsible.

Available footage from the match, reports from officials and accounts from other stakeholders are expected to form part of the investigation.

FKF warned that anyone found to have violated federation regulations or Kenyan law should face appropriate action regardless of whether they are supporters, club officials, stewards or members of the security personnel.

The disturbances overshadowed a strong performance from Tusker, who secured another domestic trophy after winning the FKF Cup last season.

Gor Mahia began positively and threatened early through Ben Stanley Omondi, whose attempt was kept out by Tusker goalkeeper Perrauld Ndinga.

Tusker gradually settled into the contest before taking the lead in the 34th minute. Servyl Akouala’s low free-kick reached Francis Oduor near the edge of the area, and the midfielder connected with a half-volley to put the Brewers ahead.

The Brewers struck again shortly afterwards when Alvin Mang’eni broke down the left and supplied Eugene Ikutwa, who finished to give Tusker a two-goal cushion.

Gor were handed a route back into the contest before half-time when a long throw caused problems inside the Tusker penalty area and Ikutwa turned the ball into his own net.

Gor coach Charles Akonnor made attacking changes after the interval as his side attempted to draw level, but Tusker restored their two-goal advantage.

Yakeen Muteheli delivered into the area and Ian Simiyu produced a clever headed finish to make it 3-1, putting the Brewers firmly in control.

Gor continued to push forward but found Tusker’s defence difficult to break down as Julien Mette’s side protected their advantage through the closing stages.

The victory gave Tusker the FKF Super Cup and further momentum ahead of the new league campaign, while Gor were left to regroup before beginning the defence of their Premier League title.

However, the scenes after the final whistle shifted attention away from the football and back towards concerns over crowd management and safety at major domestic matches.

FKF has urged supporters, clubs, security agencies and other stakeholders to exercise discipline and ensure stadiums remain safe environments for everyone attending Kenyan football matches.

The federation reiterated that protecting the integrity of the game and holding those responsible for misconduct accountable will be central to its response to the Nyayo Stadium incidents.

Nathaniel Brown made his debut for Bayern and scored first before Michael Olise hit the post soon before half-time. Fabio Silva restored Dortmund's morale in the second half but Vincent Kompany's side had the better of them.

With the win, Bayern got another piece of silverware after their Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double last season and their 12th German Supercup.

Bayern dominated the early game, and slowly started to build up the pressure on Dortmund.

On the right, Olise was an important figure and was a major factor in the breakthrough in the 28th minute.

The France international controlled Joshua Kimmich's long pass and kept it up before passing it to Brown in the area. The debutant hit the ball with a measured low shot and the ball was on the Bayern target.

Brown was almost on target second time when Luis Diaz fed him past the far post.

With Dortmund trailing, the lanky Bensebaini produced a beautiful pass and curled a shot into the net in the 43rd minute, but the assistant referee ruled it offside. That decision was also affirmed by a VAR review.

Bayern would retaliate in the first-half stoppage-time.

Dortmund was thrown in and Olise took it down on the penalty area and hammered his past Gregor Kobel to make it 2-0.

But Niko Kovac found the solution as Dortmund looked to find their way back in when he introduced Giannis Konstantelias at the start of the second half.

The changes assisted the hosts to increase their performance.

Dortmund could now be spending more time in Bayern territory with a crucial save in the 53rd minute coming from Konstantinos Karetsas as Neuer was forced into a shot-saving effort from a Dortmund defender.

Kovac came up with additional attacking adjustments just after the 1 hour mark, with Fabian Silva, Maximilian Beier and Joey Veerman added to the lineup.

The pressure finally manifested itself in the 75th minute with a goal.

Silva was able to turn in a low cross after Daniel Svensson played a long pass to Konstatelias who drove in. Neuer was beaten by the substitute's deflected finish, bringing Dortmund to a 2-1 lead.

The otherwise relaxed night turned tense towards the end, as Bayern suddenly felt the pressure.

Olise tried to put the two-goal lead back by slotting a low strike into the hands of Kobel, who made a quick save.

The situation was difficult for Dortmund in the 90th minute when Bensebaini was sent off for a late challenge on Ismael Saibari.

Dortmund nevertheless had a huge chance to push for more action as they were down to a ten-man team.

In stoppage time, Waldemar Anton passed directly to Beier inside the area but the substitute took a direct kick from close range as Bayern managed to get away.

The final whistle put the scoring 2-1 in Bayern's favour and their 8th title for Kompany's side.

Olise put in a major contribution with a goal and an assist while Brown had a memorable debut in the competition with the first goal.

The Bundesliga is now back on after Bayern faced relegation, with the Bavarians facing Stuttgart and Dortmund opening their campaign against Hamburg.

Jude Bellingham gave Madrid an early advantage before Alex Calatrava equalised for Espanyol, setting up a tense second half in which the visitors were repeatedly frustrated before finding the decisive goal late on.

The match marked Mourinho’s first competitive league game since returning to Real Madrid 13 years after his previous spell at the club.

Madrid made the perfect start after only nine minutes.

Arda Guler delivered a precise free-kick into the area and Bellingham rose above the Espanyol defence to head beyond Marko Dmitrovic, scoring the first goal of Mourinho’s second spell in charge.

The visitors initially appeared in control, with Denzel Dumfries also forcing Dmitrovic into a sharp save after being released by Guler.

Espanyol gradually grew into the contest and began threatening Thibaut Courtois at the other end.

Their improvement was rewarded in the 30th minute.

Javi Hernandez found Calatrava making a well-timed run into the penalty area and the midfielder fired a left-footed finish past Courtois to make it 1-1.

Madrid attempted to respond immediately, with Kylian Mbappe testing Dmitrovic before Dumfries fired over from the resulting attack.

Espanyol then had a huge opportunity to take the lead shortly before half-time when Omar El Hilali produced an inviting cross into the area, but Roberto Fernandez failed to convert from close range.

The teams therefore went into the interval level at 1-1, with Espanyol having produced the better expected-goals figure during the opening half despite Madrid’s spells of control.

Madrid increased the pressure after the restart.

Bellingham came close to scoring his second from another Guler set piece in the 53rd minute, but Dmitrovic produced an excellent save to tip his header onto the crossbar.

Federico Valverde later went close as well, with his effort taking a slight deflection before clipping the outside of the post.

Mourinho responded by turning to his bench.

Yan Diomande and Marc Cucurella were introduced for their Real Madrid debuts before Eduardo Camavinga, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Espi entered during the closing stages.

Bellingham was forced off after appearing to suffer an ankle problem, with Espi replacing him in the 80th minute as Mourinho searched for a winner.

That decision proved decisive.

With the game entering the 90th minute, Mbappe burst into the Espanyol penalty area. The ball eventually broke towards Espi, who shifted it onto his right foot, rounded the goalkeeper and finished into the unguarded net.

It was Espi’s first goal for Real Madrid and came just 10 minutes after being introduced.

Espanyol had little time to respond as Madrid protected their advantage through stoppage time to secure all three points.

The visitors finished the match with 2.92 expected goals compared to Espanyol’s 1.12, underlining the chances Mourinho’s team eventually created despite being pushed hard by the hosts.

The victory gives Mourinho a winning start to his second spell in Madrid and gets Los Blancos off the mark in a season in which they are attempting to reclaim the Spanish title after consecutive runners-up finishes.

Real Madrid will next face Real Sociedad as they continue catching up on fixtures following the split opening weekend.

First-half goals from centre-backs Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy secured all three points for Hull as Michael Carrick's United failed to turn overwhelming possession into goals.

Hull entered the contest as underdogs, with the pre-match Opta prediction giving them only an 11 percent chance of victory, but the hosts produced a disciplined and aggressive performance to upset United.

The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute when Ajayi punished United from a set-piece situation to put Hull ahead.

It was the start of a difficult afternoon for the visitors, who enjoyed plenty of possession but struggled to create clear opportunities against a compact Hull defence.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 38th minute, once again exploiting a set piece.

A dangerous delivery into the penalty area found Mendy, who beat the United defence to score on his Hull debut and make it 2-0.

Both goals came from Hull defenders and both originated from set pieces, giving the home side a deserved two-goal advantage at half-time.

United had opportunities to respond before the interval.

Luke Shaw's delivery created a chance for Bryan Mbeumo, whose bicycle kick was comfortably saved by Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis. Bruno Fernandes also saw an effort blocked during first-half stoppage time.

Carrick attempted to change the contest at half-time by introducing Marcus Rashford for Patrick Dorgu.

It marked Rashford's first Premier League appearance in a Manchester United shirt since December 2024.

United continued to dominate the ball after the restart but Hull remained organised and repeatedly dealt with crosses and attacks around their penalty area.

Carrick later introduced Kobbie Mainoo and Benjamin Sesko as United pushed more players forward in search of a way back into the contest.

Mbeumo came close in the 78th minute after Matheus Cunha released him through on goal, but Tzolakis produced an important save to preserve Hull's clean sheet.

Hull remained dangerous on the counter themselves, with substitute Cody Drameh sending a low effort narrowly wide as United committed more players forward.

Despite finishing the match with 70 percent possession and registering 21 goal attempts compared to Hull's eight, United could not find a breakthrough.

Hull's defensive organisation ensured that much of the visitors' attacking pressure produced little genuine danger.

The final whistle confirmed a memorable 2-0 victory for the Tigers and their first league win over Manchester United since 1974. The significance of that potential landmark had been noted late in the contest before Hull successfully protected their advantage.

The result provided Hull with a dream start to their Premier League campaign, while Carrick was left with an immediate setback and questions to address following United's ineffective attacking display.

Hull ended the afternoon second in the early Premier League standings, behind defending champions Arsenal on goal difference, while United dropped to 19th.

Amine Gouiri scored twice, including a second-half penalty, while Keyliane Abdallah and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg added late goals to complete a dominant victory.

The first half ended goalless despite Marseille creating several opportunities and gradually increasing the pressure on the visitors.

Angel Gomes went close early in the contest before forcing Strasbourg goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen into a save, while Igor Paixao also tested the goalkeeper from the left side of the penalty area.

Hojbjerg had two efforts from distance before the interval, while Amine Harit forced another save as Marseille continued to search for the breakthrough.

Strasbourg also had moments going forward, with Gessime Yassine testing Jeffrey de Lange and Samuel Amo-Ameyaw attempting to trouble the Marseille defence.

The hosts finally broke the deadlock immediately after the restart.

Just one minute into the second half, Angel Gomes found Gouiri inside the penalty area and the striker directed a left-footed finish into the bottom corner to put Marseille ahead.

Strasbourg's task became significantly more difficult in the 59th minute when Samir El Mourabet was sent off for violent conduct.

The midfielder's initial punishment was upgraded to a red card following a VAR review, leaving Strasbourg with 10 players for the remainder of the contest.

Marseille quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage.

Igor Paixao was fouled inside the area by Guela Doue, with VAR confirming the penalty before Gouiri stepped forward in the 68th minute.

The forward calmly converted his spot kick into the bottom-right corner to score his second goal of the night and give Marseille a commanding 2-0 advantage.

Strasbourg made several changes as they attempted to stay in the contest, but Marseille remained in control.

The hosts added a third goal in the 89th minute through substitute Keyliane Abdallah.

Abdallah, who had entered the match only minutes earlier, found space on the right side of the penalty area before sending a left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

Marseille were not finished.

Deep into stoppage time, Hojbjerg collected possession outside the penalty area and struck a right-footed effort into the bottom-right corner to complete the 4-0 scoreline.

The result gave Marseille a perfect start to the new Ligue 1 season and provided an early indication of their attacking threat.

Gouiri was at the centre of the performance, scoring the opening two goals before Marseille took full advantage of Strasbourg's red card to make the victory more emphatic late on.

For Strasbourg, El Mourabet's dismissal proved costly as the visitors struggled to contain Marseille during the final half-hour.

Marseille will take confidence from both the result and the clean sheet as they begin their pursuit of a strong domestic campaign.

The two sides went into the interval goalless following a competitive opening half in which neither was able to turn promising moments into a breakthrough.

Betis threatened through Antony during the first half, with the Brazilian forcing Alex Remiro into a save from outside the penalty area after being released by Pablo Fornals.

The hosts eventually found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute following a quick counter-attack.

Cucho Hernandez provided the final pass for Riquelme, who advanced from the left before directing a left-footed finish into the bottom-right corner to put Betis 1-0 ahead.

Real Sociedad responded strongly and came agonisingly close to equalising five minutes later.

Mikel Oyarzabal helped create the opportunity for Luka Sucic, whose left-footed effort from inside the penalty area struck the right post.

The visitors continued searching for a way back into the contest as the match entered its closing stages.

Sucic later tested Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles from distance, while Orri Oskarsson also saw an effort saved as Sociedad increased the pressure.

Betis remained dangerous on the counter, however, with Fornals narrowly missing from outside the area following a break before the hosts introduced fresh legs to protect their advantage.

Antony remained a threat late in the game and forced another save from Remiro during stoppage time, but by then Betis’ priority was preserving their slender lead.

Real Sociedad won a late corner and pushed players forward in search of an equaliser, but Betis held firm through the closing minutes to complete the clean sheet and secure the 1-0 victory.

Riquelme’s goal ultimately separated the teams and gave Betis an important early-season result in LaLiga.

For Sociedad, the defeat was particularly frustrating after Sucic’s effort against the post came within inches of cancelling out the decisive strike.

FKF Football Development Director Francis Kimanzi confirmed the plans at KCB Ruaraka Grounds following the conclusion of a week-long CAF A refresher workshop.

The federation is, however, facing a major selection challenge after receiving more than 100 applications for a course limited to only 25 participants.

According to Kimanzi, CAF regulations restrict each CAF A class to 25 coaches because of the intensity and quality standards required during the six-and-a-half-month programme.

Three of those places will be reserved for foreign coaches under CAF’s cross-border development programme, leaving only 22 slots available for Kenyan applicants.

“The demand is very high,” Kimanzi said, noting that the previous CAF A course conducted in Kenya was held during the 2023-24 season and involved 25 coaches.

The latest programme comes as FKF prepares to strengthen implementation of CAF club licensing requirements for teams competing in the FKF Premier League.

Under the planned regulations, head coaches working in the country’s top flight will eventually be required to hold a valid CAF A coaching diploma.

Kimanzi confirmed that the policy has already been approved and ratified by the FKF National Executive Committee.

The federation will, however, introduce the requirements gradually rather than immediately sanction clubs whose coaches do not meet the new standard.

Kimanzi said FKF intends to provide clubs and coaches with a grace period and transition window that will be incorporated into competition regulations.

The approach is intended to give teams enough time to comply while ensuring the federation moves towards full implementation of the licensing framework.

Applicants seeking places in the September CAF A course must already hold a CAF B licence and have at least two to three years of active coaching experience.

The recently completed refresher programme was aimed at validating and renewing the qualifications of existing coaches working in the country’s leading competitions.

The programme included coaches from both the men’s and women’s top-flight leagues, with FKF stressing that its coach education initiatives remain open to both sections of the game.

The federation views improved coaching education as a key component of raising the overall quality of Kenyan football.

By increasing the number of properly licensed coaches and tightening technical requirements at club level, FKF hopes to improve player development, tactical standards and competitiveness from domestic football through to continental competition.

The September course will therefore form part of a wider effort to build a stronger pool of qualified Kenyan coaches while preparing clubs for stricter licensing requirements in the coming seasons.

The punishment was the heaviest sanction announced by world football’s governing body after disciplinary proceedings into incidents that followed Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.

Spain won the final through Ferran Torres’ extra-time goal, but tensions escalated after the final whistle as players from both teams became involved in confrontations.

Paredes was at the centre of the incident after grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before wrestling midfielder Gavi to the ground while still holding his substitute’s bib.

FIFA subsequently opened disciplinary proceedings and appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate what happened.

Argentina defender Nahuel Molina has also been handed a significant punishment, receiving a seven-match international suspension and a $90,000 fine.

Thiago Almada was suspended for one international match and fined $30,000.

Argentina coaching staff member Roberto Ayala received a three-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for his involvement.

Spain midfielder Gavi was also punished, receiving a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for his role in the confrontation.

The sanctions extend beyond individual players and officials.

Argentina have been ordered to play their next two home matches with stadium capacity restricted to 50 percent, although one of those matches has been suspended as part of the ruling.

The Argentine Football Association has also been fined $321,000 for several breaches of FIFA’s disciplinary regulations.

The charges included team misconduct, discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, and the use of a sporting event for demonstrations considered to be of a non-sporting nature.

One of the incidents under investigation occurred following Argentina’s tense 2-1 World Cup semi-final victory over England.

Several Argentina players displayed a banner carrying the message: “The Falklands are Argentine.”

The Falkland Islands remain the subject of a longstanding sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom.

Argentina invaded the British overseas territory in 1982, triggering a 74-day conflict after Britain sent a naval task force to regain control of the islands.

The war resulted in the deaths of 655 Argentine servicemen, 255 British servicemen and three islanders.

The Argentine Football Association has confirmed it intends to appeal the sanctions imposed by FIFA.

In a statement, the AFA said it would request the reasoning behind the decisions before presenting appeals to FIFA’s Appeals Committee.

The suspensions could have a significant impact on Argentina’s upcoming international fixtures, particularly with Paredes and Molina facing lengthy spells away from the national team.

Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard were all on target as Mikel Arteta’s side made a confident start to their title defence.

Coventry, returning to the Premier League after an absence of more than 25 years, began brightly but soon discovered the level required against the defending champions.

Arsenal broke the deadlock in the 15th minute after Christos Tzolis pressured Milan van Ewijk into an error.

Riccardo Calafiori quickly collected the loose ball and found Havertz, who guided a first-time finish into the far corner to give the Gunners the lead.

The goal continued Havertz’s impressive scoring run, with the Germany international finding the net in a fourth successive start for the first time in his English career.

Arsenal needed only eight more minutes to double their advantage.

Tzolis was again heavily involved, receiving the ball on the left before delivering a low cross towards goal.

Coventry goalkeeper Carl Rushworth managed to get a hand to the delivery but could only push it into the path of Saka, who calmly rolled the rebound into an empty net from close range.

The goal gave Arsenal complete control as Coventry struggled to create meaningful opportunities at the other end.

Arteta’s side went into half-time with a 2-0 lead after producing 1.29 expected goals compared to Coventry’s 0.04 during the opening period.

Any hopes of a second-half Coventry comeback were effectively ended four minutes after the restart.

Saka combined with Ben White down the right before the full-back pulled the ball back towards Odegaard.

The Arsenal captain’s effort was not struck cleanly, but it wrong-footed Rushworth and found its way into the net to make it 3-0.

Arsenal continued to dominate possession and looked capable of adding further goals.

Tzolis remained one of the hosts’ most dangerous players, testing Rushworth from distance and repeatedly finding space around the Coventry defence.

The summer signing received a warm reception when he was replaced by Eberechi Eze in the 76th minute following an impressive Premier League debut.

Arteta also introduced Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino and Piero Hincapie as Arsenal managed their advantage during the closing stages.

Coventry produced their clearest opportunity in the 86th minute when Jack Rudoni met Victor Torp’s cross, but his header went straight into David Raya’s hands.

The visitors were unable to find a consolation as Arsenal completed the match with a clean sheet and all three points.

The final result represented a strong opening statement from the reigning champions, who had also beaten Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield before the start of the league campaign.

Arsenal will now prepare for their next Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, while Coventry turn their attention to an EFL Cup meeting with Plymouth Argyle before hosting Hull City in their first home league match of the season.

The 24-year-old right-back has signed a five-year contract with the Premier League club and becomes the latest addition to Matthias Jaissle’s new-look squad at St James’ Park.

Dedic arrives with international and European experience after representing Bosnia-Herzegovina at the 2026 World Cup, where he started three matches.

His move to Newcastle will also reunite him with Jaissle, who previously coached the defender during their time together at Red Bull Salzburg.

The pair were part of the Salzburg side that won the Austrian Bundesliga title in 2023.

Dedic joined Salzburg in 2019 and initially developed through feeder club Liefering, where he first worked under Jaissle.

He later spent time on loan with Austrian side Wolfsberger before also featuring for French club Marseille.

The defender subsequently joined Benfica on a permanent transfer, continuing his development before Newcastle moved to bring him to the Premier League.

Dedic has also established himself at international level, earning 31 appearances for Bosnia-Herzegovina.

His ability to operate at right-back gives Jaissle another young defensive option as Newcastle reshape their squad following a summer of significant change.

The Magpies have lost several established first-team players during the transfer window.

Anthony Gordon has joined Barcelona, while Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali moved to Tottenham Hotspur.

Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes also left St James’ Park to join Arsenal.

The departures followed the exit of Eddie Howe, who stepped down after nearly five years in charge before Jaissle was appointed as his successor.

Newcastle have responded by targeting younger players capable of forming the core of their next team.

Defensive midfielder Aladji Bamba and Ivory Coast winger Bazoumana Toure are among the club’s new recruits, while goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek has also joined.

Dedic now becomes another important piece of that rebuilding project as Newcastle prepare for the start of the Premier League season.

His previous relationship with Jaissle could help him settle quickly as the German coach implements his ideas at the club.

Newcastle will begin their Premier League campaign at home to Liverpool on Sunday, with Dedic potentially in contention to make his first appearance for the Magpies.

The boys' championship was won by Vihiga Cranes, who just edged out Busia's Musokoto Secondary 1-0 in a thrilling final.

The turning point came in the 61st minute when Tonny Omondi came up with the solution to head home Luke Ramsey's corner and win the regional title for the Vihiga County people.

Vihiga Cranes kept the lead to deliver a sterling season and qualify for a national finals berth, as Musokoto was pushing for an equaliser.

Vihiga Cranes head coach Francis Muhambe applauded his players for their discipline in a challenging final.

The latest victory was special, but Muhambe said his side's goal is no longer just to win the Western Region as their ambitions now stretch to other levels.

He credited the opportunity that came to them, saying Vihiga Cranes were ultimately rewarded for the opportunity that came their way and it was a firm test from Musokoto.

The next challenge now comes with the nationals which is to be the continuation of the successful run secured by the Western Region champions.

The final was even closer for the girls as Lugari Progressive and Chakol Girls of Busia played a goalless draw in the 45 minutes of regular time.

Neither side could get a breakthrough so the title was drawn from the PK area.

Lugari Progressive had to show mental strength to come out from that shootout with a 5-4 record and the Western Region girls' title.

Coach Fred Serenge congratulated his team for their determination and focus during the game, and they have earned the right to win the regional championship.

Lugari Progressive and Vihiga Cranes won each Ksh250,000, in addition to smartphones and airtime for the win.

The two teams will also compete for the Western Region in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba national finals.

Runners-up schools, Musokoto Secondary School and Chakol Girls each got Ksh150,000 and smartphones and airtime.

Oustanding individual performances were also noted in the regional competition with the recognition of a number of players.

Musokoto's Elvis Ogiro won the Most Valuable Player award in the boys' competition while Hanifa Mashasha from Chakol girls won the award in girls competition.

In the boys' category, Nabo Ochieng of Musokoto was awarded as the Best Goalkeeper while in the girls' category Shamsy Pachanga of Lugari Progressive was the recipient of the same award.

Hanifa Mashasha, Lydia Laura, Zipporah Wanyonyi, Delphine Mutirira and Viola Chepkorir shared the top scorer in the girls' side of the contest.

The boys' competition saw Mellon Omondi and Tonny Omondi of Vihiga Cranes maintain their top-scorer status with the Musokoto players Rom Okitwi, Frankline Paul and Calvin Masai.

Award prizes of Ksh30,000 each were given to the Best Goalkeeper and Top Scorer.

The MVPs also won Ksh30, 000 and a fully-funded tertiary education scholarship under the Safaricom Citizens of the Future Programme.

The Western Region tournament has concluded and the Safaricom Chapa Dimba will be held in the Central Region.

The following regional finals will be held at Wang'uru Stadium, Kirinyaga County on August 29 and 30.

The Indomitable Lionesses concluded a remarkable campaign in Morocco after scoring thrice with Naomi Eto getting another as they brought an end to years of final heartbreak.

They have been runners up in the final three times in the past - losing to Nigeria in 2004, 2014 and 2016 - and have yet to build up their form.

Their recent campaign itself looked doubtful as they missed the tournament on the first try.

Meanwhile, Cameroon suffered both legs of a decisive loss to Algeria in their last qualifying draw, and had the chance again when the event was expanded to 16 teams.

The four teams with the worst records in the group stage of the qualification round were brought into the tournament, and Cameroon will be one of the winners from that.

They made the most of their second chance and eventually went all the way to the title.

After a very impressive debut performance in the tournament, Malawi were among the big surprises for the Final.

The Scorchers, who are now in the 153rd ranking, had defeated Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana and Algeria, who were four-time champions, in their path to the final.

Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga had been instrumental in Malawi's offensive prowess as they combined to make nine goals in the tournament.

Malawi entered the game with some weight on their shoulders and tried to put Cameroon on the back foot from the start with the speed and power of the Chawinga sisters.

The Scorchers did get a promising start but couldn't convert it into a goal.

However, Cameroon slowly took charge of the game and managed to find the break in the deadlock in the 20th minute.

The cross was headed for the box and that rebound was brought back towards the box, and Ngah was the quickest to react to and head in.

The game went to Cameroon's control as Ngah scored his fourth of the tournament.

The Lionesses went on to double their lead 9 minutes later.

Eto found the ball with her back to goal and then swung around and produced a cool finish into the corner to make it 2-0.

Malawi had to regroup to clear the second goal only for Cameroon to pounce again before the break.

Three minutes into the first half stoppage time, Eto fed the ball home and Ngah was quick to head her second goal of the game.

The brace helped Cameroon to settle down for the interval with a 3-0 lead and Malawi were left with a difficult journey to the final.

Ngah then had her chance for a hat-trick early in the second half, but hit a long-range shot over Sikelo's head.

Malawi became more defensive in the second half, and averted Cameroon from going on the attack.

Temwa Chawinga did her best to cut the loss after a goal battle, but her effort was low and it bounced off.

The Africans of Cameroon also played well to keep their clean sheet until the very end.

It was a remarkable turns of events for the Indomitable Lionesses as they went from losing points in qualification to hoisting a continental trophy.

In Malawi, the loss was an end to a memorable first venture in the continent that made the Scorchers one of the rising women's football powers.

They managed to successfully qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil as well as beat some of the continent's veteran teams along the way.

Due to their gains in the semi-finals of the WAFCON, Cameroon, Malawi, Algeria and Morocco were all automatic qualifiers for the World Cup.

South Africa and Ghana could also qualify for the tournament via the intercontinental play-offs.

But the night in Rabat was for Cameroon as they found themselves on a stage where they finally claimed Africa's crown with an Indomitable Lionesses side that had been waiting too long to become champions of Africa.

The Canaries side had a fantastic display against one of their premier league rivals with the introduction of Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Riccardo Calafiori.

The Gunners only took 23 seconds to go ahead.

Myles Lewis-Skelly picked up the ball and was able to break through City's defence with a well-weighted pass in the direction of Calafiori, who was running into the penalty area and calmly slotting it over Gianluigi Donnarumma.

It was an ideal beginning to Arsenal's season, and a swift blow for Enzo Maresca in his first game in charge of Manchester City.

City tried to come back and started to create more chances, but whenever Arsenal were at attack, they were always a danger.

City produced one of their first significant attempts in the 20th minute with Phil Foden, but David Raya made a good save to his left with the ball low.

Havertz doubled Arsenal's lead in the 28th minute.

New signing Christos Tzolis had his shot returned across goal for Havertz to hit beyond Donnarumma from a cross towards the back post.

The assist was an impressive first time on the court for Tzolis, who would have another pivotal role after the break.

Before half-time Manchester City were looking to take the lead, and their attacking duo of Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku had shot their way through the defensive array to score, but Raya and his defence were enough to frustrate Maresca's side.

Odegaard also got within a whisker of scoring his third goal before half-time, but Josko Gvardiol swiped his shot wide.

Arsenal's more clinical style proved to be the better option in the first half, as they stormed 2-0 up into the locker room.

The Gunners started the second half much the same way as the first.

Tzolis took possession back on the left just three minutes into the second half, where he found Odegaard inside the box.

The Arsenal skipper was able to step past the City defence, bypass Donnarumma and finish past him to make it 3-0.

This was Tzolis' second assist of the game on his debut game for Arsenal.

Maresca came up with a few save attempts to try and save the game.

Some of the substitutions made included Haaland for Omar Marmoush, Rayan Cherki, Rico Lewis, Marc Guehi and Jack Grealish.

Arteta also found the easy times to add minutes to the ranks of Bukayo Saka, Piero Hincapie, Viktor Gyokeres, Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze.

After the changes, City made up ground, but Cherki got Raya's attention in the far post again with a long-range strike.

City also had one downer with Antoine Semenyo finding one of their best opportunities late in the game but Raya was quick for the plank.

It was a game in which Arsenal were just as threatening, and Saka made another exciting attacking start with Tzolis.

City failed to produce a response and Arsenal held on to their lead of three goals to make sure their big lead was maintained through the end.

The Premier League champions got their first trophy of the new season with the 3-0 win and the final whistle.

After a match in which Arsenal conceded 2.19 goals to City's 0.77 expected goals, it was a testament to the efficiency of Arteta's men both at attack and defence.

The new Arsenal players had an encouraging performance, which was especially pleasing for the youngsters.

Tzolis gave him two assists while Bruno Guimaraes made his first competitive appearance for the club as Arteta introduced his new-look squad.

The failure was the first taste of trouble for Maresca and he will have plenty to think about whilst the Premier League campaign is set to begin.

The Gunners will now focus on their bid to defend the title from their early challenge at one of the clubs they are likely to be taking on at the top of the table.

The Foxes are preparing to compete in the third tier of English football for only the second time in their history following a difficult period marked by successive relegations.

Leicester dropped out of the Premier League in 2025 before suffering another relegation from the Championship in 2026, leaving the 2016 English champions facing life in League One.

Their decline came only a few years after another major achievement, with Leicester winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history in 2021.

The club’s financial problems also contributed to their struggles last season after they were docked six points for breaching the English Football League’s profit and sustainability regulations.

The deduction further damaged Leicester’s survival hopes and eventually contributed to their relegation to League One.

King Power, which is controlled by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, has now reportedly commissioned a leading United States investment bank to explore the sale of the club.

Leicester’s assets are said to have been valued at more than £200 million as the owners begin searching for potential buyers.

King Power purchased Leicester for approximately £35 million in 2010 and oversaw an extraordinary period in the club’s history.

The most memorable achievement came in 2016 when Leicester stunned English football by winning the Premier League title against overwhelming odds.

That historic triumph was followed by continued appearances in European competition and the club’s maiden FA Cup success five years later.

Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha became Leicester chairman following the death of his father Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who was killed in a helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium.

Aiyawatt has remained in charge during the club’s recent decline and accepted responsibility following their latest relegation.

He admitted that he should take some of the blame for Leicester’s situation while promising changes to the club’s structure.

The reported decision to consider a sale could now bring an end to more than 15 years of ownership by the Srivaddhanaprabha family.

Leicester will begin the new campaign under manager Russell Martin as they attempt to secure an immediate return to the Championship.

Their promotion challenge begins with an away fixture against Notts County on Saturday.

After 120 minutes of failed opportunities to penetrate the other team's defence, the Indomitable Lionesses stood steadfast in the shootout, with goalkeeper Cathy Bihina saving several times to become the hero of the night.

Bihina had already scored the match's highlight in the shoot out, but had saved Fatima Tagnaout's penalty in the 118th minute.

Maryam Nyadjou was called for the VAR review after being judged to have caught Sakina Ouzraoui in the face with her arm, which led to Moroccas winning the spot kick.

Tagnaout took her shot from the left foot knowing it would be a long shot to get into the final, but her effort was blocked by Bihina.

The save meant that the match went scoreless into the semi-final and penalties.

Cameroon were more settled from the spot, scoring three of their four shots with Marie Ngah and Rose Bella and teenage defender Nyadjou.

Morocco only scored one penalty, which was averted by Hanane Ait El Haj.

Bihina made three more crucial saves as Kenza Chapelle, Maryame Atiq and Ouzraoui all missed.

Indomitable Lionesses goalkeeper Grace Mendoua was the only player to miss for her team as Morocco goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi saved her effort.

Later, Cameroon was granted a fourth penalty, which Nyadjou was able to convert for the 3-1 shootout win, putting an end to the home supporters' cries in Rabat.

Cameroon will enter into their fourth WAFCON final and their first since 2016.

It's another huge success in a stellar knockout journey, as Cameroon defeated 10-time champions Nigeria 1-0 in the quarter-final.

In the semi-final Moroccan was looking to qualify for their third straight continental final and to finally win a title on their own soil for the first time in their history.

The Atlas Lionesses had lots of time on the ball for extended periods but failed to overcome a disciplined Cameroon defence.

Ait El Haj was able to inch nearer the goal in the 14th minute when his cross was redirected into the net by Sanaa Mssoudy.

Mssoudy again threatened after the break, but failed to break through as Morocco pressed for a chance.

As the game went on, Cameroon was ever more tightly contained but also more threatening, which was not the case for Morocco coach Jorge Vilda, who tinkered with his squad in an effort to breathe more life into their attack.

Imane Saoud then fired Bihina, with Mssoudy taking another shot wide from a late push in.

Cameroon also found opportunity; Michaela Abam was able to beat her man and fire over while another attempt was blocked in extra time.

Atiq headed over for Morocco as both sides kept pressing for a victor until the spectacular penalty in the final moments.

Tagnaout's miss cost her and the momentum she gave to Bihina carried over to the shootout.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper was a key player in Cameroon's quarter-final win over Nigeria and was again effective at a crucial moment.

With the loss, Morocco has cut its chances of securing its first-ever WAFCON championship in front of their own home crowd.

Having finished on the losing end in 2022, the Atlas Lionesses also lost to the team they were eliminated from in the postponed 2024 edition and have now made it to the semi-finals.

A side that has never played in a tournament before will now take on tournament debutants Malawi in the final on Sunday after beating Algeria 3-1 in the other semi-final of the group stage.

The Indomitable Lionesses will look to become the first continental champions after the runner-up finish in three previous attempts.

Meanwhile, Malawi are looking to an extraordinary title win in their debut WAFCON tournament, making their final a sure thing of a new winner in the competition.

The European champions went ahead as soon as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored, followed by Brian Madjo (17) a few minutes before half-time putting Villa level.

In the second half, Desire Doue reverted the situation in favor of PSG and scored after a VAR challenge for offside to give his team the first trophy of their 2026-27 season.

PSG came into the game as champions of the Champions League and their attacking display was maintained in the 20th minute when Kvaratskhelia broke the deadlock.

The Georgian striker picked up the ball on the left and flew in and scored a big finish which Aston Villa goalkeeper Marco Bizot could not handle.

It was an impressive performance from Villa, who produced a number of opportunities with Madjo, who was making his professional debut on one of European football's biggest stages.

He was within a few yards of the ball a couple of times before making his fortune on the break of the half-time.

In the inching challenge from Willian Pacho, Madjo held firm to make it 1-1, to become the youngest player to score in UEFA Super Cup history.

The match was level at the time of the break and the European champions had a new sense of confidence when his equaliser came in.

Villa lacked a number of key rotation players, such as Ollie Watkins, Ezri Konsa and Emiliano Martinez, who all came off the bench for the World Cup with long layoffs.

The voids opened up ways for younger players with Madjo and 19-year-old George Hemmings both delivering promising performances with top teams.

PSG got the points back in the 61st minute.

He ended up behind Aston Villa defence as Doue went on for the finishing touch, but was momentarily lost when VAR looked up an offside call.

The objective was eventually achieved, making the French champions 2-1 ahead.

Villa was not prepared to pass over the baton, and almost hit the first reply.

Hemmings was in a good position to score soon after the goal but goalkeeper Matvey Safonov dived to his right for the ball, making a good save to preserve PSG's lead.

Emery's side kept looking for an equaliser in the final moments, but PSG tried to take control of the contest and hold onto their slender lead by playing a possession-based game.

Villa advanced at the end and Emi Buendia had one fancy chance from a distance in stoppage time but his shot went astray.

PSG fought back to win yet another European title and a defense of the UEFA Super Cup.

It would follow a clear superlative trend for Luis Enrique in his career, and would demonstrate that PSG were still aiming to be the continent's leading side.

Aston Villa had been left with their tails between their legs but had grounds for consolation with a competitive display against the reigning European champions.

Madjo was also a notable specimen and the youngster looked fearless and calm on his maiden appearance for one of the continent's top teams.

PSG's win was a perfect opening for the new season with captain Marquinhos lifting the Super Cup in Salzburg.

The Chawinga sisters were in another memorable form for the tournament debutants as they claimed all three of Malawi's successes.

Tabitha Chawinga netted twice while her younger sister Temwa scored once as Malawi emerged from a dismal semi-final littered with two red cards, lots of chances missed and VAR's repeated interventions.

The outcome will see Malawi go through to Sunday's final to face either hosts Morocco or Cameroon.

However, for the first time in WAFCON's history, the Malawi side have managed to defeat a number of other great African teams such as Nigeria, Algeria and Ghana despite their low seed.

A difficult task was set for Algeria mid first half when defender Morgane Belkhiter was sent off for a VAR review for denying Tabitha Chawinga a goal.

Malawi took the lead in the 33rd minute thanks to Tabitha's fantastic finish.

Asimenye Simwaka led the ball into the box and Chawinga danced to perfection with her back to the goal and then produced an acrobatic overhead left foot kick.

It bounced across the crossbar and rolled down and back over the line, the crossbar being the only thing that prevented it from going into the net and giving Malawi the lead.

It was doubled in the first half of stoppage time by Temwa.

The Kansas City Current striker broke her pace through the rounded Algeria goalkeeper, Chloe N'Gazi, and delicately dropped the ball into the empty net, 2-0.

But Malawi were the other side with 10 men on the pitch before half-time too.

After being shown a VAR review, Rose Kadzere was booked for a red card for catching VAR Marine Dafeur with a high challenge.

The game continued undecided when both sides began when playing with 10.

Temwa was denied a good chance to score for Malawi early on and Melissa Bethi had an opportunity to score for Algeria early on, but neither converted.

Algeria eventually got one back about an hour later via Ikram Adjabi.

Sheer penalty luck for Malawi as Adjabi was able to react and slot the shot across goal after the defending side had failed to get it.

It gave Algeria hope of a full recovery for a while but when there was an attack, Malawi was never far from the threat.

Tabitha would eventually settle the game with her second goal.

The 30-year-old sliced into the box with virtually no defence in front of him before adding to Malawi's two-goal lead from close range.

Algeria couldn't react as the Scorchers dominated the end of the game and won another historic win.

In total, the two Chawinga sisters have scored eight goals in the eight games they have played in Malawi.So far, the Chawinga sisters have netted eight goals: Temwa has five, while Tabitha has three goals at the tournament.

Their performances have played a key role in the campaign that has led to Malawi's qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The Scorchers are the first new participants in this year's edition of WAFCON to reach the final, and are now one win away from claiming one of the biggest comebacks of the tournament's history.

Malawi, who will be entering the final with a level of confidence they have built up after beating some of the best teams in Africa, have all the reason to feel like they will be able to complete their extraordinary journey with the cup.

The 2018 World Cup winner sustained the injury while training at St George’s Park, the English national football centre, shortly after Monaco’s pre-season friendly victory over Liverpool.

The setback comes at a difficult time for the 33-year-old midfielder, who had only recently returned to full group training following a lengthy battle with right-knee problems.

Pogba has managed just one half of football for Monaco during pre-season, leaving doubts over whether he will be fit enough to feature when the new Ligue 1 campaign begins.

According to sources close to the situation, the latest injury indicates that the former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder remains some distance from reaching the physical condition required for regular competitive football.

Pogba joined Monaco hoping to rebuild his career after a prolonged period away from the game.

He had previously been handed a four-year suspension following an anti-doping violation before eventually serving 18 months of the sanction.

His return to competitive football was further complicated by fitness problems last season.

Pogba made only six Ligue 1 appearances for Monaco, accumulating 115 minutes as the club carefully managed his return.

The midfielder had hoped that a full pre-season would provide an opportunity to regain fitness and compete for a regular place in the Monaco side.

However, the latest thigh problem represents another interruption to his recovery and could delay his return to competitive action.

Monaco will now assess the extent of the injury as they continue preparations for the new season.

For Pogba, the immediate priority will be recovering from the setback and rebuilding his fitness after another frustrating period on the sidelines.

Rose Kadzere scored the decisive goal in the second half as the tournament debutants continued a remarkable run that has already included victories over defending champions Nigeria and Egypt.

The result guarantees Malawi one of Africa’s four automatic qualification places for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Having topped Group C in their maiden WAFCON appearance, the Scorchers entered the quarter-final carrying confidence from an impressive group-stage campaign.

Ghana, seeking a return to the Women’s World Cup for the first time since 2007, made the stronger start and opened the scoring after only seven minutes.

Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah produced a composed finish to give the Black Queens an early advantage and put them on course for a place in the semi-finals.

Malawi responded almost immediately.

Captain Temwa Chawinga struck in the 12th minute to restore parity, once again underlining her importance to the Scorchers during their historic campaign.

The equaliser changed the complexion of the match as both teams began creating opportunities in an increasingly open contest.

With a semi-final place and automatic World Cup qualification available to the winner, neither side was willing to surrender control.

Ghana thought they had restored their lead shortly after half-time when Doris Boaduwaa found the net.

However, the goal was ruled out following a VAR review, keeping Malawi level and setting up a tense conclusion.

The Black Queens introduced Princella Adubea, Wasila Mohammed and Princess Marfo as they searched for another breakthrough, but Malawi’s defence remained disciplined.

The Scorchers continued to pose a threat on the counterattack, using their pace and movement to stretch the Ghana defence.

Their persistence eventually produced the decisive moment in the 79th minute.

Kadzere found space inside the penalty area and calmly finished beyond the Ghana goalkeeper to put Malawi 2-1 ahead.

Ghana pushed players forward during the closing stages in an attempt to force extra time, but Malawi held firm under pressure.

The final whistle sparked celebrations as the Scorchers confirmed both their place in the WAFCON semi-finals and an historic first appearance at a FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Malawi’s achievement represents a remarkable breakthrough for a team competing at the continental tournament for the first time.

The Scorchers have exceeded expectations throughout the competition and have now defeated several of Africa’s established women’s football nations on their way to the last four.

For Ghana, the quarter-final defeat ended their hopes of securing automatic World Cup qualification through WAFCON.

The Black Queens, however, still have an opportunity to reach Brazil 2027 through the qualification play-offs.

Ghana will face Côte d’Ivoire in the African play-off, with the winner progressing to the FIFA Women’s World Cup intercontinental play-offs.

Malawi can now turn their attention to the WAFCON semi-finals knowing they have already achieved one of the biggest milestones in the country’s football history.

From tournament newcomers to World Cup qualifiers, the Scorchers’ extraordinary campaign continues.

The two sides were locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes before substitute Daniel Muhoza produced the decisive moment in extra time to hand Rayon their second regional crown and first since 1998.

Gor entered the final seeking their fourth Kagame Cup title and their first since 1985, but a determined Rayon side, backed by a large home crowd, denied Charles Akonnor’s men at the final hurdle.

K’Ogalo started positively and created one of the first clear openings when Shariff Musa released Paul Okoth, whose first-time effort went narrowly wide.

Rayon gradually grew into the contest and began asking questions of the Gor Mahia defence.

Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi was called into action to deny Elie Tatou, while Muderi Akbar headed narrowly over from an Issa Djiguiba corner.

Gor also threatened through Ebenezer Ocran, who raced onto Alpha Onyango’s pass before sending his effort just wide.

Rayon eventually found the breakthrough in the 28th minute.

Herman Junior Kameni reacted quickest inside the penalty area and converted a low delivery to put the Rwandan side 1-0 ahead.

The hosts continued to threaten after taking the lead, with Akbar firing narrowly over before Kameni was denied by another important save from Omondi.

Gor had opportunities of their own before the interval, including a header from captain Michael Kibwage that went just wide.

The Kenyan champions returned for the second half with greater attacking intent and were rewarded shortly after the restart.

Musa brought Gor level after controlling a long pass, beating his markers and producing a composed finish beyond goalkeeper Dandie Junior.

The equaliser changed the momentum of the contest as Gor increased the pressure in search of a second goal.

Substitute Ben Stanley added energy to K’Ogalo’s attack and was involved in several promising moves as Gor began creating chances around the Rayon penalty area.

Rayon, however, remained dangerous on the counterattack.

Kameni came close to restoring the hosts’ advantage when he met a cross with a powerful header, but Omondi produced an excellent one-handed save to keep the scores level.

Gor continued pushing forward, with Alpha Onyango and Enock Machaka both going close, but neither side could find the decisive goal before the end of normal time.

The match therefore moved into extra time with the score at 1-1.

Rayon delivered the decisive blow seven minutes into the additional period.

A ball into the Gor Mahia defensive area eventually fell to substitute Muhoza, who produced a spectacular acrobatic finish to beat Omondi and restore the hosts’ lead.

The strike sparked wild celebrations inside Amahoro Stadium as Rayon moved within touching distance of ending their long wait for regional glory.

Gor refused to surrender and pushed numbers forward in search of another equaliser.

Ebenezer Assiafuah, Daniel Sakari and Kibwage all threatened as K’Ogalo attempted to force the final into a penalty shootout.

Rayon were reduced to 10 men during the closing stages of extra time, but they defended their advantage and held on until the final whistle.

The victory ended Rayon Sports’ 28-year wait for a second CECAFA Kagame Cup title. Their previous success came in 1998 when they defeated Zanzibar’s Mlandege in the final.

For Gor Mahia, the defeat extended their wait for a fourth regional crown to 41 years.

K’Ogalo won three Kagame Cup titles in 1980, 1981 and 1985 but have been unable to add another since.

The defeat also represented another painful final for the Kenyan giants after they finished runners-up in the competition in 2015.

Despite falling short, Gor produced an encouraging tournament under Akonnor.

They opened their campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over APR before losing 1-0 to Uganda’s Vipers SC and recovering to beat Garde Republicaine in their final group match.

Gor then survived a dramatic semi-final against Sudanese giants Al-Hilal Omdurman, advancing 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Rayon, meanwhile, completed an unbeaten campaign and walked away with the $30,000 winners’ prize.

Gor Mahia received $20,000 as runners-up, while Al-Hilal claimed third place and $10,000 after defeating South Sudan’s Jamus SC 2-1 in the playoff.

Although the final ended in disappointment, Gor Mahia leave Kigali with encouraging signs ahead of the 2026-27 season after several new players made an impact during the regional tournament.

It comes as good news for the Premier League outfit after a couple of days since Newcastle announced the move on Wednesday.The Premier League club said on Wednesday that Jaissle will take over from Newcastle's duties on the first day of the 2026-27 season.

The 38-year-old is coming into the park after a successful stint at Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ahli, where he was able to claim back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles. He was the first coach to have done so after leading the club in continental triumphs during 2025 and 2026.

Newcastle had an “incredible ambition, history”, and they had a “crazy amount of supporters”, so it was hard to pass up, Jaissle said.

The former Germany Under-21 international said he had seen how Newcastle have progressed and that the club has built up some good foundations for success.

After suffering from ongoing injury issues, Jaissle had his playing career cut short at the age of 25.

He started his senior management career in the second-tier Austrian team FC Liefering, taking them to 2nd place in which year he was appointed head coach of Red Bull Salzburg in 2021.

In his inaugural campaign at Salzburg, Jaissle was able to win the Austrian Bundesliga and the Austrian Cup. The following year he continued to lead the team to the Champions League knockout round and took over the league championship.

He joined Al-Ahli in 2023 and spent his maiden season leading the team to third-place in the Saudi Pro League, and therefore to the AFC Champions League Elite.

Then in 2025 Al-Ahli won their first continental title thanks to Jaissle and then managed to defend the title in 2026. In his days in Jeddah, he was also the winner of the Saudi Super Cup.

Newcastle head coach David Hopkinson said he had been through a rigorous recruitment process to find the best candidate for the role, which led to Jaissle.

The club were impressed with his leadership, contributions to player development and love for high tempo, fast paced football.

Jaissle's side have been praised for their attacking fireworks, ability to turn the ball over swiftly and to try to win it up high on the field.

The Newcastle approach is similar to that of Howe, who steered Newcastle to its first major domestic trophy in 70 years and two Champions League berths.

Howe said he was stepping down after a challenging campaign as Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League in his almost five years in charge.

The manager of Bournemouth in his last season, left the club with a disappointing record, but the former club leader has turned Newcastle into a competitive outfit, and produced the League Cup in 2025.

But the team is in turmoil with Newcastle aiming to return to European football and Jaissle will be expected to rebuild as he takes over from a team on a downward trend.

His first game will be a pre-season game on August 8 at Valencia's Mestalla stadium in the first away match of the season.

Newcastle will kick off their new Premier League campaign at home to Liverpool on August 23.

He fully believes Newcastle's project and will take commitment, energy and determination with him as he starts off the biggest assignment in his managerial career, Jaissle said.

The Gunners are expected to pay £75 million for the Brazil international after submitting an improved second offer.

Newcastle rejected Arsenal’s opening bid on Monday, but further discussions have reportedly brought the clubs closer to completing the transfer.

Guimaraes is expected to undergo a medical later this week before finalising his move to the Emirates Stadium.

Personal terms are understood to have been agreed for some time, leaving the transfer fee and final contractual formalities as the main issues to resolve.

Arsenal reportedly hope to complete the deal within the next 48 hours.

The midfielder is currently with Newcastle’s squad at a training camp in La Manga, Spain, and is awaiting permission to leave to complete the move.

Newcastle are believed to be satisfied with the proposed fee, which would deliver a significant profit on the £38 million they paid Lyon to sign Guimaraes in 2022.

His departure would continue a major summer overhaul at St James’ Park.

Anthony Gordon has already joined Barcelona, while Sandro Tonali completed a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Alexander Isak also left Newcastle for Liverpool last year.

Arsenal identified Guimaraes as a leading target after deciding they needed another high-quality midfielder to compete with and provide support for Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.

Rice and Zubimendi carried a demanding workload last season, with both featuring regularly as Arsenal competed across several competitions.

Guimaraes’ Premier League experience, physical strength and ability to influence matches in possession would give Arsenal greater depth in central midfield.

The Brazilian has established himself as one of Newcastle’s most important players since arriving from Lyon and was reportedly open to leaving following a period of major change at the club.

Arsenal will now seek to complete the medical and remaining paperwork before officially confirming another significant addition to their squad.

After the two legs of the semi-final were tied at the end of regulation and both teams had to go through extra time, the Kenyan side were able to do so after they managed to keep their composure from the spot.

After a sustained attack from Gor Mahia, they scored the first goal in the 38th minute.

Al-Hilal's lead would only last five minutes, however, as they responded in the 43rd minute and put themselves in a level position before half-time.

The Sudanese giants managed to slip through the back of the Gor Mahia defence and had the chance to level the two teams at 1-1 after half-time.

The second half became a tense and tactical affair as both teams were able to make some useful attacking movements but could not convert them into the clinching goals.

Gor Mahia were well structured in their defense while Al-Hilal were still looking for space in the Kenyan champions' defense.

The game went into extra time when neither side could get going in the run-up to the end of normal time.

Substitute Leslay Otieno was getting close to even the score early in the extra time.

Otieno created a good opportunity and tried to hit the ball hard but it missed the crossbar.

The challenge was made harder for Gor Mahia in the 100th minute when Jackson Dwang was sent off for getting in the path of the ball.The challenge was made more difficult for Gor Mahia when Jackson Dwang got in the way of the ball and was shown a straight red card in the 100th minute.

With 10 players on the field, K'Ogalo had a chance to press Al-Hilal's attacks in the remaining minutes.

Gor Mahia, however, played the match with discipline and determination to thwart the Sudanese side from giving them another goal.

They kept a cool head in their heads and made it to the pen after keeping a cool head on their shoulders.

The shootout lasted a long time, though both sides showed great composure, and kept kicking the more the tension inside the stadium rose.

A vital Al-Hilal error finally gave the chance to the Gor Mahia side to win the game.

The Kenyan winners made it 8-7 on the night as they found the net from a penalty in the shoot-out to qualify for the final.

Gor Mahia will now be facing Rayon Sports in the championship decider from the Rwandan side.

The other semi-final was between Rayon and Jamus from South Sudan, who won 3-1 to qualify for the final.

On 23rd December 2025, the South Sudan international was provisionally suspended by ADAK for multiple whereabouts failures.

Now the Sports Disputes Tribunal has upheld the sanctions, Ouma is barred from football for the rest of 2026 and for 2027.

Selected athletes must provide truthful information on their location to make it possible for them to be tested out-of-competition as per anti-doping rules.

The suspension comes as a huge blow to Ouma who was voted Kenya Police FC's Midfielder of the Year for the 2025-26 campaign.

The club will also be missing one of their top midfielders in Kenya Police's absence, which will be a major setback for them as they head into the new season.

Ouma will be able to play football again only after he or she has served the entire suspension.

The window opened on June 21 and will close on August 21, 2026, giving clubs three more weeks to complete registrations, release players and finalise negotiations with their remaining targets.

Gor Mahia have been among the most active clubs after completing the signings of Daniel Sakari and David Okoth from Kenya Police, Paul Okoth from Ulinzi Stars and Lesley Otieno and Enock Machaka from Nairobi United.

The record Kenyan champions have also brought in Michael Onyango from Equity Bank, Hansel Ochieng from APS Bomet, former AFC Leopards goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi and Ghanaian defender Ebenezer Ocran.

Paul Okoth has already made an immediate impact by scoring Gor Mahia’s winning goal against Garde Republicaine in the CECAFA Kagame Cup.

K’Ogalo’s recruitment has been accompanied by a major clear-out. Enock Morrison has moved to Sudanese side Al-Merrikh, while Mark Shaban has joined Posta Rangers on loan.

Philemon Otieno, Ernest Wendo, Gad Mathews, Fidel Origa, Levin Odhiambo, Geoffrey Ochieng, Chris Ochieng, Bryson Wangai and Elly Owande are also among the players reported to have left the club.

AFC Leopards have strengthened their midfield with the signing of Uganda international Taddeo Lwanga from Vipers SC.

Ingwe have also completed deals for former Mara Sugar defender Robinson Musungu, Eric Balecho and Sebastian Wekesa as they seek to build a squad capable of challenging for trophies.

The club are reportedly interested in Kariobangi Sharks captain Kevin Otiala, Gambian striker Musa Ceesay and Ugandan goalkeeper Tom Ikara.

Former defender Vincent Mahiga has also been linked with a return, while Kenya Police full-back Geoffrey Onyango had attracted interest before completing a move to Nairobi United.

Mfalme FC striker Arok Payai is another player who has been monitored by Leopards after scoring 25 goals last season.

Victor Omune and Ken Owino have left following the expiry of their contracts, while goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi joined Gor Mahia.

Rami Lasso Coulibaly, Christopher Koloti and Brian Wanyama are also among the players who have departed the Den.

Kenya Police have so far confirmed the arrival of Brian Mzee from Nairobi United.

The reigning domestic heavyweights are also reported to be considering a move to bring striker Elvis Rupia back to the club following his spell in Tanzania.

Kakamega Homeboyz defender Oliver Majaka and Murang’a Seal winger Victor Haki have been linked with Police, while Malian striker Kalifa Traore of Rwanda’s Gorilla FC is also understood to be a target.

Attacking midfielder Rial Beliew and Tusker goalkeeper Pavel Ndzila have also been mentioned among the club’s possible recruits.

Yves Koutiama’s proposed move to Tanzanian champions Young Africans is reported to have collapsed, potentially keeping the forward at Police.

David “Messi” Owino and Brian Musa have been linked with Nairobi United, although their moves are yet to be officially confirmed.

Police have already lost Abud Omar to Tusker, while defender David “Cheche” Ochieng has also left. Marvin Nabwire has moved to Zambian club Power Dynamos.

Newly promoted Nairobi United have made some of the biggest statements of the transfer window.

The Naibois have completed the signing of Congo international Harvy Ossete from Libyan side Al-Dhahra SC.

Ossete arrived in Nairobi after choosing a move to Kenya despite attracting interest from several clubs across the region.

The experienced defensive midfielder has earned more than 20 appearances for Congo and previously represented Diables Noirs and DR Congo giants St-Eloi Lupopo.

Nairobi United have also signed Kenyan international striker John Avire, strengthening their attack ahead of their first season in the top flight.

Left-back Geoffrey Onyango has joined from Kenya Police, while Wycliffe Omondi arrived from Shabana.

Kevin “Chumsy” Okumu and experienced goalkeeper Faruk Shikalo are also confirmed Nairobi United players.

The club remain linked with former Gor Mahia goalkeeper Gad Mathews, Sammy Okinda, David “Messi” Owino and Brian Musa.

Mark Kithome of 3K FC has reportedly agreed terms with Nairobi United, while versatile player Joseph Bate has also been linked with a move to the club.

Duncan Omala could leave after attracting interest from rival teams.

Nairobi United have already seen Daniel Bichiok join Shabana, Brian Mzee move to Kenya Police and Enock Machaka sign for Gor Mahia.

Majaliwa Charo has also left Nairobi United and completed a move to Murang’a Seal.

Shabana have continued rebuilding their squad after confirming several new arrivals.

Lazarazu Bixente has joined from Posta Rangers, while Sigmunn Maina Irungu has arrived from Swedish side AIK Framtid FK.

Daniel Bichiok has moved from Nairobi United, with Luis Ingavi and Pavelh Ndzila also included among the club’s new players.

Dennis Wanjala has joined Tore Bobe from Tusker following the expiry of his contract with the Brewers.

Shabana have also completed the signing of Equity FC striker Rashid Moyo as they seek to improve their attacking options.

Gilbert Abala is reportedly on his way out, while Brian Michira, Kevin Omundi and Ezekiel Omuri are attracting interest from other Premier League clubs.

Wycliffe Omondi has joined Nairobi United, Erick Otieno has moved to El Merreikh SC Bentiu in South Sudan and Steve Ochieng has signed for Tanzanian club Pamba Jiji.

Batshi Assis Mambote, Branson Nsubuga and Mark Oduor have also left Shabana.

Versatile player Victor Omondi has completed a transfer from Shabana to Bandari.

Kakamega Homeboyz are yet to announce a major group of new signings, although several players continue to be linked with the club.

Midfielder Clement Imbayi has reportedly attracted interest after his performances for Fortune Sacco, while former Posta Rangers goalkeeper Bixente Otieno is being monitored as a free agent.

Former AFC Leopards striker Christopher Koloti has also been linked with Abana Abeingo.

Oliver Majaka is reported to have left for Kenya Police, while Ibrahim Wanzala departed following the expiry of his contract.

Henry Omollo has moved to Zambian side Mufulira Wanderers.

KCB have reinforced their squad with the arrivals of Jimmy Owili from Mara Sugar, former Gor Mahia midfielder Fidel Origa and Frank Nduwimana.

The Bankers have also signed striker Batshi Assis Mambote from Shabana and added Geoffrey Ojunga to their squad.

KCB are reportedly leading the race for Mathare United player Brian Ouru and have also monitored Majaliwa Charo, Geoffrey Onyango and Christopher Koloti.

Charo has since joined Murang’a Seal, while Onyango completed his move to Nairobi United.

South African Premier Division side Marumo Gallants have expressed interest in signing versatile KCB forward Kelvin Etemesi.

The former Nairobi City Stars player could become one of the latest Kenyan footballers to secure a move abroad should negotiations progress.

Boniphas Munyasa, Boniface Omondi, Tedja Wanumbi, Yafeesi Mubiru, Fadhil Masoud Mwanyimvua, Francis Kahiro, Francis Kahata, December Kisaka, Clyde Senaji and Nashon Alembi have all been linked with departures from KCB.

Rodgers Oporia Angal has already left after reaching the end of his contract, while Alembi completed a move to Murang’a Seal.

Murang’a Seal have signed Nashon Alembi from KCB and Malvin Nderitu from Fortune Sacco.

The club have also completed the capture of Majaliwa Charo from Nairobi United.

Joe Waithira has moved to Jamus SC in South Sudan, while Erick Ongiri, Victor Haki, Francis Memusi and Robby Mangi are among those reported to have left Murang’a Seal.

Tusker have strengthened heavily following a disappointing previous campaign.

The Brewers signed Nigerian forward Victor Mbaoma from Remo Stars, while experienced defender Abud Omar joined from Kenya Police.

Warsama Hassan, Collins Ochieng, Abdoulie Joof, Telena Ochieng, Steve Omondi and Aboubacar Doumbia have also joined the Ruaraka-based club.

Tusker are reportedly close to completing a deal for Congolese goalkeeper Perrauld Ndinga.

Christopher Koloti, AFC Leopards midfielder Musa Oundo, winger Hassan Beja and Migori Youth striker Syphas Otieno have also been linked with moves to the Brewers.

Charles Momanyi has left Tusker, while Dennis Wanjala completed his transfer to Shabana.

APS Bomet are looking to strengthen following their promotion to the Premier League.

The club have been linked with prolific Mfalme FC striker Arok Payai, who is also attracting interest from AFC Leopards, Bandari and 3K FC.

Defender Edward Masembe is another player being monitored, with Kakamega Homeboyz and Kenya Police also reportedly interested.

APS Bomet have lost Hansel Ochieng to Gor Mahia.

Mara Sugar are preparing for the new season after losing several members of their squad.

Robinson Musungu has joined AFC Leopards, while Jimmy Owili moved to KCB.

Kelvin Longbert, Samuel Guto, Byron Billy, Lameck Luhangala, Makame Mwalago, Tony Oloo and Timothy Ndayala are also among those reported to have left the club.

Bandari have accelerated their recruitment with the confirmed signings of three players from relegated FC Talanta.

Former Talanta captain Kevin Taiwo Owino has joined the Dockers, along with winger Alex Kipruto.

Taiwo previously represented Kibera Black Stars before establishing himself at Talanta.

Bandari have also completed the signing of Shabana utility player Victor Omondi.

The coastal club continue to be linked with Collins Maina and Mfalme FC striker Payai Arok as they look to improve their attacking department.

Eric Balecho has left Bandari for AFC Leopards, while Mohamed Barisa, Herit Mungai, James Omusinde, Boniface Mwangemi, Omar Somobwana, Alfred Tanui, Yusuf Ali, Jaffar Shariff, Alvin Ngoto, Mohammed “Messi” Katana and Ghalib Ali are also among the departures.

Ulinzi Stars are set to sign former Tusker forward Cliff Oruko as they seek a replacement for Paul Okoth.

Okoth left the Soldiers for Gor Mahia and has already begun producing important goals for his new club.

Mathare United have been linked with former AFC Leopards midfielder Victor Omune.

The Slum Boys are also monitoring former Bidco United left-back Thomas Wainaina following his club’s relegation.

Brian Ouru is expected to leave Mathare, with KCB believed to be leading the chase for his signature.

Posta Rangers are interested in striker Collins Maina as they work to strengthen their attack.

Goalkeeper Bixente Otieno has left the Mailmen following the expiry of his contract and is attracting interest from Kakamega Homeboyz.

Migori Youth could lose Syphas Otieno, who remains on Tusker’s radar.

The striker is among the young players being considered by the Brewers as they continue reshaping their attacking options.

Premier League newcomers 3K FC are also active in the market.

Former AFC Leopards captain Robinson Kamura is training with the club and is likely to sign ahead of the new season.

The experienced defender would provide leadership and top-flight experience to the promoted side.

3K FC are also targeting Mfalme striker Arok Payai, Kiminini FC midfielder Joseph Bwire and goalkeeper Issa Emuria following Bidco United’s relegation.

Fortune Sacco midfielder Clem Imbayi has also been linked with the club.

Mark Kithome, however, could leave 3K FC, with Nairobi United reportedly close to completing his signing.

With the deadline approaching, clubs are expected to intensify negotiations as coaches assess their squads and identify the final additions required for the 2026-27 campaign.

Several reported deals remain subject to contracts, medical examinations and official announcements, meaning the league’s transfer picture could change significantly before the window closes on August 21.

The Ukraine international was suspended following a low concentration of meldonium, which is banned in anti-doping rules.

Mudryk appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport contending that he was wrongly ruled out and should be allowed to play right away.

Changes introduced to WADA procedures during the appeal process played an important role in the resolution of the case.

The concentration found in Mudryk's sample would not be measured under the rules in effect today and would not result in an anti-doping rule violation, the FA said.

“The FA said 'changes have been made' meaning that if Mr Mudryk had collected his sample in today's climate the concentration of meldonium in the sample would not have been reported, and no anti-doping rule violation would have been found.

“The case has been resolved after discussions were held with Mudryk and WADA,” added the governing body.

Under the terms of the agreement, Mudryk took the anti-doping violations that had been charged against him and was ineligible for the same amount of time.

Mr Mudryk, who is no longer deemed to be ineligible, is free to compete immediately, the FA said.

Mudryk's last competitive game was on Nov. 21, 2024.

The 25-year-old was signed by Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk for a reported £62million, but failed to break into the squad before getting the boot.

Now he will have a chance to get back to his Chelsea career and impress new head coach Xabi Alonso.

Chelsea embraced the decision and stated that the club will concentrate on reintegrating the winger into the club.

“Misha's first few months have been very tough on him as a player and as a human being and we're glad this is over and he can get back to football as soon as possible.”

Chelsea said that it did not know Mudryk knowingly or intentionally consumed a banned substance, and did not know how traces of meldonium got into his system.

The club congratulated the Ukrainian for his professional manner and fortitude throughout the case, especially during one of the toughest times of his career.

Chelsea will now see Mudryk back in the first team training block as he gets ready to return to competition.

Howe, 48, told Newcastle that he felt the time was right to leave their club on Friday, in a move confirmed by the Newcastle administration.

In a statement, Howe said he has now decided it is time for him to retire from his current position as head coach of Newcastle United.

In a club that has been a constant source of joy and inspiration for me, with nearly 5 years of giving my all to the organization, I feel it is best for me and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.

In 2021, Howe was appointed as the manager of Newcastle and led them to one of their best seasons in recent years.

In 2023 and 2025 he took the Magpies to the Champions League, and in the same year he took them to League Cup glory.

The victory marked Newcastle's first major home title in 70 years and gave Howe his first major home honour in seven years.

But his move came after a poor season for Newcastle, who finished in 12th place in the Premier League after 17 defeats in 38 games.

His last game in charge was when he was beaten 4-1 by Bristol City in a pre-season fixture on Wednesday.

Howe said it had been a very tough decision to leave Newcastle but said it was the right one for both the club and him.

In his heart, he knew that it was the right one. “When I come to the decision to make a choice, Newcastle is always at the forefront of my mind.”

Being the manager of Newcastle United has been a privilege of my lifetime.

Newcastle took his advice and in his time at St James' Park, gave Howe his thanks for his feedback.

The club has welcomed Eddie's decision and expressed its gratitude for his “extraordinary contribution”, Newcastle said.

Howe's back room staff, such as Howe's side-back, Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone will also depart the club.

Newcastle will also be making changes to their technical group with Head of performance Dan Hodges to go.

Matthias Jaissle, Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli's coach, will likely replace Howe.

Both Newcastle and Al-Ahli are part of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.

The change at the helm follows a period of much upheaval in Newcastle's squad.

It was last year that the club sold Swedish striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool, and then midfielder Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur and winger Anthony Gordon to Barcelona.

The departure of Howe could also be a catalyst for a new era in Newcastle, as Captain Bruno Guimaraes could be heading for the exit as well.

Infantino announced the decision on Saturday, four days after FIFA presented plans to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary that would oversee competitions including the World Cup and Club World Cup.

“Our purpose has always been — and will always be — to unite and improve,” Infantino said in a statement.

“As a result, this proposal will not proceed.”

FIFA had said the project could raise as much as $4.2 billion by selling a minority stake in the subsidiary, which was valued at about $20 billion.

Under the proposal, each of FIFA’s 211 member associations could have received a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027.

Their funding allocation for the 2027-2030 cycle would also have increased from $8 million to $20 million.

However, the prospect of private investors gaining influence over commercial rights connected to the World Cup triggered widespread condemnation.

UEFA warned that its national teams would not participate in FIFA competitions while the proposal remained active.

“The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product,” UEFA said. “No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale.”

The Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF also opposed the plan, raising concerns about its potential effect on football governance and the independence of FIFA competitions.

Pressure on Infantino increased further when senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned on Friday.

Cordeiro described the proposal as a poor deal for FIFA’s member associations and warned that it could damage the long-term future of the sport.

CONMEBOL also requested further information about the project’s structure, governance and possible consequences.

Its intervention was significant because confederation president Alejandro Dominguez has been viewed as a close ally of Infantino.

Infantino said the project had been intended to strengthen FIFA’s member associations and would only have proceeded with majority support.

He acknowledged, however, that the debate had created divisions that were no longer consistent with the proposal’s original purpose.

“Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place,” he said.

The AFC had earlier expressed alarm that discussions had reached the point where a possible World Cup boycott was being publicly considered.

Opposition also extended beyond football, with the European Union supporting UEFA’s position and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham describing Infantino as the wrong person to lead FIFA.

FIFA initially attempted to calm the controversy by insisting that it would continue consulting member associations and that nobody was selling football.

Infantino has now said his priority will be restoring unity and bringing football’s major stakeholders back together.

He also pledged to continue expanding the game and increasing support for countries that require greater financial assistance.

Sanaa Mssoudy scored the decisive goal in the 84th minute as the Atlas Lionesses finally broke down a disciplined Algerian defence in a tense Maghreb derby.

Both teams entered the contest with three points after winning their opening matches. Morocco had beaten Kenya 4-0, while Algeria began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Senegal.

The result moved Morocco to six points from two matches and left the tournament hosts in a strong position to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Algeria, however, were left disappointed after frustrating Jorge Vilda’s side for long periods with a compact and organised defensive performance.

The opening half was closely contested, with both teams showing caution because of the importance of the fixture.

Morocco attempted to control possession and create space through midfield, but Algeria remained patient and denied the hosts clear scoring opportunities.

The physical nature of the contest resulted in several stoppages and bookings. Algeria’s Ikram Adjabi and Ines Belloumou were shown yellow cards, while Morocco defender Hanane Ait El Haj was also cautioned.

Neither side managed to break the deadlock before half-time, leaving the derby finely balanced at the interval.

Morocco increased their attacking intensity after the restart as they searched for a breakthrough, but Algeria continued to defend with discipline and limited space through the centre.

Vilda introduced Ibtissam Jraidi before bringing on experienced captain Ghizlane Chebbak in the 70th minute to increase Morocco’s attacking threat.

The substitutions helped the hosts apply greater pressure as the match entered its closing stages.

Algeria coach Farid Benstiti also refreshed his side, introducing Boutaleb, Khiril, Bekhaled and Alaouache in an attempt to maintain their defensive organisation and energy.

With the match appearing to be heading towards a goalless draw, Mssoudy delivered the decisive moment in the 84th minute.

Her late strike sparked celebrations among the home supporters and rewarded Morocco for their sustained second-half pressure.

The Atlas Lionesses managed the remaining minutes effectively, resisting Algeria’s attempts to find an equaliser and securing their second consecutive victory of the tournament.

Morocco now sit in a commanding position in Group A, while Algeria will turn their attention to their final group match as they seek to secure a place in the knockout stages.

Kenya were left with a tough road ahead after dropping their first Group A game to African hosts Morocco 4-0.

The Lionesses of Teranga got their first win of the tournament in the 34th minute with a shot from Ndeye Awa's cross barbed by Seynabou Mbengue.

Senegal were looking for a reply as they were defeated 2-0 by Algeria in their first match.

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba made four changes to the team that started against Morocco.

Euphrasier Shilwatso replaced Vivian Nasaka Makhoha in defence, while Lorna Nyabuto was preferred to Martha Amunyolete in midfield.

Mercy Airo, replacing Eglay Mukhwana, played on the right wing, while forward Violet Nanjala, who was experienced, was given the chance to replace Valerie Nekesa.

It started well for Kenya as they made their opening attempt into the Senegal goal in the fourth minute when Nyabuto headed into the Senegal goalkeeper.

The next 3 minutes saw Terry Engesha given a golden opportunity from Fasila Adhiambo's delivery, but shot it wide.

The game went dead after nine minutes, before Senegal found a way to break the deadlock when Mbengue beat Awa on the ball, and placed the ball safely past Lilian Awuor.

The Kenyan side looked to an equaliser before half-time and Odemba responded by introducing Nekesa for Nanjala in the 39th minute.

Airo was later replaced by Marion Serenge in the 61st minute and Nyabuto was replaced by Irine Madalina in the 86th minute.

Kenya had good moments in the second half but could not capitalise on the chances they got.

Engesha found herself through on in the 72nd and 76th minutes but failed to beat Ndiaye on both attempts.

In the 80th minute, Senegal threatened to take the lead again but Awuor did a great job to deny them.

Senegal coach Mousse Niang Amar also made half-time changes with Anta Dembele and Ndeye Diakhate replacing Adama Sane and Bineta.

Harambee Starlets will now have to secure a win against Algeria in their final Group A match on August 3 to keep them in the game.

Kenya will also need good luck in other groups as they hope to advance in their second group stage performance at the continental championship.

The Kenyan champions got the winning goal in the fourth minute courtesy of Paul Okoth.

K'Ogalo held off the slimmers for the rest of the match, completing a job well done in defence to secure the three points required for promotion.

The win gave Gor Mahia a six-point lead to tie with Uganda's Vipers SC and Rwanda's APR FC.

Charles Akonnor's side, however, came out on top of the group by virtue of better goal difference.

Gor Mahia started their campaign with a stellar 5-0 win over APR, but lost their second game by a single goal to Vipers 1-0.

The defeat put their fate in doubt for the pivotal clash with Garde Republicaine.

Okoth's upfront shot helped to break the ice but Gor Mahia faced a spirited assault from the Djiboutian side all night.

Akonnor had demanded the “character and determination” of his players prior to the game and his side delivered when it was all on the line.

Gor Mahia will now play off either Rayon Sports Rwanda or Singida Big Stars of Tanzania in the semi-finals.

It was a Group C duel between Rayon Sports and Al Hilal SC as neither club had more points than the other heading in to the final round of matches.

K'Ogalo will move to the knockout stage having collected two wins and two clean sheets in their two victories.

The plan, unveiled earlier this week, would give investors influence over future World Cup broadcasting and commercial rights. It is being backed by Thrive Capital, an investment firm founded by Joshua Kushner.

Under the proposal, each of FIFA’s 211 member associations could receive more than $80 million between now and 2037. The associations have until September 19 to vote on the deal.

However, UEFA has strongly rejected the proposal and threatened to boycott FIFA competitions while it remains under consideration.

UEFA and its national associations will not participate in FIFA competitions,” European football’s governing body said in a statement.

UEFA argued that the commercial rights attached to the World Cup should not be transferred to private investors.

Some things are simply too important to sell. The FIFA World Cup belongs to football. It always will,” the statement added.

The European body also criticised FIFA’s handling of the discussions, saying member associations and other key stakeholders had not been adequately consulted.

UEFA described the process as “a profound failure of leadership” and called for the proposal to be withdrawn.

Opposition has also spread to Asia, with Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa warning that the plan could undermine continental football.

Sheikh Salman reportedly told AFC member associations that such a major change could not succeed without the support of all six continental confederations.

The mounting resistance places FIFA under increasing pressure ahead of the September vote, with questions growing over the long-term control of World Cup broadcasting and commercial assets.

The defeat was the Brewers' second successive loss in Group C following their 2-0 opening defeat to Sudanese giants Al-Hilal, leaving them with no points and facing an uphill task to qualify for the semi-finals.

Head coach Julien Mette made six changes to the starting line-up in a bid to revive Tusker's campaign. Brandon Obiero, Abud Omar, Chrispine Erambo, Fabian Adikiny, Stephen Etyang and Victor Mbaoma retained their places, while Servyl Akouala Amuor, Aboubacar Doumbia, John Otieno, Abdoulie Joof, December Kisakah and Steve Omondi were handed starting roles.

The changes saw Eugene Ikutwa, Thomas Teka, Warsama Hassan, Collins Ochieng', Ian Simiyu and Yakeen Muteheli begin the match on the bench.

Backed by a vocal home crowd, Rayon Sports controlled large spells of the contest and eventually found the decisive goal to claim all three points. Despite showing greater organisation than they did against Al-Hilal, Tusker struggled to create clear scoring opportunities and could not break down a disciplined Rayon Sports defence.

The Brewers have now conceded three goals without scoring in their opening two matches, highlighting their attacking struggles at the regional tournament.

The latest defeat leaves Tusker's qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Mette's side must now beat Zanzibar's KVZ SC in their final Group C fixture while hoping other results go their way to stand any chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.

Tusker travelled to Rwanda seeking to reclaim the CECAFA Kagame Cup title they have won a record five times, but consecutive defeats have left the Kenyan representatives staring at an early exit.

After two rounds of matches, Al-Hilal Omdurman and Rayon Sports share top spot in Group C with six points each. Tusker remain without a point and carry a goal difference of minus three, while Tanzania's Simba SC currently hold the advantage in the race for the best third-placed qualification spot with a superior goal difference.

Before the team departed for the tournament, club chairman Charles Gacheru said the competition would serve as an important preparation platform ahead of the new season and the CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

The tournament will help us prepare for both the league and the CAF Confederation Cup because it features some of the best teams in the region. CECAFA is giving us an opportunity to play high-intensity matches that we would otherwise not have within this short period," Gacheru said.

These highly competitive games will help us understand where we are as a team and whether we are ready for the new season.

While Tusker's hopes of making a deep run in the regional competition have faded after back-to-back defeats, the Brewers will be determined to finish their campaign on a positive note when they face KVZ SC in their final group match.

Sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga inspired the remarkable victory, with Temwa scoring twice and Tabitha adding another as the tournament debutants stunned the record African champions at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat.

The result was a major shock given the contrast between the two teams. Nigeria entered the tournament as the highest-ranked side among the 16 participants, while Malawi were the lowest-ranked and were making their first appearance at the continental finals.

Nigeria have featured at every edition of WAFCON and have won the competition 10 times, including the previous tournament after defeating hosts Morocco in the final.

Malawi, however, refused to be intimidated and matched the defending champions throughout a goalless first half.

The breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute when Temwa Chawinga raced beyond the Nigerian defence, took the ball past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and finished from a tight angle.

Malawi doubled their advantage six minutes later through Tabitha Chawinga, who beat Nnadozie to the ball before calmly guiding it into the empty net.

Nigeria were handed hope when nine minutes of stoppage time were added at the end of the second half.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 92nd minute after Malawi were penalised for handball.

The Super Falcons’ celebrations were short-lived, however, as Temwa restored Malawi’s two-goal cushion moments later.

The Kansas City Current forward broke clear and lifted a composed finish over the advancing Nnadozie to score her second goal of the match.

Nigeria found the net again deep into stoppage time when Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo got a hand to Uchenna Kanu’s shot but could not stop the ball from crossing the line.

The final whistle followed shortly after the restart, confirming a famous victory for Malawi and denying Nigeria the opportunity to complete a late comeback.

The result left Malawi second in Group C with three points, level with Zambia but behind their southern African neighbours on goal difference.

Zambia moved to the top of the group after Barbra Banda scored four goals in a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt earlier on Tuesday.

Malawi will face Egypt in their next group match on Saturday, while Nigeria will take on Zambia. Victories for Malawi and Zambia would secure both teams places in the quarter-finals.

Zambia's captain Barbra Banda was superb as her side dominated the Egyptian defence, scoring four goals for the Copper Queens in the game.

Racheal Nachula and Ireen Lungu scored the other goals to put Zambia at the top of the group with three points.

This allowed Zambia to move at the Egyptians and make attacking life difficult for them, but they failed to get a handle on the flank movement, nor did they find sufficient opportunities to cause the opposition hassle.

Egypt finish Group Three with no points after losing, while Zambia scored a first for a group that also features defending champion Nigeria and Malawi.

Egypt will look to bounce back when it meets Malawi on Saturday, and finish their group-stage runs off against Nigeria on Wednesday.

It was also the Egyptian team that garnered interest in the game, due to the seven stars above the national badge on their jerseys.

Egypt's women haven't won any of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations but the stars denote the seven African Cup of Nations titles that the men's team has won.

The men's competition is more successful in Egypt as they won in 1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008 and 2010.

The seven stars on the national team's identity of the Egyptian Football Association do not represent the titles that the team on the badge has won, but the overall achievements of Egyptian football.

Egypt's ladies still have their first big continental prize to chase and will have to step up in their final group stage games to maintain their optimism.