Ghana Premier League champions Medeama received the largest share, with $30,000 to boost their participation in the CAF Champions League after securing last season’s league title.

The Tarkwa-based club began their campaign with a 1-0 home defeat by DR Congo giants TP Mazembe in the first leg of their preliminary-round tie.

They must now overturn the deficit in Lubumbashi to reach the next stage of the competition.

Nations FC were presented with $20,000 during a courtesy visit to the Jubilee House ahead of the return leg of their CAF Confederation Cup qualifier.

The MTN FA Cup holders, who earned Ghana’s Confederation Cup place by lifting last season’s domestic cup, lost 1-0 away to Mali’s FC Diarra in the first leg on 5 September.

They will look to capitalise on home advantage in Accra as they bid to keep their continental hopes alive.

Women’s Premier League champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies received $10,000 in recognition of their domestic triumph and their run to the final of the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers.

The Ghanaian side narrowly missed out on a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League after losing the qualifying final to Nigeria’s Edo Queens.

The financial packages recognise the three clubs’ achievements in earning the right to represent Ghana in continental competitions.

Ayew has joined the Blades on a one-year contract as a free agent following the expiry of his Leicester City contract.

Wilder believes the 34-year-old’s experience at the highest level will be valuable to his squad.

“I spoke last week about being close to getting someone in from the free agent market, and things did move quite quickly, so I am really pleased to have Jordan with us.

“We’re talking about someone here with bags of experience from right at the top level of the game. Only a few months ago he was captaining Ghana in the World Cup, so he’s someone with real pedigree.”

According to the Blades boss, Ayew’s ability to play in different attacking positions gives him plenty of options.

“He did well at this level last season in difficult circumstances and has played all across the front positions during his career, which gives us plenty of options.

“We used the free market to great effect last season, and we believe Jordan can come in and have an impact here just like Pat (Bamford) and Jaïro (Riedewald) did.”

With more than 500 senior appearances to Ayew’s name, Chris Wilder hopes the Ghanaian striker’s experience will bolster their promotion challenge in the Championship.

The 34-year-old forward signed as a free agent after leaving Leicester City when his contract expired at the end of last season.

Speaking to the club’s media, Ayew said Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder and the club’s hierarchy worked hard to secure his signature, convincing him to accept the offer immediately.

“I’m really, really pleased to be here,” Ayew said. “The manager and the club made a great effort to get me here as quickly as possible, so I want to thank everyone for bringing me over to the Blades.”

The former Crystal Palace and Swansea City forward said the move reminded him of his time at Palace and that he was eager to settle into his new surroundings.

“It happened really, really quickly because I was in Ghana and the manager called me last week,” he said.

“I didn’t think twice. I just took the opportunity. The most important thing is for me to help the team and for us to have a great season.”

Ayew added that he was determined to make an impact, believing Sheffield United have the quality to enjoy a successful campaign.

The experienced striker arrives with more than 500 senior appearances to his name, having played for Marseille, Sochaux, Lorient, Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester City during his career.

The 34-year-old forward was available after leaving Leicester City at the end of last season, becoming the latest addition to Chris Wilder’s squad.

Ayew arrives with more than 500 senior appearances to his name, having played for Marseille, Sochaux, Lorient, Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester.

His most recent competitive outing came at the 2026 World Cup, where he captained Ghana in all four matches as the Black Stars reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder said he was pleased to secure the experienced attacker after moving quickly to complete the deal.

“I spoke last week about being close to getting someone in from the free agent market, and things did move quite quickly, so I am really pleased to have Jordan with us,” Wilder said.

The Blades boss believes Ayew’s versatility and experience will strengthen his attacking options for the season ahead.

“We’re talking about someone here with bags of experience from right at the top level of the game. Only a few months ago he was captaining Ghana in the World Cup, so he’s someone with real pedigree.

“He did well at this level last season in difficult circumstances and has played all across the front positions during his career, which gives us plenty of options.”

Ayew now begins a new chapter in English football as Sheffield United look to bolster their promotion challenge in the Championship.

The former Bayern Munich and AS Roma centre-back made the bold claim while interacting with football fans after a ‘Monday Stars’ football match in Accra.

Asked which team he expected to lift the league trophy, Kuffour replied: “Asante Kotoko will win the league.”

Some fans challenged the former Ghana international to put money behind his prediction, initially proposing a GHS 10,000 wager.

But Kuffour raised the stakes.

“Let’s make it $5,000. I guarantee you Kotoko will win the league,” he said.

Kuffour’s confidence comes despite Kotoko dropping points in their opening game of the campaign.

The Porcupine Warriors were held to a 2-2 draw by Ghana Premier League debutants Debibi United at Golden City Park in Berekum.

They will be looking for their first victory of the season when they host Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

The Matchday 2 fixture will give Kotoko an opportunity to respond to their opening-day setback and begin their push for the title Kuffour has backed them to win.

This year’s Ballon d’Or shortlist has been announced – with a third of the 30 players coming from European champions PSG.

The winner will be announced at a glittering ceremony in London on Monday, October 26.

It is the first time the event will have taken place outside of its normal home in Paris.

It may therefore be fitting if a player from the Spanish capital was to be crowned the world’s best player.

Vitinha, who was on target for PSG as they beat Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League final, is one of ten stars from his club to make the shortlist.

He was third in the vote in 2025 and is joined by last year’s winner Ousmane Dembele, as well as teammates Fabian Ruiz, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Achraf Hakimi.

Ferran Torres, who made the switch to the French capital from Barcelona this summer, is also up for the much-coveted gong.

Away from Luis Enrique’s side, three English players have made the shortlist.

That trio are Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham, who all excelled for their country in reaching the FIFA World Cup semi-finals this summer.

Kane came 13th last year, despite plundering 41 goals for club side Bayern Munich in the 2024/25 campaign.

With 61 strikes for the Bundesliga giants last season, he is the favourite to lift the trophy this year.

Speaking to TNT Sports’ Owen Hargreaves this week, the England striker addressed what he described as a “misconception” about his style of play.

Discussing the way he often drops deep to get involved in the game, Kane said: “I actually get more chances arriving from deep than when I just stand in the box.”

The striker is far from the only representative from Bayern Munich either, as he is joined by Luis Díaz, Michael Olise and Dayot Upamecano.

They will face competition from Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe, who is still chasing his first Ballon d’Or award.

The striker has come 3rd, 6th and 7th in the voting in 2023, 2024 and 2025 respectively.

Also hoping for a maiden success is Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The 19-year-old is already a World Cup winner and three-time La Liga champion, scoring 16 goals in 28 top flight appearances last season.

He came second last year, narrowly missing out to Dembele.

Other notable names on the 30-man list include Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes, Erling Haaland of Manchester City and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior.

Barcelona’s missing names

While most of the nominees come as no surprise, it was a shock not to see Barcelona star Raphinha on the shortlist.

The Brazilian international helped his club to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup glory last year.

He played 33 matches across all competitions, scoring 21 goals, 13 of which came in the league.

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick was also absent in the voting for the Men’s Coach of the Year award, despite that domestic success.

He was pipped to the shortlist by Luis Enrique and Mikel Arteta after they guided PSG and Arsenal to the UEFA Champions League final as well as domestic titles.

UEFA Europa League winners Aston Villa have seen Unai Emery listed, alongside Bayern’s Vincent Kompany and Spain’s World Cup winning boss Luis de la Fuente.

The list of nominees, as announced on Tuesday, is as follows:

Women’s Club of the Year

• Barcelona
• Bayern Munich
• Club America
• Manchester City
• OL Lyonnes

Men’s Club of the Year

• Arsenal
• Bayern Munich
• Bodo/Glimt
• Flamengo
• Paris Saint-Germain

Women’s Coach of the Year

• Jonatan Giraldez
• Andree Jeglertz
• Nils Nielsen
• Pere Romeu
• Elena Sadiku

Men’s Coach of the Year

• Mikel Arteta
• Luis de la Fuente
• Unai Emery
• Vincent Kompany
• Luis Enrique

Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year

• Ann-Katrin Berger
• Cata Coll
• Hannah Hampton
• Lorena
• Ayaka Yamashita

Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year

• Yassine Bounou
• Thibaut Courtois
• Gregor Kobel
• Joan Garcia
• Edouard Mendy
• Emi Martinez
• David Raya
• Vozinha
• Unai Simon
• Matvey Safonov

Women’s Young Talent of the Year

• Veerle Buurman
• Vicky Lopez
• Felicia Schroder
• Clara Serrajordi
• Lily Yohannes

Men’s Young Talent of the Year

• Kerim Alajbegovic
• Ayyoub Bouaddi
• Pau Cubarsi
• Yan Diomande
• Lennart Karl
• Eli Junior Kroupi
• Lamine Yamal
• Johan Manzambi
• Ibrahim Maza
• Warren Zaire-Emery

Women’s Ballon d’Or

• Selma Bacha
• Barbra Banda
• Klara Buhl
• Esmee Brugts
• Mariona Caldentey
• Scarlett Camberos
• Kerstin Casparij
• Temwa Chawinga
• Cata Coll
• Melchie Dumornay
• Caroline Graham Hansen
• Alex Greenwood
• Patri Guijarro
• Pernille Harder
• Yiu Hasegawa
• Rose Lavelle
• Mapi Leon
• Lorena
• Melvine Malard
• Manaka Matsukubo
• Vivianne Miedema
• Ewa Pajor
• Claudia Pina
• Alexia Putellas
• Wendie Renard
• Alessia Russo
• Khadija Shaw
• Momoko Tanikawa
• Caroline Weir
• Tessa Wullaert

Men’s Ballon d’Or

• Jude Bellingham
• Pau Cubarsi
• Marc Cucurella
• Ousmane Dembele
• Luis Diaz
• Bruno Fernandes
• Gabriel
• Erling Haaland
• Achraf Hakimi
• Harry Kane
• Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
• Lamine Yamal
• Sadio Mane
• Marquinhos
• Lautaro Martinez
• Kylian Mbappe
• Nuno Mendes
• Lionel Messi
• Joao Neves
• Michael Olise
• Willian Pacho
• Julian Quinones
• Declan Rice
• Rodri
• Fabian Ruiz
• William Saliba
• Ferran Torres
• Dayot Upamecano
• Vinicius Jr.
• Vitinha

GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum said the appointment had to be expedited because the association needed to begin preparations, including sending invitations to players for the upcoming matches.

Ghana will open their qualifying campaign on 24 September against Ivory Coast in Bouake before hosting The Gambia three days later.

Queiroz, 73, initially took charge of the Black Stars on a short-term contract in April after Otto Addo was dismissed. He subsequently guided Ghana to the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup, their first appearance in the last 32 since 2010.

The Portuguese coach has now agreed to continue in the role, although some contractual and administrative matters are still being finalised.

“There is a timeframe within which you have to send an invitation to the players, and you can do that when there is a head coach at the helm,” Asante Twum told 3Sports.

“So we need to fast-track the process and go through all the needed arrangements to be able to meet the timelines.”

He said Queiroz had indicated his willingness to remain in charge and that the outstanding issues were minor.

“Eventually, he [Carlos Queiroz] said yes. He was willing to continue. What is left are minor details to iron out, which we are currently working on,” he added.

Asante Twum also revealed that Queiroz had already begun preparations for the AFCON qualifiers and was expected to announce his squad before travelling to Ghana.

“I’m sure he will announce the squad before he arrives, but he has been working since we ended the World Cup,” he said.

Ghana face a challenging qualifying group that also includes Ivory Coast, The Gambia and Somalia, with the Black Stars aiming to secure a place at the 2027 tournament in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

The 73-year-old initially took charge on a four-month contract in April following Otto Addo’s dismissal, and guided Ghana to the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup – the Black Stars’ best performance at the tournament since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010.

The GFA has now handed Queiroz a new deal ahead of Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, which begins later this month.

Afriyie had been one of the most vocal critics of the veteran coach’s original appointment, raising concerns about his age, motivation and tactical philosophy.

He also questioned whether Queiroz’s reputation for organising defensively disciplined teams aligned with Ghana’s traditional attacking style.

“Before they appointed him [Carlos Queiroz], I always made my position clear that he is not my preferred coach and my reasons are simple,” Afriyie told Graphic Sports.

“I don’t see how a 73- or 74-year-old can do it in six months; I don’t see his motivation to take Ghana to any place.”

However, following Queiroz’s reappointment, Afriyie said there was little value in continuing the debate over whether he should have been given the job, suggesting attention should now shift to Ghana’s qualification bid.

Queiroz’s first assignment in his new spell will be a daunting trip to Bouaké, where Ghana face Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix on 24 September.

Three days later, the Black Stars will host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium before completing their Group C fixtures against Somalia.

The qualifying campaign carries added significance for Ghana after the four-time African champions failed to qualify for the previous AFCON finals in Morocco – their first absence from the tournament in two decades.

With Queiroz now entrusted to lead the rebuilding effort, the Black Stars will be aiming to secure an immediate return to Africa’s biggest football competition.

The Ghana captain has been without a club since leaving Leicester City following the Foxes’ relegation from the Championship at the end of last season.

According to reports in the UK, Blackburn Rovers and Burnley have also shown interest in the 34-year-old, but Sheffield United have emerged as favourites to secure his signature.

Ayew made 42 Championship appearances for Leicester during the 2025-26 campaign, scoring six goals and providing three assists, with 24 of those outings coming as starts.

Sheffield United have turned to the free-agent market in a bid to bolster their squad, and Ayew’s versatility is understood to be one of the key attractions.

The experienced forward is capable of playing through the centre or on either flank, giving the Blades added options in attack.

The Ghana international would also bring a wealth of experience, having spent more than a decade in English football after beginning his European career with Marseille.

He has since enjoyed spells with Aston Villa, Swansea City and Crystal Palace in the Premier League before his stint at Leicester.

Reports suggest Ayew could be officially unveiled by Sheffield United on Friday, 11 September, when he celebrates his 35th birthday.

The forward is also expected to be included in Ghana’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia later this month.

The 34-year-old captained the Black Stars at the 2026 World Cup in North America and is a key figure in the national team setup.

Ayew became a free agent after leaving Leicester City following the club’s relegation to League One.

He made 42 Championship appearances during the 2025-26 season, scoring six goals and providing three assists, while starting 24 league matches.

The former Aston Villa and Swansea City forward has been linked with a move to Cyprus side APOEL Nicosia and Championship club Blackburn Rovers, although both clubs have denied making an approach for him.

Ayew is now reportedly expected to join Championship side Sheffield United as a free agent, and he is expected to be unveiled on Friday, September 11, when he turns 35.

The experienced forward has spent more than a decade playing in English football, having also represented Crystal Palace in the Premier League after beginning his European career with French club Marseille.

A move to Sheffield United would strengthen his club prospects ahead of the Black Stars’ AFCON qualifying campaign, with Ayew expected to return to the national team squad.

Ghana will begin their qualifiers away against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September, before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

Having failed to qualify for the previous AFCON tournament in Morocco, the Black Stars will be determined to secure a return to Africa’s premier international competition.

Ghana, four-time African champions, failed to qualify for the 2025 tournament for the first time in more than two decades after finishing bottom of their qualifying group.

The Black Stars endured a disappointing campaign, recording three defeats and three draws from their six matches.

As Ghana prepare to begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign later this month, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says the association’s priority is to secure a return to the continental showpiece.

“We are a country that did not qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last year, so our aim and ambition are to make it to the AFCON next year,” Asante Twum told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

Ghana have been drawn in Group C alongside Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia and Somalia, with the top two teams guaranteed qualification.

Asante Twum acknowledged the challenge ahead but insisted Ghana cannot afford another absence from the tournament.

“We are in a group with Ivory Coast, Gambia and Somalia, and two countries will qualify from our group, and we want to be part of the countries that will make it to the AFCON next year.

“I know it will not be easy, but we cannot afford to miss another AFCON tournament,” he added.

The Black Stars will open their campaign with a difficult away fixture against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September.

They will then return home three days later to face The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium.

In a letter dated 7 September 2026 and addressed to NFF Deputy General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme, the two governing bodies said they were examining the legal, governance, administrative and electoral implications of the situation at the federation.

The intervention follows a period of turmoil at the NFF, including the resignations of president Ibrahim Musa Gusau, general secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s executive committee.

The developments come amid mounting concerns over Nigeria’s recent football performances.

The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, while the Super Falcons missed out on qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history.

A number of Nigeria’s youth national teams have also failed to secure places at major continental and global tournaments.

FIFA and CAF referred to a meeting held at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich on 1 September involving representatives of the two organisations, the NFF administration and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

However, the governing bodies said no conclusions had yet been reached.

“FIFA and CAF are currently assessing the legal, governance, administrative and electoral implications arising from the current circumstances within the NFF,” the letter said.

FIFA and CAF have asked Ikpeme to act as the main point of contact between the NFF and the two governing bodies until further notice.

They have also instructed that the electoral process be suspended, with no further steps or decisions taken until their assessment is complete.

The request is intended to preserve the status quo while FIFA and CAF establish the facts and consult the relevant stakeholders.

The two bodies said they would send a joint assessment mission to Abuja at the earliest opportunity.

The delegation is expected to meet representatives of the NFF administration, NFF members, the federation’s electoral bodies and the Federal Government, including the National Sports Commission.

The mission will seek to gain a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the recent developments and determine whether any issues require further consideration under FIFA, CAF and NFF regulations.

FIFA and CAF said the findings of the assessment could lead to recommendations or proposals being presented to their respective decision-making bodies.

They stressed, however, that the process remained open and that no assumptions should be made about what action might ultimately be taken.

The intervention puts Nigeria’s football administration under further scrutiny and effectively places the NFF’s electoral timetable on hold as FIFA and CAF examine the federation’s leadership and governance situation.

The Ghana Premier League champions suffered a 1-0 loss at home to the DR Congo giants in the preliminary round first leg at TNA Park on Sunday.

Medeama now face a difficult trip to Lubumbashi for the return leg this weekend, but Oduro Sarfo insists the tie remains finely balanced.

“It is not over for Medeama,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“I think they can go there and make a statement. They should motivate themselves, go there and cause an upset just like what Mazembe has done in the first leg.”

The GFA executive also backed the Tarkwa-based club’s summer recruitment, arguing that their strengthened squad is capable of producing a surprise result away from home.

“With the recruitment Medeama has done, I think they can go and make a statement,” he added.

Medeama are bidding to reach the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2023-24 campaign.

Maresca made the remarks ahead of City’s UEFA Champions League clash against Portuguese giants FC Porto on Tuesday, as questions continue to surround the club’s lack of a recognised backup striker following the summer transfer window.

With Haaland expected to shoulder much of City’s attacking responsibility again this campaign, Maresca indicated that Semenyo could be used through the middle when required.

“At the moment, he’s played every minute apart from the Community Shield,” Maresca said.

“We need to protect Erling because the season is very long and he’s going to have games where he needs to recover.

“Depends on the game and game plan. Antoine can play nine. It depends on the game.”

City travel to Portugal looking to make a strong start to their European campaign, with Semenyo expected to feature in the encounter.

Semenyo has made an encouraging start to the 2026-27 season, providing two assists in his opening three appearances for the Premier League champions.

The Ghanaian club suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Malian side in the preliminary-round first leg, marking Nations FC’s first-ever match in continental football.

Despite the setback, Korsah insists the performance gave his side confidence that they can turn the tie around in Sunday’s return leg.

“We could have done better, maybe get a point, but then football happened,” the former Hearts of Oak right-back told the club’s media team.

“We just have to correct our mistakes and then try to do much better back home and qualify for the next round.”

The experienced defender also described the match as an important learning experience, particularly for younger players making their debut in African club competition.

“It’s good playing in this kind of competition. It’s an opportunity for some of the new guys. The feeling was good, but as you all know, the result wasn’t what we expected,” he said.

Nations FC will host FC Diarra at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, 13 September, needing a two-goal victory to progress to the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

The award will be handed out at October’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in London.

Mbappe, who became the World Cup’s all-time record goalscorer and won his second Golden Boot after netting 10 times in this summer’s tournament, is amongst the contenders to be named the best player in the world.

Harry Kane is the bookmakers’ favourite to win the award, though, having scored 61 goals for Bayern Munich last season and a further 12 for his country.

The England captain discussed his chances in an exclusive interview with TNT Sports’ Owen Hargreaves.

Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique, meanwhile, has insisted the victor should be from his team after a second successive UEFA Champions League trophy. Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Fabian Ruiz are all potential winners.

Elsewhere, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Rodri, having won the World Cup with Spain, will hope for recognition, as will Jude Bellingham, Michael Olise and Lionel Messi, the latter having shone once again with Argentina on the biggest stage.

But Mbappe, who has yet to win a Ballon d’Or, suggested he expects to be one of the frontrunners.

“I think that when you play for Real Madrid, it naturally associates you with this type of award,” he said in a press conference before his side’s Champions League opener against Internazionale on Tuesday.

“Of course, when I see many people on the street talk to me about the Ballon d’Or, that is very positive.

“I have made a lot of history in the most important competition in this sport, and I have a good feeling, but people have the power to choose.

“I always think about [being considered the best player in the world], but it is something that is very personal, and everyone has their opinion. It’s not a debate you have to have because everyone can’t think like me.

“This year may be a good year for me to win the Ballon d’Or, but it’s the journalists who are going to vote.”

A trophy-less 2025/26 season for Real Madrid might prove damaging for Mbappe, even though he scored 42 goals in 44 matches for Los Blancos.

The Spanish giants saw managers Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa come and go amid rumours of player discontent, before José Mourinho returned for a second spell in the summer.

Mbappe plays down Madrid dressing room concerns

Real Madrid won their first three games of the new La Liga season, but fell to a 1-0 defeat at Real Betis last time out.

Asked if the atmosphere at the club is now better than it was last season, Mbappe said: “What does ​an improvement in the dressing room mean?

“Do you have the feeling that something wasn’t right last year? No, it’s the same as last year. It’s true we have a different coach, but it’s the same.”

Mbappe and Real Madrid will begin their Champions League campaign on Tuesday, hoping to wrestle back European dominance from PSG.

“We want to win every match, ‌every ⁠competition,” Mourinho said in his press conference. “But you have to work to accomplish stability.

“So Real Madrid need to reach that stability that is so important to achieve something great. But Real Madrid are Real Madrid; you need to win here no matter what.”

Zheng, the reigning Olympic champion and former world number four, dropped outside the world’s top 100 earlier this year while struggling to regain her best form following elbow surgery in July 2025.

The 23-year-old from China had trailed Madison Keys 5-0 in the deciding set of their third-round match on Saturday before winning seven successive games to secure her spot in round four.

And Zheng was 5-0 down in the opening set against Poland’s eighth seed Swiatek, but won 13 of the next 16 games on Arthur Ashe Stadium to set up a quarter-final against second seed Elena Rybakina, who sped past former champion Naomi Osaka.

The second set was on serve until the seventh game, when Zheng crushed a powerful backhand return winner to secure a crucial break, and she broke again two games later to complete a 7-5, 6-3 victory.

This latest win – her seventh in a row in New York, having come through three rounds of qualifying – will put her back to the brink of the top 50.

“The more matches I play, the more rhythm I have on court,” said Zheng.

“People have asked me if I’m tired and when I arrived, I was not tired at all. I felt really pumped for my match, trying to reach better levels here and enjoy this fantastic stadium.”

Elsewhere, French Open winner Mirra Andreeva recovered from losing the first set to Austria’s Anastasia Potapova to reach the last eight in New York for the first time in her career.

The year of the qualifier?

Zheng’s only win in eight previous meetings against Swiatek was in the semi-finals of the 2024 Olympics on her way to singles gold in Paris.

Former world number five Daniela Hantuchova told BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra: “She [Zheng] is starting to be very dangerous for the rest of the players left.

“I don’t want to say she’s playing the best tennis out of everyone, but if you have Iga Swiatek panicking on the other side of the court, not knowing what to do, that says a lot.”

The most recent qualifier to reach this stage of the women’s draw at the US Open was Great Britain’s Emma Raducanu, who went on to win the title in 2021.

And Zheng is not the first female qualifier to perform well at a Grand Slam in 2026 – Poland’s Maja Chwalinska, who began the French Open at 114th in the world, lost to Russian teenager Andreeva in the final at Roland Garros.

Swiatek ‘started making mistakes’ after fast start

For Swiatek, 25, a fourth-round exit is a disappointing end to her Grand Slam season, with a quarter-final appearance at the Australian Open her best result.

She was beaten in round four of the French Open, while the defence of her Wimbledon title ended in the third round.

It means that, for the first time since 2021, Swiatek will end a year without winning one of the sport’s four majors.

Swiatek, who received treatment to her left thigh when leading 2-1 in the second set, had entered the US Open in excellent form by winning the WTA 1000 event in Toronto and getting to the semi-finals in Cincinnati, while she had progressed through to round four without dropping a set.

Reflecting on losing the first set to Zheng, Swiatek said she simply missed too many shots after going 5-0 up.

“My focus was the same as always,” said the six-time major winner. “I wanted to play the same as always. [I] just started to miss too much, wanted to adjust it, but nothing kind of worked at that point.

“I knew I was going to have another chance, and I wanted to use it, but I missed them all.”

She continued: “I wouldn’t say it had anything to do with mentality. It was more that I started making mistakes from easy balls, and Qinwen stopped making mistakes. She played the balls better.”

Andreeva through against ‘warrior’ Potapova

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Andreeva consoled an emotional Potapova at the end of their fourth-round match

Andreeva, 19, was severely tested by Potapova until the 24th seed injured her knee in what proved to be the final game of their match on Louis Armstrong Stadium.

Potapova seemed to twist or hyperextend her knee while attempting to hit a ball on the run from the baseline, and Andreeva was across quickly to check on her grounded opponent.

Potapova returned to the court after receiving treatment but lost the remaining points in her service game, confirming her exit from the tournament.

Fifth seed Andreeva, who won 5-7 6-4 6-3, said: “Anastasia is my good friend and seeing what a battle we had and seeing her fall like that in the last game, it’s not easy.

“I told her that she’s been playing amazing and having one of her best seasons. I’m sure she’ll come back even stronger – she’s a warrior and an even better fighter than me.”

Andreeva will play either Coco Gauff or Iva Jovic, who play their all-American fourth-round match in Monday night’s session, in the quarter-finals.

Now, at the grand old age of 22, she is the Grand Slam champion and leading WTA Tour star who drew on her experience to deal with talented 18-year-old Iva Jovic at Flushing Meadows.

Fourth seed Gauff found her finest level of the fortnight to beat fellow American Jovic in a 6-1 6-4 win which secured her place in the quarter-finals.

Gauff’s comfortable progress ensured the top six seeds have reached the US Open women’s last eight for the first time since 1998, further illustrating the strength in depth at the top of the WTA Tour.

Gauff, who won the 2023 title in New York, continues her quest for a third major title against French Open champion Mirra Andreeva on Wednesday.

The pair are among five Grand Slam winners in a strong quarter-final line-up which also features reigning Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.

“The women’s field is in such a healthy, strong position,” former world number five Daniela Hantuchova said on BBC Radio 5 Live.

“It’s one of those tournaments where anyone can take it from here.”

Jovic is already ranked well inside the top 20 and predicted for even greater things, meaning the fourth-round match was seen by some as a potential banana skin for Gauff.

Gauff – who could become world number one if she wins the title – responded with a resounding victory.

The pair immediately put each other under pressure in a physical start to the match, exchanging breaks of serve as the opening three games consisted of 24 points and stretched over 17 minutes.

It gave little indication to how Gauff would be able to quickly seize control.

But once she broke again for 3-1 she was able to continue pounding Jovic’s defence with her consistency from the baseline.

Signs of the emotional energy which 14th seed Jovic exerted in her previous victory over her close friend Alexandra Eala – an epic lasting over three hours – started to show as Gauff won 13 of the final 15 points to wrap up the opening set in 33 minutes.

But the way Jovic bounced back in a competitive second set illustrated why she is so highly rated.

The teenager, who has Serb parents and has been mentored by Novak Djokovic, showed her mental resolve to fight off four break points and rediscovered her ability to land explosive winners.

Jovic could not save a fifth as she trailed 3-2 and although she instantly broke back, Gauff’s supreme athleticism and quality continued to wear her more inexperienced opponent down.

“Iva is an incredible player and an incredible talent, she plays beyond her years,” said Gauff.

“I’m looking forward to many more battles out here, I’m sure we will be playing a lot more matches in the future.”

In one of the most controversial moments of the summer’s World Cup, Balogun was cleared to play for co-hosts USA in the last-16 tie with Belgium after a one-game ban following a straight red card in his previous game was suspended for a year by Fifa.

That was a highly unorthodox decision and received widespread criticism, especially after it emerged US President Donald Trump and White House officials had lobbied Fifa.

European governing body Uefa and the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) were among those to question the decision.

The RBFA said it had asked Fifa for “a clear justification of the decisions taken and details on how such situations will be handled in the future”.

Balogun – who scored three goals up to that stage – started in the game, which Belgium won 4-1. The Red Devils lost to Spain in the quarter-finals.

In a statement on Monday, the RBFA said it now wants the issue discussed at the Fifa Council meeting on 15 October – and says it will not support Gianni Infantino’s bid for a further term as Fifa president.

RBFA president Pascale van Damme said: “Two months after the events, our questions remain unanswered.

“Given the importance of transparency and clarity for all parties involved, we request the necessary explanations and, at the same time, wish to explore where improvements to the current processes are possible, so that similar cases can be handled in a clear, consistent and efficient manner in the future.

“Together with Uefa, the other confederations and the national associations, we remain committed to transparency in decision-making, strong governance and clear processes. We remain open to constructive cooperation, in the interest of the trust, integrity and future of football.”

Balogun’s red card was the 189th in World Cup history and only the second, after Brazil’s Garrincha in 1962, to not serve a suspension.

Fifa never fully explained the decision, just citing “article 27 of the Fifa disciplinary code”, which allows it “to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure”.

No other suspensions were lifted at the 2026 World Cup.

Infantino, who has been Fifa president since 2016, confirmed this week he will stand for re-election in March.

The Swiss has been under huge pressure after details of a now-abandoned plan emerged that sought to sell stakes in Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, to private investment firms.

Belgium’s football governing body is the latest to join the growing list of those to say they do not want Infantino to remain in the role.

The RBFA added its two reasons for refusing to support Infantino were the Balogun case and the Fifa Forward Enterprise to sell those stakes.

The former Arsenal midfielder has not attended a game since February, and his exit, with his contract believed to have been terminated, has been expected.

His position came under the spotlight after a falling-out with Nuno Espirito Santo, who was sacked last September, the first of four managers at Forest last season.

Nuno hinted at internal tensions and said at the time his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis had changed.

Edu is not expected to be replaced, with Forest’s chief football officer George Syrianos assuming his responsibilities.

Appointed in July 2025, Edu’s remit included Greek side Olympiacos and Portuguese club Rio Ave, who are also owned by Marinakis.

He arrived after six years at Arsenal, where he became the club’s first sporting director in 2022, having won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups as a player with the Gunners.

He brought Mikel Arteta to Emirates Stadium, who delivered the club’s first Premier League title in 22 years last season.

Edu’s departure comes after former Olympiacos vice-president Theodore Giannikos was appointed chief executive last week.

He replaced Lina Souloukou, who stepped down from the role at the City Ground at the end of last season.

The GFA has opted to retain the Portuguese coach ahead of Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign after guiding the team to play in the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup in North America for the first time since 2010.

Asante Twum said the success of a team should ultimately be measured by its ability to win matches and trophies rather than how attractive its football looks.

“People will remember you for your last result and not your style, so for me, getting results is more important than playing stylish football,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

The GFA communications director pointed to the contrasting outcomes that different approaches can produce, arguing that a team that plays attractive attacking football but suffers heavy defeats cannot be considered more successful than one that adopts a defensive approach and wins.

“For me, if you play attractive attacking football and you lose 5-0, and you play a defensive, boring style but win 1-0, take your three points and win a trophy, which is better?” he said.

“So the results are always important.”

Queiroz, 73, has been tasked with guiding Ghana back to the AFCON after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the previous tournament in Morocco.

His first major test will come on 24 September, when Ghana travel to Bouake to face Ivory Coast at the Stade de la Paix.

The Black Stars will then host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later as they begin their bid to secure a place at the 2027 tournament.

Ghana opened their U-20 World Cup campaign in a 3-0 defeat to Ecuador, leaving the Princesses with work to do if they are to progress to the knockout stage.

Speaking in a post-match interview, Sampson admitted that Ghana’s poor start and defensive lapses handed Ecuador a crucial advantage.

“This was a little bit unexpected. The way we started the game, the way we conceded those two goals, they were a bit cheap, if you could ask me,” he stated.

He noted that the early goals changed the nature of the game and boosted the South Americans’ confidence while leaving Ghana to struggle to find its rhythm.

“And that also definitely gave Ecuador more strength and got us a little bit out of balance.”

Despite the shortcomings, coach Sampson praised the players for their attitude and determination shown after going behind, admitting that his side failed to make the most of the opportunities they created in the final third.

“But I like the attitude that the girls showed up. We were unfortunate and not clinical enough in the last third. We should have been able to score some goals and come into the game.

He further stressed that Ghana’s inability to come back into the game eventually left them exposed, as Ecuador punished another lapse on the counter-attack to close the game. 

“The more the game goes on, and it’s 2-0, and then you don’t reduce it, you become vulnerable. And then they went on a counterattack again and got us. That’s unfortunate, but I like the character that we showed.”

Although he acknowledged the disappointment his players would feel after the loss, he urged them to turn their attention to the challenges ahead with lessons learnt from the game.

“Now we just have to accept it. Today we are a bit down, and it’s normal. Then tomorrow we try to look at the game, see the things that we can do better, and put our energy on the last two games.”

“We still have two games, so that gives us a chance to recover and be able to put us back into the competition,” he concluded.

The Black Princesses will turn their attention to crucial Group C fixtures against South Korea and France.

Ghana will now have to regroup and improve if they are to progress to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

The Porcupine Warriors appeared on course for victory after Yakubu Dogo opened the scoring after 15 minutes at the Golden City Park in Berekum.

However, Debibi United responded strongly after the break, with Richard Owusu scoring twice to put the hosts 2-1 ahead.

Kotoko rescued a point when Hubert Gyau equalised in the 79th minute, but Tinkler was unhappy with his side’s overall performance.

“I don’t think we did enough to win this game,” Tinkler said after the match.

“The performance itself, I’m not entirely happy. On the ball, we were very poor and not good enough in terms of our composure.

“We kept giving the ball away and made it very difficult for ourselves. A draw is a fair outcome.”

The result leaves Kotoko seventh in the league table after the opening round of fixtures.

They will look to claim their first victory of the campaign when they host Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium on matchday two.

The Ghanaian champions were beaten 1-0 by the five-time African champions at the TNA Stadium in Tarkwa on Sunday, with Mazembe scoring an 88th-minute winner to take a narrow advantage into the second leg.

Medeama created several opportunities during the match but were unable to find the net, leaving Tanko disappointed with the result.

“Of course, if you lose a home game, you’ll definitely be disappointed,” Tanko said after the match.

“The good thing is, we created a lot of chances, and we could have scored some goals, but unfortunately, we couldn’t, and that’s football.

“We pushed in the second half, trying to get our goal when they got one chance to score. So definitely, I’m disappointed.

“But that’s the game. We have a second chance next Sunday to see what will happen.”

Medeama must now win in the second leg in the Democratic Republic of Congo if they are to overturn the deficit and progress to the next stage of the competition.

The Tarkwa-based side remain hopeful of reaching the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2022-23 season.

The Phobians began their campaign in emphatic fashion, beating Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium on Sunday.

The victory was particularly significant for the Accra-based club as it marked their first win in an opening league fixture in six years.

“The feeling is good. We are very happy with our opener, and I am sure we will continue this path,” Nebojsa said after the match.

The result puts Hearts of Oak top of the Premier League table after the opening round of matches.

Nebojsa, however, has urged his players to remain focused as they prepare for their next assignment against Bibiani GoldStars this weekend.

“We have to be calm and start preparing for our next game. We will face GoldStars with the full force of our power,” he added.

The long-serving club official said he had been encouraged by the vision of the new leadership following discussions with its members after their appointment by Kotoko Life Patron, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the end of the 2025/26 season.

The new board is chaired by James Osei Brown, with Kwasi Osei Ofori serving as vice-chairman, while businessman Kofi Amoah-Abban is among its members.

Lamini believes the new leadership has both the ambition and commitment to revive a club whose recent performances have fallen short of its illustrious history.

“I know the board members, I have interacted with them and I can tell they have a great plan and are determined to ensure Kotoko recaptures the great heights the club once occupied,” he told Graphic Online.

He also praised what he described as the board’s willingness to engage with the wider Kotoko family.

“In my interactions with them, I became convinced they are very open and ready to work closely with the supporters, former players, former board members and other stakeholders to ensure Kotoko not only dominate Ghana football but also become a force to reckon with in African football once again,” he said.

Kotoko have already begun their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign with an opening-day 2-2 draw against newcomers Debibi United at the Golden City Park in Berekum.

The Porcupine Warriors will now turn their attention to their first home fixture of the season against Heart of Lions on Sunday.

Mr Okraku acknowledged that criticism is an inevitable part of leading Ghana football, arguing that no GFA president has enjoyed complete peace while in office.

Speaking to Accra-based 3Sports, he said stakeholders should be free to express their views but urged them to ensure their criticism contributes positively to the development of the game.

“It’s okay for people to speak their minds. Like I said at the Congress in Kumasi, I love people who are not only critical but constructive,” Okraku said.

“It’s normal. I don’t think any leader in our football space has enjoyed absolute peace.”

Mr Okraku cited former GFA presidents Kofi Amoah and Kwesi Nyantakyi as examples of administrators who faced strong criticism during their respective tenures.

“President Kofi Amoah, who served as president during the Normalisation Committee, faced fierce criticism during his tenure. President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same,” he said.

Despite the criticism directed at previous administrations, Okraku pointed to Nyantakyi’s achievements, including Ghana’s qualification for the World Cup and an Africa Cup of Nations final, as evidence that football administrators should ultimately be judged by the impact of their work.

“At the end, he took Ghana to the World Cup; he took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON. He did his part, and my job is also to play my part,” Okraku said.

The GFA president said his focus remains on making his contribution to the development of Ghana football, while accepting criticism as part of the responsibility that comes with leading the country’s football governing body.

Okraku made the remarks in response to criticism that has accompanied his tenure, insisting that the true measure of his administration will be its long-term contribution to the growth of the game.

Speaking to Accra-based 3Sports, the GFA boss acknowledged that scrutiny comes with the role but said he remains committed to building a lasting legacy for Ghana football.

“My job is also to play my part. I will say that when I am gone, just like Kwame Nkrumah, people will appreciate,” Okraku said.

“And people will not only appreciate but people will remember the good things that we did for Ghana football.”

The GFA president argued that criticism is a common experience for football administrators, citing the tenure of former GFA president Kwesi Nyantakyi as an example.

According to Okraku, Nyantakyi also faced significant criticism despite overseeing some of Ghana’s most successful periods in international football.

“President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same. At the end, he took Ghana to the World Cup; he took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON; he did his part and my job is also to play my part,” he added.

Okraku stressed that his focus remains on delivering positive change rather than responding to critics, expressing confidence that history will provide a fair assessment of his administration.

He said he hopes his tenure will ultimately be remembered for its contribution to the development and progress of Ghana football.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Appiah explained that supporting sports federations must also involve supporting the clubs that form the foundation of the various sporting competitions.

“The first thing is, we are ready even to support individual clubs. Yes, because if you are supporting federations, it entails clubs,” he said.

He stressed that the level of financial support would depend on the resources available, suggesting that a structured annual allocation could provide clubs with greater financial stability.

“If we have money, all of us must agree, for every year, every club is entitled to a so-so amount. So having done that, you know, you have provided at least for them.”

Appiah also noted that beyond direct support to clubs, funding would be needed to help federations organise their various competitions.

He warned that the collapse of clubs could have wider consequences for Ghana’s sports industry, arguing that sustainable funding is essential to maintaining healthy competition.

“Let me tell you, if these clubs collapse, the industry collapses,” he added.

According to Appiah, the Sports Fund is therefore exploring partnerships with private investors to generate sustainable revenue, including possible collaboration within the betting and gaming sector.

He said discussions have already been held with the Gaming Commission as the Fund looks at ways to create a steady flow of resources rather than relying solely on periodic government funding.

“If we are successful in this, it’s about sustainability. Once the funds keep coming and coming and coming, and we draw a table,” he stated.

Appiah believes establishing sustainable funding mechanisms would enable the Sports Fund to provide more consistent support to clubs and federations while helping strengthen competition across Ghana’s sporting landscape.

The Porcupine Warriors opened their league campaign with a 2-2 draw against league debutant Debibi United, continuing their poor record against the newly promoted sides.

Speaking in a post-match interview, Tinkler attributed the result partly to the condition of Golden City Park, saying the heavy pitch had a physical impact on the players and contributed to fatigue.

“The [Golden City Park] pitch doesn’t influence just one team. But I could see their [players’] legs were dead. The pitch was heavy and thick.”

“I’ve played on pitches like that, and it’s hard, because it starts affecting your calf, your thighs, your hamstrings,” he told the club’s media.

He also raised concerns about the intense heat during the game, warning that the conditions contributed to dehydration among the players.

“The intense heat [during the game vs Debibi United]- dehydration started setting in. In this weather, we should at least have a water break for the players. That’s the only criticism that I’ll give,” he added.

However, he maintained the stance that the pitch did not prevent his side from maintaining its preferred style of play despite the challenging conditions.

“The pitch didn’t stop us from playing our brand of football.”

The result leaves Kotoko seventh in the league table after the opening round of fixtures, with the club now looking to claim its first victory when it hosts Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium on matchday two.

The West Africans were dealt an early setback when Ecuador found the breakthrough just two minutes into the contest, immediately putting Ghana on the back foot.

Head coach Charles Sampson was forced to make do without suspended centre-back Margaret Agyapomaa, who was sent off during the final qualifying match against Uganda.

The Black Princesses struggled to gain control of the game and found it difficult to build meaningful attacks against a well-organised Ecuadorian side. As Ghana searched for a way back into the contest, Ecuador struck again just before half-time to double their advantage.

Trailing 2-0 at the break, Ghana hoped to mount a second-half comeback. However, those hopes were dashed when Ecuador added a third goal 24 minutes after the restart to seal a convincing victory and claim all three points.

The result marks another disappointing opening-game performance for the Black Princesses, who have now managed just one win in their first matches at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since making their tournament debut in 2010.

Ghana will now turn their attention to crucial Group C fixtures against South Korea and France. The two sides shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw in the group’s other opening match, leaving the Black Princesses with work to do if they are to progress to the knockout stage.

Infantino, who has filled the role since 2016, has been under pressure following his scrapped plan to sell stakes in Fifa competitions to private investment firms.

Infantino’s lucrative plan sparked a global outcry, with European football’s governing body Uefa threatening to boycott all Fifa competitions, including the World Cup.

“The Fifa president announced in April that he will stand for re-election in 2027,” read a Fifa statement.

“Of course, nothing has changed. Mr Infantino will be standing for re-election.”

Infantino refused to answer questions about his future when asked by reporters at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Poland on Saturday.

It is the first time Fifa has said he will run for a new term since the plan was announced following the summer’s World Cup.

Should the 56-year-old Swiss be re-elected, he will serve until 2031.

Fifa this week accused Uefa of a “smear campaign against it and its leadership”, in a challenge to litigation over Infantino’s plan.

Last week Uefa filed legal papers in the US requesting disclosure of evidence and documents from Fifa, warning it could lodge a criminal complaint in Switzerland.

As recently as mid-July Infantino was considered a certainty to be re-elected.

All but a handful of Fifa members had endorsed him, and he faced no meaningful challenge.

However, the Football Associations of England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland are among those to have publicly withdrawn support since Infantino’s plan was announced.

BBC Sport understands Uefa is confident that a candidate can be found to stand against Infantino.

A candidate must receive the backing of at least 106 of the 211 Fifa member associations.

Uefa has abandoned the idea of trying to force a vote of no confidence.

It would require three-quarters of the members – 159 votes – to pass the motion through a change of Fifa statutes, which is considered unrealistic.

No candidates to challenge Infantino have been named, although Concacaf president Victor Montagliani is considered a serious option.

Nominations must be submitted by 18 November.

A topsy-turvy contest featured 10 breaks of serve, but Sabalenka recovered from 3-1 down in the second set to seal a 6-4 6-3 victory with a fifth consecutive game.

It was the Belarusian’s 18th consecutive win at the tournament, extending her three-year unbeaten streak following back-to-back triumphs in 2024 and 2025.

Sabalenka, 28, is the first woman to reach six consecutive singles quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows since American great Williams in 2016.

Six-time champion Williams was also the last player to win three US Open titles in a row, and Sabalenka is now three wins from matching that feat.

She will face Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova for a semi-final place, after the Czech sixth seed required six match points to overcome Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk in a rollercoaster 7-5 5-7 6-4 win.

Despite the straightforward scoreline, this was a tricky match needing a resilient display from Sabalenka, who also had the vast majority of the crowd against her.

In that context, this was an impressive victory for the four-time major winner, who has not always managed to maintain her composure in similarly testing scenarios.

“I was just trying to stay focused on myself, not only point by point but ball by ball,” Sabalenka said.

“I’m happy I was able to turn around the second set, I think it was a key moment.”

The match began with five successive breaks of serve – mostly due to excellent returning by both players – but it was Sabalenka who finally took charge.

Doubles specialist Townsend, who walked out wearing a long, black-feathered outfit, continued to frustrate Sabalenka and forced her to serve out the set at the second opportunity, before making the breakthrough in the second set.

But Sabalenka, aware she must lift the trophy to have a chance of retaining her number one ranking, produced an immediate reply as she broke back to love and dashed to the finish line, wrapping up the victory in 75 minutes.

Pegula wins to bring down curtain on Cirstea’s Grand Slam career

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Cirstea cracked the top 20 for the first time in May after announcing her plans to retire at the end of 2026

American third seed Jessica Pegula brought down the curtain on Sorana Cirstea’s Grand Slam career with a 6-3 6-4 win over the Romanian.

Cirstea is set to retire at the end of 2026, despite it being one of the best seasons of her 20-year career.

In May, the 36-year-old became the oldest player in rankings history to make her top 20 debut and she currently stands at a career-high 17th following a run to the quarter-finals at the French Open.

She also reached the third round at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while she lifted the fourth WTA title of her career at her home tournament in Cluj-Napoca.

But Cirstea missed out on a third major quarter-final as Pegula came through a tricky test that saw 11 breaks of serve, securing victory on her third match point.

“I just told her I don’t know if you’re still going to play next year, but you are playing great and I said I have a lot of respect for you,” Pegula said when asked what she told Cirstea when they embraced at the net.

Pegula, the 2024 runner-up to Sabalenka, will continue her chase for a third straight US Open semi-final when she faces fellow American Emma Navarro, who defeated Russian Anna Kalinskaya 6-4 6-2.

Earlier on Sunday,Noskova’s sense of relief was clear as she crouched to the ground having taken her sixth match point – about an hour after earning her first.

The 21-year-old served for the match in the second set, but missed her first two match points as Kostyuk battled back from 5-3 down to force a decider.

Noskova failed to take her next two match points in the deciding set, while she missed her fifth match point after saving a break point, finally getting over the line at the end of an emotionally draining two and a half hours on court.

“I am more than relieved – this match was so tough, emotionally a bit more than physically,” said Noskova, who missed five championship points before lifting the Wimbledon title this summer.

“Today was very close, it could have ended both ways. With all the chances I had in the second set, it was tough to still kind of restart.”

In the women’s doubles, British pair Harriet Dart and Maia Lumsden lost 6-2 6-2 to Spain’s Cristina Bucsa and American Nicole Melichar-Martinez, the sixth seeds.

Playing just his fourth competitive singles match after an absence of more than four months, the 23-year-old Spaniard produced a masterful performance to beat American 20th seed Paul 6-4 6-3 6-4.

He has dropped only one set on his way to the last eight in New York and will face American eighth seed Ben Shelton in the quarter-finals.

A wrist injury caused Alcaraz to miss both the French Open and Wimbledon earlier this summer.

He had won the previous two Grand Slams – last year’s US Open and this year’s Australian Open – meaning the straight-set victory over Paul extended his run of match wins at the majors to 18.

Alcaraz is taking a different approach to this tournament in New York, putting a greater emphasis on recovery as he looks to keep his wrist injury-free – even if that means giving up his favourite off-court activity on his days off.

“I’ve been really focused on the recovery with my team, with myself, doing the right things off the court trying to be healthy and in good shape for the next round,” he said.

“Those days, if I’m practising or not, I’m trying to be chill and focus on the next round. So golf this year isn’t an option.”

Alcaraz has won all three of his tour-level matches against Shelton, who beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2 6-3 6-4 later on Sunday.

“If Shelton were to come through, he is the kind of player that can knock the racquet out of your hand,” said American former player Jeff Tarango on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra.

“It’s going to be a real test to see how Alcaraz’s wrist is with a 149mph serve coming to that forehand, but Alcaraz should get through Shelton if his wrist is fine.”

Alcaraz said after his third-round win that he was happy with the level of fitness he had shown in the early rounds following his lengthy absence, while he demonstrated against Paul that the quality of his shot-making is as good as ever.

One sensational cross-court forehand winner early in the second set, which landed in from an almost impossible angle, was clocked at 103mph.

Former British number one Tim Henman told Sky Sports: “When you haven’t played tennis for four weeks, it seems a lot and you can be a bit rusty. This is four and a half months.

“If you would have given Alcaraz a blank piece of paper at the beginning of the tournament and asked how he’d want the first four matches to go, he would have scripted it exactly like that.

“He’s had a few slightly challenging moments but, in the important moments, he’s just come up with incredible tennis. That’s got to give him so much confidence moving forward.”

American trio storm into quarter-finals

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Frances Tiafoe reached the US Open semi-finals in 2022 and 2024

Later on Sunday, Frances Tiafoe, Alex Michelsen and Shelton stormed into the quarter-finals to boost home hopes of a first American men’s Grand Slam champion since Andy Roddick won in New York in 2003.

Tiafoe delighted fans in an entertaining victory over 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev, saving a set point in the third-set tie-break before wrapping up a 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 7-6 (8-6) win to maintain his perfect record on Louis Armstrong Stadium.

Tiafoe has now won all 10 of his matches on the US Open’s secondary show court, while it is just his second win in eight appearances against Russian Medvedev.

A two-time semi-finalist in New York, Tiafoe will face Michelsen next after the 22-year-old beat Argentina’s Tomas Martin Etcheverry 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 6-4 to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final.

Shelton, meanwhile, surged past Tsitsipas in less than two hours to join his compatriots in the last eight.

Former world number three Tsitsipas had been enjoying a resurgence at Flushing Meadows as he defeated Arthur Fils and Jiri Lehecka, the 10th and 18th seeds, en route to his first fourth-round appearance at a Grand Slam in over two years.

Tsitsipas’ defeat means this is the first year a player with a one-handed backhand has not reached a major semi-final in men’s singles since 1877.

In the men’s doubles, Britain’s Henry Patten and Finnish teammate Harri Heliovaara, the top seeds, moved into the third round with a 7-5 6-2 win over Matteo Arnaldi of Italy and Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff.

British ninth seeds Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash won 7-6 (7-2), 6-4 against Czech pair Adam Pavalsek and Patrik Rikl, while Joe Salisbury and American partner Rajeev Ram fought back to beat French duo Theo Arribage and Albano Olivetti 6-7 (2-7) 7-6 (11-9) 6-4.

The Ghana Premier League champions looked on course to earn a positive result at the TNA Stadium, but an 86th-minute strike from the DR Congo side handed the visitors a slender advantage ahead of the return leg.

Medeama made the brighter start and controlled the opening exchanges, keeping the five-time African champions at bay for much of the first half.

The Tarkwa-based club also created opportunities to take the lead but could not find a way past Mazembe’s defence, with the teams going into the break level at 0-0.

The contest became more open after half-time as both sides pushed for a breakthrough.

Mazembe eventually found the decisive moment four minutes from time, leaving Medeama with an uphill task to overturn the deficit in the second leg and keep their Champions League hopes alive.

The opening round produced goals across the country, with Hearts and Vision emerging as the biggest winners as debutants also made their mark.

Vision FC set the tone on Saturday with a commanding 3-0 victory over Young Apostles at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex.

Naziru Alhassan Nyenye opened the scoring early before Setsofia Aqetey struck twice to secure an impressive opening-day win.

On Sunday, Hearts of Oak produced the standout performance of the weekend, thrashing Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium.

John Antwi put the Phobians in control with goals in the fifth and 37th minutes before Mamadou Kourouma added a third in the 88th minute. Ali Mohammed completed the rout with a stoppage-time penalty.

At Berekum’s Golden City Park, newly promoted Debibi United twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw against Asante Kotoko, while Heart of Lions were held to a goalless draw by Aduana FC in Kpando.

FC Samartex opened their campaign with a 3-1 home win over Karela United at the Nsenkyire Stadium.

Bechem United edged reigning champions Bibiani Gold Stars 1-0 thanks to Darlvin Yeboah’s first-half winner at Nana Fous Gyeabour Park.

Basake Holy Stars also left it late, with Francis Oteng’s 82nd-minute strike securing a 1-0 victory over Swedru All Blacks.

The meeting between fellow newcomers Port City FC and AshantiGold 04 ended 1-1 at Nana Boamah Darko Park.

Zak Musah gave AshantiGold the lead before Hamza Zakari equalised for the hosts in the 67th minute.

The only fixture not played was Dreams FC’s home match against Medeama SC, which was postponed because of Medeama’s involvement in the CAF Champions League.

Full Time Results

Vision FC 3-0 Young Apostles

Hearts of Oak 4-0 Berekum Chelsea

Debibi United 2-2 Asante Kotoko

Heart of Lions 0-0 Aduana FC

FC Samartex 3-1 Karela United

Bechem United 1-0 Bibiani Gold Stars

Basake Holy Stars 1-0 Swedru All Blacks

Port City FC 1-1 AshantiGold 04

Dreams FC v Medeama SC – POSTPONED

Speaking to 3Sports, Okraku said dissent was a normal part of leadership and that he valued criticism when it was aimed at improving the game.

“It’s okay for people to speak their minds,” he said. “I love people who are not only critical, but are constructive.”

The GFA president argued that scrutiny had followed every administration, pointing to former FA leaders Kofi Amoah, who chaired the Normalisation Committee, and Kwesi Nyantakyi as examples of officials who faced criticism despite their achievements.

“President Kofi Amoah, who served as the president of the FA during the normalisation, faced fierce criticism during his tenure. President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same.”

According to Okraku, Nyantakyi’s tenure coincided with some of Ghana’s most notable football successes, including the Black Stars reaching the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup and the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

“At the end, he took Ghana to the quarterfinals of the World Cup. He took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON. He did his part, and my job is also to play my part.”

The GFA chief said he believed his own administration would be judged more fairly after he leaves office, arguing that history often offers a different perspective on leadership.

Drawing a comparison with Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, Okraku said he expected people to eventually recognise the positive contributions made during his tenure.

“I would say that when I’m gone, just like Kwame Nkrumah, people will appreciate. And people will not only appreciate, but people will remember the good things that we did for Ghana football.”

Okraku’s remarks come as his administration continues to face scrutiny over the direction of Ghanaian football, with debates over governance and the performance of the national teams remaining central to discussions about the game’s future.

Mikel Arteta’s side condemned Xabi Alonso to his first defeat as Chelsea manager, despite the West London side getting off to a superb start, with £117 million summer signing Morgan Rogers netting inside the opening two minutes.

Arsenal’s urgency for an immediate leveller was apparent, as the game opened into a high-tempo, frenetic, back-and-forth clash which saw chances fall at either end.

And it appeared the hosts had levelled on 12 minutes when Riccardo Calafiori bundled into the net following a goalmouth scramble from a Declan Rice free-kick.

The home crowd, though, would be quelled when it was adjudged Ezri Konsa – making his first start for Arsenal – was offside when he struck against the post before Calafiori turned the ball into the net.

However, Arsenal did find the leveller shortly after, when Kai Havertz picked the ball up from the right, cut inside and drilled a low, left-footed effort past Emi Martinez at the near post.

Pedro Neto was inches from firing Chelsea back into the lead in first-half stoppage time, but his curling effort bounced off the base of the left post.

And that proved damaging for the visitors, as Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard fired his side ahead five minutes after the break, Havertz letting Christos Tzolis’ ball run under his left foot before the Norway international fired beyond Martinez from inside the box.

Both sides threatened as the second half wore on, with Chelsea substitute Estevao forcing the most dangerous moment, with David Raya flying to meet his sweetly struck left-footed curling effort, which seemed destined for the top corner.

But Alonso’s entertainers could not find a leveller, meaning Arsenal join Manchester City as the only two sides with three wins from three to start the season.

Arteta’s Premier League champions will quickly turn their attention to Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League opener at Napoli, while Chelsea – without continental football this season – host Leeds United in the Carabao Cup the same night.

Goals from Lamine Yamal (2), Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Pedri secured a comfortable victory as Hansi Flick’s side capitalised on Real Madrid dropping points.

The Catalan giants have now scored a whopping 17 goals in just four games so far this season.

Barcelona took the lead after just six minutes through Yamal, who grabbed his fourth goal of the season.

Fermin lofted a brilliant ball through for Yamal, who showed excellent composure to dink it over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The Spanish star thought he had a second goal just two minutes later, again latching on to a Fermin pass, before smashing the ball into the corner.

However, the replay showed that Yamal was narrowly offside and the goal was chalked off following a lengthy VAR review.

Barcelona did not have to wait long to get a second goal though, with their attacking quartet ripping through Valencia after 22 minutes for Fermin to score.

After some nice attacking play, Anthony Gordon picked up the ball in the box and laid it off to Fermin, who slotted it into the far corner for his fourth goal of the campaign.

The visitors didn’t wait long in the second half to put the game out of sight, with Raphinha netting his sixth goal of the season.

Barcelona broke with electric pace, before Fermin squared the ball to Raphinha, who could not miss.

Flick’s side controlled the rest of the second half, with key players replaced early on to preserve their energy, including summer signing Rodri, who made his first start for the Catalan giants.

Pedri completed the rout with ten minutes to play, playing a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo, before placing the ball into the bottom corner.

Olmo was involved again as Barcelona added a fifth goal with minutes to play, as Yamal netted his fourth of the season.

Olmo did brilliantly to turn away from his defender before slotting a pass through the heart of Valencia’s defence for Yamal to latch on to and smash home.

Barcelona host Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, while Valencia continue their search for a first La Liga victory at Sevilla on Friday.

The former Arsenal full-back, who joined Everton from Lyon on transfer deadline day, left United goalkeeper Senne Lammens rooted to the spot when he curled an unstoppable effort into the net to deny the visitors a first away win of the season.

Michael Carrick’s side looked set to seal all three points at Hill Dickinson Stadium for the second consecutive season after Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko scored either side of Tyrique George firing Everton level.

But Maitland-Niles’ first Premier League strike since December 2019 maintained Everton’s unbeaten start to the season at the end of a turbulent week on Merseyside.

Fresh from hitting Ipswich Town for five last weekend, United made a fast start and almost went ahead inside eight minutes when Bruno Fernandes struck the crossbar following a knockdown from Mbeumo inside the area.

It was the 24th time United had hit the woodwork since the start of last season, more than any other Premier League side.

But that did little to dampen United’s mood as they, and Marcus Rashford in particular, continued to ask questions of the Everton defence.

Only days after selling the creative Iliman N’Diaye to Manchester City in a deal worth up to £65m, Everton showed little ingenuity or originality in the final third.

That was until two minutes before half-time when Thierno Barry, the club’s top scorer this season, headed over after a wonderful cross from makeshift full-back Merlin Rohl, and Jarrad Branthwaite forced a save from Lammens.

But the United breakthrough came less than 60 seconds into the second half, with Mbeumo picking the ball up from Kobbie Mainoo before curling a spectacular effort past Jordan Pickford to double his tally for the campaign.

Brennan Johnson almost drew Everton level, while Rashford continued to threaten.

Everton manager David Moyes summoned summer signings Jack Grealish and Hayden Hackney from the bench midway through the second half, and Hackney was involved in the equaliser when he teed up George to rifle home at the near post.

United thought they had won it when substitute Sesko made it two goals in as many visits to Everton by heading home Luke Shaw’s cross.

But it was an Everton substitute who had the final say, with Maitland-Niles’ strike sending the home fans into raptures.

Tottenham travelled to the City Ground on Saturday for their Matchday Three fixture, with Kudus introduced from the bench in the second half after replacing Savio.

The Ghana international featured for 29 minutes and delivered an impressive display, completing all eight of his pass attempts and successfully executing one of his two dribble attempts.

Speaking after the match, De Zerbi singled out Kudus and Andy Robertson for their performances following a double substitution that was prompted by fitness concerns.

“In the second half, the medical team pushed to change Savio and Destiny Udogie after 60 minutes,” De Zerbi told Sky Sports.

“Kudus and Robertson played very well, but maybe making two substitutions at that moment was not so good.”

Kudus will be aiming for a bigger role when Tottenham return to action against Everton on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 16:30 GMT.

The Ghanaian side looked on course for victory after taking the lead inside the opening minute through Beline, who gave Ampem Darkoa a dream start.

Edo Queens responded after the break to level the score, but Ampem Darkoa regained the advantage in the 73rd minute when Beline converted from the penalty spot to complete her brace.

The Nigerian champions, however, refused to give up and found a second equaliser to force the contest into a penalty shootout after the match ended 2-2 in regulation time.

In the shootout, Edo Queens held their nerve, converting four of their penalties, while Ampem Darkoa managed just one successful effort.

The victory saw Edo Queens crowned WAFU B champions and secure qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League, while Ampem Darkoa’s continental hopes ended in heartbreak.

His comments come as the Mauve and Yellow prepare to host five-time African champions TP Mazembe on Sunday, September 6, at the TNA Stadium in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round.

Speaking in an interview ahead of the game, Armah says he remains excited by the prospect of fulfilling his long-held ambition of seeing CAF Champions League football played in Tarkwa, describing it as a dream that is gradually becoming a reality. 

“I’m very, very happy and very, very excited all the time. In the beginning, that was my wish, and it’s coming true,” he said.

However, the club president says the dream will only be complete when Medeama goes beyond participation and lifts the CAF Champions League trophy in Tarkwa.

“I’ve not been there yet until I hold the CAF Champions League in Tarkwa,” he added.

The return fixture is set for week later in Lubumbashi.

Medeama achieved their best performance in Africa’s premier club competition by reaching the group stage in the 2023/24 season.

Ghana’s U-20 female national team begin their campaign on Sunday, September 6, with Sampson expressing confidence that his players are focused and eager to get their tournament underway.

“Finally, the day is getting closer, or it has already come. We’re facing Ecuador tomorrow,” he said. “We’ve been waiting for this for I can’t remember how long, so we just can’t wait to be on the field tomorrow.”

Sampson revealed that the team’s final training session was designed to fine-tune key areas while ensuring the players remained fresh ahead of the crucial encounter.

“Today was just to touch on a few aspects of the game and do a little bit of set pieces and get the body ready and fresh for tomorrow,” he explained. “The intensity was not much, and we are very satisfied. The girls are ready.”

The coach also highlighted the determination within the squad, noting that recent visits from government officials and other dignitaries had further boosted morale in camp.

“You could see that they are very, very focused. The presence of dignitaries here has also raised their morale, so we are looking forward to tomorrow,” he said.

For Sampson, leading Ghana at the World Cup represents the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“It has been a dream. It has been a privilege, and the journey has been amazing, so we are looking forward to showcasing what we have to the world tomorrow,” he added.

Despite the significance of the occasion, the coach insists his side will approach the match with only one objective.

“We are going in with the intention of winning. That’s the first game we have in the group, and we know that it is very vital,” he said. “Tomorrow our aim is to go and win, and that is what we are focusing on right now.”

Sampson also called on Ghanaians to continue backing the team throughout the tournament.

“They should continue believing in us and supporting us and know that we will do our best. Tomorrow we will bring out the best of ourselves and make sure that we get what we are looking for.”

After facing Ecuador, Ghana will take on the Republic of Korea and France in their remaining Group fixtures.

The Black Princesses are hoping to reach the knockout stage of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for the first time in their eighth appearance at the tournament.

Kotoko will travel to the Berekum Golden City Park on Sunday, 6 September, to face a side preparing for its first-ever season in the Ghanaian top flight.

Speaking to the club’s media ahead of the game, Tinkler believes Kotoko must match their opponents’ work rate while ensuring their quality makes the difference.

“We’ve got to match them in terms of our work ethic, but then our qualities need to come out, and hopefully we can go there and get a positive result,” the South African coach said.

The former Orlando Pirates boss also stressed the importance of taking points from teams lower down the table if Kotoko are to mount a serious title challenge.

“You don’t win leagues by beating Hearts of Oak and Medeama; you win leagues because you’re beating teams at the bottom of the log, so complacency cannot be permitted in those games,” Tinkler added.

“A club like Asante Kotoko, home and away, should be winning football matches.”

Kotoko finished eighth in the Ghana Premier League last season and will be looking for a stronger campaign under Tinkler as they aim to challenge for major honours.

Adams visited the team’s training camp ahead of Saturday’s Group D clash against Ecuador, praising the side for reaching the tournament for an eighth consecutive time and assuring them of President John Dramani Mahama’s support.

“I bring you greetings from the Office of the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, who is very aware of the task ahead of you,” the minister told the players.

“He is the reason I am here to assure you that he is keenly following the team.”

Adams described the Black Princesses as one of Ghana’s most consistent national teams on the international stage and challenged them to achieve a historic breakthrough.

“If there is any of our national teams that has continuously made an appearance on the world stage, it is the Princesses,” he said.

He encouraged the players to believe in their abilities and remain united throughout the tournament.

“Don’t be intimidated by any opponent. They don’t play any better football than you,” he said, adding that teamwork would be key to achieving success.

The minister also pledged to be in the stands to support the team during their opening fixture.

Ghana begin their campaign against Ecuador on 6 September before facing the Dominican Republic and France in their remaining group matches.

The Black Princesses are aiming to reach the knockout stages of the U-20 Women’s World Cup for the first time in the country’s history.

Setsofia Aqetey scored twice after Naziru Alhassan Nyenye’s early opener to hand the hosts a comfortable win and send them provisionally to the top of the table.

Vision took the lead after just four minutes when Nyenye found the net, giving the home side an ideal start in front of their supporters.

Young Apostles struggled to recover as Vision controlled much of the first half, and Aqetey doubled the advantage in the 40th minute to leave the visitors facing an uphill task before the break.

The hosts maintained their intensity after the restart, despite Alidu Labaran being booked in the 55th minute as the contest became more physical.

Aqetey wrapped up the victory with his second goal of the afternoon, completing a dominant performance and sealing all three points.

The result leaves Vision FC at the top of the standings, with the rest of the opening-round fixtures set to be played on Sunday.

Ederson’s goal early on in the second half gave Atalanta the lead against the run of play, but Mario Hermoso levelled in the 89th minute before Soule stuck in stoppage time to extend Roma’s perfect start to their Serie A season.

It would be an understatement to say Roma dominated the first half. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side registered a remarkable 18 shots before half-time, with Gianluca Mancini’s header in the 14th minute forcing a strong save from Marco Carnesecchi.

Rodrigo Mora’s six shots in the opening 45 minutes all failed to hit the target, and Atalanta made Roma pay for their wastefulness as just 80 seconds in the second half, Ederson fired a loose ball in the box past Mile Svilar.

Gasperini made a huge call just after the hour mark, replacing top scorer Donyell Malen with Santiago Castro, though the latter struck the base of the left post a minute after his introduction.

Castro hit the woodwork again late on before Carnesecchi made a double save to keep out Dybala and a deflected cross from Wesley, but Roma scored from the resulting corner as Hermoso’s header looped in at the far post.

And Roma clinched all three points in the 93rd minute as Soule cut inside onto his left foot before sweeping in at the near post, with Carnesecchi unable to keep out the winger’s tame effort.

Roma find clinical edge at the death

It looked like Ederson’s goal would punish a lacklustre finishing display from Roma, but after Hermoso’s header, there was a sense of inevitability that Gasperini’s side would go on to find a winner.

It was Soule, who also assisted the equaliser, who got Roma over the line in dramatic fashion. The winger also recorded seven shots, more than the entire Atalanta team combined (six), as his persistence paid off.

Overall, Roma recorded an incredible 39 shots, 10 of which were on target, which amounted to 3.24 expected goals (xG), as the pressure on Atalanta’s goal eventually told.

Carnesecchi made nine saves as he tried his best to keep Atalanta’s perfect start going, but Maurizio Sarri’s side will rue their late defending while Roma reclaim top spot in Serie A.

Luis Diaz came closest to putting Bayern in front when he spurned one-on-one chances either side of half-time.

First, he shanked a shot wide with only Loris Karius to beat, before he saw a tame chip over the goalkeeper cleared well before it reached the goal line.

After opening the season with a thumping 5-1 win against VfB Stuttgart and a 4-1 victory over second-tier side Osnabruck in the DFB Pokal, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany opted to rotate his side.

Harry Kane and Michael Olise watched from the bench as Bayern dominated possession, but did little with it in a disjointed first-half performance.

England captain Kane came on at the break, but it was not until the introduction of Olise and Jamal Musiala with 35 minutes remaining that Bayern began to ramp up the pressure.

Musiala was included in the squad for the first time this season after suffering seizures during two pre-season matches.

Bayern’s Konrad Laimer sliced into the side netting from close range, before Kane forced Karius into a stunning fingertip save with a late drive destined for the top corner.

Bayern could not penetrate a compact and disciplined defence as Schalke held on to collect their first point of the season.

This was Kane’s 96th Bundesliga appearance, and he needs two more goals to reach 100 in the competition. The record for the fewest matches to reach a century is 129.

Kane began the day having scored against all 20 teams he had faced in the Bundesliga, and has now netted against 20 out of 21.

It is the first time in 67 Bundesliga matchdays – almost two years – that Bayern will not finish on top of the table.

Bayern host Bodo/Glimt in their opening Champions League game on Thursday before travelling to Bundesliga newcomers Elversberg on 13 September.ach a century is 129.

Kane began the day having scored against all 20 teams he had faced in the Bundesliga, and has now netted against 20 out of 21.

It is the first time in 67 Bundesliga matchdays – almost two years – that Bayern will not finish on top of the table.

Bayern host Bodo/Glimt in their opening Champions League game on Thursday before travelling to Bundesliga newcomers Elversberg on 13 September.

Lautaro Martinez scored twice for the hosts – including a 90th-minute winner – either side of a Marcus Thuram header.

Inter were two behind when Napoli scored twice in three minutes at the start of the second half.

Napoli’s second came in strange circumstances when the Inter defence switched off, assuming a loose ball was going out of play.

It was kept in and played to Rasmus Hojlund, who swept a shot into the far corner.

But Inter – who have won their opening three league matches of the season – recovered and are still unbeaten at home in Serie A since November 2025.

Napoli, who finished last season 11 points behind Inter, have lost back-to-back Serie A games following a home loss to Como last weekend.

After a goalless first half, Napoli caught Inter cold with a one-two punch.

On 50 minutes, Max Allegri’s team took the lead when Matteo Politano scored into the bottom corner at the second time of asking after his first effort was blocked.

Then three minutes later, no Inter players were paying attention when the ball appeared to be heading for a throw in.

But it stopped short of the sideline and was picked up by Giovanni Di Lorenzo, who pulled it back to Hojlund on the edge of the area.

Hojlund made a yard of space away from Inter midfielder Curtis Jones, and curled into the far corner for his second goal in as many league matches.

England international Jones came on at half-time for his second appearance since joining from Liverpool in the summer – and was instrumental in driving Inter to come back and win.

Inter got one back just three minutes later, when Federico Dimarco brilliantly kept in an overhit cross. His first-time pull-back was turned home by Martinez from close range.

Thuram came close to an equaliser when he struck the post, but with eight minutes to play the Frenchman did get his goal with a header planted into the right-hand corner.

And the victory was earned in remarkable circumstances as Martinez bundled in from close range before celebrating wildly with home fans at San Siro.

While Jones was brought on, fellow England player John Stones was an unused sub.

Another English summer signing, Djed Spence, was not in the squad for the third successive Serie A match as he recovers from a fitness issue.