Sport

Former Premier League referee Darren Cann has called for a major change to football laws following the controversial VAR decision during Arsenal’s dramatic victory over West Ham United. Cann suggested that attacking players should no longer be allowed inside the six-yard box before corners are taken, arguing that it would reduce the growing trend of “grappling” and “wrestling” during set-pieces. The debate followed West Ham’s disallowed equaliser against Arsenal in a crucial Premier League clash. The goal was ruled out after referee Chris Kavanagh reviewed the incident and determined that West Ham defender Pablo had fouled Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya during a crowded melee in the penalty area.

American football wide receiver Stefon Diggs has been found not guilty of assaulting his personal chef, bringing an end to a closely watched legal case in Massachusetts. The 32-year-old, who most recently played for the New England Patriots, had denied charges of felony strangulation and a lesser assault offence stemming from an alleged incident on 2 December last year.

Spain’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been clouded by fresh concerns over teenage star Lamine Yamal, following a significant injury setback at FC Barcelona. The 18-year-old winger has been ruled out for the remainder of Barcelona's season after sustaining a hamstring injury, raising questions about his readiness for football's biggest tournament. However, both club and country remain optimistic that he will recover in time to feature in the competition across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

A festive atmosphere filled Kai Tak Stadium on April 19, 2026, as fireworks lit up the sky following victories by New Zealand's women's team and South Africa's men's team on the final day of the Hong Kong Sevens. The stadium is set to host another major sporting event later this year, with Manchester City scheduled to face Inter Milan in a pre-season friendly on August 1. The match will mark the opening fixture of City's Asian tour ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Arsenal secured a dramatic 1–0 away victory over Sporting CP in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Kai Havertz after a decisive impact from substitutes. For much of the match at Estádio José Alvalade, Arsenal struggled to break down Sporting’s defensive block and looked likely to settle for a stalemate. However, the late introduction of Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz transformed the game. In stoppage time, Martinelli delivered a precise cross that Havertz converted from close range, giving Arsenal a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.

Nigerian international Victor Osimhen has been named Footballer of the Year at the 72nd Annual Milliyet Sports Awards. The Milliyet Sports Award is considered one of the most celebrated honours in Turkey. Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s domestic double last season.