Spain’s defeat clears path for fresh face in final
MOSCOW (Reuters) – Spain’s dramatic defeat by Russia on penalties in the World Cup round of 16 on Sunday ensured that at least one of this year’s finalists will not have reached the title decider for half a century, if at all.
Croatia big guns return to line-up for Denmark clash
NIZHNY NOVGOROD, Russia (Reuters) – Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic brought back his big-name players for Sunday’s last 16 clash against Denmark, restoring striker Mario Mandzukic, midfielder Ivan Rakitic and defender Dejan Lovren who were rested for their …
Federer ready to tackle ‘nerve-racking’ Wimbledon opener
(Reuters) – Reigning champion and top seed Roger Federer will begin his 20th consecutive Wimbledon campaign on Monday but the Swiss ace says he still feels nervous at the thought of playing the opening match of the tournament on Center Court.
Russia beats Spain on penalties to reach World Cup quarters
MOSCOW (Reuters) – Hosts Russia beat Spain 4-3 on penalties thanks to two saves by their goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev on Sunday to advance to the World Cup quarter-finals where they will face either Denmark or Croatia.
Brazil has been playing knockouts since second game, says Silva
SAMARA, Russia (Reuters) – Brazil defender Thiago Silva said his team had effectively been playing knockout football since their second match at the World Cup, so it would be business as usual when they faced Mexico in the last 16 on Monday.
France full back Sidibe limps out of France training
ISTRA, Russia (Reuters) – France full back Djibril Sidibe limped out of training on Sunday with a possible ankle injury in a setback to the side ahead of this week’s World Cup quarter-final against Uruguay.
Spain, Russia drawing 1-1 after 90 minutes
MOSCOW (Reuters) – Russia’s World Cup round of 16 tie against Spain went into extra time on Sunday after the two sides were level at 1-1 after 90 minutes.
Murray withdraws from Wimbledon with heavy heart
LONDON (Reuters) – Two-time champion Andy Murray withdrew from Wimbledon with a “heavy heart” on Sunday after saying his right hip was still not ready for the demands of a Grand Slam.
With Messi and Ronaldo gone, Hazard can now shine
ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia (Reuters) – Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were the leading attractions at the World Cup, but now that they have been sent packing, Belgian Eden Hazard believes it might be his time to shine on the biggest stage.
Sweden offers litmus test for golden Swiss generation
ST PETERSBURG (Reuters) – Switzerland go into their last-16 World Cup match against Sweden in St Petersburg on Tuesday with a much more exciting squad than those at past tournaments, but only victory will secure a lasting legacy for their so-called ‘Go…
