player performance

Tom Sermanni’s final match as head coach of the Australian women’s national soccer team—the Matildas—was nothing short of a spectacle. Three decades after his inaugural appearance on a modest training ground in Canberra, Sermanni guided his team to a 4-1 friendly victory over Argentina before a record-breaking crowd at GIO Stadium. With incoming coach Joe Montemurro in attendance, the match underscored the remarkable evolution of the Matildas and women’s football in Australia. Amy Sayer’s brace, complemented by goals from Emily Van Egmond and Michelle Heyman, secured the fitting send-off for the 70-year-old veteran coach, while also setting a positive tone for the team’s future under Montemurro’s leadership.

Newcastle United continued their irresistible form with a commanding 5–0 victory over Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park, marking their sixth consecutive win across all competitions and climbing into third place in the Premier League.

In a bold shake-up ahead of Friday night's clash in Wellington, the NSW Waratahs have appointed Joey Walton as captain for their upcoming Super Rugby Pacific match against the Hurricanes. With key players sidelined or rested, the decision to promote the unfashionable yet dependable outside centre marks a significant turning point for the team as they chase a fifth win from six games—the best start to a campaign in 17 years.

Explore the rise of Nathan Cleary's younger brother in rugby league as he prepares for the NRL trials. Discover the impact of Dallin Watene-Zelezniak's recent injury on the New Zealand Warriors and the excitement building around the NRL season opener in Las Vegas. With impressive performances and a growing international presence, the NRL is set to captivate fans with new talent and challenges for established players. Dive into the dynamics of sibling rivalry and mentorship that drive the Cleary brothers, and witness how emerging stars face the pressures of the sport.

The ongoing First Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka has seen Australia gaining a commanding lead, finishing their first innings at 6-554. As rain interrupts play, the Sri Lankan team struggles to build meaningful partnerships, ending Day 3 at 5-136. Key players like Dinesh Chandimal and Mitchell Starc have made significant contributions amidst challenging weather conditions. With unpredictable storms looming, both teams must adapt their strategies to navigate the conditions, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this Test match.

The Hobart Hurricanes have made history by securing their first Big Bash League title in an electrifying final against the Sydney Thunder. This monumental victory marks a turning point for the franchise, showcasing their resilience and competitive spirit. Mitch Owen's extraordinary performance, scoring a century off just 39 balls, earned him the Player of the Match title and etched his name into BBL history. As the Hurricanes celebrate their triumph, the implications for the team and the league extend beyond the trophy, impacting future talent attraction and viewership. Join us as we explore the key moments that led to this unforgettable night and what it means for the future of the BBL.

The semi-final match between Aryna Sabalenka and Paula Badosa at the Australian Open displayed an intense competition and showcased Sabalenka's powerful playing style leading to her victory. This article delves into the match's highlights, the unique friendship pact between the two players, and their post-match reflections. As Sabalenka advances to her third consecutive final, the dynamics of her performance and the potential challenges ahead are examined, along with the mutual respect displayed by both athletes. Join us as we explore this thrilling chapter in tennis and the significance of friendship in the sport.

In the quarterfinals of the 2025 Australian Open, Jannik Sinner displayed remarkable dominance against Alex De Minaur, winning decisively with a score of 6-3, 6-2, 6-1. The match highlighted Sinner's mental fortitude and tactical prowess as he defended his title with skillful play. Meanwhile, De Minaur's struggles raise questions about his future in the sport. As the tournament progresses, Sinner emerges as a leading contender, while other players like Daniil Medvedev and Carlos Alcaraz eye the championship. Read our analysis for insights into their performances and future implications in the tennis world.