by Matt Windsor (US)

Devils Rally to Edge Blue Jackets 4-3 in Overtime

The New Jersey Devils staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 4-3 overtime victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday at the Prudential Center. Timo Meier emerged as the hero, scoring a breakaway goal in overtime after a missed opportunity by the Blue Jackets.

Columbus had taken the lead late in the third period thanks to Yegor Chinakhov, who capitalized on a Devils’ turnover to make it 3-2. However, New Jersey’s Luke Hughes tied the game at 18:35 with a spectacular end-to-end rush, scoring with the goalie pulled for an extra attacker.

Earlier in the game, Jake Bean had opened the scoring for Columbus in the first period, marking his second goal of the season. The Devils responded quickly with Ondrej Palat leveling the score shortly after. Justin Danforth’s second-period goal put the Blue Jackets ahead again before Dawson Mercer’s equalizer for the Devils in the third period set the stage for the thrilling finish.

Elvis Merzlikins of the Blue Jackets made 31 saves, while Vitek Vanecek of the Devils stopped 26 shots. The game also saw defenseman Damon Severson face his former team for the first time since being traded to Columbus.

The win keeps the Devils in contention, improving their record to 18-13-2. The Blue Jackets, despite a strong showing, couldn’t hold on and fell to 11-18-7.

This result highlights the resilience of the Devils, who managed to find a way to win despite not being at their best. The game also showcased the individual brilliance of Hughes, whose late goal kept the Devils in the game, and Meier, whose overtime heroics sealed the win.

by Richard Miller (US)

Cavaliers Rally from 20 Down to Edge Mavericks 113-110

DALLAS — Caris LeVert’s late heroics, combined with Jarrett Allen’s dominant inside presence, lifted the Cleveland Cavaliers to a stunning 113-110 comeback victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. The Cavaliers overcame a 20-point first-half deficit, showcasing their resilience even in the absence of star guard Donovan Mitchell.

LeVert, who ended the night with 29 points, nailed a crucial 3-pointer in the final quarter to put the Cavaliers ahead. Allen’s impressive performance included 24 points and 23 rebounds, just one shy of his career-best. Isaac Okoro contributed significantly with 22 points, as the Cavs improved to 3-1 during Mitchell’s four-game absence due to illness.

The Mavericks, missing All-Star Kyrie Irving due to a right heel injury, witnessed a nine-point fourth-quarter lead evaporate. Luka Doncic, despite scoring 39 points, couldn’t prevent Dallas from a five-minute scoring drought in the final quarter. Cleveland’s 15-0 run, which began as soon as Doncic returned to the court, was pivotal in securing their lead.

For Dallas, Seth Curry added a season-high 19 points, but he and Doncic combined for a mere 2 of 11 shooting in the fourth. The Mavericks’ offense struggled in the clutch moments, missing key shots that could have altered the game’s outcome.

The Cavaliers’ defense was instrumental in the comeback, particularly in containing Dallas in the crucial moments of the game. Despite trailing by six with only 21 seconds remaining, the Mavericks had a chance to tie the game in the final possession. However, a well-executed trap on Doncic near midcourt and a blocked desperation three by Strus sealed the win for Cleveland.

Niang chipped in with 16 points for the Cavs, while Craig Porter Jr. recorded nine points and 12 rebounds. Allen’s performance was especially noteworthy as he outplayed Mavericks’ rookie Dereck Lively II, also adding six assists to his impressive stat line.

The Cavaliers’ comeback win underlines their ability to compete and win games even without key players like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. They now look forward to hosting Milwaukee, while the Mavericks face Minnesota in their next game.

by Matt Windsor (US)

Durant’s Triple-Double Powers Suns Past Rockets 129-113

HOUSTON — Kevin Durant delivered an exceptional performance with a triple-double, scoring 27 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing out a career-high 16 assists, to lead the Phoenix Suns to a convincing 129-113 victory over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. This marked the Suns’ first road win since late November, improving their record to 15-15.

The game was also a notable return for Eric Gordon, who matched Durant’s 27 points against his former team. Gordon’s 17-point contribution in the Suns’ explosive 43-point second quarter was instrumental in establishing a dominant 73-55 lead at halftime. Devin Booker added 20 points, and Grayson Allen contributed 16 to the Suns’ effort.

Alperen Sengun was the top performer for the Rockets with 24 points, while Jalen Green added 23 points, including a season-high six 3-pointers. Despite Green’s strong performance, the Rockets’ overall record dropped to 15-14.

The Suns’ offensive efficiency was particularly notable in the second quarter, where they shot an impressive 76%, effectively distancing themselves from the Rockets. Durant’s aggressive play was pivotal, as he was involved in scoring or assisting on a substantial portion of the Suns’ baskets during this period.

Houston faced injury concerns, with Jabari Smith Jr. exiting in the third quarter due to a left ankle sprain. This injury came shortly after the Rockets lost Dillon Brooks to an oblique strain, marking his first missed game of the season.

The Suns are set to host Charlotte in their next game on Friday night, while the Rockets will face the Philadelphia 76ers at home on the same night.

by Richard Miller (US)

Thunder Overcome Knicks 129-120, Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams Star

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams each delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 36 points apiece, to guide the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 129-120 victory over the New York Knicks. Williams played a crucial role in the fourth quarter, sinking key 3-pointers that sealed the win.

Chet Holmgren contributed significantly with 22 points, helping the Thunder (20-9) secure a win following their triumph over Western Conference leaders Minnesota the previous night. Oklahoma City’s effective rotation and minimal turnovers were pivotal in their success, as noted by Coach Mark Daigneault.

For the Knicks (17-13), Julius Randle led the scoring with 25 points, with Jalen Brunson adding 24. Immanuel Quickley provided a strong performance off the bench, contributing 22 points. Despite a decent shooting percentage and effective free-throw shooting, the Knicks were hindered by 18 turnovers, leading to 21 Thunder points.

The Thunder established an early lead, shooting impressively in the first quarter to take a 38-25 lead. Their advantage extended to 17 in the second quarter, though the Knicks managed to reduce the gap to five points before halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander’s 19 first-half points helped the Thunder maintain a lead at the break.

In the third quarter, Randle spurred a comeback for the Knicks, tying the game at one point. However, Gilgeous-Alexander’s crucial plays kept the Thunder ahead going into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter saw Williams shine, scoring 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including two pivotal 3-pointers during a crucial 10-2 run. This surge helped Oklahoma City fend off a late Knicks rally and ultimately secure the victory.

The Knicks next face Orlando on Friday night, while the Thunder travel to Denver for their next matchup.

by Matt Windsor (US)

Bucks Overwhelm Understaffed Nets 144-122, Antetokounmpo Shines

NEW YORK — The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 32 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, secured a commanding 144-122 victory over a Brooklyn Nets team that approached the game with a heavily altered lineup. Khris Middleton also contributed significantly with 27 points and 10 assists.

The Nets, coming off a win against Detroit that extended the Pistons’ record-breaking losing streak, opted to rest key players, presenting the Bucks with unfamiliar faces on the court. Despite this, Antetokounmpo acknowledged the Nets’ competitive spirit, admitting he had to familiarize himself with many of the players during the game.

Brooklyn’s rotation, filled with rookies and two-way contract players, kept the game competitive for three quarters. However, the Bucks’ experience and skill prevailed in the fourth quarter, with Cameron Payne and Malik Beasley each hitting five 3-pointers. Payne finished with 18 points off the bench, and Beasley had 17 points.

For Brooklyn, rookie Jalen Wilson led with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Trendon Watford added 17 points. Dennis Smith Jr. and rookie Noah Clowney each contributed 14 points. The Nets rested key players such as Spencer Dinwiddie, Nic Claxton, Cam Johnson, and Dorian Finney-Smith, citing a heavy workload and the need to avoid putting them “in harm’s way.”

The Bucks capitalized on the Nets’ strategy, outscoring them 44-30 in the fourth quarter. Coach Adrian Griffin praised Nets coach Jacque Vaughn for his handling of the team but was pleased with his team’s ability to secure a win and prepare for their next matchup.

The victory improved the Bucks to 10-2 in December, bouncing back from a Christmas Day defeat to the Knicks. They finished their three-game holiday stint in New York with two wins.

The Bucks now look forward to their next game against Cleveland on Friday, while the Nets will face Washington on the same day.

by Richard Miller (US)

76ers Overpower Magic 112-92 Without Embiid, Showcase Stellar Defense

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Philadelphia 76ers, despite missing All-Star center Joel Embiid, showcased a formidable defensive performance to secure a 112-92 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 23 points, while Tobias Harris and De’Anthony Melton each contributed 22 points in a collective effort that compensated for Embiid’s absence.

Paul Reed stepped up in Embiid’s place, contributing 15 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks. The Sixers have now won nine of their last 11 games, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability without the league’s leading scorer, who sat out with a sprained right ankle.

Coach Nick Nurse emphasized the importance of finding a different style of play in Embiid’s absence, focusing on giving the team a chance to win. This approach was evident in the Sixers’ defensive strategy, which disrupted the Magic’s offense throughout the game.

Franz Wagner was the top scorer for the Magic with 24 points, followed by Jalen Suggs with 20 points. Paolo Banchero added 19 points and nine rebounds, but Orlando struggled with their shooting, especially from the 3-point line, where they were just 9 for 33. The Magic’s total score of 92 points was a season low, reflecting the effectiveness of the Sixers’ defense.

Banchero had a tough night, going 6 for 21 from the field, as the Sixers’ defense successfully contained him. Despite getting some open looks, the Magic failed to capitalize on their 3-point attempts. Suggs, however, remained confident in their shot selection, expressing willingness to take similar shots in future games.

The Sixers pulled away in the third quarter with Harris scoring key points during a 9-0 run, establishing multiple 11-point leads. Although the Magic briefly narrowed the gap to three points in the fourth quarter, the Sixers responded decisively with Harris and Melton hitting crucial 3-pointers, sealing the victory.

Maxey, rebounding from a previous 4-for-20 shooting performance, stayed aggressive and let the game come to him, leading to a more efficient scoring night.

The 76ers will look to continue their strong form as they visit Houston on Friday, while the Magic will aim to bounce back against New York on the same day.

by Richard Miller (US)

Anunoby, Siakam Lead Raptors to Dominant 132-102 Win Over Wizards

WASHINGTON — The Toronto Raptors decisively ended their three-game losing streak with a dominant 132-102 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. OG Anunoby led the way with 26 points, while Pascal Siakam contributed a double-double of 22 points and 11 assists, guiding the Raptors to an emphatic win.

Scottie Barnes added a substantial double-double of his own with 20 points and 12 rebounds. The victory was particularly satisfying for the Raptors, as it also ended their five-game losing streak on the road. It marked the beginning of a challenging stretch with nine of their next ten games away from home.

Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic praised his team for capitalizing on facing the Wizards on the second night of a back-to-back. He noted that the win should serve as a positive start to their road trip. Toronto’s shooting was exceptional, hitting 57.1% from the floor and 39.5% from beyond the arc.

Rajakovic’s strategic lineup change, starting Gary Trent Jr. over Dennis Schroder, paid dividends, as the Raptors nearly matched their franchise record for assists, set earlier this season. Schroder, coming off the bench, contributed significantly with 10 assists and nine points.

Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole each scored 14 points for Washington, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent the Wizards’ third consecutive loss. Corey Kispert added 13 points from the bench. The loss deepened Washington’s struggles, marking their 30-game start as the second-worst in franchise history.

Washington’s defense continued to falter, conceding over 130 points for the 14th time this season. Coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged the team’s size disadvantage and emphasized the need for a stronger mindset, particularly in rebounding, where they lag behind as the league’s worst.

The Raptors established their control with a decisive 19-1 run bridging the first and second quarters. Anunoby’s transition layup off Trent’s feed was pivotal in giving Toronto its first lead. The Wizards went without a field goal for over 7 minutes, a dry spell that Anunoby attributed to the Raptors’ improved communication and defensive effort.

Toronto’s lead swelled to 13 points in the second quarter and was 59-50 at halftime, thanks to Kispert’s buzzer-beating layup. The Raptors only extended their lead after the break, cruising to their largest margin of victory this season.

The Raptors will next face the Boston Celtics on Friday, while the Wizards are set to host the Atlanta Hawks on the same day.

by Abhishek Shukla

The World Games Athlete of December 2023: Maja Viström

Maja Viström (SWE) secured the World Championships gold medal in Floorball for Sweden in December, by starting the final match with a goal after only 31 seconds – and shooting the decisive goal 15 minutes later. Team Sweden won their ninth consecutive gold medal in winning 6-4 over Finland. For Maja Viström (22), this was already her second World Championships gold. She is The World Games Athlete of December 2023!

Maja Viström started playing Floorball at the age of 11. For several years she also played football, before finally deciding to concentrate on one sport only. Viström says that she plays best when it really matters, such as in the World Championships final. “I didn’t want to travel home from Singapore feeling that I hadn’t given 110%,” she says. Besides two gold medals from World Championships, the 22-year-old has helped her teams to win gold at Junior World Championships, and an incredible number of club team championships: 5!

The World Floorball Championships in Singapore were a qualifying event for The World Games 2025 in Chengdu. This means that when women’s Floorball makes its debut at The World Games, Maja Viström’s team will be there. For Viström, who really likes the matches when it really matters, this will be another opportunity to show what she is made of!

As The World Games Athlete of the Month, Maja Viström will receive a diploma and a branded gift.

by Abhishek Shukla

AFC Cup 2023/24 Knockout Stage Draw Results

Eleven teams progressed from the Group Stage of the 19th edition of the iconic tournament, which kicked off in September and featured 36 teams from across the Confederation’s five Zones.

The Inter-Zone Semi-finals will see Kyrgyz Republic’s FC Abdysh-Ata of the Central Zone taking on the East Zone’s Taichung Futuro of Chinese Taipei while the ASEAN zone winners will meet India’s Odisha FC, the South Zone champions.

The winners of the ASEAN Zone will progress through the zonal semi-finals and final with all the ties single leg affairs. 

The two-leg Inter-Zone Semi-finals are scheduled for March 6, 7 and March 13, 14 with the final, also to be played over two legs, to be held on April 17 and 24.

The winners of the Inter-Zone decider will face the West Zonal champions in the AFC Cup Final on May 5.

The West Zonal semi-finals and final will be two-leg ties with the last four matches scheduled for February 12, 13 and February 19, 20 and the final on April 16 and 23.

Schedule

West Zonal Semi-finals  (two legs)
February 12, 13; February 19, 20)
Semi-final 1: Al Riffa (BHR) v Al Nahda (OMA)
Semi-final 2: Al Ahed FC (LBN) v Al Kahrabaa Club (IRQ)
West Zonal Final (two legs)
April 16; 23
Winners SF2 v Winners SF1
ASEAN Zonal Semi-finals (single leg)
February 13
Semi-final 1: Macarthur FC (AUS) v Sabah FC (MAS)
Semi-final 2: Central Coast Mariners (AUS) v Phnom Penh Crown FC (CAM)
ASEAN Zonal Final (single leg)
February 22
Winners SF1 v Winners SF2
Inter-Zone Semi-finals (two legs)
March 6, 7; March 13, 14
SF1: FC Abdysh-Ata v (KZG) v Taichung Futuro FC (TPE)
SF2: ASEAN Zone winners v Odisha FC (IND)
Inter-Zone Final (two legs)
April 17; 24
Winners SF1 v Winners SF2
AFC Cup Final (single leg)
May 5
West Zone winners v Inter-Zone winners

by Abhishek Shukla

ONE Championship Announces Main Event for ONE 166: Qatar Will Be Reinier de Ridder vs. Anatoly Malykhin II for ONE Middleweight MMA World Title

Singapore — December 28, 2023 — ONE Championship (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, today announced that a rematch between reigning ONE Middleweight MMA World Champion Reinier de Ridder (16-1) of the Netherlands and ONE Heavyweight and Light Heavyweight MMA World Champion Anatoly Malykhin (13-0) of Russia will headline ONE 166: Qatar, presented by Visit Qatar and taking place at the Lusail Sports Arena on Friday, March 1.

Tickets for ONE 166: Qatar are on sale now at the Virgin Megastore and Q-Tickets.

Last December at ONE Fight Night 5, Malykhin – already the ONE Interim Heavyweight MMA World Champion – handed De Ridder the only loss of his career to claim the light heavyweight crown. I

n the process, the undefeated Russian became a two-division World Champion in ONE, a feat only a handful of athletes have achieved. Now, “Sladkiy” looks to make history and become a ONE MMA World Champion across three different divisions.

On the other side, “The Dutch Knight” will look to even the score with Malykhin on the biggest stage possible. Prior to suffering his first-ever defeat, the submission specialist had rattled off seven straight wins in ONE, including five via finish, to become a two-division World Champion in his own right.

ONE 166: Qatar features another highly anticipated World Championship rematch, as reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Jarred Brooks of the U.S. defends his title against the Philippines’ Joshua Pacio. Also on the card is a clash of heavyweight MMA contenders, as Iranian juggernaut Amir Aliakbari takes on former ONE Heavyweight MMA World Champion Arjan Bhullar of India. Plus, former ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Title challengers will collide, as Yemeni-Saudi BJJ black belt Osamah Almarwai takes on former IBJJF World Champion Cleber Sousa of Brazil.

As a part of grassroots efforts to develop martial arts talent in the region, ONE will also host a Road to ONE submission grappling tournament in the lead-up to ONE 166: Qatar during fight week. More bouts for ONE 166: Qatar and the Road to ONE tournament will be announced in the coming weeks.

by Abhishek Shukla

Asian Games glory headlines meteoric rise of India’s sports sector in 2023

New Delhi, December 28, 2023: Backed by a historic campaign at the Asian Games 2022, India’s sports sector has undergone a remarkable paradigm shift in 2023, achieving historic milestones and witnessing the flourishing of various sporting disciplines.

With a record-breaking haul of 107 medals, India’s talented athletes showcased their excellence across diverse sporting disciplines. Notably, athletics emerged as the standout performer, constituting 20% of the total medals and portraying the nation’s dominance.

Mr. Punit Balan, Chairman & Managing Director of the Punit Balan Group (PBG), shared insights on India’s sporting industry’s growth and PBG’s role in fostering diverse sports in the country. “The past year has been a monumental journey for the Indian sporting landscape. Our strategic investments in over nine leagues, both nationally and internationally, have contributed toward creating a thriving and sustainable ecosystem for Olympic, indigenous, and non-Olympic sports in the country. A shining example of this commitment is Indian Tennis Star Rutuja Bhosale, a PBG-supported athlete who clinched a gold medal in mixed doubles tennis at the Asian Games this year. With the Paris Olympics in mind in 2024, our focus is to increase our support for more athletes, offering them the necessary resources and backing to excel internationally,” said Mr. Punit Balan.

The Union Budget set the tone for the remarkable journey of the sporting industry this year, as the sports sector received its highest-ever budget allocation, reaching a staggering Rs 3397.32 Cr in the new FY 2023-24 Union Budget, with Khelo India securing a whopping Rs 1045 Cr in funding.

Alongside Khelo India, Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK), India’s first-ever professional Kho-Kho league, also secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group, becoming the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment. This funding was a testament to the growing prominence of indigenous sports such as kho kho in the country.

Mr. Tenzing Niyogi, CEO and League Commissioner of Ultimate Kho Kho, highlighted this rise of UKK by stating, “The year 2023 was distinguished by historic milestones and remarkable achievements for indigenous sports, with Ultimate Kho Kho spearheading the charge. In our continued pursuit of making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat, Season 2 marked the introduction of the NextGen where 33 exceptionally talented players, aged between 16 and 18, were drafted, reflecting UKK’s dedication to identifying and nurturing emerging talent.”

“Another significant accomplishment was the nomination of Nasreen Shaikh, the Indian women’s Kho Kho captain, for the prestigious Arjuna Award. This recognition is a substantial boost to women’s Kho Kho and sets the stage for the much-anticipated women’s Ultimate Kho Kho league in the country, which is currently in the works. Looking towards 2024, we aim to build an even more robust structure of Ultimate Kho Kho, driven for the players (both Men’s & Women’s) and inducting new team owners to develop the Kho Kho universe,” added Mr. Tenzing Niyogi.

Much like the notable surge in Kho Kho, Kabaddi also experienced remarkable expansion this year. The Yuva Kabaddi Series, India’s first-ever year-round sports tournament has played a pivotal role in the development of the sport, particularly at the grassroots level.

“The sports ecosystem in the country has grown by leaps and bounds in 2023, transitioning from a nation of sports spectators towards becoming a truly dedicated sporting nation. Personally, through the strides made in Kabaddi through the Yuva Kabaddi series, we have witnessed a substantial boost at the grassroots level and its positive impact extending to the Pro Kabaddi League. Through the Yuva Kabaddi series, we reached over 1000 Kabaddi players in 2023, and our goal is to surpass that number in the upcoming year. We aim to contribute more players to the Pro Kabaddi League and extend our impact to women’s Kabaddi across various states, establishing ourselves as a Pan-India sports product,” commented Mr. Suhail Chandhok, CEO of U Mumba and Co-Founder of Yuva Kabaddi Series.

For a nation to ascend to sporting excellence, the fitness and active participation of its population in sports are imperative. Gamepoint, a prominent sports services provider, has been instrumental in this endeavor by establishing elite sports centers and offering a diverse range of sports events designed to make sports accessible to individuals of all ages.

Shedding light on the achievements of the Indian sports ecosystem in 2023 and how Gamepoint provided the platform to proactively promote sports and cultivate a vibrant sporting ecosystem, Mr. Aditya Reddy, Co-Founder & CEO of Gamepoint stated, “In 2023, we experienced the first full year without any effects of Covid. As common people returned to playing sports, there was a renewed interest. In 2023, Gamepoint trained 4000 students, enabled more than 1 lakh people to play sports and conducted 100+ corporate sport events. In 2024, we are looking forward to making an even bigger impact on the participative sports market and expanding Gamepoint from 8 centres in one city to 16 centres in three cities. Also, the target in 2024 will be to increase our revenue share by 50%.”

The sporting achievements of this year have set the stage for a promising 2024 to build a robust sporting industry in India.

by Abhishek Shukla

WRB 2023 Day 2: Carlsen, Yu, and Fedoseev lead Open; Bodnaruk shines in Women’s Rapid

The second day of the World Rapid Championships saw intense action, with Carlsen, Yu and Fedoseev emerging as leaders with seven points out of nine in the Open. In the Women’s event, Anastasia Bodnaruk’s stellar performance secured her the sole lead with seven out of eight points.

Four rounds were played today in both the Open and the Women’s Rapid.

In the Open tournament, Magnus Carlsen maintained his position among the leaders. Despite a strong start with a crucial win against Vidit, the Norwegian had to settle for draws in the remaining three games. He shares the lead with Yu Yangyi and Vladimir Fedoseev, all tallying seven points from nine games.

Anastasia Bodnaruk stole the day in the women’s tournament. With a score of 3.5/4 – including victories over the two frontrunners from day one, Zhu Jiner and Salimova – she emerged as the sole leader, with seven points out of eight. Bodnaruk is trailed by two players, India’s Koneru Humpy and China’s Zhai Mo, who are on 6.5/8.

The Open

The day started well for Carlsen as he scored a critical victory against India’s Vidit Santos Gujrathi. Both sides were evenly matched for the most part, but in a knight endgame, Vidit’s nerves gave way – he blundered one pawn and then another, ending completely lost. After the game, Vidit – visibly shaken – was seen standing over the board for about a minute, wandering aimlessly into the distance.

Things didn’t go Carlsen’s way in the remaining three games, where he drew with Erigaisi, Yu and Keymer. While the line played against Yu was sharp, the position was always even. The only real opportunity Carlsen had was in the final game of the day against Germany’s Vincent Keymer. Magnus managed to force an endgame where his white knight was stronger than Keymer’s dark-squared bishop, but – despite being significantly better on time – the Norwegian blundered and allowed Keymer to draw.

China’s Yu Yangyi continued steadily – like Carlsen, he also scored 2.5/4, with three draws and one victory (over India’s Bharath). Yu was also lucky today, as he managed to save a lost position to Fedoseev in the ninth (last) round.

Vladimir Fedoseev joined the leaders today after having a good run – scoring three consecutive wins (against Narayanan, Gareyev and Erigaisi). In round nine, Fedoseev had a golden opportunity to defeat Yu Yangyi and emerge as the sole leader in the Open. However, he misplayed a winning endgame and allowed the Chinese GM to escape with a draw.

With a tight competition brewing, 13 players trail just half a point behind the leading trio in the Open tournament. The list includes very strong players such as Erigaisi, 2018 World Rapid winner Dubov, Vidit, Vachier-Lagrave, Radjabov, and Keymer, as well as Bulgarian Ivan Cheparinov, who continued his good run from day one.

Among other heavyweights, Nepomniachtchi, Caruana and Aronian are on six points. Rapport – who had a good start on day one – finished the second day with 2/4 and has 5.5 points altogether.

With four more rounds left, the stage is set for an unpredictable and thrilling final day in the Open section.

The Women’s Tournament

The second day of the Women’s tournament saw leaders changing in the last three rounds.

The day started with a direct duel for first place between two frontrunners – Zhu Jiner and Nurgyul Salimova, in which the Chinese emerged victorious.

In the following sixth round, China’s Zhai Mo – 29th in the ranking list – stunned her compatriot Zhu Jiner with an impressive victory in the Benko and overtook the lead. It was in this round that the seasoned Indian Koneru Humpy caught up with the top group by defeating Azerbaijan’s Gunay Mammadzada.

The Women’s tournament

Bulgaria’s Nurgyul Salimova and Zhu Jiner of China lead the pack with a maximum score of four points.

They are closely followed by a group of six unexpected contenders, with India’s Rameshbabu Vaishali as the sole top-20-rated player among them.

The first day in the Women’s Rapid saw a slow start from the reigning Rapid Champion, Tan Zhongyi, who scored her first victory only in the final, fourth round of the day, following three draws. The Women’s World Champion in classical chess, Ju Wenjun, as well as her challenger in the Match for the title earlier this year, Lei Tingjie, also underperformed, finishing the day with 2/5 out of 4.

Surprisingly, top-rated players and former Women’s World Champions Alexandra Kosteniuk (also the 2021 Women’s World Rapid Champion) and Mariya Muzychuk struggled with a loss at the start, ending with only 1.5 points out of four.

About the event:

The World Rapid and Blitz is one of the most exciting and most watched chess events in the world, attracting the strongest Grandmasters.

The prize fund totals one million US dollars, with $700,000 for the Open and $300,000 for the Women’s tournaments.

The event is taking place from December 25 to December 30, at the Samarkand Congress Center.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL Week 17 Preview: High Stakes and Remarkable Records as Teams Jostle for Playoff Positions

NEW YORK, Dec. 27, 2023

As the NFL gears up for a thrilling Week 17, ten teams have already surpassed their previous season’s win records, setting the stage for an electrifying New Year’s Eve of football. Among the standout stories is the Miami Dolphins (11-4) and Baltimore Ravens (12-3), both vying for the AFC’s top seed. The matchup promises to be a showdown of epic proportions, with both teams already recording two more wins than the entire previous season.

In an astonishing turnaround, the Houston Texans, under rookie head coach DeMeco Ryans, have emerged as the league’s most improved team. At 8-7, they control their playoff destiny, a remarkable feat considering their lackluster performance in 2022. A victory against Tennessee Titans (5-10) could continue their extraordinary journey, possibly leading them from last to first in their division, a feat achieved by at least one team in 18 of the last 20 seasons.

A historical perspective reveals that in each of the past 20 years, at least two teams have won their divisions the season after missing the playoffs. The Detroit Lions (11-4) have already secured the NFC North title, their first in 30 years. The New Orleans Saints (7-8) and Atlanta Falcons (7-8) remain in contention for the NFC South title, demonstrating the NFL’s unique ability to breed hope and turnaround stories.

Week 17 also features eight matchups between teams contending for Super Bowl LVIII and five divisional games. The landscape is set for extraordinary endings, as seen in recent weeks where several games have been decided in the final moments, adding to the season’s thrill and unpredictability.

Among the individual highlights, Pittsburgh Steelers’ Mike Tomlin could surpass an impressive coaching record, and Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons is drawing comparisons to legendary figures with his sack records. On the team front, the Baltimore Ravens boast the NFL’s best scoring defense, while the Miami Dolphins lead in scoring offense, setting up an intriguing clash of strengths.

Lastly, Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love is on the cusp of leading his team to the playoffs in his first full year as a starter, a feat not achieved since at least 1950. With so much at stake, Week 17 promises to be a memorable chapter in the NFL season, offering fans a blend of high-octane action and historic moments as teams jockey for playoff positioning.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Denver Nuggets’ Aaron Gordon Suffers Lacerations from Dog Bite, Recovery Underway

Denver, CO – In an unexpected off-court incident, Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon sustained multiple lacerations to his face and hand due to a dog bite on December 25th. The team confirmed that Gordon is in stable condition but will be taking time off for recovery.

According to the Nuggets’ official statement, the incident occurred at Gordon’s residence on Christmas Day. Emergency services were called to the scene, and Gordon received immediate medical attention. The nature and severity of the lacerations were not detailed, but initial reports indicate that while painful, they are not life-threatening.

The Nuggets have not specified the breed or ownership of the dog involved in the incident. However, they emphasized that Gordon’s health and well-being are their top priority, and they are closely monitoring his recovery process.

by Abhishek Shukla

Hat Tricks by Sale and Kulich Power Czechia to Commanding 8-1 Victory Over Norway at WJC

In a dominant display of skill and teamwork, Eduard Sale and captain Jiri Kulich each scored hat tricks to lead Czechia to an 8-1 triumph over Norway in their World Junior Championship game at Frolundaborg. The comprehensive victory brings Czechia’s record to an even 1-1, while Norway faces an uphill battle with a 0-2 standing.

Kulich, a veteran playing his third consecutive World Juniors, set the pace for Czechia with an early goal, executing a precise wrist shot that eluded Norwegian goalie Markus Stensrud. Despite Norway’s early power play opportunities, including a brief two-man advantage, they were unable to significantly challenge Czechia’s penalty-killing unit.

Czechia’s lead was doubled later in the first period by another goal from Kulich, concluding a period where Norway surprisingly outshot Czechia 13-11. However, the second period marked a shift in momentum as Czechia escalated their offensive pressure, scoring three additional goals and effectively taking control of the game.

Norway briefly narrowed the gap with a goal from Johannes Lokkeberg, marking their first goal against Czechia since 1990. But Czechia quickly responded, with goals from Ales Cech and two from Eduard Sale, one resulting from a defensive error by Norway.

The third period saw Czechia’s dominance continue, with Matyas Sapovaliv adding to the tally on a power play. Sale completed his hat trick with a sharp snap shot, also on a power play, demonstrating Czechia’s effective use of the man advantage. Kulich rounded off his hat trick with a goal assisted by Tomas Hamara, cementing Czechia’s overwhelming victory.

This match was a showcase of Czechia’s potent offensive capabilities and a testament to their resilience after their initial loss in the tournament. For Norway, the game highlights the challenges they face in competing against more established teams at the World Juniors. Czechia’s balanced attack and strong special teams play will be crucial as they progress further in the tournament.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA Power Rankings: Week 10 Highlights and Analysis

Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves Dominate at the Top

As the NBA 2023-24 season progresses into its 10th week, the Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves continue to lead the rankings. The Celtics, boasting a record of 23-6, showed resilience during their California Christmas tour, overcoming a significant fourth-quarter deficit to secure a 3-1 record. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, with a 22-6 record, have remained consistent, notably being the only team not to lose two consecutive games this season.

Denver Nuggets’ Ascension in the Top 5

The Denver Nuggets, under the impressive performances of Nikola Jokic, have experienced a significant rise, currently holding the longest active winning streak in the league. This five-game winning streak has propelled them to the second spot in the Western Conference, showcasing their offensive prowess and strategic gameplay.

Notable Performances and Trends

  • Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets): Jokic has been exceptional, recording a plus-93 in five games, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
  • Increased Offensive Efficiency: The NBA has seen an uptick in offensive efficiency, with teams averaging 116.8 points per 100 possessions this month, surpassing last season’s all-time high.
  • East vs. West Dynamics: The Western Conference currently leads against the Eastern Conference in interconference games, with a 61-50 (.550) record.

Teams Making Significant Moves

  • Miami Heat and Memphis Grizzlies: Both teams have made notable jumps in the rankings, with Miami climbing nine spots and Memphis improving by five.
  • Teams on the Decline: The Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns have experienced significant drops in their rankings.

Team to Watch: Memphis Grizzlies

With a stellar 3-0 record with Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies are poised for challenging matchups in the Western Conference, facing teams like the Pelicans, Nuggets, and Clippers. Their performance in these upcoming games will be crucial in determining their position in the rankings.

NBA Power Rankings for Week 10:

RankTeamRecordOffRtgDefRtgNetRtgPace
1Boston Celtics23-6120.6110.5+10.198.4
2Minnesota Timberwolves22-6114.0107.4+6.699.1
3Denver Nuggets22-10117.9112.5+5.397.8
4Oklahoma City Thunder18-9118.1110.9+7.2101.6
5Philadelphia 76ers20-9121.2110.3+10.9100.4
6Milwaukee Bucks22-8120.5115.4+5.1102.6
7LA Clippers17-12117.5113.7+3.898.8
8Sacramento Kings17-11116.0115.8+0.2100.6

OffRtg, DefRtg, and NetRtg are the team’s offensive, defensive, and net ratings, respectively, indicating points scored or allowed per 100 possessions. Pace refers to the number of possessions a team uses per game. This data provides a comprehensive view of the top 8 teams’ performance in the league as of Week 10.

As the season unfolds, the rankings reflect the dynamic nature of the NBA, with teams continuously striving for improvement and dominance. The Celtics and Timberwolves remain formidable at the top, while teams like the Nuggets and Grizzlies are making significant strides. The ongoing season promises more exciting developments as teams jostle for supremacy in the league.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL Power Rankings Week 17: Ravens Soar to the Top, Chiefs Stumble

As the 2023 NFL season approaches its climax, the Week 17 power rankings have unveiled some significant shifts at the top. The Baltimore Ravens, demonstrating resilience and strategic prowess, have ascended to the number one spot, thanks to their impressive 33-19 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. Baltimore’s success is attributed to their ability to overcome an early struggle, displaying mental toughness in a hostile environment and executing a formidable defense led by Lamar Jackson. The team’s ability to respond to challenges effectively has been a hallmark of their season, contributing to their current 12-3 record.

The San Francisco 49ers, despite a valiant effort in the latter stages of their game against the Ravens, faced a challenging night, slipping to the second rank. Quarterback Brock Purdy’s performance was marred by critical interceptions and overall offensive struggles, highlighting areas of concern for the team. However, the 49ers, now at 11-4, remain contenders for the Super Bowl, with their strong season record keeping them in the race.

The Miami Dolphins have surged to the third position, marking a significant achievement by defeating a quality opponent, the Dallas Cowboys, in a tense 22-20 game. Their success in crucial moments, particularly in running the football, has been a key factor this season. This victory sets up a potential division-clinching game against the Ravens, promising another high-stakes matchup.

Philadelphia Eagles, ranking fourth, have had a mixed performance. Despite ending a three-game slide and moving closer to clinching the division title, their victory over the New York Giants was not entirely convincing. The team will be aiming to eliminate mistakes as they prepare for the playoffs.

The Detroit Lions, occupying the fifth spot, have shown tenacity and a knack for crucial defensive plays. Their first NFC North title in 30 years is a testament to their fighting spirit and the emergence of key players like rookie RB Jahmyr Gibbs and WR Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Lions’ balanced offensive and defensive plays have contributed to their 11-4 record and a secured playoff berth.

In sixth place, the Dallas Cowboys, already assured of a playoff spot, have faced challenges, particularly in converting third downs in road games. The team’s inconsistency raises questions about their potential to advance deep into the playoffs.

The Buffalo Bills, ranked seventh, have had an uneven season, characterized by fluctuating performances. Despite setbacks, key players have stepped up in crucial moments, keeping the Bills in the playoff conversation.

The Cleveland Browns, ranked eighth, have been a team of contrasts, combining a powerful offense with one of the league’s top defenses. Their big-play capability makes them a formidable opponent in the playoffs.

Finally, the Kansas City Chiefs, now ranked ninth, have shown signs of struggle, particularly on the offensive front. With a series of dropped passes, turnovers, and penalties, the team’s once-dominant offense has faltered, raising concerns as the playoffs approach.

NFL Power Rankings for Week 17:

RankTeamRecord
1Baltimore Ravens12-3
2San Francisco 49ers11-4
3Miami Dolphins11-4
4Philadelphia Eagles11-4
5Detroit Lions11-4
6Dallas Cowboys10-5
7Buffalo Bills9-6
8Cleveland Browns10-5
9Kansas City Chiefs9-6

by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL: Packers Cornerback Jaire Alexander Suspended for a Game Due to Conduct Detrimental to the Team

GREEN BAY, WI – In a significant move by the Green Bay Packers, star cornerback Jaire Alexander has been placed on the reserve/suspended list for one game. The announcement, made on Wednesday by General Manager Brian Gutekunst, follows Alexander’s actions prior to the team’s recent game in Carolina, which the organization deemed detrimental to the team.

Gutekunst expressed that the decision to suspend a player, especially of Alexander’s caliber, is challenging and is not taken lightly. The circumstances leading to this suspension were not detailed, but it was clear that the team felt a strong response was necessary. “The decision to suspend a player is never easy and not one we take lightly,” Gutekunst stated. He highlighted that the team’s culture emphasizes putting the team first, a standard Alexander seemingly failed to meet in this instance.

Despite the suspension, the tone from the Packers’ front office was one of both disappointment and hope. Gutekunst revealed that he had a constructive conversation with Alexander on the morning of the announcement. This dialogue suggests that while the team is taking a firm stance on discipline, it also sees this as a learning opportunity for the Pro Bowl cornerback.

Alexander, known for his exceptional skills on the field and considered one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, will be a notable absence in the Packers’ defensive lineup. His suspension could impact the team’s strategy and performance in their next game, as they will have to adjust without one of their key defensive players.

The Packers’ management has expressed confidence in Alexander’s ability to bounce back from this setback. Gutekunst’s statement concluded with a forward-looking perspective, indicating that Alexander remains a valued member of the team and emphasizing their eagerness to welcome him back. “We look forward to welcoming him back next week as he is a valued member of this team and will continue to be in the future,” he said.

The suspension of a player of Jaire Alexander’s stature is not common in the NFL, especially for a team that relies heavily on their defensive prowess. The Packers will likely feel the impact of his absence in their next game, both in terms of defensive strategy and team dynamics. It remains to be seen how the team will adjust their gameplay to compensate for the loss of Alexander, who has been instrumental in their defensive successes.

The incident also sheds light on the importance of team culture in professional sports. The Packers’ decision reflects their commitment to discipline and team values, even when it involves key players. This approach may set a precedent for other teams in the league, reinforcing the notion that team standards are paramount, regardless of individual talent.

As the Packers and Alexander move forward from this incident, it will be interesting to see how this experience shapes both the player’s approach and the team’s cohesion in future games.

by Abhishek Shukla

MLS: Damir Kreilach Bids Farewell to Real Salt Lake After Six Influential Seasons

Salt Lake City, Utah – The era of Damir Kreilach at Real Salt Lake has come to an end, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in the club’s history. Both Kreilach and Real Salt Lake officially announced the departure on Wednesday, drawing a close to the Croatian midfielder’s impactful tenure since joining the team in 2018.

Kreilach, who arrived at RSL from German club Union Berlin, leaves behind a remarkable legacy. In his six seasons with the team, he notched an impressive tally of 47 goals and 24 assists over 151 regular-season appearances. Despite his remarkable contributions, the club decided not to exercise his contract option following the 2023 campaign.

Kurt Schmid, the sporting director of Real Salt Lake, expressed the difficulty of parting ways with such a pivotal figure. “Saying goodbye to Damir Kreilach is a challenging moment for our club,” Schmid stated. “His impact, leadership, and service were almost unparalleled, and he embodied the spirit of a true professional and leader.”

The highlight of Kreilach’s career at RSL came in 2021 when he delivered an outstanding performance of 16 goals and 9 assists. This exceptional form earned him a spot in the MLS All-Star team and saw him forge a formidable attacking partnership with Albert Rusnák, now with Seattle Sounders FC. The following year, Kreilach was named club captain, a testament to his influence both on and off the field.

However, his tenure was not without challenges. A back injury significantly affected his playtime, limiting his contributions in his final season to 4 goals and 1 assist over 27 games, including 15 starts.

Reflecting on his departure, Kreilach shared his emotions in a heartfelt letter to the RSL fanbase. “Leaving RSL is the most difficult decision I’ve ever made,” he wrote. “The past six years have been incredible, filled with unforgettable moments and emotions.”

As Real Salt Lake turns the page to the post-Kreilach era, they face a new beginning, starting their 2024 MLS regular season against Inter Miami CF on February 21. The match, scheduled for 8 pm ET, will be available on MLS Season Pass, heralding a new chapter for the team and its fans.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Dallas Mavericks Ownership Changes Hands: Adelson and Dumont Families Take Control

NEW YORK – In a landmark decision, the NBA Board of Governors has approved the sale of the Dallas Mavericks, marking a significant shift in the ownership landscape of one of the league’s most prominent franchises. The controlling interest, previously held by entrepreneur Mark Cuban, will now be in the hands of the families of Dr. Miriam Adelson and Sivan and Patrick Dumont.

Patrick Dumont, who currently holds the position of President and Chief Operating Officer at Las Vegas Sands Corp., is set to become the Mavericks’ Governor following the completion of the sale. This transition represents a notable moment in NBA history, as the Mavericks, a team with a storied legacy and passionate fanbase, embrace a new era under different leadership.

The approval from the NBA Board of Governors came after thorough consideration, ensuring that the new owners align with the league’s standards and vision. The Mavericks, since their inception in 1980, have been a cornerstone in the NBA, with a championship win in 2011 and multiple playoff appearances, highlighting their competitive and commercial success.

Mark Cuban, who acquired the Mavericks in 2000, has been a transformative figure in the team’s history, fostering a culture of innovation and success. Under his ownership, the Mavericks not only clinched their first NBA Championship but also saw a significant rise in their global profile and fan engagement. Cuban’s tenure has been marked by a commitment to team development and fan experience, setting a high bar for the incoming ownership.

The Adelson and Dumont families bring a wealth of experience and a new perspective to the NBA. Dr. Miriam Adelson, a renowned physician and philanthropist, along with her family, has been involved in various business and charitable endeavors, demonstrating a strong commitment to community and development. Patrick Dumont, with his extensive background in corporate leadership, especially in the entertainment and hospitality industry, is expected to infuse the Mavericks with fresh ideas and strategies to enhance their performance and brand value.

The sale, expected to close this week, ushers in a new chapter for the Dallas Mavericks. Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching how the Adelson and Dumont families steer the team in the coming years. The transition is poised to not only impact the Mavericks but also set a precedent in the NBA for how teams evolve under new ownership while maintaining their legacy and pursuing future successes.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Minnesota Twins Secure Right-Handed Pitcher Josh Staumont with a One-Year Contract for 2024 Season

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN – In a significant move to bolster their pitching staff, the Minnesota Twins have officially signed right-handed pitcher Josh Staumont to a one-year contract for the upcoming 2024 season. This acquisition comes as a strategic effort by the Twins to strengthen their bullpen with Staumont’s impressive strikeout capabilities.

Josh Staumont, a 30-year-old pitcher known for his fastball and high strikeout rate, spent the 2023 season with the Kansas City Royals. During his tenure with the Royals, Staumont appeared in 21 games, including one start, and recorded a 5.40 ERA over 20.0 innings pitched. Notably, he struck out 24 batters, averaging an impressive 10.80 strikeouts per 9.0 innings, and ended the season with a 1.45 WHIP. Despite his potential, Staumont’s season was cut short due to a neck strain that landed him on the 15-day Injured List from June 7, causing him to miss the remainder of the season.

Before his call-up to the Royals in April, Staumont showcased his skills with Triple-A Omaha, pitching 4.0 scoreless innings and securing one save in four appearances. His consistent performance in the minor leagues highlighted his potential as a valuable asset to a major league bullpen.

Hailing from La Habra, California, Staumont was initially drafted by the Royals in the second round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft from Azusa Pacific University. Since making his major league debut in 2019, he has compiled a career record of 9-7 with a 4.01 ERA over 168.1 innings pitched in 169 games, including one start. Staumont’s career statistics also boast eight saves, 30 holds, 95 walks, and 191 strikeouts, with a .221 opponent batting average.

The signing of Staumont brings the Twins’ 40-man roster to 37 players, which now includes 18 pitchers, three catchers, eight infielders, and eight outfielders. The Twins’ management is confident that Staumont’s addition will provide depth and versatility to their pitching lineup, particularly in high-leverage situations where strikeouts are crucial.

As the Twins prepare for the 2024 season, the addition of Josh Staumont is seen as a key step in their quest for a competitive edge in the league. His ability to deliver strikeouts and navigate tough innings could prove to be a game-changer in the Twins’ bullpen strategy.

by Abhishek Shukla

Germany Stuns Finland 4-3 for Historic Win in IIHF World Junior Championship

In an extraordinary display of determination and skill, Germany triumphed over Finland with a 4-3 victory in their 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship debut on Wednesday. This remarkable win marks Germany’s first ever victory over Finland in the history of the tournament.

Forward Veit Oswald emerged as a key player for Germany, scoring two goals, including a pivotal go-ahead marker in the second period. Goalie Philipp Dietl was another standout, making an impressive 40 saves throughout the game.

Finland, with a previous record of 25-0 against Germany dating back to 1977, entered the game as the apparent favorites. However, the Finnish team, despite outshooting Germany 43-28, struggled to find their rhythm, continuing a lackluster start to the tournament after a 5-2 loss to Canada.

Germany, under Coach Tobias Abstreiter, displayed exceptional spirit and aggression from the outset. Assistant captain Julian Lutz, a notable 2022 NHL draft pick, played a crucial role in setting the tone for the game.

The Germans capitalized on early Finnish penalties and defensive errors, with Oswald scoring the first goal by capitalizing on a Finnish turnover. Finland’s Tommi Mannisto managed to equalize, but the teams went into the first intermission tied at 1-1.

The second period saw a flurry of goals from both sides. Finland briefly took the lead with a goal from Kasper Halttunen, but Germany quickly responded with goals from Niklas Hubner and Kechter. Oswald’s second goal of the game gave Germany a lead they maintained for the rest of the match.

In the final period, Germany faced intense pressure but held strong, with Dietl making crucial saves against Finnish attempts. Despite a late power play advantage for Finland, Germany successfully defended their lead, culminating in a historic and celebratory victory.

This win is a significant milestone for Germany, showcasing their growth and potential in the world of junior hockey. Finland, on the other hand, faces the challenge of regrouping and rediscovering their form as they continue in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

Impressive Week 16 Performances Crown Players of the Week in NFL

The National Football League has announced its Players of the Week for Week 16 of the 2023 season, showcasing outstanding performances from both conferences.

AFC Offensive Player of the Week: Amari Cooper (WR, Cleveland Browns)

  • Achievements: 11 receptions, 265 receiving yards, 2 receiving touchdowns.
  • Milestones: Cooper becomes the sixth player ever with four career games of 200+ receiving yards. This is his fourth career Player of the Week honor, previously winning in 2017 (Week 7 with Raiders), 2018 (Weeks 12 & 14 with Cowboys), and now 2023 (Week 16 with Browns). Remarkably, he’s the first wide receiver to win Offensive Player of the Week (OPOW) with three different teams and joins Julio Jones as the second former Alabama wide receiver to earn the honor four times.

AFC Defensive Player of the Week: Kyle Hamilton (S, Baltimore Ravens)

  • Achievements: 5 tackles, pass deflections, 3 interceptions.
  • Notable Stats: Hamilton is the third defensive back since 2000 with 10+ tackles for loss (10), 10+ pass deflections (13), and 4+ interceptions (4) in a season. This is his first Player of the Week award. He joins Ed Reed and Eric Weddle as the third Ravens safety in the past 20 seasons to win the Defensive Player of the Week (DPOW). Hamilton also becomes the fifth former Notre Dame safety to earn this honor.

AFC Special Teams Player of the Week: Jason Sanders (K, Miami Dolphins)

  • Achievements: 5/5 on field goals (57, 52, 54, 35, game-winning 29-yarder), totaling 16 kicking points.
  • Records: Sanders is the first Dolphins player to convert three 50+ yard field goals in a single game. This is his fifth career Player of the Week award, with previous wins in 2019 (Weeks 10 & 13) and 2020 (Weeks 5 & 16). He also becomes the first Dolphins player to win Special Teams Player of the Week (STPOW) five times and is the only former New Mexico player to earn the honor multiple times.

NFC Standouts: Breaking Records and Setting Benchmarks

NFC Offensive Player of the Week: Puka Nacua (WR, Los Angeles Rams)

  • Achievements: 9 receptions, 180 scrimmage yards (164 receiving, 16 rushing), 2 receiving touchdowns.
  • Highlights: Nacua is the fifth rookie in NFL history with three games of 150+ scrimmage yards. He is the first Rams player to win OPOW since Eddie Kennison in Week 16 of 1999, and the first former BYU wide receiver to receive this honor.

NFC Defensive Player of the Week: Ifeatu Melifonwu (S, Detroit Lions)

  • Stats: 5 tackles, 2 pass deflections, 1 interception.
  • Recognition: Melifonwu is the first defensive back since 2000 with a stat line of 5+ tackles, 2+ sacks, 2+ pass deflections, and an interception in a single game. This is his first Player of the Week award, making him the fourth Lions safety to earn this honor since 2014 and the first since 2019.

NFC Special Teams Player of the Week: Younghoe Koo (K, Atlanta Falcons)

  • Achievements: 5/5 on field goals, contributing significantly to the team’s scoring.
  • Accolades: This is Koo’s fourth career Player of the Week award, previously winning in 2019 (Weeks 10 & 14) and 2023 (Week 7). He becomes the third Falcons kicker to earn the honor four or more times, joining Morten Andersen (seven times) and Matt Bryant (five times). Koo is also the first former Georgia Southern player to win STPOW four or more times.

In conclusion, Week 16 of the NFL season showcased exceptional talents across both conferences, with players breaking records and achieving personal milestones, significantly impacting their teams’ performances and the league’s history.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Kerala Blasters FC makes a strong statement in Championship battle with maiden ISL win against hosts Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Kolkata, 27 December 2023: Kerala Blasters FC beat the Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) for the first time ever in the Indian Super League (ISL) as a 1-0 victory courtesy of a ninth minute strike by Dimitrios Diamantakos at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata took his team to the top of the league table on Wednesday. Ivan Vukomanovic finally managed to get one over his counterpart Juan Ferrando, whose team succumbed to a third straight loss with this result.

The scoreline might not suggest the upper hand that Kerala Blasters FC held in the proceedings, with their dynamic duo of Diamantakos and Kwame Peprah causing constant troubles to the Mariners’ backline. From going direct through long balls to the two forwards interlinking and finding ways around the home team’s defence, they left no stone unturned in chasing this victory.

Diamantakos missed hitting the target by mere inches when he brought down a cross by Pritam Kotal and shot it slightly above Vishal Kaith in the fourth minute. However, it was a sign of things to come, with the Greek forward producing one of the finest individual efforts of the season to bag the winner in this game. Peprah’s long-range shot rebounded but Diamantakos was quick to collect that, before cutting into the box and making his way past Asish Rai and Hector Yuste before hammering the ball into the back of the net from a tight angle with his left foot.

The goal got the visitors on their feet as Diamantakos edged past Jorge Pereyra Diaz to become the leading goal-scorer in the league with seven strikes to his name. Peprah seamlessly drifted across the Mariners’ backline, and he pulled off a shot pretty similar to the one by Diamantakos, from the same angle, a little later but to no avail. Their domestic counterpart Rahul KP was not going to be left behind either. Mohammed Azhar distributed the ball to Rahul at the right side of the box and the striker drilled it off target in an effort that he arguably should have converted with ease.

It reiterated the total control that the visitors maintained throughout the game. MBSG, despite the gifted frontline at their disposal, was not able to create many chances. Hugo Boumous showed some quick feet to get past Danish Farooq and curl in a cross for Armando Sadiku a little after the hour mark. However, the Albanian could not put enough power behind the shot to bag the equaliser. Vishal Kaith kept his calm to keep the scores level even in the added time of the second half, as the Mariners relied on Dimitrios Petratos to do the unthinkable again with the set-piece. However, in the kind of game that it was for the home team, the striker couldn’t shoot the ball beyond the Kerala Blasters FC defensive wall.

Key Performer of the Match

Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC)

Diamantakos has stood up to the challenge of Adrian Luna’s absence superbly well. Tonight, he scored once, created a couple of goal-scoring opportunities, in addition to making a tackle, interception, and clearance each. He helped the visitors set the tone for the match right from kick off, and his team reaped the rewards of the same.

What’s next for both teams?

The first half of the season has come to an end for both teams with this match.

Brief Scores

Mohun Bagan Super Giant 0 – 1 Kerala Blasters FC (Dimitrios Diamantakos 9’)

Stat Pack:

S1.jpg
by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Rakesh’s superlative effort propels Gujarat Giants to nail-biting victory over Tamil Thalaivas

CHENNAI, December 27: Despite a brief setback near the end of the game, the Gujarat Giants defeated the Tamil Thalaivas 33-30 at the SDAT Multipurpose Indoor Stadium in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 match on Wednesday. Rakesh (9 points), Sombir (4 points) and Fazal Atrachali (3 points) were the standout players for the Giants, while Ajinkya Pawar’s 11 points came in a losing cause. The game was the last one in the Chennai leg, as the league moves to Noida next. The next leg of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 will begin on Friday, 29 December 2023.

In an early win for the Thalaivas, Ajinkya Pawar came out firing on all cylinders and managed to take out Fazal Atrachali twice in the opening 10 minutes of the game. Despite that though there was nothing to separate the sides at the start, as they matched each other raid for raid. 

However, the Giants seized control of the game a few moments later. A SUPER TACKLE by Manoj on a rampant Himanshu Singh started a domino effect. Within a minute with his first raid of the game, Parteek Dahiya picked up a SUPER RAID taking out Sahil Gulia, M Abishek and Amirhossein Bastami to put the Giants in control. They went into the break leading by three points. 

A high-paced second half was played out mostly on the raid, with Pawar and Rakesh constantly keeping the scoreboard ticking for their respective sides. The Giants’ defence rallied together soon to reduce the home team’s numbers and the first ALL OUT came in due course to extend them into a 24-18 lead. 

The final minutes of the game saw some brilliant play, with Narender’s raid to take out Atrachali and his compatriot Mohammad Nabibakhsh bringing the partisan crowd to its feet. That raid had drawn the Thalaivas close to the Giants’ score. With two minutes left though, a Sombir SUPER TACKLE put the Giants back in control of the game. They ran the clock down easily to take the win in the end.

Please find below the schedule for PKL Season 10 match on Friday

Game 1 – Patna Pirates vs Haryana Steelers – 8 pm

Game 2 – U.P. Yoddhas vs Bengaluru Bulls – 9 pm

Venue: Noida

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ hotstar.