QtrendsSouth Africa keeps their World Cup knockout hopes alive with a late penalty to draw 1-1 against Czech Republic. England's cricket team collapses against New Zealand after Glenn Phillips scores a maiden Test century, leaving them in a dire position on day two of the second Test. Thomas Tuchel confirms Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start against Ghana, while his complaints reportedly led to FIFA relocating photographers at England training. Ben Stokes is in line to return as England Test captain for the third Test against New Zealand after a shift in team sentiment. Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi was initially denied entry into Canada amid a match-fixing probe but was later granted a visa in time for the team's World Cup match.
South Africa secured a crucial 1-1 draw against Czech Republic in the World Cup, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. The Czechs took an early lead, but a late penalty converted by South Africa snatched a point. Both Sky Sports and BBC covered the dramatic finish, with the result leaving Group H wide open. South Africa now needs a win in their final group match to advance.
England suffered a disastrous day two in the second Test against New Zealand, losing wickets rapidly after Glenn Phillips scored his maiden Test century. New Zealand now holds a significant advantage heading into the remainder of the match. Sky Sports and BBC both described England's performance as dreadful, with the batting order crumbling under pressure. The Guardian and The Independent highlighted a costly collapse that left England's hopes in jeopardy.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has indicated that Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start in the upcoming match against Ghana, citing fitness and tactical considerations. Reports also emerged that Tuchel's complaints led to FIFA relocating photographers away from England's training sessions. The Independent analyzed how Tuchel has instilled a new, exciting style in the England squad, helping players overcome the nerves of the Southgate era. However, two lingering problems remain unaddressed as the team prepares for the match.
Ben Stokes is reportedly close to returning as England's Test captain for the third Test against New Zealand, following a shift in mood within the squad. BBC reported that Stokes could take back the captaincy as early as the next match. The Guardian noted that the atmosphere around Stokes has turned positive again, paving the way for his leadership return. Stokes stepped down earlier this year but appears poised to resume the role.
Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi was initially denied entry into Canada for the team's World Cup match amid a match-fixing investigation, but was later granted a visa after intervention by Ivorian authorities. AP News and Al Jazeera both covered the reversal, with Al Jazeera noting the denial was linked to an ongoing probe into match manipulation. Wahi's availability provides a major boost for the Ivory Coast squad ahead of their crucial fixture.