Zirkzee impresses as Manchester United draw against Real Sociedad.
Manchester United produced one of their best performances in months but were left frustrated with a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in their Europa League last-16 first leg. The Red Devils controlled the match in San Sebastian, creating numerous chances but failing to capitalize. Bruno Fernandes saw a goal-bound shot blocked in the first half, while Joshua Zirkzee’s follow-up was saved. Alejandro Garnacho also went close before setting up Zirkzee early in the second half, with the Dutch striker firing a precise first-time shot past Álex Remiro. Sociedad responded strongly, with Brais Mendez narrowly missing before they were awarded a penalty for a Bruno Fernandes handball. Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot to equalize with 20 minutes left. The hosts pushed for a winner, but Andre Onana made crucial saves, and Orri Óskarsson squandered a late chance. The tie remains wide open ahead of next week’s decisive second leg at Old Trafford.
FT: Real Sociedad 1-1 Manchester United.
Thoughts? 👇 pic.twitter.com/OZc0DKdPBo
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) March 6, 2025
Dwight Howard set to be inducted in the Orlando Magic’s Hall of Fame.
The Orlando Magic have announced that Dwight Howard will be the 13th inductee into the franchise’s Hall of Fame, recognizing his legacy as one of the team’s greatest players. The induction ceremony will take place on Monday, March 24, at the Kia Center, with Howard also being honoured that evening when the Magic face the Los Angeles Lakers. “Dwight Howard left an undeniable imprint on the history of the Orlando Magic,” said CEO Alex Martins. “From being the first overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft to leading us to the 2009 NBA Finals, his contributions brought great success on and off the court.” Howard, who played for Orlando from 2004 to 2012, remains the franchise’s all-time leader in points (11,435), rebounds (8,072), blocked shots (1,344), and minutes played (22,471). His induction cements his place among Magic legends, celebrating his impact on the team’s history.
Dwight Howard will be inducted into the Magic Hall of Fame on March 24 👏 pic.twitter.com/NdMRrKDhYu
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 7, 2025
Chelsea maintains 100% record in the Conference league after Copenhagen win.
Enzo Maresca’s men took a step toward the Conference League quarterfinals with a 2-1 victory over Copenhagen in their round-of-16 first leg in Denmark. The visitors controlled much of the match but had to wait until the 46th minute to break the deadlock, as Reece James fired a low shot past goalkeeper Diant Ramaj. Chelsea extended their lead in the 65th minute when substitute Enzo Fernández smashed home a powerful strike after a pass from Tyrique George. At that stage, it seemed the Blues might put the tie beyond reach, but København responded in the 79th minute when Gabriel Pereira scored with a well-placed header. Cole Palmer, making his first appearance in the competition, was unable to end his eight-game goal drought. Chelsea, one of five clubs to have won every major European competition before the Conference League’s creation, will look to finish the job in the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
Who’s going to the next round? 🔵✨ pic.twitter.com/lxtiYFPFYm
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 6, 2025
Nick Kyrgios forced to retire at Indian Wells after another wrist injury.
Former World no. 13, Nick Kyrgios’ return to tennis suffered another setback as he was forced to retire from his first-round match at Indian Wells due to a right wrist injury. The Australian trailed Botic van de Zandschulp 7-6 (9-7), 3-0 when he conceded the match, visibly emotional while speaking to his trainer before wiping away tears and shaking hands with his opponent. Kyrgios, playing his first match since the Australian Open in January, admitted he had felt wrist pain in practice two days earlier but had hoped to compete. However, the pain worsened, forcing him to withdraw. “I wasn’t too confident I’d be able to play today,” he admitted post-match. The 29-year-old has battled injuries for 18 months, including knee and foot issues. His early exit means he misses a potential second-round clash with Novak Djokovic, as he continues to struggle with the setbacks that have derailed his once-promising career.
Nick Kyrgios looks overcome with emotion as he’s forced to retire from his match against van de Zandschulp at Indian Wells.
He can’t seem to get fully healthy…
Tough night for him.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 7, 2025
Lebron and Dončić leads the Los Angeles Lakers to an eight-game win streak.
The Los Angeles Lakers secured a thrilling 113-109 overtime victory against the New York Knicks on Thursday, extending their winning streak to eight games. Despite trailing by double digits in the fourth quarter, the Lakers rallied to force overtime, where Luka Dončić and Lebron James led the way. Dončić finished with 32 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds, while James contributed 31 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. Dončić scored five points in overtime, while James sealed the win with four clutch free throws. The Lakers have now gone 12-2 since acquiring Dončić and sit second in the Western Conference with a 40-21 record. The game took a concerning turn in overtime when Knicks star, Jalen Brunson, who had 39 points and 10 assists, rolled his ankle on Austin Reaves’ foot. Despite briefly staying in to shoot free throws, he exited to the locker room, leaving his status uncertain.
Eight Straight pic.twitter.com/sQcicxlnVo
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 7, 2025