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New updates across the global sports scene

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By Timothy Akintola

Latest stories on Ronaldo, Juventus, Lewis Hamilton, Erling Haaland and Lookman.

Ronaldo speaks on Rasmus Højlund doing his Siu celebration in Portugal’s loss.

Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo has no issue with Rasmus Højlund performing his signature “Siu” celebration after scoring Denmark’s winning goal against Portugal in their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal first leg. The Manchester United striker clarified that his gesture was not meant as disrespect, calling Ronaldo his “idol.” Ahead of Sunday’s decisive second leg in Lisbon, Ronaldo dismissed any controversy, saying, “For me, it’s an honour when others do my celebration. But I hope tomorrow he sees mine.” Reflecting on Portugal’s performance, Ronaldo acknowledged their struggles but remained confident in a home comeback. He emphasized the importance of attitude, stating, “Football isn’t always perfect, but there’s no need to be nervous. If we stay united, we’ll get a great result.” He also defended coach Roberto Martinez, urging patience amid criticism. “It’s unfair to blame him. We played poorly, but we have another chance.” Portugal now looks to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the semifinals.

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Juventus close to replacing Thiago Motta with Igor Tudor as the new head coach.

Serie A giant, Juventus are finalizing the appointment of Igor Tudor as their new head coach, with the club prepared to part ways with Thiago Motta once an agreement is reached with the Croatian manager. The decision follows back-to-back heavy defeats in Serie A against Atalanta and Fiorentina, prompting the owners to rethink their direction. While Roberto Mancini was initially considered a strong candidate, Juventus have advanced talks with Tudor, a former player currently unattached since leaving Lazio last season. According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, Tudor is expected to travel to Turin soon, with the club aiming to finalize paperwork by Monday. Gianluca Di Marzio previously reported that Tudor is open to a short-term contract without an automatic renewal clause, a factor that likely gave him the edge over other candidates. Juventus are now looking to swiftly complete the managerial change as they seek stability for the remainder of the season.


Lewis Hamilton secures first F1 victory for Ferrari at the Chinese Grand Prix.

Seven-time champion, Lewis Hamilton secured a historic first Formula 1 victory for Ferrari by winning the sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix on Saturday. The seven-time world champion, who joined Ferrari from Mercedes ahead of the season, claimed pole position with a stunning lap on Friday before dominating the sprint race. This marks Hamilton’s first win with Ferrari and the team’s maiden sprint race triumph since the format was introduced in 2021. He crossed the finish line over seven seconds ahead, earning eight points in the championship standings. McLaren’s Lando Norris, who won the season opener in Australia, finished eighth, maintaining his lead in the standings with 26 points, just ahead of Max Verstappen’s 24. After his victory, Hamilton expressed confidence in his progress with Ferrari, stating, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” He emphasized patience and determination, adding, “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” His win further cements his legendary status in Formula 1.

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Haaland on the scoresheet in Norway’s dominant 5-0 win over Moldova.

Manchester City’s talisman, Erling Haaland led Norway to a dominant 5-0 victory over Moldova on Saturday, kicking off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in style. Norway, last seen at a World Cup in 1998, is eager to return to the global stage, with Haaland and Arsenal’s Martin Ødegaard spearheading the team. Favoured to top Group I, which includes Estonia and Israel, Norway made a statement in Chisinau. Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson opened the scoring five minutes in, before Haaland doubled the lead in the 23rd minute, bringing his international tally to an impressive 39 goals in 40 appearances. Thelo Aasgaard added a third, while Ødegaard assisted Alexander Sørloth for the fourth before halftime. Substitute Aron Dønnum sealed the win in the second half. Despite winning major titles with Manchester City, Haaland has yet to lead Norway to a major tournament. Injuries hindered him during past campaigns, but this time, Norway is determined to qualify.


Ademola Lookman reportedly being eyed by Barcelona ahead of the summer transfer.

Barcelona have reportedly identified Ademola Lookman as a potential summer transfer target, though he is not among their top priorities for reinforcing their attack. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan giants admire the Atalanta winger but are focusing on other options, including Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao and Liverpool’s Luis Díaz. Lookman, who recently clashed with Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini over a missed penalty in the Champions League, is eager to leave the club at the end of the season. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano previously confirmed the Nigerian international’s intention to move on. With Lookman’s contract expiring in 2026, Atalanta may cash in on him for around €30 million rather than risk losing him for free. Since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2022, the 27-year-old has contributed 50 goals and 22 assists in 110 matches. Currently on international duty, he played a key role in Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Rwanda in a World Cup qualifier.

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