Robert Lewandowski scores a hat trick as Barcelona defeats Alaves.
Barcelona striker, Robert Lewandowski showcased his exceptional form by scoring a first-half hat-trick, leading Barcelona to a 3-0 victory over a determined Alaves at the Mendizorrotza Stadium. After suffering their first league defeat of the season last week against Osasuna, Hansi Flick’s team bounced back impressively. Lewandowski’s precise finishing made all the difference in an exciting match that saw both teams create opportunities. Despite Alaves having two goals disallowed and several chances in the second half, they couldn’t find the net. As a result, Barcelona heads into the international break sitting atop La Liga with 24 points, three ahead of rivals Real Madrid, who won 2-0 against Villarreal. Barcelona will face Sevilla next at Camp Nou in two weeks.
🔵🔴 Barça into the international break with 24 points in 9 games, top of La Liga and 28 goals scored. pic.twitter.com/FWZWg7WxrM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 6, 2024
Dominant Coco Gauff storms past Muchová to clinch the China Open.
World no. 6, Coco Gauff showcased her dominance by defeating unseeded Czech player Karolína Muchová 6-1, 6-3 in the China Open final on Sunday. This victory marks Gauff’s second WTA 1000 title and her eighth career title overall. At just 20 years old, she became the youngest champion at the China Open in 14 years and the second American to win the title, following Serena Williams. Gauff achieved a remarkable 7-0 record in hardcourt finals, a feat unmatched in the Open Era. In the final, she delivered a powerful performance with 24 winners and broke Muchová five times, completing the match in just 31 minutes for the opening set. Gauff now holds a 3-0 lead in their head-to-head matchups.
Coco Gauff defeats Karolina Muchova 6-1, 6-3 to win her 2nd career WTA 1000 title in Beijing.
Biggest title since the 2023 US Open.
Huge, huge week from her. Struggled with serve in the first few rounds but found her best tennis of the year in the final.
Back on top 5. pic.twitter.com/D0Bfnsk0OU
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) October 6, 2024
Pogba to become a free agent after agreeing to Juventus’ contract termination.
French star, Paul Pogba may soon become a free agent as he engages in discussions with Juventus to mutually terminate his contract. Currently tied to the club until June 2026, Pogba’s second spell at Juventus appears to be nearing an end. He has been sidelined from competitive play since September 2023, following an 18-month ban for a doping violation, which was reduced from four years after a successful appeal. Now 31, Pogba is eager for a fresh start away from Juventus to revive his career. Reports suggest that while the club was prepared to end his contract if the original ban was upheld, talks are ongoing about his departure. Pogba believes that moving on is essential for his path back to top-level football.
🚨 Paul Pogba and Juventus, expected to agree on contract termination as he will become a free agent.
Talks to follow from tomorrow after CAS verdict, as Paul will be available from March.
Paul Pogba also feels a fresh start would be best solution for him and his career. pic.twitter.com/niTvAzRbzt
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 6, 2024
Breanna Stewart stars as the New York Liberty advances to the WNBA finals.
The New York Liberty have secured their second consecutive trip to the WNBA Finals with a commanding win over the Las Vegas Aces. This season, the Liberty have showcased their prowess, enhanced by the addition of rookie Leonie Fiebich, who has bolstered team chemistry and performance. After falling to the Aces in last year’s Finals, New York dominated their seven matchups this season, winning six, including all three in the regular season. Aces coach, Becky Hammon acknowledged the Liberty’s dominance, stating, “They’ve been the best team all year.” However, two-time MVP Breanna Stewart emphasized the need for focus, saying, “We haven’t done anything yet.” The Liberty will compete for their first championship as they await the winner of Tuesday’s Game 5 between Minnesota and Connecticut in the other semifinal.
LIBERTY ELIMINATE ACES FROM THE WNBA PLAYOFFS 🤯 pic.twitter.com/L0gznVBE9y
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 6, 2024
Erik ten Hag’s struggles continue as Villa holds United to a goalless draw.
Manchester United have recorded their worst-ever start to a Premier League season after a goalless draw against Aston Villa. With only eight points from their first seven matches, Erik ten Hag’s team sits 14th in the standings as they head into the international break. Ten Hag’s choice to bench first-choice center-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez in favor of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans raised some eyebrows. Bruno Fernandes came closest to scoring, hitting the crossbar from a free kick. Aston Villa’s best opportunity came in stoppage time when Jaden Philogene’s effort was blocked by Diogo Dalot. This match marked the first time in eight games across all competitions that Unai Emery’s side did not score, yet they remain unbeaten in five league matches, just outside the top four on goal difference.
Stalemate at Villa Park.#MUFC || #AVLMUN
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 6, 2024